Where to Ski at Your Own Pace: Resorts for Every Skier

1. Arosa, Switzerland

A quiet retreat with plenty of Swiss charm, Arosa is nestled in a peaceful valley at the end of a scenic mountain road. With plenty of gentle, wide-open slopes and easy access to lifts, it’s a top choice for skiers who prefer a slower pace, while the charming village is car-free and guests can use complimentary electric buses and horse-drawn carriages to get around. When you’re feeling peckish, Arosa’s famous high-altitude mountain restaurants offer spectacular views, perfect for a lunch break without the crowds.

Closest airport: Zurich is approximately a 2-2.5hr drive away.

Where to stay: The Tschuggen Grand Hotel combines luxury with relaxation, offering an extensive spa, private ski-in/ski-out access, scenic winter hiking trails and gourmet dining.

2. Avoriaz, France

Not a fan of busy streets? We don’t blame you. Thankfully guests are transferred from the resort entrance by horse-drawn sleighs and snowcats to their accommodation in Avoriaz, part of the huge Portes du Soleil ski area, which also has a traffic-free centre which is perfect for enjoying a fuss-free meal. What’s more, the fact that it is all ski-in, ski-out saves you having to lug around your grandchildren’s clobber as well as your own – just clip into skis and you’re good to go.

Closest airport: You can drive here from Geneva airport in about 2 hours.

Where to stay: You can’t go wrong with a stay at Hotel Les Dromonts with its ski-in/ski-out access, spa, panoramic mountain views and easy access to the resort’s centre.

3. Lech, Austria

Well known as one of the most luxurious ski resorts in the business, Lech caters to a more upscale clientele thanks to its roster of five-star hotels, a speedy 90-minute airport transfer from Innsbruck, a good snow record and an efficient lift network. What truly sets the resort apart, however, is its blend of world-class amenities and authentic Alpine charm, a place where visitors can enjoy stunning mountain views from elegant restaurants and classy après-ski spots. What’s more, with a well-connected ski area that seamlessly links to neighbouring St. Anton and Zürs, skiers can explore over 300 kilometres of pistes in one fell swoop.

Closest airport: Altenrhein, Innsbruck and Friedrichshafen, but the larger international airport at Zurich is less than 200km away with transfer times of less than 2.5 hours by road or 3-4 hours by train.

Where to stay: Kristiania Lech hotel is all about the extra-curricular activities, with the likes of guided forest walks and nature trails on tap.

4. El Tarter, Andorra

A more quiet, laidback resort for those whose days of rowdy après-ski are long behind them, El Tarter offers a serene escape with stunning mountain vistas and a relaxed pace. Situated in the heart of the Andorra ski area, this charming village provides easy access to over 200 kilometres of snow-covered terrain, perfect for gentle slopes and leisurely exploration.

Andorra’s capital, La Vella, is just a 30-minute bus ride away, offering a taste of culture and shopping, while those who really want to get into the winter spirit can take a husky ride along mountain trails – something the grandkids will love too.

Closest airport: Andorra–La Seu d'Urgell Airport is just 33.3km away.

Where to stay: Hotel Parador Canaro for its charming mountain views, easy access to the slopes and a traditional Catalan restaurant that adds a local touch to your stay.

5. Beaver Creek, Colorado

In the market for comfort and convenience? Beaver Creek is a stellar choice thanks to its signature outdoor escalators that whisk you up the slopes without the need to climb stairs. Known for its impeccable grooming, the resort is home to an array of blue and black runs that offer smooth, enjoyable skiing for intermediate to advanced skiers, but it's not all about the challenging terrain - beyond the slopes expect upscale dining, charming village boutiques and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Closest airport: Beaver Creek is serviced by both the Eagle County Regional Airport (30 minutes) and Denver International Airport (2.5 hours).

Where to stay: The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek is a refined mountain escape with ski-in/ski-out convenience, a heated outdoor pool and a variety of excursions including snowmobile tours and dog sledding, all complemented by upscale dining and a fun après-ski atmosphere.

6. Gausta, Norway

For a change from the Alps, this Norwegian resort west of Oslo has slopes to suit all abilities and cross-country skiing. Best for a late season break when temperatures start to rise, be sure to carve out some downtime to visit its many lakeside saunas. We also recommend an excursion by train into the Gaustatoppen mountain to discover the region’s Cold War history.

Closest airport: Oslo Gardermoen Airport, which is located about 225 km from Gausta. To get to Gausta from here, you can rent a car (about a 3.5-hour drive) or take the bus.

Where to stay: The three-star Lake View Cabins boast a private sauna and views of Kvitåvatn Lake near the ski school meeting point.

7. Whistler, Canada

While younger members of the family can keep themselves entertained with bob-sleigh rides, skiers looking for a slightly slower pace to their trip will be more than well catered to at Canada’s premier resort of Whistler. Known for its vast ski terrain, it also offers a more relaxed experience for those seeking tranquillity, with laidback horse-drawn sleigh rides through snowy landscapes and a selection of luxurious spas perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. The resort features a charming cinema, offering a cosy way to enjoy some downtime after the slopes have closed for the day.

Closest airport: Vancouver International Airport is located 135 kilometres south of Whistler, around a 2 – 2.5 hour drive away.

Where to stay: The Fairmont Chateau Whistler for relaxing spa treatments, guided snowshoe tours and easy access to Whistler Village’s shops and restaurants.