The 5 most popular ski resorts in the Alps

The 5 most popular ski resorts in the Alps

The Alps are one of the world's most important winter sports regions. From Austria to France and Italy, imposing peaks, endless slopes and varied ski areas combine to create a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. But amid these majestic glaciers and extensive valley runs, one question arises: where do most winter sports fans actually go? SnowTrex has compiled a ranking of the most popular destinations and this is their Top-5.

1. Val Gardena / Alpe di Siusi – South Tyrol's flagship ski resort

·       Altitude: up to 2,518 m

·       Kilometres of pistes: 175 km

·       Number of lifts: 83

·       Instagram followers: 118,000

·       Google rating: 4,8 stars

With 118,000 Instagram followers and the highest Google rating (4.8 stars), it is the most popular resort. Nestled in the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the resort offers 175 kilometres (km) of slopes of all difficulty levels and is part of the vast Dolomiti Superski network, which has a total of 1,200 km of slopes. 83 lifts provide access to heights of up to 2,518 metres (m).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeTw7YDZD9k

The most famous highlights include the Sellaronda, a 40 km panoramic tour around the Sella massif, and the Saslong World Cup downhill run in Val Gardena. The Seiser Alm, Europe's largest high alpine pasture, is particularly ideal for families and beginners. Guests can enjoy regional specialities in around 60 huts and mountain restaurants. As well as the slopes, the region attracts visitors with its first-class mountain huts, well-maintained fun parks, and opportunities for winter hiking.

2. Les 3 Vallées – France's mega ski resort

·       Altitude: up to 3,230 m

·       Kilometres of pistes: 600 km

·       Number of lifts: 183

·       Instagram followers: 147,000

·       Google rating: 4,6 stars

With 147,000 Instagram followers and a 4.6-star rating on Google, the French Alps secure second place. Les 3 Vallées is considered to be the world's largest contiguous ski area, with 600 km of slopes connected by 183 modern lifts. Its high altitude, reaching up to 3,230 m, ensures snow from November to May.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBDG_oxB7aA

The region connects famous destinations such as Val Thorens, Europe's highest ski resort at 2,300 m, with the upmarket Méribel and the family-friendly Les Menuires. On a clear day, the panorama stretches all the way to Mont Blanc (4,806 m). Over 150 huts and restaurants offer winter sports enthusiasts a variety of culinary delights. As well as downhill runs, visitors are attracted by snow parks, freeride zones and perfectly groomed slopes for all levels.

3. Silvretta Arena – Cross-border skiing fun

·       Altitude: up to 2,872 m

·       Kilometres of pistes: 239 km

·       Number of lifts: 45

·       Instagram followers: 146,000

·       Google rating: 4,6 stars

Boasting 146,000 Instagram followers, a Google rating of 4.6 stars, and the 2024 SnowTrex Award, the Silvretta Arena is one of the top destinations in the Alps. Its 239 km of varied slopes connect Ischgl in Austria with Samnaun in Switzerland. The 11-kilometre valley run to Ischgl is a well-known favourite, as is the chance to shop in Samnaun's duty-free paradise.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWK0WvedxP0

45 state-of-the-art lifts reach heights of up to 2,872 m. Thanks to 80% of the slopes being covered by artificial snow, the season is extended from late autumn to spring. Freeriders can choose from six marked ski routes, including the historic 'Smuggler's Run'. Away from the slopes, Ischgl attracts visitors with its legendary après-ski scene, while Samnaun offers the charm of a traditional Swiss mountain village.

4. Chamonix – At the foot of Mont Blanc

·       Altitude: up to 3,275 m

·       Kilometres of pistes: 172 km

·       Number of lifts: 60

·       Instagram followers: 231,000

·       Google rating: 4,7 stars

The Chamonix ski resort is a social media leader with 231,000 Instagram followers and a Google rating of 4.7 stars. Its combination of alpine history, challenging slopes and breathtaking scenery makes this region so appealing.

In the mountains around Chamonix, a total of 172 kilometres of slopes await at altitudes of up to 3,275 metres, making the ski resort one of the most popular in the Alps. - © Chris Biron | Unsplash

The 20 km Vallée Blanche descent is one of the longest and most spectacular in the Alps. The ski resort, with its 172 km of pistes and 60 lifts, is divided into three main areas: Brévent-Flégère, which has sunny, south-facing slopes; Les Grands Montets, which caters to deep snow and steep slope enthusiasts; and Le Tour-Vallorcine, which caters to families and leisure skiers. Altitudes of up to 3,275 m guarantee excellent snow conditions, complemented by state-of-the-art snow-making technology. The historic town itself offers an authentic mountain atmosphere, with cafés, bars, and charming boutiques dotted around.

5. Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis – Tyrolean skiing diversity at its best

·       Altitude: up to 2,810 m

·       Kilometres of pistes: 214 km

·       Number of lifts: 68

·       Instagram followers: 102,000

·       Google rating: 4,7 stars

With 102,000 Instagram followers, an average rating of 4.7 stars on Google and a SnowTrex Award, this ski resort is clearly in a class of its own. There are 214 km of slopes, which can be accessed by 68 modern lifts and reach an altitude of 2,820 m. Around 80% of the slopes can be covered with artificial snow, ensuring long seasons and reliable conditions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5Q1_A1Tv0k

Attractions include the Sundowner slopes, which offer spectacular views; three snow parks, including a superpipe; and the ‘From Peak to Peak’ platform, which provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Tyrolean mountains. Twenty-five huts and mountain restaurants provide culinary highlights. Families can enjoy special children's areas, while more athletically inclined visitors can experience challenging runs and fun parks.

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