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1. Title:
Aito's 10 Top Ski Resorts
Word Count:
1978
Summary:
Working for AITO (the Association of Independent Tour Operators for those who dont know) has
some unusual benefits, the most exciting of these is the in depth specialist knowledge that our
members can offer. In the field of ski holidays, for example, we represent over 30 independent tour
operators who deal predominantly in ski packages and winter sports thats a lot of knowledge that
I have ready access to.
And from dipping into this resource, Ive been able to compile...
Keywords:
Ski operators, European ski holidays, Europe ski holidays, best ski resorts, top ski resorts
Article Body:
Working for AITO (the Association of Independent Tour Operators for those who dont know) has
some unusual benefits, the most exciting of these is the in depth specialist knowledge that our
members can offer. In the field of ski holidays, for example, we represent over 30 independent tour
operators who deal predominantly in ski packages and winter sports thats a lot of knowledge that
I have ready access to.
And from dipping into this resource, Ive been able to compile a concise list of ten ski resorts that
10 of our members endorse on their websites. The immense combined expertise these ski
operators boast means that I, despite not being a huge winter sports buff, feel confident to take
their word and promote these as AITOs favourites.
So here are AITOs top ski resorts. Narrowing the list down to the 10 best ski resorts was a real
challenge, given that AITO members offer over 175 between them!
1 St Anton Austria:
Skiworld recommend St Anton as one of the best ski resorts in the world, and their endorsement
seems to be matched by the World Alpine Skiing Championship organisers, who gave the resort
the honour of hosting the event in 2001. The peaceful village nearby is a stark contrast to the

2. buzzing internationally renowned ski slopes, but the two seem to fit together perfectly despite their
obviously different feels. As the resort attracts ski enthusiasts from all over the world, there is a
real cosmopolitan feel to the resort, although English remains the dominating language on the
slopes.
Off of the slopes, St Anton's main street provides plenty of distractions, giving shoppers
opportunity to search for jewellery, music, antiques, clothing and local crafts. The latter are worth a
special mention, as traditional woodcarvings from the region are exported all over the world.
But what of the slopes themselves? Well, theyre not for beginners, thats for sure. Its been said
that in St. Anton, a blue run is a red, while a red is a black - theyre pitched at experts and
ambitious intermediate level skiers, but those that have the ability are sure to find the slopes
endlessly rewarding. The only downside to it is that unless theres been a fresh snow-fall,
conditions are sometimes less than perfect, because of the south-facing aspect. That said, if youre
in luck with the snow-fall, then youre guaranteed to have one of the best European ski holidays of
your life.
2 Courchevel France:
No list could be complete without mentioning Courchevel with its stunning reputation, the only
downside is the premium price point often bandied around by ski operators when dealing with this
most exclusive resort. Regarded as many as the best ski resort in the world, Courchevel offers
some of the best ski holidays in Europe albeit at a high price! One of the best things about the
region is that the 600 kilometres of pistes offer a challenge for all abilities beginners need not
leave their comfort zone on the ample green pistes, while those of intermediate ability can ski a
challenging selection of red and blue runs. Those feeling particularly daring can head straight for
the secret powder stashes that await experts on the black runs some of the steepest in Europe.
The resort itself lives up to its exclusive reputation with some of the most exciting and expensive
nightlife on the European ski holiday circuit. Courchevel 1850 attracts some of Paris top cabaret
acts and DJs as well as a variety of other entertainments from places to be pampered to bowling
and a cinema. The more traditional village centres of Courchevel 1300 and 1550 have a lower key
atmosphere with a selection of lively pubs and traditional mountain cuisine.
3 Aspen & Snowmass USA:
There are 4 mountains in this region, offering a skier over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and 341
trails allowing everyone from beginners to experts to find an exciting variety of routes on their
holiday. This is one of Colorados most attractive resorts, and the fact that all the four mountains
are covered by the same lift pass means that this ski resort can offer excellent variety especially if
you are experienced enough to take on some of the more challenging runs in Aspen Mountain and

3. Highlands, with their exciting mix of tree runs, gullies and chutes. Beginners and intermediate level
skiers are well served as well though, with a large selection of wide cruisers at Buttermilk and
Snowmass.
The town was originally defined by its mining trade, but with the ski traffic it has developed into
one of the finest ski communities in North America. There are 100 bars and restaurants competing
for your attention and an eclectic selection of boutiques and galleries to explore while you take
time off the slopes.
4 Verbier Switzerland:
One common complaint that people used to have with this famous ski resort was its long queues
and poorly planned lift transport. Nowadays, things have improved considerably and the reputation
of the resort should improve alongside. Verbier is still considered one of Europes top ski resorts,
and manages to attract skiers from all over the world every year courtesy of its excellent skiing
opportunities for experts and a legendary nightlife. There are over 410 kilometers of pistes and it
has an excellent snow record.
The downside to the excellent ski opportunities offered to experienced skiers is that it offers little in
the way of entertaining runs for beginners, with just a handful of blue runs at Bruson. And while
there is a variety of off-piste entertainment available including a sports centre, swimming pool and
skating rink, beginners are still better served looking at other ski holidays in Europe or further
afield..
5 La Rosire France:
This child-friendly ski resort offers a range of slopes for skiers of all abilities, as well as options for
non-skiers. This accompanied by the ski school meeting point (a development with catered
chalets, bars, restaurants, shops and a bowling alley) and an excellent snow record ensure that La
Rosire is a great choice for keen skiers.
The ski runs are divided as follows: 6 green ski runs, 23 blue, 32 red and 12 black runs for the
experts. All of these take in the imposing vision of Mont Blanc, and you can even see the
Matterhorn and Monte Rosa in the distance, making for some excellent photos and memories that
will ensure you come back time and time again when looking for a European ski holiday.
6 Les Arcs France:
With its breathtaking views of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps, an excellent snow record and ski
slopes for those of all abilities, its no wonder that Les Arcs has quickly established a world class
reputation amongst ski aficionados.

4. Although the resort is well served with ski runs for beginners, intermediates and advanced skiers,
the highlight here is the off piste options. One of only two European stops on the world freeride
circuit, the terrain is steep, amazingly varied and long and a must for skiers who have the ability to
enjoy it!
The resort is one of only 40 in France to have earned the Famille Plus badge. The accolade is
awarded only to those who offer outstanding childcare and family services, so those with children
can be sure of safe and welcoming surroundings on their ski holiday in Europe.
7 Val dIsre - France:
Describing the typical visitor to Val dIsre is a near impossible task, which says a great deal about
its universal appeal. You get everyone from dedicated ski enthusiasts, to off-piste lovers to
families and ladies who lunch. The majority of the skiing is above 2300 metres and the snow
record is, unsurprisingly, excellent.
The choice available is the biggest problem facing visitors to this top ski resort. Visitors have the
difficult decision of whether to stick to the ample ski opportunities on the doorstep of the
accommodation, or take the trip to the top of Grand Motte at over 3600 metres high, the view is
simply outstanding and well worth the trip.
Once the skiing is done, there are plenty of ways of entertaining yourself. Theres live music at the
Folie Douce, while there is a wide selection of bars, pubs and clubs in the town. Those who are
looking for something more low key will perhaps be more interested in the pampering body
treatments or shopping options however.
8 Klosters Switzerland:
Arguably the most charming and aesthetically pleasing ski resort in this list is Klosters. Located in
the Prattigau valley, the village offers charm and history at every turn. The chalets are a traditional
timber fare adding to the idyllic atmosphere of the place, and its all part of the experience that you
can come off the piste to a cosy chalet to relax.
The experience offered is unique to each skier, with 97 snow runs catering to all abilities. And
although the resort has been popularized by Prince Charles patronage, it is still the kind of resort
that offers a unique experience to each skier, giving them much to discuss in their cosy chalet in
the evening, over a reviving hot drink.
9 Zermatt Switzerland:
Nestled in the foot of the imposing Matterhorn, Zermatt is a top ski resort with an image built on

5. exclusivity the town is littered with gourmet restaurants, luxury hotels and expensive shops.
While this could indicate a reputation not built on the skiing experience, the options available at
Zermatt are actually world class especially for intermediate and advanced skiers. There are 313
kilometres of some of the highest north and west facing slopes in Europe. Expert skiers should be
sure to check out the heli-ski trips as well for the experience of a lifetime.
Off the piste, the village is worth a visit car free (with only electric and solar powered vehicles and
horse-drawn sleighs allowed) with a handful of excellent restaurants. For the best restaurants
though, the mountain steals the show with 40 dotted throughout the range. Some of them are truly
world class and threaten, without ever managing, to overshadow the splendid skiing experience
and become the focus of the European ski holiday.
10 Whistler Canada:
The best ski resort in Canada, and one of the most highly rated in North America, Whistler is an
outstanding winter sports location. Last year it recorded record levels of snow, with 45 feet adding
to the crisp piste! But its not just the 8100 acres of fabulous skiing which makes Whistler one of
the best ski resorts in the world it has an atmosphere incomparable to others.
Whistler caters for every skier from beginners who barely know how to put skis on, to experts
looking for a challenge. There are steeps, deeps, chutes, high alpine bowls, glades, long cruisers
and gentle rollers essentially something for everyone. Around half of the ski runs are aimed at
intermediate users, with over a quarter devoted to experts and the rest for beginners. The
excitement of some of the tougher intermediate runs and the expert runs provide the perfect
incentive for skiers to improve, while the beginner slopes offer the facilities to do so.
But I mentioned the atmosphere didnt I? Its about the off-slope activities as much as the on-slope,
and there are spas and shopping opportunities aplenty, with Vancouver nearby if it isnt enough.
The Aprs Ski at Whistler has won numerous awards, however, and visitors will find some
wonderful dining experiences whether youre in the mood for fish, steak, sushi or gourmet cuisine.
For those who have the energy, some of the clubs in the region offer the best nightlife on the world
ski circuit.
Narrowing it down to just the 10 best ski resorts was always going to be tricky, but if youre a skier
who wants to make sure theyve seen it all and if you havent visited all of these, then what are you
waiting for?
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