With its snow-capped chalets, cobblestone villages and towering peaks, there’s a reason skiers gravitate towards the Alps. You can’t beat the alpine charm of this vast European mountain range that is spread over eight countries: France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Monaco, and Liechtenstein.
While the Rockies boast wide tree-lined pistes and a slightly longer season, the Alps have a decidedly more atmospheric vibe. Plus, the region is known for its world-class slopes, including Chamonix’s legendary Vallée Blanche (the most famous off-piste ski run in the world) and the iconic Streif in Kitzbühel.
Our whistle-stop guide to skiing in the Alps (and the best ski resorts to access by train) has you covered.
Which country has the best ski resorts in the Alps?
France, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria are the most famous countries to ski in the Alps – and for good reason. Not only do they show off slopes as far as the eyes can see but they are at high altitudes and often have the most consistent snow conditions.
From family-friendly Les Gets to lively Tignes, France offers huge variety when it comes to ski resorts. Across the border, Switzerland is favored for its dramatic alpine views and glacial resorts. Meanwhile, Austria comes out on top for foot-stomping après-ski, while Italy is the more budget-friendly of the four countries (and arguably serves the best food… fresh pasta, anyone?).
Image Credit: Getty Images, Geir Pettersen. Image Location: Engelberg, Switzerland
How long does the ski season in the Alps last?
December to April marks the ski season in the Alps. A handful of resorts with glaciers (like Zermatt and Tignes) are open slightly longer with skiing possible during the summer as well.
Ski lifts open across the Alps around early to mid-December. Christmas and New Year is a very busy period. However, by early January, the crowds have mostly dispersed, leaving quiet slopes and often better snow conditions. Temperatures in high alpine resorts can drop as low as 5°F. February is equally cold, but a little busier around the school holidays (usually during the second half of the month).
March is when the mercury begins to rise. There is still plenty of snow around, but conditions will get a little slushier. Expect crowds again around Easter, followed by a few weeks of fun spring skiing before the season closes with a string of raucous street parties.
Image credit: Getty Images, EKH-Pictures. Image Location: Zermatt, Switzerland
Which are the best ski resorts to access by train?
Skiing in the Swiss Alps: Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is one of the few ski resorts in Europe that is directly accessible by train. From Geneva, it’s just under four hours by train to this glitzy, chocolate-box town, flanked by the famous Matterhorn Mountain (you’ll probably recognize it from Toblerone’s soon-to-be altered packaging). Learn about this infamous peak at its namesake museum, before catching the gondola to ski on a glacier.
Skiing in the Austrian Alps: Zell Am See-Kaprun, Austria
This family-friendly ski resort offers hundreds of miles of pistes that are best suited to beginner and intermediate skiers. Soak up panoramic views across Lake Zell while tucking into a plate of gröstl, a traditional bacon and onion potato hash, topped with a fried egg. From Salzburg, it’s just 90min by train.
Image credit: Getty Images, LaChouettePhoto. Image Location: Les Arcs, France
Skiing in the French Alps: Les Arcs, France
High up in the Tarentaise Valley, you’ll find Les Arcs, a ski resort made up of six quaint villages with 128 pistes. Beginners will appreciate the English-speaking ski schools dotted around the resort, while adventurous skiers can explore off-piste playgrounds like the Grand Col. Bourg-St-Maurice train station is just 20min away by taxi.
Skiing in the Italian Alps: Sauze d’Oulx, Italy
This former party town has reinvented itself as a mellow, family-friendly resort. It sports some of the best piste skiing in Italy. While beginners will find a smattering of bunny slopes here, the resort is best suited to intermediate skiers. Hop on a train in Paris to Oulx-Cesana-Clavière-Sestrières station and five hours later, you’ll find yourself in this Italian winter wonderland.
Download the Trainline app today to purchase your tickets and arrive at the slopes in style.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, FamVeld