THE SKI EDIT

Welcome to The Ski Edit. This is the ultimate destination for mountain lovers and adventurers – from seasoned pros and powder hounds to those who are totally new to the world of skiing. Whether you are in it for the thrill, the après or the scenery, you’re in the right place.

In the Pocket Wanderings Ski Edit, you’ll find useful information and adventure inspiration to help you plan your next ski holiday or snowboard trip, or simply refine the details. From the best ski resorts and practical information to hand-picked hotel guides and restaurant recommendations. The mountains are calling – let’s go!

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SHOP SKI GEAR

TOP SKI RESORTS

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

These ski resorts have plenty to offer beginner skiers, with world-renowned ski schools and forgiving beginner slopes. Look out for wide open pistes, English-speaking ski schools, and a good number of green and blue slopes. For more ideas, have a read of my guide to the best ski resorts for beginners.

HOCHGURGL, AUSTRIA

Wide open slopes and excellent ski schools.

MERIBEL,
FRANCE

Two beginner areas & plenty of runs.

WINTER PARK,
USA

Discover gentle runs in this Colorado resort.

ALPE D’HUEZ, FRANCE

Large nursery area & excellent weather.

BEST FOR PRO SKIERS

Discover the freshest, fluffiest powder against a backdrop of spectacular scenery on your next ski holiday. These are the best ski resorts for pro skiers looking for powder.

REVELSTOKE,
CANADA

Best for ski touring & backcountry skiing, perfect for powder hounds.

CHAMONIX,
FRANCE

Arguably the most famous and renowned off-piste ski resort in the Alps.

ST ANTON,
AUSTRIA

Steep slopes, challenging moguls and thrilling off-piste opportunities.

VERBIER,
SWITZERLAND

Extreme off-piste, challenging chutes and great snow conditions.

BEST FOR LUXURY

Skiing in in these exclusive resorts offers the ultimate luxury & opulence. From stunning hotels and Michelin-star restaurants to world-class hospitality, discover the world’s most luxury ski resorts for your ski holiday.

LECH,
AUSTRIA

Austria’s most exclusive and prestigious ski resort.

ST MORITZ,
SWITZERLAND

World-renowned ski resort with a luxury lifestyle.

ASPEN,
USA

One the most respected ski resorts in the world.

COURCHEVEL,
FRANCE

World-class resort with seven Michelin star restaurants.

BEST FOR APRÈS

Nowhere does après quite like these ski resorts. From lively mountain parties and dancing on tables in your ski boots to more traditional events, these resorts know how to party. Discover more of the best ski resorts for après.

VAL THORENS,
FRANCE

The ultimate party ski resort with a lively nightlife.

LIVIGNO,
ITALY

Choose from a staggering 150 bars in this Italian resort.

VAL D’ISERE,
FRANCE

Glamorous après and home to the original Folie Douce.

WHISTLER,
CANADA

Open air terraces, live music, hearty food, and a lot of fun.

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SKI RESORT GUIDES

VAL THORENS

SÖLDEN

ZERMATT

MORZINE

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SKI HOLIDAY TOP TIPS

Planning & booking

Consider the time of the season

December can be a cost effective month to go skiing, with the exception of Christmas and New Year. There is no better way of seeing in the New Year than in the mountains – but it does come with a hefty price tag. Early December can be more risky in terms of snow conditions.

January is a great month for snow and is generally the cheapest month to go on a ski holiday – although it can be chilly so pack accordingly.

February is when most families head to the ski resorts. So it’s best avoided unless travelling with children, as this is when half-term holiday makers head to the slopes.

March and April are perfect for warmer weather and long, sunny days. The snow can start getting slushy later in the season though, so choose a high altitude resort.

Pre-booking

Ensure you have appropriate ski insurance in place. Consider whether you will be going off-piste or hitting the snow parks, as you will usually need to buy additional cover for this.

Pre-book your lift pass so they are ready and waiting for you at your accommodation.

Choosing a ski resort

Do your research to ensure that your chosen ski resort is suitable for your group’s abilities and budget.

For example, do beginners have plenty of gentle nursery slopes to help them build their confidence? Do pro skiers have plenty of off-piste opportunities? Are there any freestylers in your group who need a good snowpark?

Choosing a ski resort can be overwhelming, with so many different available options. Have a read of my guide to the best ski resorts in Europe for some inspiration.

Choosing accommodation type

Catered chalets are great for large groups, and take all the hassle out of a ski trip. Just remember that you need to make it back in time for dinner!

Self-catering apartments are popular with smaller groups and families who want flexibility.

Hotels are great for couples or those looking for extra facilities like a spa or bed and breakfast option.

On the mountain

Ski gear

Wearing a helmet is non-negotiable nowadays. I recommend buying your own so you don’t have to share a headspace with other sweaty ski heads! Plus, you can ensure the colour blends seamlessly with your outfit.

If you’re going to be skiing each year, it is definitely worth buying your own custom ski boots. Having rental ski boots can be painful and make your skiing experience a pretty miserable one. It’s well worth the investment if you plan to ski regularly and will also help you to improve your skiing technique.

To avoid looking like a total British novice, ensure your jacket is done up (‘flappy jacket’ is a big first-timer red flag) and ensure there is no gap between the top of your goggles and your helmet.

Hopefully your accommodation will provide heated boot racks. If not, it’s worth investing in some boot warmers. Not only will these dry out your boots, they will soften them to ensure the ritual of putting on your ski boots is a little less painful!

If you’re planing to go ski touring or exploring the backcountry, make sure you hire the necessary avalanche and safety equipment. It’s always best to go off-piste with an experienced guide to minimise the risk.

Hitting the slopes

As soon as you get your lift pass, put it in your jacket pocket.

If you’re a beginner, do make sure that you book ski lessons – or if you’re an experienced skier who wants to improve your technique. Private ski lessons will bring you the most benefit, but are of course more expensive.

Consider booking ski lessons in the afternoon; it’s a less popular time for lessons, so most companies tend to run discounts.

Wear sunscreen and lip balm. For those with sensitive skin, I recommend La Roche Posay Anthelios SPF50.

Bring sunglasses for lunch and après, so you don’t have to wear your goggles or be blinded by the sun.

Take a small bottle of water with you so you can rehydrate on the mountain – remember that you’re exercising so you need to stay hydrated. This is particularly important if you plan to hit après hard.

Pack a snack bar to keep your energy levels high, especially if your group doesn’t like to stop too often for a break.

SHOP SKI GEAR

LUXURY HOTEL PICKS in europe

With an abundance of exclusive ski resorts and well-heeled visitors from all over the world, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to high-end hotels and chic chalets in Europe. Think world-class service, fine dining and sumptuous spas. Here is my pick of the best luxury accommodation in some of Europe’s best ski resorts:

HOTEL PASHMINA,
VAL THORENS

A classy five-star hotel with beautifully chic interiors, a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and a luxurious ski lodge feel.

HOTEL CRISTALLO,
CORTINA

A luxurious palatial hotel with panoramic views of the Italian Dolomites, a sumptuous spa and delectable fine dining.

DAS CENTRAL,
SÖLDEN

A superior 5-star hotel in Sölden, Austria, with exceptional service, award-winning cuisine and a focus on wellbeing.

MOUNT CERVIN,
ZERMATT

A prestigious hotel that’s steeped in alpine history. Discover the ultimate luxury in the heart of pretty Zermatt.

LUXURY HOTEL PICKS in North America

Discover world-renowned hotels with an air of exclusivity alongside rustic boutique hotels with a relaxed charm. Whatever your preference, the North American ski resorts offer something for every taste. Whether you’re heading to Canada or the US, discover some of the best luxury accommodation options for your ski trip.