Skiing is a tremendous sport that allows us to enjoy some incredible views while getting a workout in at the same time. No matter where you are in the world, if there’s a mountain with snow, you should consider testing out the slopes because you might learn and see more than you were expecting. Here are four ski destinations to consider checking out while traveling.

Les Deux Alpes, France

Les Deux Alpes is in the southeastern part of France in Venosc. It is home to the largest skiable glacier in all of Europe and it’s France’s second oldest ski resort. Because this resort is on a glacier, skiing can take place year-round.

Les Deux Alpes offers about 137 miles of skiable runs and over 7,000 feet of vertical drop! This is an excellent location no matter your level of experience and is also a choice option for families. Whether your kids are just learning to ski or have no interest in skiing at all, they’ll easily find entertainment while you get your fair share of runs in. Just drop them off in ski lessons or take them to a childcare center on the mountain!

Beyond skiing, there’s so much entertainment to partake in at the resort including, spas, fitness centers, a bowling alley, a museum, a library, restaurants, bars and even clubs! You can go swimming or head to the ice rink to go ice skating, or, if you’re looking for more adventure, you can check out different views of the mountain by going paragliding or snowshoeing.

With a variety of different activities, this is an excellent resort to check out if you’re in the southeastern part of France with your family, friends, or loved ones!

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Located in the Dolomites in Northern Italy, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a ski resort that fits the needs for all levels of skiers with over 74 miles of ski runs to play on. Cortina d’Ampezzo also has several other activities you can partake in if you want a break from skiing. Why not brush up on some local history and dive into the Great War in the Dolomites? You can choose to go on a guided tour, where you’ll find people dressed up in vintage uniforms from the war reenacting tales from the past, or, you can head over to the Lagazuoi 5 Torri, the tourist information center, where you can view remnants of the war, such as, the war tunnels and trenches.

If history isn’t your thing but you still want to explore the Dolomites, you can opt in for snowshoeing to indulge in breath-taking views. Or maybe you just want to enjoy your time and relax by heading to one of the spas on the mountain. With multiple places to choose from, you can take in the views while hanging out in hot bath barrels with a nice warm beverage of your choice!

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is known as “The Matterhorn Ski Paradise.” It’s Switzerland’s highest ski resort with an altitude of over 12,000 feet. With 223 miles of runs to choose from, it’s the perfect mountain for any level of experience. If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, you can take lessons, or you can head straight for the slopes. For the more advanced, try testing out your skill at the Snow Park, where you’ll find rails, jibs, tables, boxes, and more!

Want a break from skiing, but still looking for entertainment? At Zermatt, you can go ice-skating or sledding. You can check out the mountain by hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, or you can go on a guided husky sleigh ride! Another way people enjoy the mountain is by viewing it from above by paragliding or in a helicopter ride.

Once you’re done with your adventures on the mountain, you can find entertainment all around. Check out some of the restaurants on the mountain, especially the ones with views of the Matterhorn. You can even visit sheep on the mountain and learn about animals and traditional farming. This is especially great if you have little ones with you! Lastly, the Zermatt hosts musical festivals outdoors. Who doesn’t love listening to live music while hanging out at the mountain!?

And don’t worry, there are plenty of places to stay, whether you want somewhere to stay on the mountain, or nearby.

Kitzbühel, Austria

If you’re looking for some urban flair, you’ll want to check out Kitzbühel, east of Innsbruck. This alpine town not only offers incredible skiing, but events and other outdoor activities. To start, it is known to be Austria’s best ski resort with over 100 miles of marked slopes. Like many resorts, this location is great for all levels of experience. They offer classes for beginners and even for more advanced skiers to help further develop skills.

Other activities you might find yourself interested in trying while at the mountain include snowshoeing and winter hiking. Either option will allow you to see the incredible views of the Tyrlean mountain landscape. There are multiple trails to choose from with guided tours available to view some of the region’s most stunning spots! Cross country skiing is another popular pursuot while you’re at the mountain. With over 40 miles of trails, you can find the best one based on your experience and the style you prefer. And don’t worry, all the routes have a great selection of restaurants and small huts you can take breaks at! Other activities you can find here include swimming, ice skating, tobogganing and spa facilities. This makes it a perfect place to visit to fit everybody’s needs.

What makes Kitzbühel an incredible place to travel to, is the diverse culinary experience. Kitzbühel is home to more than 13-award-winning restaurants and with over 60 different mountain “huts” and restaurants throughout the mountain, you’re bound to find a spot that everyone will enjoy. Some of these huts and restaurants are small, romantic, cozy, and some are even hidden!

Kitzbühel also offers a variety of events that make it a truly unique destination. If you’re into the more adventurous events, you’ll want to visit during the Hahnenkamm Races. This is, “the world’s most prestigious ski race,” where some of the best athletes in the world will compete. The most popular event at Hahnenkamm is the Streif downhill race and slalom on the Ganslernhang.

The other popular events that happen at Kitzbühel include Easter and Advent. During Easter, kids can partake in Easter egg dying and making candles and pastries. There’s a large Easter Market, as well as an extensive family program, and the tradition of the unveiling of the giant Easter egg. Then during Advent, the town turns into a Christmas postcard! You’ll find live performances, pony rides, bell chiming, Christmas stories for children, writing workshops, crafts and many more activities.

Whether skiing is a new hobby or something you’ve been doing since you were a kid, spending time at these iconic ski resorts redefines peak experience.

About the author: Laura Artman