Nestled amidst snow‑capped peaks and postcard‑perfect landscapes, Europe’s ski resorts remain the epitome of winter elegance and adventure. Each destination offers its own distinctive charm – from the powder‑laden slopes of the French Alps to the storybook villages of Switzerland. This season, we explore the finest ski destinations Europe has to offer and highlight the luxury chalets that promise an unforgettable stay – combining breathtaking scenery, impeccable service, and timeless style.
Courchevel 1850, France
Courchevel 1850, the most exclusive village in Les Trois Vallées, perfectly blends world‑class skiing with unmatched luxury. Boasting access to hundreds of kilometres of pristine pistes, it attracts a glamorous international crowd seeking designer boutiques, Michelin‑starred dining, and indulgent ski‑in/ski‑out chalets. These opulent retreats often feature private chefs, spa facilities, and dedicated staff, offering an unparalleled alpine experience where sophistication meets exceptional skiing.
Where to stay: Chalet Le Namaste
Chalet Le Namaste, once the private summer residence of Baroness Margaret Thatcher, is one of Courchevel 1850’s most exclusive ski‑in/ski‑out homes. Situated in the prestigious gated Hameau de Cachemire, this 400 m² chalet offers refined alpine living with a grand drawing room, mezzanine study, curated European art and luxurious accommodation for up to 12 guests, including a dedicated children’s bunk room. Its private spa features an indoor pool, Hammam, sauna, massage suite and fitness area, while expansive terraces provide breathtaking mountain views. Blending authentic charm with state‑of‑the‑art amenities, Chalet Le Namaste promises an exceptional retreat for the most discerning travellers.
(Images courtesy of Oxford Ski Company Website)
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, is one of Switzerland’s most prestigious ski resorts, renowned for its year‑round skiing and refined alpine charm. Combining over 360 km of pristine pistes with world‑class gastronomy, designer boutiques and five‑star hospitality, it attracts a sophisticated international crowd. Exclusive chalets and luxury hotels offer indulgent amenities and unrivalled views, making Zermatt the perfect destination for those seeking exceptional skiing paired with elegant après‑ski living.
Where to stay: Zermatt Peak
Chalet Zermatt Peak, the resort’s premier luxury chalet, enjoys a landmark position just minutes from the centre with uninterrupted views of the village, surrounding peaks and the Matterhorn. Finished to an exceptional 5*+ standard, it combines the finest natural materials with bespoke designer furnishings sourced worldwide. Striking 4.5‑metre windows showcase panoramic vistas of Zermatt’s three main ski areas, making this property a true statement of style, elegance and refined alpine living.
(Images courtesy of Oxford Ski Company Website)
St. Moritz, Switzerland
St Moritz, set in the breathtaking Engadin Valley, is one of Switzerland’s most glamorous and historic ski resorts, famed for its elegance, luxury and world‑class winter sports. Renowned as a playground for the international elite, it offers pristine slopes, Michelin‑starred dining, designer boutiques and five‑star hotels, all framed by stunning alpine scenery. Combining exceptional skiing with an exclusive social scene, St Moritz epitomises sophisticated mountain living.
Where to stay: Chesa Laret
Chesa Laret is an elegant alpine retreat situated in the tranquil village of Pontresina, just a ten‑minute drive from the renowned resort of St Moritz. The village itself offers charming cafés, restaurants and a picturesque shopping street.
Accommodating up to 14 guests across seven bedrooms, the chalet features two luxurious master suites with en‑suite facilities, additional double bedrooms, and two delightful children’s rooms. A private spa, complete with sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and fitness area, provides the perfect sanctuary for relaxation after a day on the slopes. Spread over two floors, the chalet also offers inviting entertainment spaces, including a TV room, games area and cosy corners for family gatherings.
(Images courtesy of Oxford Ski Company Website)
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Itay
Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in Italy’s stunning Dolomite Mountains, is a distinguished ski resort renowned for its exquisite natural beauty, vibrant culture and refined elegance. Famous for hosting the Winter Olympics and attracting a sophisticated international clientele, Cortina offers superb skiing, charming boutiques, gourmet dining and a lively après-ski scene. It perfectly combines world-class winter sports with Italian style and hospitality.
Where to stay: LV01 Dolce Vita
Chalet LV01 Dolce Vita in Cortina d’Ampezzo is a modern luxury retreat offering over 900 sqm of space and commanding panoramic views from the village’s highest point. Spread over four floors with private lift access, it features a master suite with mountain views, fireplace and Jacuzzi, four en‑suite doubles, and two further bedrooms sharing a bathroom. The chalet boasts a full spa with a 20m pool, Jacuzzi, relaxation area, a cosy living floor with open fire, bar and kitchen, plus a soundproof cinema and wine cellar—an exceptional choice for an indulgent Italian ski experience.
(Images courtesy of Oxford Ski Company Website)
Gstaad, Switzerland
Gstaad, set amid the magnificent Bernese Oberland, is one of Switzerland’s most exclusive ski resorts, celebrated for its understated luxury, pristine alpine scenery and cosmopolitan charm. Favoured by royalty and international jet‑setters alike, it combines superb skiing with designer boutiques, Michelin‑starred dining and world‑class hotels. Blending authentic Swiss character with refined elegance, Gstaad offers a truly distinguished winter retreat.
Where to stay: Ultima Promenade Gstaad
Ultima Promenade Gstaad is a historic chalet in a prime position on the Promenade, offering over 2,500 sqm of refined living across four floors. It features eight elegantly designed bedroom suites, with chic interiors, alpine touches and mountain views, plus a dedicated children’s suite.
The chalet boasts extensive spa facilities, including a pool, Hammam, sauna, Jacuzzi, snow shower, fitness room and treatment rooms offering Augustinus Bader and Seed to Skin Tuscany therapies. Guests can also enjoy a private cinema, nightclub and arcade.
At its heart lies a striking open‑plan living and dining area, complete with a fireplace and double‑height dining room, perfect for savouring exquisite dishes prepared by a private chef after a day on the slopes.
(Images courtesy of Oxford Ski Company Website)
At Stratfield Fairlane, our dedicated VIP concierge service ensures every detail of your alpine escape is flawlessly arranged. From securing the most exclusive chalets in Courchevel, Zermatt, St Moritz, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Gstaad, to organising private travel, ski instructors and bespoke experiences, we deliver a truly seamless and luxurious journey from start to finish.
Contact our team today to begin planning your perfect European ski retreat, tailored entirely to your desires.