Can’t decide where to go for your ski holiday this year? Well fear not as we have a destination in mind that ticks all the boxes. The beautiful town of Zermatt in the Swiss Alps has so much to offer both skiers and non-skiers. Take a look at why we think this chocolate-box village is the place to be this winter.

1: The Matterhorn
Dominating the landscape, Zermatt is the place to get up, close and personal with the majestic Matterhorn. This icon of the Swiss Alps is not only famous for its sheer physical presence and beauty but also its unforgiving nature of those who attempt to conquer it. You can learn all about the mountain’s infamous first ascent by Edward Whymper in 1865 at the Matterhorn Museum located on the main street.

2: The Picturesque Train Journey
Due to the breathtaking views you experience en-route, the train journey to Zermatt is one of our favourite ways to reach a resort. Winding through the valleys, past traditional farms, shimmering lakes and mountain peaks, there is something to admire around every corner. Make sure you sit on the left hand side of the carriage on the way up to catch views of the Monta Rosa range. After changing at Visp, see who can be the first to spot the Matterhorn. Linking with the main rail networks of Geneva and Zurich, the journey is not only attractive but hassle-free. We recommend booking a Swiss Transfer ticket at least five days in advance to receive a discount on the price of the journey.

3: Car-free Zone
In order to preserve its natural splendour, cars are banned in Zermatt. The only traffic you will encounter will be the jangling of bells from horse-drawn carriages or the electric taxis as they zip around the resort.

4: High-Altitude Skiing
At an elevation of 3,883m, with 360 km of pistes served by 52 ski lifts and 365 days of snow, Zermatt is a haven for skiers and boarders. Pistes are carefully groomed for every level whilst experienced skiers can hone their skills on a dazzling array of off-piste terrain. Boarders are well catered for too with two snow parks and two man-made half-pipes. If you’re feeling adventurous you can ski over to Italy for lunch – just remember to take your passport.

5: Incredible Views
If you do one thing whilst you are in Zermatt, take the half hour cogwheel train past rocky ravines and mountain lakes, through tunnels and galleries to Gornergrat at 3,089m. Not only does this give you easy access to Tasch and Gornergrat ski areas but also the opportunity to experience one of the finest panoramas in the world. The views capture the Monte Rosa massif including Switzerland’s highest peak, Dufourspitze (4,634.), the second largest glacier in the Alps and a total of 29 mountains above 4,000m including, of course the marvellous Matterhorn in all its glory.

6: Delicious Cuisine
Zermatt is home to some of the best mountain restaurants in the world. There are two Michelin-star restaurants (After Seven, Ristorante Capri) and countless others with Gault Millau points. You can’t come to Zermatt and not sample the traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette. However, there are plenty of more international options if you have over-indulged on the cheese front. Our favourite restaurants include Chez Vrony (the best burgers), Findlerhof (Matterhorn views and cosy ambiance) and Fluhalp (excellent sun terrace and live music).

7: Chic Chalets and Apartments
From stylish modern architecture to traditional alpine chalets, Zermatt has it all. We have a fantastic range of luxury chalets and apartments available to rent, both catered and self-catered. For an uber-exclusive property look no further than Chalet Elbrus, located in the recently built 7 Heaven’s complex. This sophisticated residence is seriously stylish with Matterhorn views and a superb private spa and wellness area. If you’re after something a little more low key then the Christiania apartments will fit the bill. For something a little quirkier try Heinz Julen Loft, a three-bed apartment located high above Zermatt with unobstructed views and striking furniture designed by Heinz Julen himself.

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Comprised of three superb chalets – Nanuq, Cryst’Aile and Les Bastidons, Hameau de la Volière has an attractive and convenient setting right beside the slopes in the centre of Courchevel 1850, ensuring easy access to the world’s largest ski area and the lively restaurants, bars and clubs.

Surrounded by woodland with unsurpassed views of the valley, the chalets are situated right next door to each other making Hameau de la Volière an ideal mountain retreat for large groups or corporate parties. Each chalet offers six double en-suite bedrooms, a swimming pool and a superb spa along with exceptional service from a team of experienced staff. The chalets can be rented separately for up to 12 guests, but when rented together they are able to accommodate an impressive 36 guests.

Set over four levels, Chalet Nanuq blends traditional architecture with contemporary furnishings to create a relaxing and inviting interior. The main living space on the top floor leads to a furnished north-facing balcony affording wonderful views of the valley. Children can enjoy the mezzanine play area whilst adults relax in the hot tub on the terrace.

Spread over five levels, Chalet Cryst’Aile has a wonderful open plan living area with a sitting area, dining table and well-equipped kitchen. The living area opens out to a large furnished terrace and on one of the many terraces is an outdoor hot tub. The property also houses a superb spa, a cinema room and a wine cellar.

Last but certainly not least, Chalet les Bastidons is a stylish alpine retreat with an elegant living and dining area and a large south-facing terrace. The outdoor terrace commands breathtaking mountain views which can be enjoyed from the outdoor seating or dining areas. The luxurious spa houses a swimming pool, massage room, hammam, sauna, hot tub and fitness room. There is also a relaxation area with a bar and a separate cinema room and games room with a pool table.

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Courchevel is home to some of the world’s best luxury ski chalets, with the most ski-in/ski-out chalets in the whole of France. From deluxe spas and plush cinema rooms to incredible service, Courchevel truly has it all. With so many outstanding choices it’s been virtually impossible to pick five of our favourite but we’ve done our best…!

CHALET EDELWEISS, Courchevel 1850

Regarded as one of the most opulent properties in the Alps, Chalet Edelweiss is the ultimate chalet both in terms of service and facilities. Covering 300m² spread over an impressive seven floors, the chalet has a nightclub that can host 100 guests, an underground garage that can park 20 cars and eight luxurious bedrooms which accommodate up to 16 guests. There’s also a cinema room and incredible spa complete with swimming pool, Jacuzzi and bar, a fitness centre, hammam and sauna. By staying here you will be treated to gourmet meals prepared by a private chef, a bespoke on-call driver service and a private ski instructor for six days during the week – what more could you wish for?

CHALET PEARL, Courchevel 1850

Widely regarded as one of the world’s most exclusive ski chalets, Chalet Pearl sets the benchmark for style and service with chic interiors, exceptionally experienced staff and a private spa that wouldn’t look out of place in a five star hotel. Having undergone a one million euro renovation, you can imagine that no stone has been left unturned when it comes to comfort. An elegant living room features a bar hosted by an excellent bartender whose cocktail repertoire will satisfy even the most particular requests. Chalet Pearl has seven exquisite en-suite bedrooms and a cinema room that can seat up to fifteen guests. It really is a true alpine haven.

CHALET PERCE NEIGE, Courchevel 1850

The height of luxury in Courchevel 1850, Chalet Perce Neige offers the ideal combination of ski-in/ski-out access and ample living space. Sheer luxury and elegance, the living areas exude style with designer decor and high-end amenities. Open plan living, big bay windows and lavish furnishings feature throughout the luxurious living space. Ideal for families, the chalet not only has a stunning wellness area with infinity-edge pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, massage room and outdoor hot tub, but also a lounge with pool table and TV, a games room and a cinema room with reclining chairs for ultimate relaxation.

CHALET LE COQUELICOT, Courchevel 1850

Ski-in/ski-out Chalet Le Coquelicot, located in the Nogentil area of Courchevel 1850, spans six luxurious floors that have all been designed to perfection. On the top floor is a grand open plan living space with a formal seating area, elegant dining table and a wrap-around terrace with outdoor seating – a great vantage point from which to admire the picturesque views. Six en-suite bedrooms accommodate 12 guests and all have beautifully crafted marble bathrooms. After a day on the mountain, the superb spa with swimming pool, Jacuzzi and steam room will be a welcoming sight.

CHALET ORMELLO, Courchevel 1850

Undoubtedly one of the most exclusive chalets in the world, Chalet Ormello has a prime location just steps away from the Bellecôte and nine luxury bedroom suites sleeping up to 15 guests. An expansive lounge and living area offer the ideal comfort and ambiance for relaxing, entertaining and socialising whilst multiple balconies give access to incredible panoramic views. The chalet has a world-class spa with an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a fitness suite if you haven’t worked hard enough on the slopes. Staying at Chalet Ormello gives you access to all the five-star facilities of the Hotel de Charme les Airelles, including the Valmont spa, three restaurants and designer shops. Here you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

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Set in an open snow bowl, St. Christoph is a small cluster of smart hotels, chalets, bars and restaurants just down from the summit of the Arlberg pass. Only a short drive from bustling St Anton and more cosmopolitan Lech and Zurs, St. Christoph offers a peaceful mountain retreat for those who are seeking fantastic skiing without the hustle and bustle.

Popular with families and couples alike, St. Christoph has a vast ski area. Thanks to the new Flexenbahn lift opening winter 2016, all the resorts in the Arlberg ski area are now linked and easily accessible on skis without the need for a bus, making it the largest interconnected ski area in Austria. One of the resorts’ key attractions is queue free lifts in the morning and a crowd-free home piste with good snow at the end of the day.

Aside from the chic hotels, there are a number of luxury chalets in St. Christoph cropping up as the resorts fairy-tale charm continues to draw in visitors. Most of the accommodation is ski-in/ski out, or at most a short walk from the main lift.

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The alpine landscape is home to a variety of species from chamois and ibex to mouflon and marmots. Amongst the rarer species are golden eagles and the three-toed woodpecker. A days hiking in the Alps wouldn’t be complete without spotting some wildlife en-route. There are also many farm animals freely grazing on the alps including cattle and sheep which you are sure to encounter on your adventures.

Below are a selection of images taken across the Alps this summer.

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Named the 7 Heavens, the properties offer impressive views of the Matterhorn and are situated just 100 metres from the Sunnegga funicular, transporting you straight up the mountain and onto the slopes in no time at all.

Boasting 550m² of living space spread over four floors, Chalet Aconcagua is one of the seven elegantly designed properties that comprise the development. Featuring authentic timbers and woods, the interior has been elegantly designed, expertly blending authentic alpine furnishings with ultra-modern technology to create the ultimate alpine residence.

After depositing your skis and boots in the private ski room on the entrance level, an elevator whisks you up through the chalet to the incredible open plan living area on the top floor. Here you will be greeted by a kitchen and dining area and a luxurious living room with a large contemporary fireplace at its centre. Sumptuous sofas and armchairs invite relaxation, and panoramic views can be admired through picture windows which open onto a fantastic balcony overlooking the resort.

You can be sure of a good night’s sleep in one of the chalet’s five deluxe bedrooms, which include two master suites, each with an en-suite bathroom and view of the Matterhorn from a shared balcony. A further two double bedrooms are no less luxurious, whilst a quad bunk room provides the perfect place for children to hang out together.

If that wasn’t enough, Chalet Aconcagua has an exceptional cinema and games room where you can spend cosy evenings in front of your favourite movie, or if you’ve had a particularly leg-burning day on the slopes then the indoor hot tub and hammam in the superb spa area are on hand to ease those aches and pains and get you ready another day’s action on the slopes.

As a guest staying at Chalet Aconcagua, not only do you have access to all the chalet’s exceptional facilities but also those of the 7 Heavens complex. These include a state-of-the-art gym, grand cigar lounge and a central living room where you can enjoy a tipple at the bar.

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From hiking in Zermatt to cycling in Chamonix, the Alps is the ideal destination for activity lovers. However, with beautiful mountain scenery and sunshine, it is also the perfect place to relax. Still not inspired…? Here are some of our favourite snapshots taken in the Alps this summer.

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What better way to spend an evening than perusing your very own private wine cellar on the hunt for that special vintage to accompany an exquisite dinner prepared for you by a gourmet chef. Whether you prefer red, white or rose, you are sure to find something more than suitable in these exceptional wine cellars. So what are you waiting for..uncork a bottle and relax whilst we take you through some of the most exceptional wine cellars in the Alps.

CHALET MARCO POLO, Val d’Isere

Situated in the heart of Val d’Isere, not only does Chalet Marco Polo have one of the most opulent private spas in the mountain but it also has a fantastic wine cave and fromagerie, perfect for hosting wine and cheese tasting evenings. The expansive open plan living area has plenty of comfortable seating for relaxing with a glass of wine whilst a chic bar area is ideal for a pre-dinner tipple or two.

CHALET MON IZBA, Verbier

A fine example of luxurious alpine living, Chalet Mon Izba is a fairy-tale hideaway with panoramic views across Verbier, an impressive spa and a blend of traditional architecture and extravagant design. Just one of the many extravagances featured in this enchanting property is a delightful wine cave with kitchen, waterfall feature and most importantly, an extensive wine collection. Upstairs, beer barrel style stools prop up the bar whilst the dining room with its bespoke chandelier offers a sophisticated setting to enjoy a bottle or two of similarly sophisticated wine.

CHALET GRANDE CORNICHE, Les Gets

Dedicated vinophiles need look no further than Chalet Grande Corniche in the beautiful resort of Les Gets. Luxurious yet quirky, the chalet has a number of unique features including a slide from the fourth floor bar area down to the wine cellar, complete with vaulted ceilings and a snooker table which can be converted into a large dining table. In addition, this fabulous chalet has a sauna, outdoor hot tub, gym, wellness area, two-tier home cinema as well as an infinity outdoor heated pool to enjoy a swim under the stars.

CHALET TRUFFE BLANCHE, Verbier

A vision of opulence, Chalet Truffe Blanche offers everything you could possibly want in a luxury chalet and more besides from a nightclub and cinema room to a sushi and vodka bar. One of its many highlights is its impressive wine cellar, which not only has a fantastic range of bottles to choose from but also underwater windows looking out into the atmospheric swimming pool.

CHALET OPULENCE, Megeve

With a name epitomising luxury, it is no surprise that Chalet Opulence is packed with facilities, incorporating everything from a cinema to a disco room and spa with swimming pool. The chalet has multiple living areas including a reception area with a central bar – the perfect setting for catching up on the day’s events over a glass of wine, chosen from the fantastic wine cellar.

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Having a good level of fitness when you go skiing or snowboarding is crucial. Even with a lengthy lunch break, an average day on the slopes will deliver between four and six hours of sustained physical activity, and if you spend most days sitting behind a desk this might come as something of a shock to your body. The fitter you are the more you will enjoy your skiing and reduce the risk of injury, thus it is important to be prepared. In order to help you get and stay ski fit this summer we recommend a programme which includes endurance, strength and flexibility.

Tip 1: Embrace your bike
In order to improve endurance on the slopes, cardiovascular fitness is extremely important. You should aim for 20 minutes to 1 hour of aerobic activity three times a week. Working the quads and core muscles, cycling is a favoured method of aerobic training by World Cup skiers and is a great way to replicate the fitness required for skiing or snowboarding. So instead of hopping on the bus or getting behind the wheel, make the most of the long summer days and jump on your bike instead.

Tip 2: Go hiking
Where better to build up your strength and endurance than hiking in the Alps. The mountains are beautiful in summer, covered with carpets of flowers, freshwater lakes and wildlife and there are many wonderful mountain trails to explore. You can also try climbing – a great skill that will come in handy for ski mountaineering in the winter months.

Tip 3: Hit the gym
To gain the strength needed for a full day on the slopes, it is important to target the legs in your workouts. Lunges and squats are useful for working the hamstrings and quads which are the crucial muscles needed for skiing. Try to do three sets of 20 lunges every other day. It is also important to work on your core stability using exercises such as the plank, simple crunches and even hopping can help.

Tip 4: Take up yoga
Skiing and snowboarding relies a lot on core strength, balance and flexibility. The best way to develop this is with spot of yoga or pilates. Use a stability ball or balance board three times a week to exercise your abdominals, obliques, lower back. Practising 10-15 minutes of yoga every day will mobilise all the major muscle groups and improve flexibility and balance.

Tip 5: Go summer skiing
With several glacier ski areas, you don’t actually have to stop skiing at all in the summer. A handful of resorts including Tignes and Zermatt are even open in July and August. Of course, the extent of the terrain they offer is limited in comparison to the winter months but this hardly matters, especially if you want to master a new skill or technique. Plus with all the other activities on offer such as trail-running, tennis, climbing and mountain biking, you won’t be short of ways to stay in shape.

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Standing at 1225m in the Dolomite mountain range, Cortina d’Ampezzo, or Cortina as it is more widely known, is located in a large valley in the Veneto region of Northern Italy. Situated on the Boite river, the resort is renowned for its spectacular scenery with dramatic limestone cliffs surrounding the resort.

This captivating town has previously hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics, and is set to host the 2021 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships. At the heart of the resort is the cobbled Corso Italia, a traffic-free area lined with chic shops selling everything from designer clothes, jewellery and furs to art and antiques. Frequented by Italian glitterati, Cortina has a friendly atmosphere and is as much about lunching and shopping as skiing.

Part of the Dolomiti Superski, one of the largest ski circuits with 1,200 km of slopes across twelve ski regions accessed with a single ski pass, Cortina has a good mixture of slopes above and below the treeline. Linked by buses, Cortina has several areas of crowd-free slopes spread across the resort and is ideal for beginners.

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