Snow sure ski resorts in Europe
Snow reliability comes down to three things: how high the skiing sits, which way the slopes face, and whether there is a glacier. Altitude is the single best proxy, so this list ranks European resorts by the height of their highest lift served point, and flags the ones with year round glacier skiing.
Ranked by top lift served elevation across our full European database.
- 1ZermattValais, SwitzerlandOne of the most recognisable ski locations in the world filled with old-world Swiss charm.3899 m top lift
- 2CerviniaAosta Valley, ItalyA significantly lower price tag with unparalleled scenic skiing with the famous Matterhorn mountain as a backdrop3883 m top lift
- 3ChamonixMont Blanc, FranceBest known as the birthplace of extreme skiing, it is considered one of the most famous ski resorts in the world.3842 m top lift
- 4Les Deux AlpesIsère, FranceEurope's largest skiable glacier. Reliable snow and one of the strongest freestyle scenes.3600 m top lift
- 5Saas FeeValais, SwitzerlandCar free glacier village ringed by 13 four thousand metre peaks.3600 m top lift
- 6TignesEspace Killy, FranceWorld-known for its high-altitude skiing, extensive terrain, and reliable snow conditions all year-round.3456 m top lift
- 7Val d'IsèreEspace Killy, FranceElegant World Cup village with 300 km of linked pistes and world class off piste.3456 m top lift
- 8Pitztal GlacierPitztal Glacier, AustriaAustria's highest glacier ski area in Tyrol reaching 3,440m. Guaranteed snow with dramatic high-Alpine scenery and a café at the summit.3440 m top lift
- 9SöldenÖtztal, AustriaTwo glaciers, an 007 lounge and a party scene that opens the World Cup each October.3340 m top lift
- 10Alpe d'HuezIsère, FranceFamously referred to as l'île au Soleil for its average of 300 sunny days annually, Alpe d'Huez majestically sits atop a southern-oriented plateau, elevated above the clouds, and provides breathtaking panoramic views.3330 m top lift
- 11VerbierValais, SwitzerlandA glamorous resort stretched across 4 valleys, offering 260 miles of unmatched skiing for all levels.3330 m top lift
- 12NendazValais, SwitzerlandThe birthplace of the Freeride World Tour, this large, modern Swiss resort has 250 miles of slopes to carve.3330 m top lift
- 13Thyon-Les CollonsLes 4 Vallées, SwitzerlandRenowned for its beginner-friendly slopes, expansive 4 Valleys terrain, and breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and Dent Blanche.3330 m top lift
- 14St. MoritzEngadin, SwitzerlandBelle Époque glamour, 300 days of sun a year and skiing across three connected areas.3303 m top lift
- 15Sierra NevadaAndalusia, SpainSunny slopes and vibrant vibes in Europe's southernmost ski resort.3300 m top lift
- 16GudauriGeorgia, GeorgiaEnjoy sunny, south facing slopes, at Georgia's largest and highest ski resort where kids up to 6 ski for free3276 m top lift
- 17Alagna ValsesiaMonterosa ski, ItalyAn ancient Walser village beneath the towering south face of Monte Rosa, where centuries of mountaineering heritage meet some of the most celebrated freeride terrain in the Alps.3275 m top lift
- 18ChampolucMonterosa ski, ItalySun-drenched terraces, fresh pasta at lunch, and 200km of uncrowded pistes beneath the Monte Rosa massif - Italian skiing at its most authentic, with heliskiing for those who want more.\"3275 m top lift
- 19La PlagneParadiski, FranceOne of the world's largest ski resorts, offering exceptional terrain for every level and France's only bobsleigh track.3250 m top lift
- 20Hintertux GlacierZillertal, AustriaTraditional Austrian mountain hospitality, and year-round skiing set against a backdrop of stunning alpine peaks.3250 m top lift
Frequently asked questions
- What counts as a snow sure ski resort?
- As a rule of thumb, skiing that tops out above 2,800 m with a base above 1,800 m holds cover reliably from early December to late April in the Alps. Glacier resorts extend that further at both ends of the season.
- Where can you ski in Europe in November?
- Glacier areas open first: Hintertux and Sölden in Austria, Zermatt and Saas Fee in Switzerland, Tignes and Val Thorens in France. Terrain is limited early on, usually a handful of top lifts.
- Where can you ski in Europe at the end of April?
- Val Thorens, Tignes, Val d'Isère, Obergurgl, Zermatt and Hintertux typically run into late April or May. Look for north facing pistes and a base above 2,000 m.