Snowy landscapes tend to lead to hot baths, fireside chats and intimate dinners. Is it any wonder then that a ski break is the perfect romantic vacation? With a host of daytime slope adventures and après-ski options, and surrounded by stunning scenery, these romantic ski resorts redefine romance.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
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Nestled in the Italian Dolomites, Cortina is home to some spectacular scenery. Couples love the sunset here which turns the white snows into romantic shades of pink and orange, perfect for an evening aperitif. Cortina’s slopes offer dramatic encounters with craggy mountain formations.
Once you reach the bottom, there’s a horse-drawn cart to whisk you up to the resort for a relaxing massage treatment or one of the gourmet Italian meals. It’s easy to see why Cortina tops the list for skiing couples.
St Moritz, Switzerland
St Moritz sets the standards for a romantic ski getaway pretty high. Its plush chalets are luxurious settings for steamy nights in. Beyond the door, a world awaits. There are spas with original St Moritz springwater, numerous art galleries, drives in classic cars across the mountain passes, a casino, and ice skating on the black ice. But no worries, the slopes are still the crown jewels.
Morzine, France
A dream for the less serious skiers, Morzine offers ice-diving beneath the frozen lake, snowshoeing, tobogganing, ice skiing, nature tours and shopping. The town itself is loved for its friendliness and charm. Not to mention Morzine is a sojourn in the land of love- have you heard a French accent? It’s as romantic as a candle-lit dinner.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt’s iconic for the Matterhorn, the snow-capped peak that towers over the area, but that’s not the only reason couples come here. The village oozes typical Alpine charm with wooden chalets and stores teeming with chocolatey delights.
For the days, there are lots of sports on offer besides skiing, although the off piste skiing is world-renowned. Chocolate, cosy chalets and wonderful views, as well as skiing…Zermatt is always going to be a favourite.
Lech, Austria
There are two unmissable romantic experiences at Lech. A wander by the river at sunset is as atmospheric as it gets and when the pinks skies fade into midnight blue, it’s time for stargazing.
The ski runs are best for intermediate skiers, although it does cater to those going at an easy pace. Back at the resort, fine dining is the name of the game at restaurants such as the Michelin-starred Gourmethotel Brunnenhof.
Val d’Isere, France
Pistes and excellent après-ski options make Val d’Isere a romantic ski holiday for couples. There’s 300 km of ski runs and located 1850 m above sea level, snow is pretty much guaranteed and the season lasts long here.
Plenty of bars and music keep the night atmosphere lively, while the upscale shops give the centre an exclusive feel. Val d’Isere isn’t for those on a budget but those prepared to spend a bit more and who have ski experience will find this resort the perfect vacation.
Courmayeur, Italy
Located on the Italian side of Mont Blanc, Courmayeur is a stylish resort. It has a superb gourmet scene with a Michelin star chef preparing fresh meals daily in season. The snow-capped wooden chalets create an aura of village charm.
The skiing is best for intermediates and the off piste skiing is particularly good. As for the views: they’re the stuff of romantic proposals.
Wengen, Switzerland
A car-free Alpine village, Wengen seems trapped in time. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. The Jungfrau area is incredibly scenic and Wengen is located at its centre. The resort is reached only by cog-railway, a romantic start to a perfect romantic ski getaway. The ski runs are vast and gentle, perfect for an easy break with your partner.
Four Seasons Resort Whistler, Canada
The top resort in North America, Whistler also hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. With such credentials, skiers won’t be disappointed with 200 downhill ski trails. If you’re looking for alternative sports, there’s also ice skating, snowboarding and heli-skiing at this impressive resort.
Lovebirds will have lots to do after a busy day, such as snuggling up in a dog-sled and making a stop at an atmospheric bonfire. The dining is also world-class with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and stellar venues. A special offering is the ability to create your own personalised spices to enjoy at the resort and take back home.
An in-house spa has two couples’ rooms for side by side massage with your better half. Alpine, Swedish, aromatic…it’s all possible.
For the most romantic skiers, Whistler’s also made a reputation for itself for destination weddings.
Kitzbühel, Austria
The daring come to Kitzbühel for the legendary Hahnenkamm (the world’s most dangerous downhill race) but couples love the resort for its relaxed, inviting feel. The village is charming and full of colour: cobbled streets, medieval buildings and horse-drawn carriages are all part of the picture-perfect package.
The bustling bars and the rooftop swimming pool at the Schwarzer Adler is a dreamy viewpoint that completes the picture of an ideal romantic resort.
Alpbach, Austria
This resort is one for the photobooks: Alpbach has been called Austria’s prettiest village. With traditional wooden structures, the rolling Tyrolean mountains and large green spruces, it won’t disappoint on its reputation.
The skiing is laidback, too: perfect for loved-up couples. There are amazing panoramic walking trails and a lively après-ski scene. The cuisine is rustic Austrian-: think spit-roasted chicken ordered 24 hours in advance and dumplings of sweet yeast or spinach. An idyllic ski resort for romantic getaways.
Zell am See, Austria
Skiing-wise, Zell am See caters best for intermediates and experts with several black runs and weather-dependent slope conditions.
Where the resort really excels is as a romantic resort. At Zell am See, triangular peaks are dusted with snow and rise out of deep blue lake waters. That same lake is often available for ice skating and the promenade along the water’s edge makes for a scenic, romantic idyll.
Can’t get enough? Book a room at the Grand Hotel with its lakeside location and luxurious rooms. Zell am See’s a romantic ski resort that’ll probably have you back for more.
With indulgent spas, gourmet dining and a range of shops and cafes, these resorts provide all you need for a cosy retreat from the elements after a day’s superb skiing. No wonder they’re the best romantic ski resorts.
