If you have ever planned an international ski vacation, you are no stranger to the immense amount of planning that goes into it. Potential pain points include a language barrier, visas to figure out, what to see and where to stay. Researching everything on your own can be exciting but it takes valuable time and the initial excitement can easily devolve into frustration.
For these reasons and many more, Ski.com has put together an all-star list of curated trips that take all the guesswork out of planning. Our Mountain Travel Experts have handpicked the best locations around the world for the 2023/2024 season, from the snowy wonderland of Japan with secret stashes at every turn to the pristine slopes of Switzerland and the Alpine charm of Chamonix.
WHY GO WITH A GUIDED SKI TRIP?
The name “Guided Trips” is almost a misnomer. The only part of this trip that is truly guided are the parts that matter most: – those on the mountain. Our Ski.com experts set you up with the best local ski or snowboard guides each day who will take you to some of the best spots on the mountain – the ones the locals know. The guides are certified instructors who are ready to assist you in enhancing your form or taking on challenges if you are so inclined. Get ready to find the best-kept secrets on the mountain, with peace of mind while exploring off-piste terrain with someone knowledgeable. They are also on standby to give you recommendations on the area and let you know the best restaurant spots for après to check out in town!
Each ski or snowboard group is no more than four to five people. You read that right – if you book this trip with three other friends, you are essentially paying for a private guide for your crew for the duration of the trip. If you come alone or with a plus one, we’ll match you with others based on ability and then it’s up to you and your designated guide to choose your own adventures for the week. It’s like having a friend to ski with all week.
MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Our guided ski trips offer crazy value for the money. Offering all the financial benefits of a group trip – WITHOUT the hassle of traveling with a group! This trip can be viewed as a choose-your-own adventure, they can be as unguided or guided as you want. If you’re flying solo and want to go on an international trip, these trips make it super easy to make fast friends and travel buddies. And the true value really shines when you consider the cost. We negotiate heavily discounted room prices and exclusive deals on all the trip components so we can offer you the best possible experience, at the best possible rates.
JAPAN AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
If you’ve seen photos then you’ve dreamed of it at least once – that untouched, deep, and pristine Japan blower JaPow! You’ve probably imagined yourself floating effortlessly through the fluffy snow and then settling down for a soak in the onsen (Japanese hot spring) and après-ski after. Or maybe you’ve imagined a day of hitting pillow drops on secret stashes of the mountain and breaking for Ramen lunch as the snow falls and falls and falls (we have chills just thinking about it)! Japan is the land of culture, hot springs, ramen and endless fresh tracks.
Since Japan is no longer flying under the radar in the winter season (read: it’s on almost every skier or rider’s bucket list) – we guarantee rooms are going to sell out FAST.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Stay at the Green Leaf Niseko Village, – a ski-in ski-out lodge with one of the most beautiful natural onsen hot springs in the area. Your hillside abode offers unobstructed views of Mt. Yotei from Niseko Village, and all the home-away creature comforts you could want. The Green Leaf Niseko is a bit off the beaten path of busy Hirafu, but it’s ski-in ski-out and the lift is just steps from the boot room. The property offers a private onsen, a heated pool for those not wanting to strip down in their birthday suit and a lively lobby bar. It is a short bus ride away from the vibrant Hirafu Village, where guests can find a wide variety of dining and bar options lasting deep into the night.
WHO IT’S FOR
Southern Hokkaido guided ski trip is a dream for intermediate to advanced skiers and riders who have been salivating to experience Japan. Your guide will know exactly which of the area resorts will have the best snow based on the daily weather reports so you can experience the best snow Japan can offer every day. This trip is perfect for travelers who are looking for ENDLESS powder and a unique cultural experience – especially for those who want an authentic Japanese dining experience!
WHAT’S INCLUDED – Japan starting at $2,724 per person
- 7 nights of ski-in ski-out lodging in Niseko at The Green Leaf Niseko Village
- Round-trip transportation between New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) and Niseko
- 6 days with local English-speaking guides in groups of four or five for Niseko, Rusutsu, Kiroro and Moiwa with access to side-country terrain (and transportation)
- Daily breakfast
- One traditional Japanese dinner
- Welcome and farewell receptions
- STRESS-FREE trip to Japan for the best powder of your life
Pro Tip: Need help securing flights? Just let your Mountain Travel Expert know when you book the trip, and they can help you secure the best deals for the guided trip! Coming from Denver? United flies direct to Japan to help make your life easy.
SOLD OUT – FOR THE FOOD LOVERS – ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND
The Zermatt guided trip is sold out. Still dreaming of a curated ski trip to magical Zermatt? Our Mountain Travel Expert’s can help craft your dream trip – everything from where to stay, what to ski, where to eat and what to do! Get started and speak with an expert today!
Switzerland brings to mind stunning natural vistas with the iconic Matterhorn dominating the skyline. It is known for its pristine Alpine landscapes, snow-covered peaks and charming mountain villages with top-of-the-line après-ski options. Did we mention the terrain? It’s something to brag about.
Zermatt offers a vast and varied terrain, with steep pitches and iconic runs. The area boasts the highest elevation of groomed trails in Europe and off-piste terrain that will make you giddy with excitement. Skiing in Zermatt also offers the opportunity to ski two different countries in one day: Switzerland and Italy.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll be staying at the Grand Zermatterhof in the heart of car-free Zermatt Village. This property is a 5-star luxury property that regularly hosts royalty, celebrities and mountaineers alike. Zermatt Village is right out your front door with narrow streets, cozy cafes, boutique shops and world-class restaurants, making this trip a foodie’s paradise. Zermatt offers and enjoyable and sophisticated après-ski scene with a variety of bars and lounges where you can unwind with newfound friends.
WHO IT’S FOR
The Zermatt trip is great for those who crave the perfect blend of adventure, culture, leisurely coffee, fine dining and luxury. If you’re an intermediate to advanced skier looking to ski iconic runs, with dramatic vistas and good après, snag your spot on this trip. Steal that discounted rate on a room and spend your days skiing long lines of on- and off-piste terrain with an experienced guide.
WHATS INCLUDED – Zermatt starting at $5,364 per person
- Round-trip transfers from Geneva Airport
- 7 nights of lodging at the five-star Grand Zermatterhof
- 7 days of breakfast
- 3 days of English-speaking, local guides (with options to add additional days)
- Welcome reception
- Traditional Swiss dinner
- Traditional on-mountain dinner followed by nighttime sledging (sledding) back to Zermatt!
SOLD OUT – CHAMONIX – THREE COUNTRIES, ONE TRIP
The Chamonix guided trip is sold out but Our Mountain Travel Expert’s are on standby to help you craft your dream trip. Get started and speak with an expert today!
If you’re the type of person who loves variety, Ski.com’s guided Chamonix trip is the perfect choice. Chamonix, France is situated in a skier’s paradise, nestled adjacent to Italy and Switzerland in the Alps, with some of the world’s best expert skiing. Here, amidst classic European towns, jagged peaks and glaciers that soar to heights of 12,500 feet above the valley floor, you will begin your adventure of adrenaline-pumping, iconic descents.
For those who crave the thrill of pushing their boundaries and conquering world-famous challenging terrain, this trip is the golden ticket. Each day, your guide and you will discuss what you’d like to do, look at snow reports and decide which resort, and which country, has the best conditions. This is your chance to experience Courmayeur, Italy; Verbier, Switzerland and any of the several resorts located in Chamonix, France. If reading that doesn’t make you salivate, first check your pulse and make sure you’re alive and then check out this epic video we made while skiing the Vallee Blanche, maybe the most famous ski descent in the entire world.
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
After a day of adrenaline-pumping lines, you’ll head back to your cozy and modern room at Alpina Eclectic Hotel & Spa. This property sits atop a lofty vantage point with one of the most breathtaking views of Mont-Blanc. With modern amenities (a jacuzzi and sauna with stunning views) and excellent architecture with curated rooms, this hotel is the perfect getaway to complement your blissful adventure.
WHO IT’S FOR
The trip to the Mont Blanc region, with its challenging and expert-level skiing terrain, is tailor-made for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders. Your guide will religiously check weather reports at Chamonix, Verbier, and Courmayeur and based on local intel, you’ll chase the best snow every day. This trip is ideal for those who are looking to go on a true mission and maximize time on the mountain. If you are comfortable tackling steep pitches, navigating through varied terrain conditions and conquering challenging descents, this trip is perfect for you.
WHATS INCLUDED – Chamonix starting at $3,915 per person
- Round-trip transportation between Chamonix from Geneva Airport
- 7 nights of lodging at Alpina Eclectic Hotel & Spa Chamonix
- 6 days with local, English-speaking guides in the Mont Blanc Region (France, Italy and Switzerland)
- 7 days of breakfast and dinner
- A welcome reception
- Traditional French dinner
EASE OF SKI.COM’S GUIDED SKI TRIPS
Take the planning – and headache – out of your international ski trip. Book now and benefit from Ski.com’s curated itineraries based on 50+ years in snow business.
Spots are selling out quickly! Contact a Mountain Travel Expert and reserve your spot today!
NOBODY GETS WHY YOU CRAVE TIME IN THE MOUNTAINS MORE THAN WE DO, AND NO ONE KNOWS HOW TO GUIDE YOU THERE BETTER
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