The Best European Ski Destinations

When temperatures drop below zero degrees and we are all under the influence of cold, the mountain slopes become our favorite place to play and the ski outfits are in great demand. Whether you are an expert of skiing, whether it is the first time you have the courage to experience this sport, you're definitely looking for the most beautiful place were to do this.

And Europe has much to offer: breathtaking view, quality ski slopes for both experts and beginners, small charming cottages with a lovely architecture and why not the best hot chocolate prepared with milk fresh from the Alps. We selected five of the most beautiful European mountain destinations that you should not miss this winter.

La Grave, France – is the place to be for ski lovers all over the world, as it has it all 7,000-vertical-feet of glaciers, cliffs, couloirs, and no-fall zones. An expert or a beginner, it is definitely a must see. A 12th century village tucked into the French Alps about an hour from Grenoble, La Grave is a 500-person town with an intimate family feel.

Kitzbühel, Austria – the place where in each January, more than 80,000 ski-racing fans are leaving to  Kitzbühel to watch the world’s best skiers tackle in Kitzbühel, considered to be one of the most prestigiousdownhill race on the World Cup circuit.

Verbier, Switzerland – is the right place for the ones looking for a little bit of sparkle. You can enjoy there some of the most impressive mountains hotels, restaurants, and nightlife, as they are sophisticated and glamourous. More you can enjoy 254-miles of slopes and off-piste zones like Bec des Rosses, a hairy, roughly 50-degree face accessed from the Mont Fort tram.

Alagna, Italy -  a fairy-like mountain scenary located in the northern regions of Italy and on the southern side of the Monte Rosa Massif. The word than can define this place is "rustic" as  the rustic farming village serves up a mountain with serious exposure, one gondola, and access to two additional ski areas, Champoluc and Grissoney.

St. Anton, Austria - is charming slope-side town steeped in alpine tradition, St. Anton offers almost 200 miles of runs, roughly 440 miles of back- and side-country terrain, and a raging après scene.