SKI BOOTS ON THE GROUND: WHERE OUR TEAM EXPLORED THIS SEASON

The past few months have been busy for the Ski.com team! We’ve been traipsing across the globe (yes, we love our jobs), getting adoringly acquainted with some of the best properties around the world. And we couldn't be more thrilled about this delightful "challenge." Not only is it our passion, but we're so excited to pass on this curated knowledge directly to you! Discover the destinations explored by the Ski.com team this winter and gain valuable insights to help you plan your dream ski trip in 2024.

CHAMONIX, France

Explored By: Cat, Director of Supplier Relations

Experience: Is it work or is it play? Cat spent the weekend in Chamonix between conferences in Switzerland and France. While she made rounds visiting hotel partners she also made time to put her Ikon pass to work, skiing Grands Montets, Le Tour, and Le Brevent. She timed her trip to a tee (so luck should have it), catching the Vallee Blanche on a primo-post storm day.

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Property Call Out: Refuge des Aiglons is the perfect base camp in the center of Chamonix action. The lobby is a collaborative and vibrant space for plotting the week's ski plan or converging before walking into town for dinner. Located near the Aiguille du Midi and the bus station, this property sets you up to make the most of your time.

Expert Tip: Do not go to Chamonix expecting to "figure it out". The best of the mountains are off-piste (anything not groomed) and require avalanche gear/knowledge and a guide's route expertise. We work with the best of the best and will ensure the guides are planning your day based on snow conditions, group goals, and safety to make the most of your time in this adventure capital.

ZERMATT, Switzerland

Explored By: Cat, Director of Supplier Relations

Experience: Ski.com had a busy December with visits to some of our favorite destinations to see some of our favorite partners. Cat met with our preferred guide companies and checked in on our preferred hoteliers and conducted business in two countries, experiencing the famous Matterhorn Crossing and skiing into Italy. Highlights included perfect corduroy, bluebird-backed Matterhorn views, lunch at Paradise Zermatt and an outdoor fondue experience in Furi.

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Property Call Out: Hotel Schweizerhof - this property is smack dab in the center of Zermatt liveliness and offers a trendy après experience for when you and the team want to enjoy each other's company in sweatpants gathered in the hotel lobby. Run down the day's play-by-play to the tunes of a live DJ after a steam, sauna and pool soak.

Expert Tip: No matter where you stay visit Hotel Omni or Chalet Hotel Schonegg for an afternoon aperitif and watch the sunset over Zermatt and the Matterhorn.

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB, British Columbia

Explored By: Carly, Marketing Team

Experience: Carly and a crew of Mountain Travel Experts headed to Whistler Blackcomb to scout the best hotels, dining gems and must-do activities. Amidst lodging tours and connecting with valued suppliers, they experienced unforgettable adventures like guided ski days, winter zip lining, champagne sabering and time in the spa.

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Property Call Out: A stay at the Fairmont Whistler Chateau is a destination in itself. You're practically at the doorstep of the Blackcomb Gondola, and the lively Whistler Village is just a short stroll or free shuttle away for shops, dining and après. They take post-ski relaxation to the next level with whirlpools, a heated lap pool, steam rooms and even barrel saunas. Pop into the Mallard Lounge for buzzy cocktails and live music. And don't miss out on the unbelievable breakfast spread at the Wildflower.

Expert Tip: Whistler is home to more than just fantastic skiing – the dining scene is worth a visit in itself. Ask our Experts for the best spots from everything from laidback pubs to sabering your own Champagne in an underground wine cellar.

La MIROIR, France

Explored By: Cat, Director of Supplier Relations

Experience: Chalets like Perelin and Hibou in the French Alps or Pyrenees offer a blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. Guests can expect spacious, private accommodations with features such as fireplaces, hot tubs, saunas, and entertainment systems. These two chalets are side by side and when combined, offer 11 privately catered bedrooms to satisfy even the pickiest of discerned travelers. The on site staff caters daily breakfast, après, and dinner and the cost of accommodation includes all ski passes, certified ski instructors/guides, and gear necessary to any activity. Your onsite Experience Manager will assist in curating daily experiences, but leave time to relax and enjoy the on property amenities and views. The location of these chalets is another draw, with easy access to some of the world’s most renowned ski areas, such as Chamonix, Courchevel, and Val d’Isère.

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Property Call Out: Chalet Perelin / Chalet Hibou

Expert Tip: Don't know where in the Alps you want to ski? You don't have to just pick one! Chalet Perelin is located 25 minutes from 7 world-renowned ski resorts and offers heli-ski excursions to Italy or off-piste skiing from the mountain all the way home. Plan to factor in a down day to take advantage of the cozy fireplaces, pool with a jaw-dropping view and a fridge stocked with French cheese.

VAIL, Colorado

Explored By: Remy, Marketing Team

Experience: If you are familiar with skiing in the Rockies, then you would be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn't heard of Vail. The rumors are true - the area is super fun to explore and sets you up for a quintessential ski vacation! There are so many luxurious places to stay and the food in both villages (Lionshead and Vail Village) is top-notch. With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain across Vail, there is something to discover for all levels. The purpose-built village makes it super easy to get around. There are no cars in the village, but they do have a bus that will transport you between the two base areas.

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Property Call Out: The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort in Vail, Colorado, stands out as an amazing retreat for your stay in Vail. After a $40 million renovation, The Hythe now offers guests a great ambiance with beautifully redesigned interiors and a swanky lobby with a large fireplace surrounded by chairs providing a comfortable place to lounge. It's perfectly located in Lionshead Village, providing easy access to the lifts at Vail Mountain.

Expert Tip: Chat with your Expert about the best way to approach skiing the mountain. With so much to explore, having a plan of action will give you the best tools to utilize your time on the mountain. And if you really want to do it the pro way, have your Expert hire a guide for you! It’s one of the best ways to explore Vail, avoid crowds and find secret stashes.

COURCHEVEL, France

Explored By: Cat, Director of Supplier Relations

Ski.com attended a Courchevel business development trip to visit existing tourism, lodging, ski school, and rental companies and find new products for our travelers. Highlights of the trip (besides seeing 9 hotels in two days) included guided skiing followed up a vibey powder day lunch celebration at Bagatelle Courchevel.

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Property Call Out: K2 Palace

Expert Tip: Ask our experts about the Pan Mah Chalet which features private massage rooms, a hot tub, and a swimming pool with a drop-down projector for swim-in movie night. The kids club made us want to stay and play! We can take your Courchevel trip one step beyond luxury. Ask us how!

JACKSON HOLE, Wyoming

Explored By: Gabriela, Emma and Kai, Mountain Travel Experts

Experience: Experiencing the beauty of Jackson Hole is something that everyone should have on their bucket list. This western mountain town is not only a skier's dream but truly the perfect destination with something to offer for everyone. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is known for its 2,500 acres of in-bounds terrain, long runs reaching vertical drops of up to 4,139 feet, and of course, the iconic Corbets Couloir. Not only is Jackson Hole a top bucket list destination for skiers and snowboarders alike, but it is also a hot spot for snowmobiling adventurers, wildlife connoisseurs and folks just looking to take in some classic Western culture.

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Property: Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa offers the perfect western retreat in the heart of Teton Village. Staying here, guests are steps away from the Ariel Tram and can enjoy full-service spa amenities. The tasteful Spur restaurant onsite offers a variety of local flavors serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. After a long day on the slopes, be sure to check out the rooftop hot tub overlooking Jackson Hole Mountain Resort!

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Expert Tip: Before arriving in Jackson Hole, speak with your Expert about taking a guided wildlife tour. Jackson Hole is right next to the Grand Teton National Park and National Elk Refuge. The area is home to special and unique wildlife that can be seen year-round. Guides will pick you up directly from your hotel or vacation rental and provide a one-of-a-kind experience with your family and friends. A lot of these excursions run half-day or full-day experiences, allowing you to still get a half-day in on the slopes!