The best ski resorts for people who don’t ski
Go straight to the après-ski
Just because you don’t ski doesn't mean you should miss out on the family or group ski trip, or worse, go along only to end up bored out of your mind. If you’d rather skip the slopes but still want a great getaway, these resorts offer plenty of cold-weather fun without the need to strap on skis. The après-ski is the best part anyway, right?
The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado
Sure, Aspen is famous for its slopes, but the après-ski scene is where it really shines. At The Little Nell, the Living Room bar is buzzing with groups enjoying hot toddies and champagne around the fireplace. Ajax Tavern is perfect for people-watching while devouring a Wagyu cheeseburger. Don’t miss the Element 47 restaurant with its gourmet offerings and legendary wine cellar. And if relaxation is your goal, their spa services are first-rate.
Badrutt's Palace Hotel, St. Moritz, Switzerland
The fairy-tale Badrutt's Palace offers so much more than just skiing. The dining alone is worth travelling for, with Jason Atherton's dine and dance concept at King's Social House and Japanese-Peruvian dishes by world-famous Nobu Matsuhisa on offer. If you’re not hitting the slopes, you can take a spin on the hotel’s ice rink, try your hand at curling, head out for a scenic toboggan ride or explore the Engadin valley on snowshoes.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences, Whistler, Canada
At the Four Seasons Whistler, you don’t need skis to enjoy the winter wonderland. The resort’s spa features a unique Canadian maple syrup and brown sugar scrub, perfect for rejuvenating your skin, or you can take a dip in the outdoor heated pool, even when it’s snowing. Dog sledding, bobsleighing, and snowshoeing are just a few of the exciting activities on offer, and when you want to explore Whistler Village, the hotel's shuttle service has you covered.
The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland
There’s no FOMO for non-skiers at the Chedi Andermatt. First of all, there’s a stunning spa, featuring Thai reflexology massages and a relaxation lounge. You can also explore the beautiful Andermatt region on a snowshoe hike or take a magical sleigh ride through the snowy landscape. Enjoy fine dining at The Japanese restaurant and unwind in the well-stocked library or cigar lounge. The 115-foot-long pool is a perfect spot to relax after a day in the cold.
Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole may be one of the world’s best ski spots, but thanks to Amangani, there’s plenty here for the non-skiers too. Adventure seekers can try winter cycling with fat tire bikes or explore the awe-inspiring scenery on a snowshoe trek. Families will love dog sledding, sleigh rides, and snowmobiling expeditions, or for a more laidback experience, take a guided nature trek or a winter wildlife tour. Back at the resort, there’s a fabulous spa with a heated, outdoor 35-metre pool and hot tub with mountain views.
Airelles Val d’Isère, France
If you plan to skip the slopes, Airelles Val d’Isère will keep you active with a fabulous indoor pool and a state-of-the-art gym. Kids will be entertained at the Airelles Winter Camp, featuring a cinema and fun activities. For a unique experience, try ice diving or a husky sled ride. The Guerlain Spa offers an array of treatments, including facials and massages, just the ticket after a day of winter fun.
Cheval Blanc, Courchevel, France
Courchevel 1850 is a skier’s dream, but Cheval Blanc makes it a paradise for non-skiers too. The Russian banya and infinity-edge indoor pool are perfect for unwinding, and the three-Michelin-starred Le 1947 restaurant should be on everyone’s culinary bucket list. If you still fancy getting frosty, you can take part in igloo experiences, snowmobile races and sledge-dog rides.