Size should not always determine the destination of your next ski vacation. Sometimes, a smaller, more intimate resort provides a better option. On the other hand, if you crave a versatile skiing experience, and if you are traveling with a mixed-ability skiing group, then, the proverbial size might indeed matter.
Snow Magazine reports that Swiss writer Christophe Schrahe re-measured the ski areas of the world, and came up with a definitive list of king-sized resorts.
Here are some of the highlights.
Les Trois Vallées, France :493km
The Three Valleys offers a tantalizing mix of splendid scenery, altitude, vertical and diversity. From the upscale Courchevel to affordable and unpretentious Les Menuires there’s skiing for everyone from off-piste animal to clueless first timer, along with stacks of accommodation, dining and entertainment option freeriders to novices.
Breuil-Cervinia Valtournenche Zermatt: 252 km
Imagine the excitement of skiing from one country to another! The Breuil-Cervinia Valtournenche Zermatt area stretches through three valleys in Italy and Switzerland. Even better, the trail layout allows you to ski an entire day without repeating the same run twice. In some areas, you can easily alternate difficult and easy terrain.
Whistler-Blackcomb, British Columbia 252km
The biggest ski area in North America also boasts some of the best terrain, ambiance, restaurants and nightlife. Two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, comprise the resort. Despite its size, the Whistler-Blackcomb resort is situated at a moderate altitude. Unlike other large resorts, it does not require acclimation.
Whistler-Blackcomb is an excellent choice for groups of mixed abilities. On Whistler Mountain, novices can ski the long, flat Burnt Stew trail, which wraps around the mountain, while more advanced skiers can ski the bowls. One trip to Whistler Blackcomb, and you will understand while it was chosen to host the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Vail 222km
Although we tend to think that the United States has the biggest and best of everything, Vail, part of the Vail Resorts conglomerate, came in at 10th place, at the bottom of the list. Although it is not possible to ski between Vail and its neighbor, Beaver Creek, Vail Resorts owns both of these areas, including Breckenridge and Keystone. Most lift tickets give you the option of skiing either of these resorts.
