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Where to go - skiing
The Alps are blessed with so many great ski areas across the countries the range runs through - by some estimates over 1000 - that it can be tough to narrow them down, but we have skied over 100 of them so can give first-hand advice on where to go.
Ski areas range in size from single slopes above small villages for the locals to get a few turns in to giant, multi-valley, high altitude ski areas that could keep you entertained for seasons.
We have chosen a selection of the most interesting that we know well. They include the superlatives such as the biggest, the highest and the snowiest, but also ones off the beaten path, ones which are family-friendly, ones which have a really traditional feel, ones with great food and ones with fabulous places to stay.
We've also chosen the ones you can ski if you want to make use of your Epic or Ikon Pass.
Where to go - exploring
You are likely to arrive via a major city, whether it's Paris, Geneva, Munich, Milan, Venice, Rome or London, so if you want to explore it before or after the mountains we would wholeheartedly recommend it.
Aside from the cities, which are brimming with art galleries, restaurants, museums and history, the Alps are in the heart of Europe allowing you to add on parts of the continent you have always wanted to visit. Exploring the Italian Lakes, the ruins of Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast or Rome is easy and less busy during the ski season. The boulevards of Paris and the cobbled mews of London might be chilly, but are atmospheric - think Bridget Jones style frosty streets, cozy pubs and twinkling lights.
We can arrange private cars and drivers, guides, car rental, rail travel and short flights to get you around and we can work out how to deal with bulky ski luggage, so you needn't limit your plans.
Types of place
Big cities have endless attractions, many indoors, so cold weather isn't really a problem - especially if you have warm ski jackets. Here you'll find relaxed locals during the winter months, lower prices and smaller crowds.
Areas traditionally popular in summer can be very quiet (but still beautiful) in midwinter, but start to come to life when the warmth of spring arrives, so can combine really well with high-altitude spring skiing.
