In the heart of Europe, where the sky meets the summit, lies a collection of resorts that redefine luxury travel. I sat down with Best of The Alps, The Classic Mountain Resorts to discuss the world’s most prestigious retreats in places like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Courmayeur, Crans-Montana, Davos Klosters, Megeve, and Chamonix-Mont Blanc.
Destinations cradled by majestic mountain ranges, with experiences meticulously curated for the discerning traveler who seeks adventure, nature, heritage, and culinary excellence.
The heritage of prestige
Each of these resorts boasts a rich history intertwined with the essence of European royalty and cultural heritage. Cortina d’Ampezzo, for instance, has been a playground for the affluent since the 19th century, hosting the Winter Olympics in 1956. Here, every corner whispers tales of glamour and grandeur.
Similarly, Courmayeur, with its proximity to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, offers not just breathtaking views but a historical connection to mountaineering that dates back centuries. Typically one might visit Megeve Courmayeur, and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc to make for a fantastic trip, as they are in close proximity. A great time to visit is November to March.
Image by Adam Derewecki/Pixabay
Adventure beyond the ordinary
For those who crave adrenaline, these Alps provide a playground like no other. In Switzerland, Davos Klosters, known for its sophisticated skiing, also offers cross-country routes through serene landscapes, while Chamonix-Mont Blanc is the epicenter for extreme sports like paragliding and ice climbing.
The winter months transform these resorts into a wonderland for skiing and snowboarding, hosting numerous World Ski Championships, which showcases the world’s best skiers against the backdrop of these spectacular resorts. Generational travel is gaining popularity. Parents ski for the morning, grandparents enjoy the grandkids, with everyone meeting for lunch. There is something for the entire family throughout all generations, in The Best of the Alps.
Image by Jörg Vieli/Pixabay
Alps: Luxury accommodated
Here in the mountains, luxury isn’t just a concept; it’s an artform. Hotels in Megeve redefine opulence with their impeccable service, gourmet dining, and bespoke amenities. These resorts offer wellness programs in state-of-the-art spas, where you can rejuvenate amidst the crisp mountain air.
Travelling by rail is favorable. Along the way, the scenic rail routes are an awe-inspiring experience set to splendid panoramic alpine views, a trip that people come from everywhere to make.
Image from Pixabay
Culinary delights at altitude
The Alps are not just about the peaks but also the palate. Megeve, known as the gourmet capital of the Alps, showcases Michelin-starred restaurants like Flocons de Sel, where traditional Alpine dishes meet innovative culinary techniques.
Each resort prides itself on its local cuisine, using ingredients foraged or sourced from the surrounding alpine meadows, offering a gastronomic adventure as enriching as the physical ones.
Image by nitli/Pixabay
Nature’s grandeur
The Alps are a living gallery of nature’s most dramatic artwork. Spring brings blooming alpine flowers, summer unveils lush green valleys, autumn paints the landscape in fiery hues, and winter blankets everything in pristine white. You can do everything from explore a glacier to hike the mountains. You can also e-bike in the Summertime if mountain biking sounds a little extreme.
There is something for everyone. This year-round beauty offers diverse activities from hiking and mountain biking in warmer months to heli-skiing and snowmobiling in winter, ensuring that nature’s splendor is experienced in its fullest.
Cultural experiences
These resorts are more than snow and summits; they are cultural hubs. Festivals, music events, and art exhibitions are held throughout the year. Davos, for instance, isn’t just about sports; it’s also home to the World Economic Forum, attracting global thought leaders. This blend of sport, culture, and intellectual discourse offers a holistic luxury experience. There are a myriad of stories and insights at bestofthealps.com. Stories of passion, pioneering, excellence and versatility.
Image by Michael/Pixabay
Since more than 30 years, Best of the Alps captures this particular spirit by uniting 13 of the most remarkable destinations in the Alps. Traveling through The Best of the Alps is an immersion into luxury that resonates with the soul. Every element – from historical significance and adventurous spirit to the culinary excellence and natural beauty – is tailored for those who seek the extraordinary.
Whether it’s the thrill of skiing down slopes that have seen Olympic glory or dining in restaurants with views of Mont Blanc, these resorts promise memories that last a lifetime. For those who believe in traveling not just to see, but to feel, to live, and to be part of something greater, The Best of the Alps awaits, offering luxury, adventure, and heritage in one unparalleled package.
Theresa Longo (B.B.A Hon) is a former Miss Italy World contestant & professional brand ambassador based in Toronto. She covers topics such as performance auto, high fashion and world travel.
