Courchevel - France

France’s flagship ski resort has long been the primary choice in L’hexagone. A two Michelin Star restaurant in gorgeously ornate, oaky surroundings makes Le Chabichou Hotel stand out as a fine choice for gastronomes.

148 lifts make ample transport across 600km of slopes, with more than half of that ideal for beginners, running from early December to late April. The season runs from mid-November to early May, but there’s plenty outside of skiing to keep you entertained. One of the better known events is the Festival Ski et Toiles, where visitors mingle with the stars and watch new films side-by-side with the actors and actresses themselves.

Whilst Courchevel has established itself as the most attractive ski resort in France in terms of unrivaled prestige, Megeve can itself make a claim as being the first purpose-built resort in the country. This wonderfully preserved and sunny getaway has a classic, traditional ambience which strays decisively from the ritzy likes of St Moritz and veers towards an emphasis on the simplistic, done well. An extensive range of easy slopes make the venue ideal for those who aren’t especially strong skiers, and Hôtel Le Fer à Cheval does an excellent job of capturing the Old France village charm that makes Megeve so special.

With 445km of piste connected by 113 ski lifts Megeve has plenty of room for everyone. The highest slope checks in at 2,300m, and it remains open from mid-December to mid-April. Once you’ve done your time at the summit there’s plenty to do elsewhere. Hot-air balloon riding and sleigh rides are in abundance, or if that’s not enough then you can get your kicks at the Megeve casino. Events are numerous, and this year there’s an International Jazz Festival and Snow Golf Cup among others. Family-run ski company Stanford Skiing are experts exclusively in the Megeve region and can cater for all of your requirements.

There’s plenty to do besides ski at this prestigious resort, with heli-skiing and golf high on the list of entertaining activities at Gstaad. It’s impossible to ignore Gstaad Palace, a 104-room family-owned member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Gorgeously appointed interiors communicate to the sophisticated clientele at this historic space which offers guests a Champagne truffle fondue and afternoon tea.

The clue is in the name of Glacier 3,000 which stands – unsurprisingly – 3,000m above sea level and is open from late October to early May. Of the 200km slops in the area the longest is a solid 10km. Winter biking, ice sports and night skiing are all commonplace and a special Winter easyaccess Card gives visitors access to unlimited leisure activities. Plenty of events run early in the year including the Snow Bike Festival and International Hot-Air Balloon Week in January, Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad in February and Ride on Music the following month.

One of the most prestigious ski resorts in Europe. Klosters has a strong association with the British Monarchy being frequently inhabited by Prince Charles and also being the place where Prince William and now-Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton where first spotted making their romantic relationship public. To truly follow in the footsteps of the royals book a room at the Walserhof Hotel.

The tallest peak in Klosters registers at 2,844m, with total slopes of 96.4km alongside 20 connective ski lifts, open until late April each year. Sledding, golfing and even a hockey club make up some of the more sporty activities at Klosters.

For an intimate resort that provides something very different to the grandeur of an Aspen or St Mortiz, Leysin is 40 miles of straightforward piste for those who want to ski and relax without the hustle of people surrounding the usual famous faces. Huge apartments are available for hire such as the beautifully appointed Le Caracoles, making this ideal for families seeking a no-nonsense, relaxing ski resort.

There are only 13 ski lifts in Leysin in keeping with the intimate atmosphere it strives to create, yet there’s still a respectable 60km of slopes. The highest peak is 2,205m and the runs are generally geared towards intermediate skiers. Outside of skiing the Triathlon Kids Cup is good fun, whilst the Leysathlon is good sport for serious contenders.

This breathtaking retreat in the heart of the Swiss Alps has been a bastion of refined luxury since opening its doors in the late nineteenth century. Enjoy a stay at the extravagant Badrutt’s Palace and make time to watch horse racing over frozen lakes and the thrillingly riotous Cresta Run.

St Moritz boasts 162.8km of slopes aided by 24 ski lifts, with the tallest peak coming in at 3,057m. The season generally opens at the end of November and runs until the beginning of April, varying slightly according to conditions. In January and February the World Cup Bob and Skeleton always proves a huge draw, as does the Polo World Cup on Snow.

Verbier is a fun mix of the formal and the informal, effortlessly blending high-end chalets with a cosmopolitan après-ski scene. The majority of this finds its home around Place Centrale, just 500m from the slopes in an ideal setup for those who like to ski in short bursts. Le Chalet d’Adrien is the place to stay, with unbeatable views of snow-capped mountain peaks and impeccable service spearheaded by Maître de Maison Brigette de Gastines-Cahart.

Verbier is a serious contender at the slopes, with a full 412km of skiable terrain complimented by a 3,330m peak. There are 71 ski lifts open from late November to the end of April/beginning of May, and there’s plenty more to do including a snowshoe walk and the longest toboggan run in Switzerland, totaling 10km. Ski Dating has proved to be a popular Valentine’s Day activity in Verbier too, matching up singletons in the most romantic of settings.

Mont Blanc Mountain overlooks charming Chamonix in France, and being delicately poised by the border of Italy it is no surprise to note that this sought after resort boasts a multitude of alluring cuisine over a number of gourmet restaurants. Three of them are housed in L’Imperial Palace, a grandiose establishment complete with everything from a casino to a history museum.

Chamonix has a respectable offering for skiers, with 56km of slopes offering a much more intimate experience than somewhere like Courchevel. The highest peak stands at 2,525m and is open mid-December to early April. Dog sledding, paragliding, speed riding and ice climbing make up a long list of side activities to keep you busy in the quieter moments.

Based at the foot of one of the most famous mountains in the world today, the Matterhorn is just one brilliant aspect of life at Zermatt. First ascended by Edward Whymper over 150 years ago, the mountain forms the basis of Zermatt’s massive appeal but it is a combination of factors that make it so unique and appealing. Guests will learn, for instance, that Zermatt is a car-free zone. These touches help preserve a charming and mystical aura which is encapsulated in Chalet Zermatt Peak, an incredibly exclusive 5* chalet with a breath-taking interior that commands a 6-figure fee in high season.

Among the 360km of slopes on offer the highest, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, sits 3,820m above sea level and offers breathtaking views. For those seeking longevity there’s a 25km slope which you can take advantage of annually from the end of November to April, varying slightly depending on snow conditions. Alongside tobogganing and ski tours there’s also a mountaineer’s cemetery, old village and Matterhorn Museum Zermatlantis to take in as part of your extra-curricular activities. Music purists will want to catch Zermatt Unplugged every April whilst sporty types can see the Horu Trophy curling tournament in January.

Jet in via Bombardier’s Global 5000. This astute model really prizes the art of indulgence; the exquisite materials and unrivaled comfort more akin to a leading hotel than an aircraft. A versatile layout combining individual seats and sofas is kitted out in neutral creams and browns for a straightforward but sophisticated aesthetic.

Making the most of its excellent location right in the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park, Bad Gastein reached the pinnacle of it success in the mid-twentieth century when it played host to the Alpine Ski World Championship. The intimate community creates the atmospheric buzz only associated with small villages which leaves guests feeling at ease as they prepare to hit the slopes. Hotel Village Grüner Baum is a family friendly venue with plenty of activities to keep the young ones occupied.

With a summit stretching up to 2,300m and total skiable terrain of 86km, Bad Gastein certainly makes the most of its location. Open from mid-late December until the beginning of April, with sledding and a rock trail for those seeking something a little different.

Perhaps the most obviously appealing aspect of Kitzbühel is its striking natural beauty. Cobblestone streets line the paths that intricately link a unique selection of shops, bakeries and boutiques creating a distinctive small town community feel. Generally, the skiing is easy to average in difficulty (with the notable exception of Hahnenkamm), and the Hotel Kitzhof Mountain Design Resort uses open spaces in conjunction with minimal, ornate furnishings for a refreshing and inviting result.

It’s easy to navigate the 60km of ski slopes here given the 54 cable cars and ski lifts ready to assist you. There are a full 68 marked and groomed ski slopes of which the longest is approximately 8.3km (Fleckalm and Maierl), or if it’s height you’re after try Zweitausende at the Pass Thurn. Outside of skiing there are plenty of activities such as tobogganing, ice curling and winter hiking. Some of the biggest events annually are the Hahnenkamm Ski Race, and the endearing Kitzbühel Christmas Market.

Anybody who takes their skiing seriously will already be very familiar with St Anton, a place which stands out in a country renowned for its vast number of accomplished ski resorts. Raffl’s Hotel is a new addition to St Anton am Arlberg - a charming 5-star hotel sporting a hedonistic balance of unmatched attention to detail and idealistic location. Book the Grand Suite which as two bedrooms complete with hand-crafted furniture.

There’s no end to additional activities on offer, with tobogganing, indoor and outdoor rock climbing, 9-hole golf and torch-lit walks in Verwall valley just a few of the alluring options. A peak altitude of 2,811m and a downhill run stretching 9km are enough to ensure over one million visitors – just fewer than 1.2 million in fact for the 2014/15 season.

In a country known for its unbeatable resorts Lech Zürs dares to be different, prioritising exclusivity and remarkable hotels in a fairly intimate setting. Because of the unbelievable luxury available at every turn the slopes are rarely packed, and holidaying here is unlike some mainstream resorts; think piano bars and quiet nights in over rare bottles of wine. The Royal Suite at The Zürserhof exemplifies the superfluity of this esteemed retreat and will help you make a statement upon arrival.

Lech Zürs packs in 182km of unrivalled piste peaking at a zenith of 2,450m, with 47 ski slopes to help visitors make their way around the terrain. The resort is also big on activities outside of skiing, from casual leisurely activities to bigger, annual events. Take your seat for a Lech Off-road Experience or get ready for some fast-paced fun with January’s White Ring Race, contested by over 1,000 participants across 22km of piste.

Boasting non-stop international flights for up to 12 passengers alongside a wealth of top end on-board facilities, your trip will be complete when you step foot on your own Challenger 604. A state-of-the-art audio/visual system and extra spacious cabins, complete with divan and tables suited to gourmet restaurants, works together with impeccable performance (a range of 6,653KM and cruising speed of 850KM/h) to make the Challenger 604 a smart choice.

Aspen is the definition of luxury ski resorts; the place to see and be seen by famous names and faces from around the globe. The Gant is Aspen’s premier resort, spread across five gorgeous acres next to Aspen Mountain. Opt for a four bedroom premium floor plan to experience the utmost privacy.

Considering its affinity with celebrities Aspen has a refreshing quantity of intermediate and difficult slopes, with the longest stretching around 9km. There are 329 runs in total and the highest is an impressive 3,813m. As you might expect there are plenty of activities constantly on show in Aspen, from the adrenaline-fuelled X Games to tubing, snow cat dinners and Ullr nights honouring the Norse God of Snow.

Being in close proximity to Aspen means Beaver Creek had its work cut out if it was to prise skiers away from its established neighbour, and this has most certainly been accomplished. This luxurious retreat is peppered with delightful boutiques and refined condos. Convenience is high on the agenda, with laborious walks to and from slopes cast aside by a practical layout and the addition of extra escalators taking you straight to your destination. It’s difficult to go wrong when it comes to accommodation at Beaver Creek, but if you can’t decide then try the Premium Package at Trappers Cabin, with a personal chef and concierge.

Beaver Creek’s slopes are impressive. An even 150km of piste is topped by a 3,488m peak. Beginner runs are in the minority here – roughly a fifth of the slopes are suitable for newbies – but there’s plenty to get involved in. The Rail Jam Playground is a fantastic way to get to grips with the basics of skiing, and the GoPro Race Day always attracts a crowd.

The name alone is enough to arouse a sense of nostalgic wonderment at Steamboat Springs, a gorgeous mountain range spanning nearly 3,000 acres. Breath-taking horizons offer unbridled opportunities to ski across the dazzling collection that is Mount Werner, Sunshine Peak, Storm Peak, Thunderhead Peak Pioneer Ridge and Christie Peak. Steamboat Springs is also the original home of the smooth, dry snow known as Champagne Powder which is perfect for skiing. Indeed, the Steamboat Ski Resort holds the trademark of the name.

If an eclectic range of mountain peaks and near-perfect conditions isn’t enough to convince you of Steamboat Springs’ worth, perhaps Chadwick Estate Villas will prove to be the deal-breaker. With elegantly crafted 4 bedroom townhomes that feature open living areas, gourmet kitchens, spacious master suites, and fine furnishings and finishes, the property also includes an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness room, heated 2-car garage and complimentary on-call winter shuttle service.

This esteemed escape in Colorado holds its own against Aspen and indeed manages to draw a similar clientele – Oprah and Tom Cruise both have houses there – but the real aspect that differentiates the two is Telluride’s serious commitment to skiing, edging away from Aspen’s glamourous culture and focusing instead on the slopes. That being said, there are no shortage of amateur skiers and indeed when the September film festival hits the resort is often overrun with individuals unconcerned with skiing. Book a suite at the New Sheridan Hotel.

147 slopes are on offer at telluride with the tallest being Palmyra Peak, standing at 13,320ft. The cutely named Galloping Goose is the longest at 4.6 miles, and skiers can take advantage from the end of November to the first week of April. Although there’s no night skiing there are an exciting array of daytime activities such as ice climbing and fly fishing, and festivals are arranged throughout the winter season.

Competing with the likes of neighbours Aspen and Beaver Creek, Vail is a delightful resort lodged in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Arguably as appealing as the 174 trails is Vail Cascade Resort & Spa which has recently undergone a massive $20 million refurbishment. Take in the gorgeous surroundings in the heated outdoor swimming pool, take to the slopes and at the end of the day collapse into an overstuffed pillow. Perfection.

Vail combines apt opportunities for skiers with adept entertainment and progressive ventures. The peak elevation stands at 11,570ft, with a total skiable terrain of 5,289 acres and the longest run stretching 6.4km. Seasons run from late November to mid-April, with 2016 seeing the first SKADI Fest, a women’s ski event inspired by the Norse Goddess of Winter. It’s worth stopping in at Waffle Way too – the only on-mountain ski-in, ski-out restaurant.

Fly to Colorado from anywhere in the US or beyond. This sample flight utilises the Falcon 2000EX, which would be perfect for longer flights due to its adept fuel capacity and ability to configure regular on-board seats into beds when required. Comfortably hitting .80 Mach, this 19-capacity jet is fast, efficient and very well-appointed.

By far Utah’s most exclusive resort, Deer Valley exudes luxury at every turn, from the stunning views of snow-drenched mountain tops stretching across the horizon to the finer details such as having staff at hand to offer guests a tissue before they board the lifts. Every aspect has been fine-tuned to guests’ pleasure, with heated sidewalks and complimentary ski valets. Stein Eriksen Lodge offers a delightful retreat after a long day on the slopes and also houses the Glitretind Restaurant for a fine dining experience.

The aptly-named Empire is the tallest slope in Deer Valley, with thrill-seekers climbing 9,750ft to reach its summit. In total there are an impressive 101 ski runs with the longest being 2.8 miles, running from the top of Northside Express to the bottom of Sultan Express. Seasons run from early December to mid-April and there are a plethora of activities to enjoy on the side. Exquisite travel features highly with snowmobiling through Summit Meadows Adventures and sleigh riding to the Fireside Dining Restaurant, and if you have flexibility with your dates then don’t miss the annual FIS Freestyle World Cup Event that runs in early February.

You’ll make your way to Deer Valley in one of the most revered business jets in the market today: the G-IV. This variant of the U.S. military’s IV has been refined for comfort yet still boasts a range of over 8km and 0.88 Mach. Coupled with the gorgeous, sleek interiors and highly connected facilities that are ideal for business people on the go and it’s easy to see why the G-IV has become a standard-bearer in the business jet world.

Perfectly positioned amidst Yellowstone National Park and Jackson Hole Airport, this gorgeous retreat is steeped deep in the mountains and epitomises a rustic, snowed-in cabin ambience. Over 2,500 acres of North American landscape provide all the space in the world to ski, and the ornate interior (and indeed exterior) workings of Bentwood Inn are simply unbeatable, complete with high wooden ceilings and stone-laden fireplace.

The highest slope in the resort is an impressive 10,450ft, available during the seasonal dates from Thanksgiving Day to the first weekend in April. There are a number of kooky and entertaining activities in Jackson Hole including Dick’s Ditch, Powder 8s, Rendezvous Fest and Steep & Deep Ski, plus a whole lot more including a rollercoaster and ropes course at Snow King in the town of Jackson.

Fast, reliable and in high demand, you’ll enjoy your trip to Wyoming in unprecedented fashion aboard the Gulfstream G-450. Building upon previous models and tailored to your comforts, the aircraft carries a team of 16 people at Mach 0.80. With a range of 4,350NM, this professional and sophisticated vehicle comes with six customisable cabin layouts including three living areas and a full-sized galley.

The seemingly ironic name for a ski resort perhaps alludes to the incredibly warm reception you’ll receive at Sun Valley, an incredible resort in Idaho frequented by the likes of Bruce Willis and, once upon a time, Ernest Hemingway. It’s particularly romantic too, encapsulated by the horse-drawn sleigh rides available in the early evenings. Dollar Cottage is the perfect place to rest your head, gifting guests with unrivalled privacy in serene surroundings and housing 6 bedrooms alongside a private hot tub.

The highest peak on the piste is a sizeable 2,788m, with the longest run a respectable 6km. Despite this, more than a third of the slopes are suited to beginners, creating a considered balance suited to all guests. The Sun Valley Opera Festival is one event that’s always a hit in the region, as is the Sun Valley Film Festival in early March.

Make your way in the Falcon 2000EX, ideal for longer flights due to its adept fuel capacity and ability to configure regular on-board seats into beds when required. Comfortably hitting .80 Mach, this 19-capacity jet is fast, efficient and very well-appointed.

A favoured haunt of Bill Gates and other likeminded ultra high-net-worth individuals, Yellowstone Club enjoys a truly remarkable location, 20 miles away from Yellowstone National Park. Stay at the Custom Residences, and if you find yourself unable to leave then buy one; properties are on sale starting from $6.25 million.

Yellowstone Club offers a balanced selection of slopes, divided roughly evenly between beginner, intermediate and expert. In total there are 80km of skiable piste and 14 lifts to help you around the area. The tallest slope measures in at 3,005km, but if that sounds too daunting there are plenty of other events to get stuck into. Horseback riding, fly fishing, kayaking, archery and rock climbing are just the tip of the iceberg.

Enjoy breath-taking views of the national park as you soar in via a Legacy 600, a spacious aircraft that has proven to be a popular mainstay in the business jet world for many years thanks to its efficient performance and effortless class.

Located directly in famous Banff National Park, a short stroll will bring you to the charming local townspeople and a selection of ornate, independent shops which smack of that village ambience. Safely snuggled at the base of Blackcomb Mountain’s snowy peaks sits the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Hotel, a luxury resort ideal for families, couples and even weddings.

Even though Banff is synonymous with steep slopes, it is still true that around 20% of the terrain is ideal for beginners, making it a good choice for couples and groups with mixed ability. Mount Norquay stands proudly at 2,450mm, whilst Sunshine Village edges that with a 2,730m peak complete with 1,070m vertical drop.

Travel in the Challenger 604, an accomplished aircraft from the Bombardier 600 series. Substantial improvements, fine-tuned over many years and models, have led to an incredibly smooth flight experience in a famously spacious interior.

If you love the Italian way of life, you’ll love Cortina. Exceptional cuisine abounds and a general laidback approach ensures that the slopes are generally empty after lunchtime. Recognised as being the accommodation of choice for famous names holidaying in the region, the Miramonti Majestic Hotel is a prized retreat in the picturesque resort of Cortina. Enjoy afternoon tea to the backdrop of an elegant piano bar overlooking the mountains.

There are 120km in total making up the slopes at Cortina d’Ampezzo, with a pinnacle of 2,950m. Getting about is simple with 35 ski lifts in this Italian getaway which is focused primarily on beginner skiers with options for more advanced athletes too. Cortina is home to the 2016 Women’s Alpine Skiing World Cup and frequently hosts huge musical extravaganzas such as the Music Festival Dino Ciani, the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day.

Less than two hours from the English capital to Venice, your flight will be a pleasure in the Challenger 850. Stylish, polished interiors and highly customisable settings – afforded by the added space synonymous with the Bombardier Challenger series – make this the perfect option for those who value comfort and style in equal measure. Gourmet meals can be prepared on-board for up to 14 passengers.

Treble Cone turns 40 this year yet in its short lifetime it has amassed a loyal following and is viewed as one of the country’s best-kept secrets by those in the know. Taking advantage of New Zealand’s remarkable landscape the resort centres around Oakridge Pool & Spa Resort Hotel at Lake Wanaka, a sprawling 189-room retreat, with the two-bedroom apartments delivering a high degree of privacy for discerning guests.

The largest skiing resort in New Zealand’s South Island, Treble Cone is revered among serious skiers and this is reflected in its 22km of slopes, with just 4km attributed to beginners. The highest peak is 1,960km, but adrenaline junkies will note the lengthiest vertical rise is all of Queenstown’s Southern Lakes District. The dry snow and long runs attract skiers from far and wide. Away from the slopes, frequent and fun events are available every day, including the Treble Cone Ice Carving Competition.

The Dassault Falcon 900B is an astute private jet, similar to the Falcon 7X but smaller in size and better suited to intricate parties. Improved engines and excellent range have made the 900B a popular model in the 900 range – a 5.5% increase in takeoff thrust and overall range of 4,583NM just a couple of important factors. On a surface level, the interiors are slick, stylish and professional. A spacious cabin and swanky leather chairs leave guests feeling an unprecedented level of comfort during their flight.