There’s nothing quite like the thrill of skiing: the rush of carving through powder-fresh snow and the sense of freedom as you navigate the mighty slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skier with countless runs under your belt or a first-timer eager to experience the magic of gliding down pristine trails, selecting the right ski resort can be a daunting task. While many resorts may seem similar at first glance – breathtaking mountains, clear blue skies, and immaculate slopes – each one has its unique charm and character.
Finding the perfect resort depends on various factors, from your personal preferences to the composition of your group and your skiing skill level. The secret to a flawless luxury ski holiday lies in meticulous planning, something best entrusted to experts. Ireland’s only dedicated tailored travel business, Oroko Travel, is sharing the key considerations to help you choose your ideal resort. Having curated bespoke ski holidays for years, the knowledgeable team have perfected the art of a seamless ski adventure.
Transfer time
When choosing a ski resort, transfer time is a crucial factor to consider, especially for families travelling with young children who may struggle with long journeys. Lower-altitude resorts are ideal for a shorter, more convenient transfer, but it’s best to visit during peak weeks to ensure good snow conditions. For those seeking a snow-sure resort with a short transfer time, Obertauern in Austria is a top recommendation. Another excellent choice is Megève, France, offering a charming medieval-style village and slopes perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers, all just one hour and 10 minutes from Geneva Airport.
Time of year
While peak season typically offers the best snow conditions, choosing a snow-sure resort can ensure exceptional skiing even outside the high season. Imagine skiing in a T-shirt in April, just as Oroko operations manager Marek did this year on the slopes of Obertauern. If your schedule allows for flexibility, avoiding school holidays can provide better value and a more exclusive experience. Oroko ski specialist, Conor Magee, highly recommends Arc 1950 during these quieter periods, praising it as one of his favourite destinations. “I have great memories of skiing in Arc 1950. It’s snow-sure for the entire season and exemplifies the ultimate ski-in, ski-out experience we all dream of,” he shares.
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Who you are travelling with
The ideal ski resort depends largely on your travel companions. For couples or groups, Morzine and Val d’Isère are exceptional choices, offering world-class skiing, luxurious chalet options, and vibrant apres-ski scenes. Families with young children will find Kitzbühel and Zell am See particularly appealing, with gentle pistes, nursery slopes, and a wide selection of Oroko partner hotels featuring kids’ clubs. Oroko travel specialist, Aisling O’Carroll, highlights Zell am See for its wide slopes, perfect for beginners and young children. “There are plenty of activities beyond skiing, such as tobogganing and snowshoe hiking,” she adds.
Another strong contender is Megève, known for its short transfer times and excellent snow conditions in February. Travel specialist, Becky Theriault, states that “it’s fantastic for families with young children. Visiting in mid-February offers the best snow conditions, and its traditional alpine charm combined with outstanding dining will leave you enchanted.”
Ski level
Understanding the ski level of your group is crucial for creating a successful ski holiday. Advanced skiers seeking a challenge will relish the legendary off-piste terrain at Val d’Isère, Solden, and St Anton. For beginners, who may find skiing intimidating, resorts with excellent ski schools and beginner-friendly pistes are key. Kitzbühel, Zell am See and Megève are standout choices, and your Oroko concierge will book private lessons for adults and half-day group lessons for children. Oroko recommends morning group lessons for kids while parents enjoy private sessions, culminating in a family lesson to showcase everyone’s newfound skills.
Apres ski and dining
A ski holiday is about more than just the slopes, apres-ski and dining have become integral to the experience. After a day in the snow, there’s nothing like unwinding in a lively mountain venue with great music and a glass of champagne to kick-start the evening. Val d’Isère is perhaps the most renowned resort for its après-ski scene, particularly the legendary Folie Douce. In Austria, Sölden and St Anton host a fantastic apres-ski scene.
When it comes to exceptional dining, both Megève and Méribel stand out, celebrated for their Michelin-starred restaurants, including Flocons de Sel and L’Ekrin. Whichever ski resort you choose, rest assured you’ll be dining in the best restaurants, as your Oroko concierge will send you a list of restaurant recommendations, handpicked by Oroko travel specialists and on-the-ground partners.
Luxury accommodation
The right accommodation type depends on who you are travelling with. Hotels are ideal for couples, offering the freedom to explore the resort’s top restaurants and apres-ski spots. For families with two or three children, a self-catered chalet apartment is an excellent option and Oroko partners with excellent properties in snow-sure destinations like Arc 1950 Le Village.
Catered chalets, on the other hand, provide an ultra-luxurious option for groups and larger families. Rather than booking separate rooms or multiple accommodations, a chalet allows your group to enjoy a shared, spacious retreat. Oroko partners with catered chalet properties that stand out for their modern, expansive interiors, ideal for entertaining. You’ll also enjoy the services of a private chef, chalet host, and housekeeping throughout your stay, with personalised menus and your very own apres-ski haven.
With Oroko Travel, planning your ski holiday is as effortless and enjoyable as the holiday itself, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the slopes. Oroko concierge, Khatia Tchamiashvili, emphasises, “Not only do we handle accommodation, flights and transfers, but we also arrange ski passes and ski rental to ensure maximum convenience. We will manage the finer details, from booking ski lessons and spa treatments to recommending the finest restaurants.”
Book your private ski holiday consultation by calling Oroko Travel on 01 2600 240 or by e-mailing info@orokotravel.ie. For more inspiration, download the Oroko ski brochure