The nation has been glued to the Winter Olympics in Italy, cheering on Team GB, which ski operators say has sparked rising demand for late-season ski holidays.
But where are the experts advising lovers of luxury snow experiences head to for that last burst of on-piste adrenaline? Should clients go high or go west for the best end-of-season snow?
Resorts that are a snow sure thing
Inspiring Travel recommends the high, snow-sure resorts of Verbier and Andermatt in the Swiss Alps.
Senior Product Manager Ski Joy Woodside said: “Chalets have been in demand this year with multi-generational families seeking time together with a mix of self-catered and fully catered, depending on the client’s needs.
“The Lodge in Verbier and The Chedi in Andermatt have been very popular and they still have availability too, so with great snow, we can still make a ski trip a reality.”
Joy adds the operator is also seeing a real trend for booking early for winter 26/27 as clients are booking immediately upon returning from this season’s holiday.
Credit: Inspiring Travel
Ski with an actual Olympian
Like Inspiring Travel, VIP Ski has experienced a surge in enquiries since the Winter Olympics began. Sales Director Gareth Crump said: “We’re seeing more guests inspired to book high-end, late-season alpine escapes, keen to experience championship-level snow conditions in resorts over 1,800 metres and that unmistakable Olympic energy for themselves.
“The combination of incredible snow conditions and the electric atmosphere across the coverage on the TV with British Winter Olympic legends including Chemmy Allcott, Graham Bell and Lizzie Arnold really turn the spotlight on skiing, snowboarding and all disciplines. This is showcasing the beauty of winter mountains at its best.”
Gareth recommends that keen skiers keep the Winter Olympics vibe going and book on to the seven-night Ski and Stretch with Chemmy Alcott in Arc 1950 in France’s Paradiski region this April.
Seven-times-British Champion Chemmy has competed in four Winter Olympics. All guests will have the opportunity to ski with her, take part in post-skiing yoga and fitness classes and get some technique tips.
She will also talk about her racing and broadcasting career during an evening Q&A session.
Accommodation is in the Bear Lodge, which has 30 bedrooms that sleep up to 80 guests, ski-in, ski-out accommodation, a spa, a pool, a restaurant and a stylish lounge and bar.
Alternatives to the big-name resorts
Carrier says two destinations they feature in Switzerland and Austria are perfect for late-season snow with a twin-centre option in one of the locations. Product manager Liz Goodwin says: “If you’re looking for a quieter, more authentic alternative to the big-name Swiss resorts such as Zermatt, we always recommend Saas-Fee.
“This gorgeous, high-alpine village is tucked away at 1,800 metres and is completely wrapped by mountains – so when you’re there, you really feel like you’ve escaped into the Alps.
“Winter brings fantastic snow, but the village doesn’t get a huge amount of direct sunlight, which can make it very cold. Spring is one of the best times to ski in Saas-Fee; the sun pours in, giving you those long, warm, blue-sky days, while the altitude (with skiing up to 3,500m on the glacier) keeps the conditions brilliant. It’s a great spot for travellers who want reliable snow and that uplifting spring-ski vibe without the crowds.
In Austria, Liz says Obergurgl is a go-to for when someone wants late-season snow without any uncertainty. “Sitting at 1,930 metres, it’s one of Austria’s highest and most dependable villages – and the kind of place where you can pretty much relax knowing the snow will deliver. The slopes start right from the doorstep, and the ski area reaches up to 3,080 metres with 112km of quiet pistes.
“What’s more, if you stay three nights or more, your pass includes skiing in Sölden as well. That means an extra 144km of runs, two glaciers and even more high-altitude terrain. Together, the two resorts make a brilliant combination for travellers wanting plenty of variety and a guaranteed long season – especially those who prefer a calmer home base but still want big-mountain skiing within easy reach,” adds Liz.
Go west to Whistler
Elegant Resorts recommends that skiers look further afield and head across the pond to Whistler in Canada because the season is much longer there.
“Whistler is such a great choice for a ski holiday because it really does tick all the boxes,” says Product Manager North America Susan Greenhorn
“The season runs from around mid-November right through to late May, so you’ve got a long window for good snow and reliable skiing conditions. On top of that, Whistler Village is pedestrian-only, which makes everything feel right on the doorstep. You can ski straight into the heart of the resort and wander between shops, restaurants and lively après-ski spots without ever needing a car. It’s that mix of fantastic skiing and a buzzing, convenient village atmosphere that makes Whistler so popular.
“It’s also great for families and for those who don’t want to ski as it has so much to offer. Fairmont Château Whistler would be our preferred hotel in that area, especially for luxury,” adds Susan.
