Paragraph 1: The Call of the Mountains
Winter is creeping in, and with it comes that familiar flutter of anticipation—the kind that makes you want to dig out your warmest layers, check the condition of your goggles, and start dreaming about fresh powder. For skiers and snowboarders, there is no feeling quite like that first run of the season, the world hushed and white, the air crisp against your cheeks. In Europe, we are exceptionally fortunate to live at the heart of the world’s most developed ski market, where the mountains are not just a backdrop but a way of life. The Alps remain the undisputed favourite, but the Dolomites, the Pyrenees, Scandinavia, the Balkans, and even Central and Eastern Europe all offer their own distinct charm, from sweeping valleys and dramatic peaks to charming villages that seem frozen in time. According to the Skiresort.com database, Europe alone boasts more than 3,900 resorts, with a staggering 37,800 kilometres of marked slopes and more than 16,800 ski lifts. That means endless possibilities, whether you are a seasoned expert chasing steep couloirs or a first-timer wobbling through a beginner slope. With so many destinations to choose from, the hardest part is often deciding where to stay. Fortunately, this winter brings a wonderful wave of new and renewed hotels and lodges, each one carefully designed to make your mountain escape even more memorable. From stylish French chalets to wellness-focused Austrian retreats, there is something for every kind of traveller—so pack your bags, and let’s explore what awaits.
Paragraph 2: New Alpine Icons in France, Italy, and Austria
Among the most exciting openings is Fahrenheit Seven Les Menuires, which will welcome its first guests on 11 December 2026 in the heart of the French Alps. This new property marks the third Alpine address for the brand, following the success of its hotels in Val Thorens and Courchevel, and it promises to be a true haven for ski lovers. Set right on the ski front in the vibrant Preyerand district, the hotel offers direct access to Les 3 Vallées, the largest interconnected ski area in the world. You can literally step out of the hotel, click into your skis, and be on your way. The property will feature an in-house ski boutique, a lively bar, several restaurants, a sunny terrace, and an indoor pool—perfect for unwinding those tired muscles after a day on the mountain. Meanwhile, in Italy, The First Cortina, by The Pavilions, is scheduled to open in early December 2026 on the elegant Corso Italia in the centre of Cortina d’Ampezzo. This glamorous setting puts guests within easy reach of the iconic Dolomites while offering all the conveniences of a stylish town base. With 76 rooms and suites, the hotel is intimate yet sophisticated, and some suites come with private wellness facilities and terraces overlooking the mountains—ideal for those who crave a little extra privacy and indulgence. Dining will be a highlight too, with Zuma serving contemporary Japanese cuisine and Velo offering classic Italian plates. There is also a dedicated ski room and the REVĪVŌ Spa, ensuring every need is covered. Over in Austria, The Green Resort in Zillertal is due to open its doors in December 2026, and it is already attracting attention for its extraordinary wellness offering. Located in the idyllic village of Uderns, the hotel combines a fantastic ski base with a massive 3,300-square-metre indoor and outdoor spa area, complete with pools, saunas, and steam baths. For those who want to make the most of their time in the snow, the resort offers a seven-night winter ski package that includes accommodation, meals, a six-day Zillertal Super Ski Pass, and even wellness treatments—a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Paragraph 3: Cosy Retreats in Switzerland and France
If you prefer a more intimate, boutique atmosphere, The Ski Lodge in Verbier, Switzerland, is set to open in December 2026 with just 36 rooms, giving it a wonderfully cosy and personal feel. Located close to Verbier’s Place Centrale, the hotel places you right in the heart of one of the Alps’ most legendary ski towns, famous for its challenging off-piste terrain and vibrant après-ski scene. But after a day exploring the slopes, you will love returning to The Ski Lodge, where a state-of-the-art spa awaits. Think indoor swimming pool, a cold plunge for the brave, sauna, hammam, and a serene relaxation area—everything you need to melt away the day’s efforts. The hotel’s bar, The Listening Room, will also be open to both guests and visitors, promising a refined yet relaxed spot for a well-earned drink. Over in Austria, families will be thrilled to discover Schiefergut Family Resort in Flachau, opening its doors in December 2026. This four-star resort features 28 suites and chalets, all designed with families in mind, and its location is ideal for hitting the slopes. You will find yourself just a stone’s throw from the ski lifts, the popular Snow Space Salzburg area, the Achter Jet lift, and even cross-country trails, so there is no shortage of winter activities. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, the kind of place where children can be children and parents can actually relax. Meanwhile, in France, two exciting properties are bringing fresh life to the charming resort town of Morzine. Hôtel Le Tremplin, located in the heart of town, has undergone an extensive three-year renovation and is now opening 13 self-contained holiday suites for the 2026-2027 ski season. This marks the full reopening of the property, which had already brought back its beloved bar, restaurant, and après-ski terrace last winter. For those who love a classic Alpine experience with modern comforts, this is a wonderful choice. Not far away, the former Les Airelles hotel is set to return as the Garance Hotel & Spa in December 2026. This four-star Mont-Blanc Collection property is close to the lifts and the legendary slopes of the Portes du Soleil ski area, one of the largest ski domains in the world. With 65 rooms, a brasserie, a cocktail bar, and dedicated spaces for children and teenagers, it is designed to please every member of the family. The wellness facilities are equally impressive, featuring a pool, Nordic spa, treatment rooms, and areas for yoga and fitness—everything you need to stay balanced and refreshed during your stay.
Paragraph 4: Les Gets Celebrates a Milestone Anniversary
Not every story this winter is about shiny new hotel openings. Some of the most exciting news is happening on the slopes themselves, and Les Gets, a beloved resort in Haute-Savoie, France, is celebrating a very special milestone. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the installation of its first ski lift, a remarkable achievement for a resort that has been at the heart of Alpine skiing for nearly a century. To honour this legacy and to keep things fun and fresh for everyone, Les Gets will welcome a brand-new snowpark in 2026. Designed specifically with beginners in mind, the snowpark is being built beneath the La Croix chairlift and will replace the existing mini boardercross course. This is wonderful news for families and newcomers who want to try their hand at jumps, rails, and other freestyle features in a safe and encouraging environment. There is something truly special about celebrating 90 years of skiing history while also looking forward to the future of the sport. It reminds us that the mountains are for everyone, from first-timers to lifelong enthusiasts. The resort is planning a partial opening on 12 December 2026, depending on snow conditions, with a full opening scheduled for 19 December 2026. The season is set to run until 11 April 2027, giving plenty of time for snowy adventures. For those who love the charm of a classic French ski village, Les Gets is a dream destination—wooden chalets, winding streets, the aroma of tartiflette drifting from restaurants, and now a brand-new reason to bring the kids along. Whether you are there to ski, snowboard, or simply soak in the festive mountain atmosphere, the resort’s anniversary year is bound to feel extra special. It is a beautiful reminder that while new hotels are wonderful, the soul of winter travel lies in the mountains themselves and the memories we create on them.
Paragraph 5: Glimpses of the Future in Courchevel 1850
For those who like to dream big, there is even more to be excited about on the horizon, and no address in the Alps carries quite as much prestige as Courchevel 1850. Sitting at the very heart of Les 3 Vallées, the largest interconnected ski area in the world, this iconic resort is already synonymous with luxury, glamour, and world-class skiing. Now, two of the most revered names in hospitality are preparing to make their mark there, and the ski world is watching with bated breath. Slated to open in 2028, Raffles Hotels & Resorts will debut its first-ever alpine resort in Courchevel 1850. Known for its impeccable service, elegant design, and legendary heritage, Raffles will bring a new level of sophistication to the mountains. Imagine floor-to-ceiling windows framing towering peaks, sumptuous après-ski lounges, impeccable dining, and a spa that feels like a serene sanctuary above the clouds. This is not just a hotel; it is a destination in its own right. And if that were not enough to make you mark your calendar, One&Only Resort and Private Homes is also set to open in Courchevel 1850 in 2030, marking the brand’s first resort in the French Alps. One&Only is no stranger to creating extraordinary experiences in breathtaking locations, and this alpine venture promises to be a stunning fusion of natural beauty and modern luxury. With exquisitely designed rooms, private homes, and an emphasis on immersive wellness and cultural experiences, it will offer a completely new way to experience the French Alps. While these openings are still a few years away, they are absolutely worth adding to your winter travel bucket list. After all, there is no harm in dreaming about the future, and Courchevel 1850 is the perfect place to let those dreams run wild. Whether you are planning a trip for this season or someday hoping to celebrate a special occasion in the lap of Alpine luxury, these future offerings show just how vibrant and exciting the world of ski hospitality is becoming.
Paragraph 6: A Season of Endless Possibilities
As you can see, this winter and the seasons beyond are shaping up to be truly exceptional for anyone who loves the mountains. Whether you are drawn to the authentic village charm of Morzine, the glamorous slopes of Cortina, the legendary powder of Verbier, or the family-friendly trails of Flachau, there is a hotel waiting to welcome you with open arms and warm hospitality. Europe’s ski resorts have always been special, but the new wave of openings and renovations is taking the experience to another level. It is no longer just about finding a place to sleep after a day on the slopes; it is about finding a retreat that enhances your entire trip, a place where you can truly unwind, refuel, and connect with the people you love. From the simple pleasure of sinking into a hot sauna after a chilly day to the joy of sharing a delicious meal with friends in a cosy mountain restaurant, these hotels are designed to create memories that last long after the snow melts. And for those who like to plan ahead, the future looks brighter than ever. With the arrival of luxury icons like Raffles and One&Only in Courchevel, the Alps are cementing their place as the ultimate winter playground. But even without the glitz and glamour, the essential magic remains the same—the crunch of snow beneath your boots, the sweeping view from the mountaintop, the laughter on the chairlift, and the peaceful quiet of a winter evening. So, as the temperature drops and the first snowflakes begin to fall, take a moment to think about where you want to go. Maybe it is a familiar favourite, or maybe this is the year to try somewhere new. Whichever path you choose, the mountains are calling, and they promise a winter full of adventure, relaxation, and pure joy. All you have to do is show up, take a deep breath, and let the season sweep you away.
