Great Ski Holidays

Quick opinion: Madonna is owned by Ferrari so no surprise that the place has a real Italian flair and a delicious dollop of la dolce vita. Set in the heart of the Brenta-Dolomites amidst stunning mountains, Madonna even without the lively village and appealing, flattering ski slopes would be a lovely place to visit. Add them to the mix and you have, arguably, Italy's finest ski resort. If you have never had the pleasure of skiing in Italy you cannot go far wrong by choosing Madonna as your first visit. Something unforgettable for everyone. More

Quick opinion: California Ski! Huge mountain in the high Sierra Nevada. Imagine the scenary in Huston's 'The Treasure of the Sierra Madre' (Mexico was the actual setting for the film, but it's close enough.) Mammoth offers fantastic skiing for just about all abilities and some good guided off-piste too. The town is lively but lacks a centre and can disappoint. New developments on the hill are a good option if you are not on a budget and like ski-in ski-out convenience. A six hour drive from LA sounds awful but in fact the drive is natural drama all the way and all part of the fun. More

Quick opinion: Large network of intermediate runs let down by a sprawling village but the excellent alternative village of Vaujanay down the valley can make for an excellent holiday. Lots to do off the slopes too and gentle nursey slopes directly above the village to learn on make Alpe d'Huez a very nice choice for a mixed ability group or a family's first time adventure into skiing. More

Quick opinion: Europe's sunniest ski resort but nevertheless still pretty snowsure due to its high altitude and very good snowfall record. The Sierra Nevada is located in the high mountains of Southern Spain (not far from Malaga) and whilst the slopes are a little limited they offer some great intermediate skiing. Beginners are catered for higher up the mountain as well but we prefer slopes at village level to learn on. More

Quick opinion: Best purpose-built resort in France. Best purpose built resort in the Alps? Well I'd go for Obertaun in Austria but it’s a close run thing. Val Thorens has a little bit of everything. High, snowsure slopes in the Three Valleys with lots of skiing for all abilities, ski in / ski out accommodation and a very nice, well laid out village. You will have a great ski holiday with family or friends at Val Thorens. More