This Ski Resort Was Just Named the Best in the World

If there were a Hall of Fame for ski resorts, Val Thorens would already have its plaque.

The high-altitude French Alps destination has once again been crowned the world’s best ski resort at the World Ski Awards—marking its 10th win in just 13 years since the awards launched in 2013. It’s a rare streak that puts Val Thorens firmly in “industry legend” territory.

Skier rides down the slope in Alps mountains. Winter sport. Val Thorens, 3 Valleys, France. Beautiful mountains, winter landscape — Olga Gavrilova / Shutterstock

Perched more than 7,500 feet above sea level in France’s Tarentaise Valley, Val Thorens is known for long, snow-reliable seasons and direct access to Les 3 Vallées, the largest interconnected ski area on Earth. Together with resorts like Courchevel and Méribel, the region offers nearly 400 miles of ski runs, making it a bucket-list destination for serious skiers and snowboarders.

According to the World Ski Awards, Val Thorens stood out for its resort facilities, accommodation options, and world-class lift infrastructure, setting a global benchmark for modern ski destinations.

“This year’s winners reflect the dynamic nature of our industry, showcasing an ideal blend of luxury, innovation and sustainability,” said Sion Rapson, managing director of the World Ski Awards, noting that the 2025 awards received a record number of votes from industry professionals and everyday skiers alike.

Happy family enjoying winter vacations in mountains, Val Thorens, 3 Valleys, France. Playing with snow and sun in high mountains. Winter holidays. — gorillaimages / Shutterstock

Luxury properties also took home major honors this year. In the U.S., Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley in Utah was named the world’s best ski hotel, while Val Thorens’ own Hôtel Le Pashmina earned the title of best ski boutique hotel, thanks to its intimate size and spa-forward amenities designed for post-slope recovery.

Japan also made waves, with Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO winning best new ski hotel, highlighting how elite ski travel now spans well beyond Europe and North America.

While headline-grabbing resorts like Val Thorens continue to dominate global rankings, travelers looking for a quieter, more nature-driven winter escape may want to look north. Sweden’s Dalarna region, for example, offers a very different take on cold-weather travel—one that focuses less on mega-resorts and more on slow living, cross-country skiing, frozen lakes, and deep forest landscapes. It’s a reminder that “the best” winter destination really depends on how you like to experience the season.