Ever wondered where the winter playgrounds of the rich & famous are? From Verbier to Aspen, here are the most exclusive & expensive ski destinations in the world!
What is it about the opulent wealth and lifestyles of the 0.0001% that we find so enticing? We appear to turn our noses up at the existence of billionaires, yet crave the knowledge to know their net worth, the properties they own, and of course, where they vacation. Skiing has always been described as a 'rich man's sport'; the lavish locations, equipment and a certain je ne sais quoi have unquestionably made it an enviable holiday bucket list destination for any luxury traveller. Today, we'll be looking at the infamous locations of where the elite love to spend the winter months.
Courchevel 1850, France
Considered the crème de la crème of the French Alps, Courchevel 1850 is the highest (& largest) village in Courchevel; known infamously as a hub of suave glitz & glamour, it is also recognised internationally for having access to the World’s best ski area; Les 3 Vallées. The streets of Courchevel 1850 are lined with designer boutiques and gourmet restaurants, including the 2 star Michelin Chabichou, so it's no surprise this location attracts international wealth and prestige. Courchevel 1850 also boasts some of the largest luxury ski chalets in the world, including the infamous Chalet Edelweiss: a "ski in, ski out", eight bed chalet with a state of the art gym, a double massage room and a pool area that is unrivalled. Courchevel 1850 truly is a destination for the elite, with even the Cambridge's venturing there for their yearly ski holiday!
St. Moritz, Switzerland
Known for its 'champagne climate', St. Moritz is a beautiful lakeside resort situated in Switzerland's broad Engadine valley, offering beautiful panoramic views (as well as excellent skiing!). Providing luxury in every form, St. Moritz's sparkle & allure is world-renowned - frequently the host of exclusive, international events. One would also find collections of 5 star hotels, designer boutiques and fine dining opportunities in St. Moritz, a celeb hotspot being Dal Mulin. The rich & famous flock to the exclusive ski resort for the fantastic shopping and skiing alike, dazzled by the sprawling forests, high mountains and pristine lakes; a truly magical setting for the uber-wealthy.
Verbier, Switzerland
The stunning slopes of Verbier are located in the Swiss Alps and home to some of the most luxurious ski chalets and hotels in the world! Shop till you drop in Prada and Moncler, whilst also enjoying the fabulous skiing and off-piste offerings, as well as the vibrant après ski scene, making Verbier an incredibly well-known resort - especially with A-listers. The resort is famed for its glamour, and is loved by everyone, from royals to rock stars. Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson even own a £13million ski chalet in Verbier, and the business tycoon Sir Richard Branson also owns an extravagant chalet in the area called The Lodge, which includes personal Michelin-star trained chefs.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen takes the final spot on our list! The ultimate ski destination for the rich and famous, Aspen offers some of North America’s most exclusive hotels and incredible private chalets, including Chalet Chepita: a 19,000 square feet mansion that has everything you would possibly need for the ultimate Aspen escape. As with all the other locations on this list, Aspen too boasts some of the best dining and shopping options in the US, alongside world class skiing and friendly American hospitality - something you don't always find in Europe! Red Mountain in Aspen was nicknamed 'Billionaire Mountain' by ex-Forbes writer Morgan Brennan & we can see why! Famed for it's plethora of high-end real estate, Aspen is 1 of 4 ski destinations in the world where homes consistently sell for $25 million+. Jeff Bezos' (the CEO of Amazon) parents have a 10,600-square-foot home valued at $20 million, as well as the casino magnate Neil Bluhm and Dell CEO Michael Dell's grandparents. Celebs are also known to holiday in Aspen, including Gigi and Bella Hadid, the Kardashians, Elton John, and Mariah Carey! If there's any destination on your list that epitomises the uber-wealthy lifestyle, Aspen is it.
Budapest; a city famed for it's rich and historic culture, flowing Danube River and local delicacies. But what it should also be known for? Romance. The capital is endowed with a bounty of art nouveau architecture, eccentric ruin bars and soporific bathhouses - making it the perfect travel date destination for you and your loved one.
Part 2 of our Valentine's travel series is here & Walnut Cottage is the quintessential British staycation for you and your partner this V-day! Located in the picturesque market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, the Cotswolds is famed for its golden stone cottages and narrow, winding streets.
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