16 September 2026
As we say goodbye to summer and look towards the cooler months, now is the time for travellers to start planning a snowy winter escape. Here are some of the best places to ski this season.
NEW OPENING: Maisons Pariente to Open Saint Roch in Courchevel 1850
Designed by Friedmann & Versace, the interiors combine richly textured wood, stone, velvet, agate, marquetry and bronze with an eclectic art collection, creating the feel of a collector’s home rather than a traditional ski hotel. Highlights include the top-floor Penthouse, a living room centred around deep sofas and a fire, a restaurant and bar, a dedicated Kids Club, and a spa with an indoor pool, hammam-inspired interiors and Tata Harper treatments. With exceptionally easy access to the 3 Vallées ski area and a concierge arranging experiences from dogsledding and snowmobiling to mountain dining and helicopter flights, Saint Roch brings a warm, characterful take on French Alpine hospitality, combining mountain living with the influences of the sisters’ travels and childhood memories.
DESTINATION LAUNCH: Pierre & Vacances Expands into Switzerland with Four Premium Ski Residences
Pierre & Vacances is expanding its mountain portfolio with four premium residences in Switzerland under the SWISSPEAK Resorts by Pierre & Vacances brand. Located in Thyon, Zinal, Vercorin and Meiringen, the residences provide access to a range of Swiss ski destinations, from the extensive terrain of the 4 Vallées to traditional Valais villages and family-focused resorts. The new collection is led by Thyon and Zinal, two resorts that combine substantial ski domains with distinctive local character. Together they showcase an alternative side of Swiss skiing, away from the country’s best-known international names, while still delivering access to some of the Alps’ most rewarding terrain.
REFURBISHMENT: Pierre & Vacances Reveals Refurbished Residence Capella in Avoriaz
Capella Avoriaz is Pierre & Vacances’ newly renovated four-star residence, offering a fresh, contemporary take on staying in the heart of Avoriaz. The residence features brand-new apartments, modern interiors, balconies overlooking the Dents Blanches or village, and direct ski-in/ski-out access. Completely renovated and better insulated, Capella also offers an indoor pool (due to complete December 2026) and heated ski lockers. The panoramic mountain views and pedestrianised location make it the perfect choice for couples, families or groups looking for a modern and accessible mountain stay.
FAMILY SKIING: Le Coucou, Meribel
Hotel Le Coucou, will reopen its doors on 11th December, welcoming guests back for the winter season. Ideally located at the foot of the Rond-Point, des Pistes, the hotel offers exceptional ski-in/ski-out access. Designed to offer an unforgettable experience for families, this five-star establishment stands out for its warm atmosphere and refined décor by designer Pierre Yovanovitch, combining alpine tradition with modern comfort. With 55 rooms, including 39 family suites and 2 private chalets, Le Coucou is the ideal place to create memorable family moments.
FAMILY SKIING: Moar Gut Family Nature Resort, Austria
This winter, Moar Gut, Austria’s renowned five-star family nature resort, invites guests to embrace the magic of the snowy season with an extensive offering of ski adventures, alpine activities, and restorative wellness experiences for all ages. Nestled in the idyllic Grossarltal–Dorfgastein ski region, part of Austria’s Ski amadé network, Moar Gut provides seamless access to 80 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes suited to both beginners and advanced skiers. Families with little ones benefit from the hotel’s exclusive beginners’ slope, complete with rope lift, magic carpet, and ski carousel, designed to help children learn in a fun, safe environment just steps from the hotel. Parents looking to enjoy some skiing on their own can take advantage of Moar Gut’s daily childcare for infants from 30 days old. For guests who prefer to experience winter beyond skiing, Moar Gut curates a rich variety of activities: horse-drawn sleigh rides through snowy landscapes, cross-country skiing trails directly beside the resort, and tobogganing for family fun.
