Do you like it? ▶ Support the editorial team and buy Shots Magazine a drink...
A recent analysis shows which ski Areas which destinations are most popular with celebrities and wealthy people worldwide – and what makes these destinations so exclusive.
The winter holidays of the international elite take place far from crowded slopes. Saily, the secure travel eSIM app, now provides information.
Top destinations for the rich
Between helicopter transfers, Michelin-starred restaurants and ultra-private chalets, an exclusive ski resort elite has established itself, offering far more than just well-groomed snow.
Aspen, Colorado, is considered the Beverly Hills of the Rocky Mountains. Kim Kardashian, Jeff Bezos, and the Obamas are among its regular guests. Designer boutiques, luxury clubs, and direct private jet access make the destination a meeting place for Hollywood and Silicon Valley.
In France, Courchevel, founded in 1850, stands as the crown jewel of Les Trois Vallées. European royalty and international billionaires appreciate its five-star hotels and some of the world's most expensive chalets. Helicopter transfers are standard here.
Switzerland with four locations
Switzerland dominates with four luxury ski resorts: St. Moritz embodies the traditional jet set with champagne bars on frozen lakes and polo tournaments in the snow. Verbier attracts a younger crowd – the Beckhams are among its regular guests. The off-piste offerings are legendary, the nightlife exclusive.
Gstaad boasts authentic wooden chalets, behind whose facades lie luxurious estates. Madonna and Julie Andrews appreciate the discretion. Zermatt combines Matterhorn panoramas with world-class gastronomy in a car-free environment.
Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, on the other hand, is establishing itself as a North American alternative with heliskiing and award-winning spas.
What makes these resorts special
Absolute privacy is paramount. Secluded chalets, private butlers, and secure VIP areas protect against unwanted glances.
The infrastructure meets the highest standards: perfectly groomed slopes, exclusive ski schools and fast helicopter transfers are a must in the offer.
Après-ski here means gourmet restaurants, designer boutiques, and a world-class nightlife. From ice polo in St. Moritz to New Year's Eve galas in Aspen, unique experiences are offered that set you apart from ordinary ski vacations.
Privacy and Community
“Luxury ski resorts are much more than just winter destinations today – they are meeting places for people from all over the world,” explains Matas Cenys, Head of Product at Saily. Guests come not only for the slopes, but also for the privacy, the exclusive atmosphere, and the community of like-minded individuals.
For many wealthy travelers, these places are also important networking spots where founders, celebrities and decision-makers meet in a relaxed atmosphere.
The analysis is based on tourism data, celebrity sightings, resort ratings, real estate trends and expert opinions for the 2025/26 winter season.
Sierks Media / © Photos: Go Montgenevre (1), Mahdi Chaghari (1), Unsplash
