Trends Analysis By Sail Highlights Most Popular Ski Resorts For A Listers
A new travel trends analysis by Saily, highlights the world’s most prestigious ski resorts, revealing where A-listers and high net worth travelers are most likely to spend their winter holidays and what makes these destinations so irresistibly exclusive.
From Michelin starred dining on the slopes to ultra private chalets guarded from paparazzi, these resorts have become global hubs of luxury, privacy, and top tier snow experiences.
“Luxury ski resorts have become more than winter destinations - they’re global social hubs. People come for the slopes, but they return for the privacy, the atmosphere, and the sense of community among other high achieving travelers. These resorts offer a rare mix of world class skiing and an ultra curated lifestyle experience” says Vykintas Maknickas, CEO at Saily.
Where the world’s wealthiest choose to ski
- Aspen, Colorado (USA)
A magnet for Hollywood and Silicon Valley power players, Aspen blends world class slopes with high fashion, gourmet après-ski, and exclusive social events. Stars like Kim Kardashian, Jeff Bezos, and the Obamas have all been spotted here. With designer boutiques, members-only clubs, and private jet access, Aspen remains the “Beverly Hills of the Rockies.”
- Courchevel 1850 (France)
The crown jewel of Les Trois Vallées is known for its five star hotels, helicopter transfers, and some of the world’s most expensive chalets. Courchevel 1850 regularly hosts European royalty, global billionaires, business leaders, and international celebrities. Michelin restaurants and impeccable ski infrastructure secure its reputation as the playground of the global elite.
- St. Moritz (Switzerland)
Synonymous with old-money glamour, St. Moritz blends tradition with extravagance. Think champagne bars on ice lakes, luxury boutiques, and polo matches in the snow. Frequented by aristocracy, film stars, and business magnates, it delivers exceptional privacy with impeccable Swiss service.
- Verbier (Switzerland)
Younger, stylish, and slightly more laid back than St. Moritz, Verbier attracts entrepreneurs, athletes, and celebrities like the Beckhams. Its off piste skiing is legendary, and its nightlife rivals Ibiza - but in a much more exclusive, chalet only setting.
- Gstaad (Switzerland)
Gstaad’s iconic wooden chalets and strict building codes keep the town looking authentically alpine - but behind the facades are some of Europe’s most luxurious homes. Madonna, Julie Andrews, and countless industry titans have long favored this peaceful, ultra discreet enclave.
- Zermatt (Switzerland)
With unbeatable Matterhorn views, car free streets, and top tier dining, Zermatt remains a favorite for travelers who want luxury without losing the charm of a real mountain town.
- Whistler Blackcomb (Canada)
North America’s largest ski area draws celebrities seeking a “low key high end” winter escape. Private chalets, heli skiing, and award winning spas make Whistler a rising competitor to traditional European luxury spots.
Why these resorts attract celebrities and the ultra rich
- Unmatched privacy and discretion
Many luxury resorts offer secluded chalets, private butlers, and secure VIP zones that allow high profile guests to avoid paparazzi and crowds.
- High end infrastructure
From perfect grooming to premium ski schools and quick access helicopter transfers, these resorts deliver seamless, elite level service.
- Michelin starred Après-Ski culture
Fine dining, designer boutiques, and exclusive nightlife are as important as the slopes - and these destinations offer it all.
- Unique experiences found nowhere else
Ice polo in St. Moritz, New Year’s Eve galas in Aspen, luxury spa retreats in Courchevel - these resorts offer signature experiences that attract global trendsetters.
- Status and social scene
For many wealthy travelers, these ski towns double as networking hubs - a place to meet other founders, celebrities, and influential figures in a relaxed, glamorous setting.
Methodology
This analysis draws on tourism data, celebrity sightings, resort infrastructure rankings, real estate trends, and insights from luxury travel experts to identify the world’s most elite ski destinations for the 2025-2026 winter season.
Saily is an affordable and secure travel eSIM app that helps people to manage mobile and internet connections from anywhere in the world. Saily offers 24/7 instant customer support, flexible plans, and coverage in 200+ destinations. Saily was created by the experts behind NordVPN - the advanced security and privacy app.
