Snowsport lovers take note. The best ski resort in the world for 2026 has been announced by the 14th edition of the annual World Ski Awards, and it is Val Thorens in France that has taken the top honour, for the fourth year in a row, and the 11th time overall.
The highest ski resort in Europe, Val Thorens is located in Savoie’s Tarentaise Valley in the French Alps. It was recognised for the way it “continues to enhance the guest experience through infrastructure improvements and smart-resort innovations,” an awards press release said.
Though France held the podium, Switzerland could be argued to have dominated the rankings. LAAX, with its “world-class park infrastructure, progressive indoor training facilities, and vibrant rider community,” was named ‘World’s Best Freestyle Resort,’ while a ski-in-ski-out rocksresort claimed the honour of ‘World’s Best Green Ski Hotel.’
Former world’s best resort winner, Verbier, in southwestern Switzerland was acknowledged too, for W Hotels’ first alpine ski property, voted ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel.’ Two other Swiss properties also stood out. In the newcomer categories, Grand Hotel Belvedere, a Beaumier Hotel pairing a restored 1912 Belle Époque design, and a car-free setting on the Jungfrau, was named ‘World’s Best New Ski Hotel’. And Chez Madeleine – part of the “inspirational and ground-breaking Le Rucher d’Evolène project” takes a ‘World’s Best New Ski Chalet’ trophy back to sit proudly among its timbers.
When it comes to established chalets, though, Chalet Zermatt Peak, boasting Italian marble, walnut floors, an entrance blasted through rock, and unparalleled views of the Matterhorn, was named the world’s best once again. And, back in Val Thorens, France, in the boutique hotel segment, Pashmina Le Refuge, offering “doorstep access to Les 3 Vallées, took the prize.
Voting was cast by ski industry professionals and consumers, and winning a prize is described by Sion Rapson, Managing Director of World Ski Awards, as “reaching the summit in our industry” and a “testament to the ambition and tireless hard work that goes into making it to the top.” Rapson added: “This year’s winners demonstrate the dynamic nature of our industry, showcasing a finely crafted blend of sustainability, innovation, and luxury.”
Switzerland’s Leo Trippi was voted ‘World’s Best Ski Travel Agent,’ with Dutch firm Sunweb collecting ‘World’s Best Ski Tour Operator.’ But Europe did not have it all its own way. Canada’s Northern Escape Heli-Skiing collected ‘World’s Best Heli-Ski Operator’ and Japan’s SkyExpress took the title of ‘World’s Best Ski Transfer Operator.’ What’s more, Deer Valley in Utah, US, took the title of second-best resort.
