The 10 highest ski resorts in Europe

Europe is home to some of the world’s highest and most snow-sure ski resorts, many sitting well above 2,000 meters. Higher altitude usually means colder temperatures, drier snow, and better skiing conditions throughout the season.

Here's the 10 highest ski resorts in Europe, ranked by top lift-accessed elevation—not just village height. These resorts offer exceptional skiing and snowboarding from early winter to late spring.

1. Zermatt, Switzerland

Top Elevation: 3,899 m (12,792 ft)
Resort Base: 1,620 m

Zermatt is Europe’s highest ski resort by lift-access, offering skiing on the Klein Matterhorn glacier and stunning views of the iconic Matterhorn. The glacier skiing allows snow-sports year-round. Zermatt is linked with Cervinia in Italy, creating one of the largest and most scenic high-altitude ski areas in the Alps.

2. Val Thorens, France

Top Elevation: 3,230 m (10,597 ft)
Resort Base: 2,300 m

Val Thorens is the highest ski resort village in Europe and part of the enormous 3 Vallées ski area. Thanks to its altitude, it boasts one of the longest ski seasons in the Alps—often from mid-November to early May. It’s known for lively après-ski, efficient lifts, and excellent snow reliability.

3. Tignes, France

Top Elevation: 3,456 m (11,339 ft)
Resort Base: 2,100 m

Linked with Val d’Isère in the Espace Killy, Tignes offers high-altitude skiing from autumn to spring, and even summer glacier skiing on the Grande Motte. With varied terrain and a modern lift system, it’s a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders.

4. Les Deux Alpes, France

Top Elevation: 3,600 m (11,811 ft)
Resort Base: 1,650 m

Les Deux Alpes is home to one of Europe’s largest skiable glaciers, offering guaranteed snow and even summer skiing. The vertical drop is impressive, and the views from the glacier are second to none. It’s also a popular spot for freestyle and terrain park lovers.

5. Stubai Glacier, Austria

Top Elevation: 3,210 m (10,531 ft)
Resort Base: 1,695 m

Just 45 minutes from Innsbruck, the Stubai Glacier is Austria’s largest glacier resort and a go-to destination for early and late season skiing. It offers a reliable snow guarantee and breathtaking glacier terrain, ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers.

6. Sölden, Austria

Top Elevation: 3,340 m (10,958 ft)
Resort Base: 1,350 m

Sölden boasts two glaciers—Rettenbach and Tiefenbach—and some of the most snow-reliable terrain in Austria. The resort is known for its modern lifts, early openings, and even James Bond connections (filming location for Spectre).

7. Cervinia, Italy

Top Elevation: 3,899 m (shared with Zermatt)
Resort Base: 2,050 m

Cervinia offers high-altitude skiing in Italy and direct lift access to Zermatt. It features wide-open slopes ideal for beginners and intermediates. Its high base and top elevation make it one of Italy’s most snow-sure resorts.

8. Engelberg-Titlis, Switzerland

Top Elevation: 3,020 m (9,908 ft)
Resort Base: 1,050 m

Engelberg is a freeride haven and home to the Titlis Glacier. It’s popular with powder hounds and has a long season from October through May. The vertical drop is impressive, and off-piste opportunities are world-class.

9. Obergurgl-Hochgurgl, Austria

Top Elevation: 3,080 m (10,105 ft)
Resort Base: 1,930 m

Known as the “Diamond of the Alps,” Obergurgl-Hochgurgl is one of Austria’s highest non-glacier ski areas. Its altitude guarantees excellent snow and minimal crowds, making it perfect for families and early-season skiing.

10. Pitztal Glacier, Austria

Top Elevation: 3,440 m (11,290 ft)
Resort Base: 1,740 m

A hidden gem among glacier resorts, Pitztal Glacier is Austria’s highest lift-accessed skiing area. Known for cold, dry snow and quiet slopes, it’s ideal for those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying high-elevation terrain.

Whether you're a powder chaser or simply want to extend your ski season, these high-altitude European ski resorts offer some of the best snow and most dramatic terrain in the Alps. From glaciers to summit-to-base descents, skiing above 3,000 meters is an unforgettable experience.