We've scoured the globe to find destinations that offer not just great powder, but unforgettable moments both on and off the slopes. Here's our insider's guide to some of the world's most exceptional ski destinations.
Telluride: A Foodie's Paradise in the Rockies
Telluride has long been a favorite among ski enthusiasts, but we think what really sets it apart from other great ski resorts is its culinary scene. And after skiing at resorts across the globe, we've developed a deep appreciation for mountains that combine great skiing with exceptional food, and the mid-mountain dining in Telluride is unparalleled in the U.S. One of our favorites is Alpino Vino. Perched at 11,966 feet, it offers a dining experience that rivals any Michelin-starred restaurant. Hint: the truffle fondue is a must-try after a long day on the slopes.
Where to stay
For those seeking the ultimate in ski-in, ski-out luxury, Nellie has access to a curated selection of high-end villas. Each has been personally inspected within the last year and comes with hotel-level concierge services. It's the perfect way to experience Telluride like a local – but with all the perks of a five-star resort.
If you prefer the resort vibe, we recommend Madeline by Auberge. This sophisticated property perfectly balances rustic charm with modern elegance, embodying the spirit of its stunning Rocky Mountain setting. It features a range of sumptuous rooms, 3- and 4-bedroom suites, and residences, all adorned with plush furnishings and alpine-inspired decor.
Where to eat
If you’re in the mood to splurge, we love Allred's, offering not just amazing cuisine, but also panoramic views of Telluride and the surrounding San Juan Mountains. For the best experience, time your reservation to coincide with sunset.
For casual dining, Brown Dog Pizza is a local institution that’s a can’t miss. World-class, Detroit-style pizzas served in a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere? Yes, please.
Insider tip
For the best snow conditions, plan your trip for late January through February. To avoid crowds, go in late March/Early April. And if ski-in/ski-out is your priority, book your lodging in the more modern Mountain Village versus historic downtown Telluride.
Niseko: Japan's Winter Wonderland
Japan has been having a moment in the travel world, and its ski destinations are no exception. Niseko, located a few hours outside of Sapporo on the northern island of Hokkaido, is a powder hound's dream come true. With some of the deepest, most consistent powder in the world, it's no wonder Niseko has become a bucket-list destination for serious skiers and snowboarders.
But Niseko isn't just about the skiing. It offers a perfect blend of world-class powder and rich cultural experiences. After a day on the slopes, there's nothing quite like soaking in an onsen (traditional Japanese hot spring) before indulging in some of the best ramen and sushi you'll ever taste.
Where to stay
For those seeking luxury accommodations, the new Ritz-Carlton Reserve Niseko offers an unparalleled experience. But for a more authentic stay, we love arranging nights in a traditional ryokan, where you can experience true Japanese hospitality.
Where to eat
Bang Bang is a culinary gem that perfectly blends Japanese flavors with Western comfort. The cozy restaurant serves up hearty, soul-warming dishes that hit the spot after a day on the slopes.
Don’t miss their world-renowned Bang Bang Chicken, a crispy, spicy delight. Oh, and reservations are a hot ticket—book well in advance.
Insider tip
December is incredibly popular with local Japanese who book a year in advance. We recommend visiting in January or February for lower prices and amazing snow. And don't forget to spend a few days in Tokyo to round out your Japanese winter adventure.
The Dolomites: Europe's “Ski Safari” Paradise
For those who can't decide on just one ski resort, the Italian Dolomites offer the perfect solution: the “ski safari.” Imagine spending a week traversing this UNESCO World Heritage site, skiing a different resort each day and staying in a new boutique hotel each night.
The Dolomites offer a unique combination of excellent skiing, breathtaking scenery, and incredible food. One day you're enjoying polenta in a cozy rifugio and the next you're dining on Michelin-starred cuisine.
Where to stay
Luxury lovers will be thrilled with the recent openings of FORESTIS Dolomites, which offers a modern take on alpine luxury. We’re also excited about the reopening of the Rosa Alpina after what looks to be a fabulous remodel prompted by its acquisition by Aman hotel partners. For those seeking a more intimate experience, we have connections with family-owned rifugios that offer a luxurious yet authentic stay.
Where to eat
Don't miss the opportunity to try the local specialties of each subregion you visit – from canederli in Alto Adige to casunziei in Cortina d'Ampezzo. It's a culinary journey as much as a skiing adventure.
Insider tip
For the best conditions and fewer crowds, plan your Dolomites ski safari for February or March. And if you're dreaming of a group buyout of a remote ski-in/ski-out hotel, book up to a year in advance – these exclusive properties fill up quickly.
Zermatt, Switzerland: Skiing in the Shadow of the Matterhorn
No list of exceptional ski destinations would be complete without mentioning Zermatt, the iconic Swiss resort nestled at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn. This car-free village, easily accessible from Milan or Zurich, offers a unique blend of world-class skiing, stunning scenery, and Swiss charm.
Zermatt is the stuff of skiing legends. One reason is that its connection to the Italian resort of Cervinia allows you to ski two countries in one day – a bucket list item for many ski enthusiasts.
Where to stay
For those seeking five-star luxury with a relaxed vibe, we love the Cervo Mountain Resort. It’s the ultimate ski-in/ski-out location with incredible Matterhorn views and a sunny deck, which is the perfect spot for après-ski on a clear winter day.
Families and groups should consider the Hotel Firefly, a four-star boutique gem in the heart of the village. With suites offering up to five bedrooms and fully-equipped kitchens, it's ideal for those who want a home-away-from-home experience. The game room and bar area are great for teens and adults alike, and its location steps from the gondola is hard to beat.
Of course, for the ultimate in privacy and luxury, Nellie has access to a portfolio of vetted private villas in and around Zermatt.
Where to eat
Be sure to book well in advance for Chez Vrony, a Michelin-reviewed mountain restaurant that offers a gourmet twist on traditional Swiss cuisine.
For a more contemporary dining experience, we love Madre Nostra at Hotel Cervo, where Mediterranean flavors meet alpine ingredients.
Insider tip
To maintain its car-free status, Zermatt requires a bit of planning to reach.Plan on arriving via private driver or rent a car to Täsch and then take the short train ride into Zermatt. Or park at Fredy's in Täsch, where a private shuttle will whisk you directly to town and then a Zermatt “taxi” will carry you on to your hotel.
At Nellie, we believe that the best travel experiences come from insider knowledge and personal connections. That's why we work tirelessly to cultivate relationships with local experts, from hotel GMs to seasoned guides.
We are Virtuoso members and our 5 star bookings come with VIP benefits such as early check in/late check out upon availability, in room amenities, upgrades upon availability and more. When you book with us, you're not just getting a hotel reservation – you're getting access to a world of authentic luxury experiences that you simply can't find online.
So whether you're dreaming of carving fresh powder in Japan, indulging in gourmet mountain cuisine in Telluride, or embarking on a ski safari in the Dolomites, let Nellie craft an unforgettable ski adventure tailored just for you. Get in touch.