I’ve been an average ski junkie my entire life. Thanks to my job as a sports photographer I’ve traveled and skied, all over the world. So when I was asked to rank the Top 5 ski destinations in the world I jumped at the chance. I thought it would be fun, until I realized how many great places I would have to leave off my list. In the end, after considerable deliberation, I made my decisions based on great skiing and accommodations, I’ve also considered charm and family activities.

#1 Zermatt Chalets, Switzerland – If Whistler wins for convenience Zermatt wins every other category. Skiing in the shadow of the Matterhorn is breath taking, skiing vertical drops of over 7,000 feet is exhilarating, and direct lift access from town makes it all easy to get to. With 5-star accommodations and dining on every corner, history and discovery around every corner – Zermatt is every thing you would expect from a historic ski town. Don’t forget to take the Alps highest cable car and visit the Italian side.

#2 Whistler Mountain & Blackcomb Peak, Canada – Located 125 miles north of Vancouver the Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort is the largest in North America. It boasts 20 black and over 100 blue runs; and it’s just a quick plane ride away! Whistler Blackcomb opened in 1966 and got its moment to shine as host to the alpine skiing events during the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games. If there is a downside to the resort it would be how many people actually go there, the place always seems busy.

#3 Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu, Japan – A few things make Niseko great, besides the fact you get to go to Japan. First, it has such great powder, not to mention the second most snowfall of any ski resort in the world. Second, lots of foreigners travel here, including many Australians, so you’ll get to make great new friends since there won’t be as many language barriers. Plus, it’s a great family opportunity to learn about Japanese culture and history. Oh, did I mention the amazing skiing!

#4 Steamboat Springs, Colorado – Steamboat Springs is one of the coolest towns I’ve ever been to– it also happens to have a great ski resort somewhere nearby. Situated in the northern ranch lands of the state Steamboat is still a working cowboy town that features world famous hot springs . The Steamboat Ski Area is located on Mount Werner, in the Routt National Forest and features 165 runs. One of the best ski schools in the country is here and has produced 79 Olympic skiers and snowboards.

#5 Vail, Colorado – Vail Ski Resort was opened in 1962 by Pete Seibert and Earl Eaton. The two men found what would become Vail Mountain while serving nearby during WWII. They thought the mountain would make a great resort, and they where right. Vail gained popularity when President Gerald Ford vacationed there. Boasting 193 runs Vail is the biggest single mountain resort in the United States, over half of which are advanced or expert runs. Today Vail is scenic beauty and opulent luxury right here at home.

Whenever you plan your Ski vacation, it is equally important that you also take into consideration the accommodation that is available at the destination you’re going to. There is no point in enjoying a Ski vacation without enjoying a lovely stay at a leading Chalet. Below, we have provided you with the top 5 Ski Chalets around the world.

1- Zermatt Ski Chalet – Zermatt is located below the world famous Matterhorn Mountain in Switzerland. The Chalet has been successfully functioning for over 20 years now. They have newly introduced their 6 star luxury Ski Chalets allowing guests to enjoy the cozy winter climate in their well furnished Chalets. Apart from the stay at the Zermatt Ski Chalet, the chalet also organizes ski passes, restaurant bookings, Spa treatments, ski school, shopping trip to Milan, Para-gliding flight etc. Most of these activities can be booked prior to the arrival date of the passengers, so that their entire itinerary is planned in a perfect manner. To book online you can find chalets Zermatt at supertravel.co.uk.

2- Chalet Mona – Chalet Mona is considered to be one of the most beautiful Chalets in Europe. This chalet is hardly a few minutes drive from the famous Rochebrune and Mont d’arbois slope. There are no other homes surrounding Chalet Mona, which helps guests enjoy their private moments along with the panoramic view of Megeve. The entrance hall of Chalet Mona is very huge and is decorated with pictures of large windows and huge living spaces.

3- Chalet Le Chardon – This is one of the most desirable Chalets located in Val d’lsere. They have a range of accommodation ranging from 8 guests accommodation to their large sized accommodation of 20 guests in their 10 bedrooms and bathrooms. Each of the chalets is fully catered to different services and ensures that all their guests have a relaxed and an enjoyable stay during their tour. Their luxury Chalet provides 2 living rooms, a study room, dining room, a grand TV room and also a private terrace which includes a snow bar. Each of their rooms has windows from floor to ceiling which allows a panoramic view of the Vanoise National Park and Manchet Valley.

4- Chalet Allegra – Considered to be a luxury Chalet is located in Courchevel, Chalet Allegra provides beautiful décor, a home cinema, a spa and a billiard room. It also allows guests direct access to the slopes. Their luxury Chalet offers 9 luxury bedrooms and 2 children’s rooms. This chalet can easily accommodate a huge family along with their friends.

5-Chamonix Valley Chalet – This beautiful chalet overlooks Les Houches providing astonishing views. The chalet also offers exclusive amenities and provide their vacation homes with landscape gardens allowing guests to relax after a tired day skiing. The Chalet also provides plush furnishings and exquisite interiors. A family of 10 can easily book their 5 bedroom in the Chamonix Ski Chalet. These rooms also have other amenities such as large living spaces, beautiful terraces and balconies, home theater including children’s room.

The above mentioned are the top 5 chalets available in Europe. It will be a life time experience enjoying skiing and staying in any of the above Chalets with your family or friends.