Europe’s alpine resorts are some of the world’s premier skiing destinations. Not only are the valleys and peaks crisscrossed with a dazzling array of slopes catering for all levels of ski enthusiasts, but off-piste five-star hotels, haute cuisine and designer shopping can all be enjoyed at high altitudes. Thanks to a network of helicopter transfers to Mègeve, Courchevel, St Moritz and other top ski villages from busy urban centres such as Geneva, it’s now easier than ever to reach your alpine destination in complete luxury and style and often the biggest problem is deciding which ski resort to visit! Here are five of the finest alpine ski resorts – both on- and off-piste.

1. Courchevel

Courchevel 1850 reigns supreme as home to France’s most exclusive ski slopes – for all levels. For novices, the easier runs stick close to the resort, while advanced skiers search for off-piste thrills further up the mountain. Le Jardin Alpin enclave sits atop the resort and boasts arguably the most luxurious accommodation to be found anywhere in the Alps, including three properties that hold the coveted French “Palace” status. Hôtel Le K2, Hôtel Les Airelles, and Hôtel Le Cheval Blanc have all exceeded a five-star rating by attaining an extraordinary six stars!

To complement the accommodation, Courchevel’s concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants is unrivalled in the alpine world. The quality of service and amenities here is second to none and skiers and non-skiers alike can enjoy an array of boutiques, spas and nightspots for après ski entertainment. The Courcheval Altiport welcomes Courchevel helicopter transfers on its own airstrip, the largest area for private planes of any international ski resort.

2. Val d’Isère

Val d’Isère is a great all-round resort for every level of skier. It has a reputation as being one of the most snow-sure resorts in the Alps and benefits from north-facing slopes in the Espace Killy ski area, in addition to being linked with Tignes and the Grande Motte glacier. The glacier has an altitude of more than 3,400 metres and stays open nine months of the year. What’s more, endless queues have become a thing of the past with the state-of-the-art Solaise Gondola, which can comfortably transport skiers up the mountain in just seven minutes.

For families, the resort has a number of excellent ski schools where parents can enroll children before heading off for a day on the pistes, secure in the knowledge that the youngest members of the family are safe and having fun. Val Village has a lively après ski scene and Dick’s Tea Bar is perhaps its most famous venue. Table service is available if you reserve in advance, but be aware that it transforms into a club from midnight to five o’clock in the morning.

3. St. Moritz

Framed by snow-blanketed peaks and chocolate box chalets, St. Moritz has a fairytale setting in a remote valley by a lake. The oldest purpose-built ski resort in the world, it has been attracting skiers for over 150-years-old, who are seduced by the resort’s Swiss charm, which is best experienced on a romantic horse-drawn carriage. St. Moritz has an exceptional selection of high-end hotels, including Badrutt’s Palace, the Kulm Hotel and Suvretta House, which not only rises out of the snow like a magical castle, but also has its own ski lift.

This Swiss resort has a long association with winter sports, hosting the Olympic Winter Games twice (in 1928 and 1948) and is still home to numerous championships, such as the Snow Polo St. Moritz World Cup event.

4. Megève

Centuries-old Megève is one of the Alps most beautiful and atmospheric skiing destinations. This picturesque village is situated in the shadow of Mont Blanc and has always attracted discerning visitors who are captivated by its timeless class and charm. The skiing takes place on three separate mountains, one of which is directly accessible by lifts from close to the centre. The village is set around its medieval church and car-free streets that can are best explored on a horse and carriage.

A resort that all the family will enjoy, Megève holds the French ‘Famille Plus Montagne’ label for its high standards of service and facilities. Nursery slopes are located at valley level and there are plenty of ski schools with English-speaking instructors. Unlike most of the Alpine resorts detailed above, Megève was built at a relatively low altitude, but the grassy slopes and snow cannons make it easy to ski with even a small amount of snowfall.

5. Méribel

Méribel enjoys an excellent position at the heart of the Three Valleys ski area and offers something for all levels of skier. Méribel differs from other purpose-built resorts in that it adheres to pleasant chalet-style architecture, which complements its scenic forest surroundings. A friendly atmosphere and excellent facilities have ensured a loyal troupe of snow enthusiasts return to its slopes after year.

In Méribel’s main village a lively après-ski atmosphere can be enjoyed. The Rond Point and La Folie Douce are popular venues to enjoy some tasty food and relax after a long day on the slopes. Buses connect the resort’s different areas and there is an altiport for Méribel helicopter transfers. Skiers staying in the resort of Méribel can also access the slopes of ultra-exclusive Courchevel.