Sunday column
Top Ten Jaw-Dropping Snowy Peaks to Explore in 2025
Nothing beats the thrill of towering snow-covered mountains and crisp winter air. Whether you’re carving down powdery slopes or cozying up by a roaring fireplace, these destinations promise a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in 2025. Here’s a guide to ten must-visit snowy getaways around the globe.
Lily
Desk editor
Editor’s note
The full column continues in quiet type below.
Section
Sunday Broadsheet
Nothing beats the thrill of towering snow-covered mountains and crisp winter air. Whether you’re carving down powdery slopes or cozying up by a roaring fireplace, these destinations promise a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in 2025. Here’s a guide to ten must-visit snowy getaways around the globe.
1. Aspen, Colorado, USA
Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Aspen is synonymous with luxury winter escapes. The town features four standout ski areas—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—offering terrain for every skill level. Off the slopes, indulge in fine dining, boutique shopping, or embark on a scenic snowshoeing trek. A horse-drawn sleigh ride capped with lively nightlife rounds out the quintessential Aspen experience.
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
At the foot of the legendary Matterhorn, Zermatt blends alpine serenity with world-class skiing. Its car-free village adds an extra layer of charm while over 320 kilometers of ski runs await winter enthusiasts. Don’t miss Glacier Paradise, where panoramic views meet intricate ice sculptures, and savor authentic Swiss delicacies in quaint chalets.
3. Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
Whistler Blackcomb, North America’s largest ski resort, sprawls across 8,000 acres of snow-packed fun. The resort caters to novices and experts alike. Beyond skiing, the pedestrian village bursts with art galleries, buzzing pubs, and cafes, while thrill-seekers can ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, zip-line through frosty forests, or unwind at the luxurious Scandinave Spa.
4. Chamonix, France
Known as the cradle of modern mountaineering, Chamonix is ideal for adrenaline junkies. Ski, ice climb, or traverse glaciers with Mont Blanc as your backdrop. After an action-packed day, dive into hearty Alpine dishes at a local bistro for a cozy finish.
5. Niseko, Japan
Hokkaido’s Niseko boasts some of the world’s fluffiest powder snow, perfect for skiers and snowboarders. The resort spans four interconnected zones, each with its own vibe. After hitting the slopes, relax in traditional onsen hot springs and savor authentic Japanese cuisine—from fresh sushi to warming ramen bowls.
6. Banff, Alberta, Canada
Banff, within Banff National Park, combines dramatic scenery with stellar ski resorts like Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Mount Norquay. Visitors can marvel at frozen waterfalls, ascend Sulphur Mountain by gondola, and explore charming local shops and cafés for a quintessential Canadian alpine experience.
7. St. Anton, Austria
The birthplace of Alpine skiing, St. Anton, offers sweeping ski terrain and buzzing après-ski nightlife. Winter hikers can enjoy snowy trails, while a horse-drawn sleigh ride delivers classic Alpine charm with warm Austrian hospitality.
8. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina, dubbed the “Queen of the Dolomites,” features striking limestone peaks and upscale ski resorts. Adventurers can try snowshoeing, ice climbing, and discover chic boutiques alongside fine Italian dining.
9. Park City, Utah, USA
Park City merges Hollywood flair with skiing excellence. With Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley, visitors enjoy varied slopes, plus historic Main Street filled with galleries, restaurants, and shops. Don’t miss rides on the Alpine Coaster or thrilling dog sledding adventures.
10. Queenstown, New Zealand
In the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown offers incredible ski conditions at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak. Known as an adventure hub, the town also features bungee jumping, snowmobiling, and heli-skiing for adrenaline lovers.
Conclusion
From North America to New Zealand, these ten snowy paradises deliver a perfect winter cocktail of adventure, stunning landscapes, and cozy downtime. Whether you crave high-speed skiing, epic photo ops, or simply sipping hot cocoa by a fire, 2025 is your year to chase the mountains—and make unforgettable memories along the way.
More from the edition
Column · en
The Most Beautiful Lighthouses Under the Sunset Around the World
Lighthouses, often built to guide ships through treacherous waters, are not only functional structures but also breathtaking landmarks. As the sun sets, these lighthouses shine even brighter, becoming some of the most picturesque sights across the globe. Whether old or modern, perched high on cliffs or standing tall on serene beaches, these lighthouses offer perfect sunset views. Here are some of the most stunning lighthouses that glow under the twilight sky.
Column · en
Eight Classic Sunglasses Styles for Timeless Elegance
The world of sunglasses is awash with fleeting trends, but certain styles effortlessly transcend seasons, years, and even decades. These timeless sunglasses styles are universally flattering and serve as enduring fashion statements.
Column · en
Master the Art of Still Life Painting: A Nine-Step Instructional Guide
Capturing the essence of a still life on canvas is a pursuit cherished by artists of all skill levels. Whether you are picking up a brush for the first time or are a seasoned painter looking to refine your technique, this guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for creating a vibrant composition featuring an arrangement of fruit, including a pineapple, an apple, and bananas. You will explore everything from essential equipment to color theory and the technical nuances of brushwork.
Column · en
The Fascinating History of the Gouldian Finch
Although it is widely known today simply as the Gouldian finch, this stunning bird originally carried the name “Lady Gouldian Finch.” The name was given in 1845 by the famous British ornithologist John Gould. Like many people who encounter this bird for the first time, Gould was deeply impressed by its extraordinary beauty and chose to honor the memory of his late wife by naming the species after her.
Column · en
A Journey Through Classic Chinese Desserts
Chinese desserts encompass a vast array of techniques, flavors, and culinary traditions that have developed over many years.
Column · en
Best Single Chairs for Living Room
After specifying hundreds of single chairs over the past ten years, I’ve found that the pieces that truly transform a space strike a balance between sculptural appeal, ergonomic comfort, and long-lasting materials.