The Top Ski Resorts in the World Right Now

by Ryan Rudnansky
Last updated: 12:08 PM ET, Thu January 16, 2014

The winter season has officially kicked off.

And you know what that means; it's time to hit the slopes.

There are a great amount of out-of-this-world ski resorts on this planet, each adding a unique, personalized touch.

But there are a few ski resorts out there that distance themselves in some way, whether they have the best snow or the best dining and nightlife.

If you are a beginner or an expert, you will want to check out this list of the top ski resorts in the world. Some of these places need to be seen to be believed, but, don't worry, I provided video proof of their existence. Don't be surprised if you find yourself gazing at these resorts and videos while losing track of time.

Val Thorens (France)

What better place to start than Val Thorens, the sterling resort in the French Alps that was awarded "World's Best Ski Resort" in the first annual World Ski Awards?

This place has everything. In terms of scenery, six stunning glaciers overlook the highest altitude resort in Europe.

There are three different ski passes to choose from, whether you want to "only" ski Val-Thorens Orelle (which includes 150 km of runs) or want to ski it all (the "3 Valees" pass takes advantage of the largest ski area in the world).

The Val Thorens Snowpark-a freestyle course sporting plenty of jumps and rails-is also popular. There's even a shock-absorbing stunt man's mattress set up where skiers and snowboarders can safely try tricks without the danger of wiping out.

Want some food? No problem. Val Thorens boasts more than 60 restaurants on site, from fast food to fine dining.

Add in five terrain parks and a wide variety of hotels and tourist residences, and you are set.

Val Thorens is a must-see.

LAAX (Switzerland)

If you win "Switzerland's Best Ski Resort," you know you are doing something right.

LAAX (not to be confused with LAX, which is a completely different world) is another ski resort that gives you the total package. There are 235 km of pistes and four snowparks, not to mention Europe's largest halfpipe and its first indoor freestyle hall.

You will find plenty of restaurants and accommodations in the accompanying villages of Laax, Flims and Falera. Da Nus, Nooba and Restaurant Epoca are popular dining options.

And, of course, Switzerland's landscape of mountains and valleys can never be overlooked.

Like Val Thorens, LAAX also offers packages suited to your particular needs and lifestyle.

Cortina d'Ampezzo (Italy)

Cortina d'Ampezzo makes the list of many skiers and snowboarders.

Recently awarded "Italy's Best Ski Resort," there are three different ski areas to choose from, offering a wide variety of options for the beginners and experts.

The area is completely surrounded by the spectacular Dolomites mountain range and the scenery is undeniably magical. Getting to the resort town is a bit more difficult than other resorts, but its soaring popularity is a good indicator that it is well worth the trip.

Various restaurants and accommodations line the area.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (Wyoming)

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has long been a favorite in the United States.

First of all, it is located in Teton Village surrounded by the Teton mountain range…so there's that.

In terms of the skiing itself, there is plenty to love, especially for those who want to truly be challenged by the slopes. The steep terrain makes Jackson Hole's vertical drop one of North America's highest. There are 116 named runs, as well as plenty of lifts and rides to accommodate everyone (including the 100-passenger Aerial Tram).

A variety of fine dining and accommodations can be found in Teton Village, downtown Jackson Hole or on the stretch in between the two.

Deer Valley Resort (Utah)

Deer Valley Resort in Utah beat out Jackson Hole for "United States' Best Ski Resort" at the World Ski Awards this year, which is a tremendous accomplishment in itself.

It's located about 35 miles east of Salt Lake City, offering stunning views of the Wasatch Range.

In addition to boasting 100 runs and a commendable lift system, it's well known for its outstanding amenities, from free ski valets and parking shuttles to luxurious dining and accommodations.

It is the only ski resort to ever be ranked first for five consecutive years by SKI magazine (2007-11). It was ranked second by the magazine behind Jackson Hole this year.

Niseko (Japan)

Niseko, Japan, is comprised of four ski resorts, from Niseko Village to Hanazono.

The mountain, Niseko Annupuri, is part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park and is the most eastern park of the Niseko Volcanic Group. Its climate allows for some of the best snow conditions in the world consistently.

Whether you are looking for learning areas for beginners, terrain parks, halfpipes, scenic trails or fantastic views, you have it all at Niseko.

The Grand Hirafu Ski Resort is known for its luxurious amenities and accommodations.

Chamonix-Mont Blanc (France)

Chamonix-Mont Blanc is located in the western and northern part of the Alps, with spectacular views of the grand Mount Blanc peak.

There are four ski areas boasting a great variety of trails for beginners and experts, and the Freestyle Park at the Grands Montets will have you salivating.

Also, there is no shortage of accommodations and restaurants. You can snuggle up in hotels, cottages or apartments and dine at some incredible, organic restaurants.

Whether you want to simply enjoy a breathtaking view or get the most out of your skiing experience, Chamonix is a prime destination.

Whistler Blackcomb (Canada)

Whistler Blackcomb has long been a favorite for skiers and snowboarders.

You name it; Whistler has it.

Highlights include: more than 8,100 acres of slopes, 16 alpine bowls, more than 200 marked trails, and world-class terrain parks and halfpipes. All of this, amidst three glaciers, spectacular mountains and clear skies.

It gets better. The town of Whistler is also a prime Northern Lights hot spot because of its weather and sky conditions, and Whistler Village was ranked as the fourth-best spot for off-hill dining by SKI magazine this year. It joins Niseko and Chamonix as having some of the best powder in the world, as well.

Whether you are a die-hard snowboarder or you just want to party in the area, you can't go wrong with Whistler Blackcomb.

Les Fermes de Marie (France)

Congratulations France; you made the list thee times.

And well deserved, at that.

Les Fermes de Marie is a 5-star hotel in Megeve that has not only become a top skiing destination for the experts, but also a prime family vacation spot.

Located near the Mont Blanc peak in the French Alps, this is a very fancy resort featuring several high-end restaurants and amenities, whether you want traditional French cuisine or a space to relax in a spa.

As for skiing, the Megeve area sports more than 115 lifts and more than 215 slopes in an incredible, picturesque environment. The slopes at the Domaine Evasion Montblanc skiing area extend for about 445 km.

Treble Cone (New Zealand)

Then there's Treble Cone.

In the film "Garden State," Natalie Portman said, "You gotta hear this one song, it'll change your life I swear."

That may as well apply to Treble Cone when it comes to ski resorts.

Just … just watch the video below. With scenery and slopes like that, it's no wonder the resort won "New Zealand's Best Ski Resort" at the World Ski Awards.

Treble Cone also boasts the longest vertical rise in the Southern Lakes, more than 1,350 acres of ski area, sweeping groomed slopes and magnificent off-piste terrain at Motatapu Chutes and Saddle Basin.

You have to be special to be crowned over the other ski resorts in New Zealand, and Treble Cone is definitely deserving.