Ski Season Gears Up with New Lifts and Destinations for 2026
From European Alps to North American slopes, resorts introduce upgrades and unique experiences for skiers of all levels.
The ski season is set to kick off with a variety of new offerings, from technological advancements in lift systems to the introduction of new resorts and packages catering to diverse skiing interests. European resorts are seeing significant upgrades, including a new lift connection in Verbier, Switzerland, designed to streamline access to the wider Four Valleys area. The Telemixte Esserts-Savoleyres lift aims to connect the main ski area with Savoleyres, eliminating the need for bus transfers.
For families, the AKI Family Resort Plose in South Tyrol, Italy, is promoting itself as an ideal destination for first-time skiers. The resort offers complimentary daily lessons for beginners, ski equipment, and dedicated shuttles to gentle slopes. Off-piste, it features pools, play areas, and childcare services for infants. In Austria, Hinterglemm offers access to the expansive Skicircus ski area, linking with Saalbach, Leogang, and Fieberbrunn. For families visiting during Easter, children aged 15 and under can ski for free with a qualifying adult lift pass purchase.
Travel to the French Alps is being facilitated by the Eurostar Snow Train, offering a more sustainable option to reach the Tarentaise Valley, with services connecting to La Plagne and the Paradiski area. For those seeking a more lively atmosphere, Ischgl, Austria, is launching its season with the Top of the Mountain Opening Concert featuring Westlife. This resort provides access to the Silvretta Arena, spanning across Austria and Switzerland, and is known for its après-ski scene.
New accommodations are also appearing in popular ski regions. In Les Menuires, France, the Fahrenheit Seven hotel is set to open, offering ski-in/ski-out access and proximity to the Three Valleys ski area. Courchevel, celebrating its 80th anniversary, will see the opening of Hotel Saint Roch in Courchevel 1850, featuring luxury amenities and dining options. The resort provides access to the 600km of slopes in the Three Valleys.
Beyond the traditional European destinations, Japan's Myoko region is being highlighted for its deep powder snow and backcountry opportunities, paired with cultural experiences such as hot springs and sake tasting. The resort offers access to five interconnected ski areas. In the United States, Aspen Snowmass is introducing a new beginner program. Those who complete a Three-Day First Time package, which includes instruction, lift passes, and equipment hire, will receive complimentary skiing and equipment rental for the remainder of the season.
Other notable destinations include Pas de la Casa in Andorra, offering high-altitude skiing and lively après-ski, with Iglu Ski facilitating Sunday changeovers to avoid holiday travel bottlenecks. Nassfeld, in Austria's Carinthia region, is presented as a less-discovered area with extensive pistes and a unique blend of Austrian and Italian mountain culture. For those seeking an insider experience, Klosters, Switzerland, offers tailored ski holidays with guided options and activities for both skiers and non-skiers.