Val Thorens Crowned World's Best Ski Resort 2025 for Third Year

French Alpine Resort Secures Top Ski Honour for Third Consecutive Year

Ski enthusiasts across the UK are already anticipating the winter season, with many planning their annual pilgrimage to the Alps or preparing for their first experience on the slopes. The destination on everyone's lips is Val Thorens in France, which has just been declared the World's Best Ski Resort 2025 by the World Ski Awards. This prestigious title marks the third year in a row that the resort has claimed this top honour.

Situated at an impressive 2,300 metres, Val Thorens holds the distinction of being the highest ski resort in Europe. Since its inception in the 1970s, it has been a favourite among skiers. For British travellers, its appeal is heightened by its accessibility, being just a two-hour flight away.

Unrivalled Slopes and Vibrant Apres-Ski

The ski area in Val Thorens operates from November to May, offering an extended season for winter sports. It provides direct access to the legendary Three Valleys, the largest interconnected ski area on the planet boasting a staggering 600 km of ski-to-ski slopes.

Beyond the pistes, the resort is famous for its dynamic nightlife. Iconic venues like Bar Club Jackie and the recently renovated La Folie Douce ensure the entertainment continues long after the lifts have closed. Recent developments have further enhanced its offering. Last winter saw the opening of the Caron 3200 multi-service complex, which features a panoramic restaurant, a wine bar, and a rooftop terrace. Looking ahead, the Cime Caron cable car is scheduled to return with new cabins for the 2025/2026 season, alongside the introduction of a new 10-seater gondola lift.

Global Winners Across Ski Categories

The World Ski Awards also celebrated excellence in other categories, highlighting top destinations worldwide.

World's Best Freestyle Resort 2025 was awarded to LAAX in Switzerland. This freestyle hotspot in the Swiss Alps features 216 kilometres of slopes and 30 lifts, set against breathtaking natural scenery and complemented by a buzzing nightlife. It is also a prime location for contests and night skiing.

World's Best Ski Hotel 2025 went to the Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley in the United States. This luxury hotel, located on Deer Valley Mountain in Park City, Utah, is a repeat winner and was also featured in Condé Nast Traveller's Reader's Best Awards in 2025.

The title of World's Best New Ski Hotel 2025 was claimed by Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO in Japan. Situated in the internationally renowned Niseko United area, it offers international cuisine, a natural hot spring, a cocktail bar, and a variety of snow activities.

Back in Val Thorens, Hôtel Le Pashmina was named the World's Best Ski Boutique Hotel 2025. This five-star hotel is perfectly located at the top of the resort and on the slope's edge. Run by the same family for two generations, it boasts hot tubs, a spa, a pool, a sauna, and unique accommodation options including a rooftop igloo pod.

Other notable winners included: