At these popular ski resorts, the mountain backdrops and surrounding areas are so spectacular that the scenery is an attraction in itself alongside the action on the pistes...
Zermatt, Switzerland
It's easy to see why Zermatt's mantelpiece is overloaded with "most scenic" accolades. Dominated by the unmistakable peak of the Matterhorn, this high-level Alpine resort is encircled by a famous ring of mountains over 4000 metres high. The cobbled streets and atmosphere-inducing no-cars policy will help make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Take the cableway to the top of the Klein Matterhorn to the highest sightseeing platform in Europe for a spectacular 360° view of the Alps or go hiking in the picturesque pine-scented forests.
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Virgin Media resort guide
Zermatt Tourist Information
Lake Louise, Canada
An excellent value-for-money resort, Lake Louise in Banff National Park offers not only first-rate skiing but some of the most stunning mountain scenery in Canada. In late and early season the blue-green water of the lake set against the stark backdrop of Victoria Glacier makes for one of the most dramatic photgraphs in the Canadian Rockies; for much of ski season, the lake is frozen and snow-covered but still a lovely spot for a snowy stroll and a cup of hot chocolate from the comfort of the lake-side Fairmont hotel. Nature trails snake all around the park, and a walk into Johnston or Grotto Canyon will give you a chance to marvel at frozen waterfalls.
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Virgin Media resort guide
Lake Louise Tourist Information
Jackson Hole, USA
The rugged north-west corner of Wyoming is cowboy country and worth visiting for the Wild West feeling of Jackson Hole, with its wooden boardwalks and genuine cowboys. Nestled in the Teton Mountain Range, the resort is famous amongst experienced skiers for its steep and exciting terrain, deep powder, and over 2,500 square acres of bowls, faces and chutes. But there are other attractions worth leaving the slopes for. Pay a visit to nearby Yellowstone National Park to watch the geysers billowing steam into the crisp winter air, or visit the National Elk Refuge, an official winter hang-out of nearly 10,000 elk.
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Virgin Media resort guide
Jackson Hole Tourist Information
Yellowstone National Park Tourist Information
