If one European town is synonymous with premiere skiing, it’s Zermatt, Switzerland. With ever-present views of the Matterhorn, this picturesque village was named first place in Best Ski Resort Awards 2016, out of 54 selected top ski resorts in the Alps. Located in the Valais region and famous for skiing that lasts into the summer months, the entire town is car free; perfect for leisurely strolls to a collection of wonderful shops and restaurants. Accessed via cog train, drivers can only go as far as the station in Täsch. Better yet: Make the route part of the journey, and take the Glacier Express from St. Moritz. Glassed panorama cars provide stunning views of surrounding peaks and valleys as the train traverses 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels along its eight-hour path. Book reservations in advance, and include the onboard dining option to enjoy freshly prepared regional specialties while you gaze out at some of the world’s best scenery.

When you’re not on the slopes, visit Gorner Gorge, about a 20-minute hike from the southernmost end of the town. Marked by startling rock formations and rushing waterfalls, the gorge has a pathway with wooden bridges leading through it, and takes approximately 15 minutes to traverse. Where to rest after the sun goes down? Excellent 5-star hotel choices include Mont Cervin Palace, with a spa and 133 rooms and suites spread throughout three buildings, most with balconies or terraces facing the Matterhorn. At The Omnia Hotel, traditional alpine lodge architecture blends beautifully with contemporary American design. Lodge design has also been reinterpreted with a modern edge at Hotel Firefly, with ski-in, ski-out access, a pool beneath a sparkling glass roof, an ice grotto, aromatherapy steam bath and a Schnapps Distiller sauna. Each of the hotel’s 16 suites is themed by the element of fire, water, earth or air, and has a private kitchen and spa-like bathrooms.