Best Ski Resorts For Shopping

italian ski resort

A lot of resorts make sure that they have lots to offer skiers off the slopes. So swimming pools, spas, gyms and ice rinks are all more common that they used to be. But another attraction for many is the opportunity to shop. Here we list the best resorts if shopping is your favourite off the slope activity.

Italy

Livigno in Italy has more than 200 shops all selling duty free goods, although in practice much cheaper than duty free airport shops. If you want cheap alcohol, cigarettes and phones this is the pace to go.

Another great resort for shopping is Cortina d’Ampezzo. Here you will find shops selling real luxury items including haute couture, watches and a great range of boutique shops. There are in fact over 250 shops here. In addition to the glitz and glamour this is also a good area for local artisans. Here you will also find a good choice of wooden toys, glass products and quality furniture.

Switzerland

No surprise to have St Moritz on the list. 150 shops to choose from with all the famous names you would expect. You will also find auction houses in the best hotels from world class names like Sotheby’s and Christies. If this is out of your league you may be interested in something that is also very popular, the resort promotional posters. Many copies show the designs going back to 1895. A great item to buy and a lot cheaper than the Gucci’s and Chanels!

Crans Montana is also worthy of a mention with over 300 shops on offer. Gucci, Chanel and Hermes are all here alongside 4 antique shops, 3 chocolatiers, 4 art galleries and a whole host of perfumeries.

France

Many French resorts are well set up for the British skier. Our favourites include Courcheval and Megeve.  Megeve is a beautiful ski resort with all its 200 shops easily accessible in the centre. Here you will find all the big brand names alongside jewellers, boutiques and the famous Aallard store where reputedly the first ski trousers were created in 1930.

Courcheval has long developed its reputation as a high class resort where money is very much on show. This has attracted many designer boutiques in 1850. You will also find antique shops, toy shops, and lingerie and chocolatiers. There are also 5 art galleries on offer.There are about 160 shops in 1850.

Canada

If you are lucky enough to ski Canada then check out Whistler, for many the world’s best ski resort. For shoppers there are 200 shops set in retail areas, boutiques, winter sports stores and everything you would expect in a resort. But in addition check out the native Indian art and locally made jewellery.

USA

Park City Utah is a great resort for shoppers. Over 100 stores locally and Salt Lake City only half an hour away with even more shops to see. Lots of local crafts sit alongside the usual sports shops, designer boutiques and art galleries.

By Will Smith

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