Davos, Switzerland

Apart from offering high altitude skiing, Davos ski resort is also the birthplace of alpine downhill skiing, with plenty of very snow-sure slopes to enjoy and mountain restaurants to refuel at. There is terrain to suit all grades from experts, to motorway cruisers and nervous beginners. However, be warned that the 320km of piste are spread across 5 separate ski areas, and the town is similarly sprawling. An efficient bus service goes some way to make staying in Davos less inconvenient but use of a car is ideal.

The resort itself, although not aesthetically pleasing with many block-style hotels, offers a plethora of activities once you have left the slopes, including several ice rinks, one of which is reputedly Europe's biggest natural rink. Nightlife options are aplenty and usually sophisticated but do lack atmosphere during the week (weekends are much busier and more lively).

Although not particularly popular with the British market the skiing really is very good indeed and would rival anything that the best of the French resorts can offer. The off-piste is just as good as in Val d'Isere or St Anton but as there is absolutely no resident Scandie or British 'ski-bum' population in Davos the snow remains un-tracked for many days after a heavy snowfall.

With great mountain restaurants, a short transfer, considerable alpine charm and some great hotels, Davos should not be overlooked when it comes to choosing your next luxury ski holiday destination.