Whether you’re looking to book a break for beginners or travelling with dedicated powder hounds, these dream holidays from Canada to the slopes of New Zealand have you covered.

Best for thrill-seekers

CMH heli-skiing, Canada

If you’ve been skiing or boarding for years and are searching for something ‘extra’, it’s time to give heli-skiing a whirl. Designed for high-intermediate to expert skiers and riders, taking a helicopter to the top of an untouched mountain to carve your own line back down is the ultimate snow experience.

Pioneers of heli-skiing in Canada, CMH offers multi- and single-day excursions, with thrill-seekers enjoying unlimited vertical (translation: you ski until you’re exhausted).

When you do call it quits, return to a remote wilderness lodge to relive the day’s best runs as you soak with new mates in a hot tub, or retire to your choice of hotel in one of Canada’s uber-cool ski towns.

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Best for beginners

Cardrona, New Zealand

With wide, open trails and a large magic-carpet zone, beginners are well catered for at Cardrona, less than an hour’s drive from ski haven, Queenstown.

Easy-to-access green trails and a ‘chondola’ (chair and gondola) make learning fun for every age and level, while the resort offers ski and snowboard lessons, with a package that includes rental equipment. Another plus is the Learner lift pass, with access to the mountain’s beginner areas.

Newcomers should consider travelling during the shoulder months – June and September – when the slopes are quieter and prices are generally a little lower.

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Best for wellness travellers

St Anton, Austria

Famous for its on-slope après, what most people don’t know about this snow hot spot is how many hidden wellness offerings it has.

At the base of the mountain is Arlberg WellCom, which boasts a luxe combo of indoor and heated outdoor pools, three saunas, a sanarium (hybrid sauna/steam facility) plus massage showers.

After skiing, you’ll want to stay in one of the best wellness hotels in town, and that’s Schwarzer Adler. The property has several saunas, indoor and outdoor pools, a relaxation area and fitness studio. For an extra hit of bliss, book a hay bath or honey scrub at the day spa to soothe ski-weary muscles.

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Best for powder hounds

Rusutsu, Japan

If you’re an Aussie who loves powder, chances are you’ve already discovered Japan or have it on the wish list.

And the country’s current red-hot popularity shows no signs of slowing thanks to its deep, fresh snow.

Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano are firm favourites, while Tomamu has a reputation for a relaxed approach to in-bounds off-piste skiing (where the fluffy stuff is). If you’re looking for one main base, the village of Rusutsu boasts an average annual snowfall of 14 metres. 

It’s also on Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass, making it an easy choice for season ticket holders. And when in Rusutsu, stay at Rusutsu Resort, named Japan’s Best Ski Resort at the World Ski Awards five times and home to Kotobuki Onsen, the perfect spot for a post-powder soak.

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Best for families

Mt Buller, Australia

When it comes to skiing with kids, you quickly learn that the skiing itself is only one ingredient to a happy snow holiday. That’s why Mt Buller, in Victoria, is great for families.

Not only is the village snow-laden, but the mountain has a mix of gentle slopes for beginners and steeper trails for experienced riders. There are also terrain parks, a learners’ area, tobogganing, and city-style eateries.

My top dining pick is The Wood Room, a spacious, on-mountain restaurant offering a contemporary menu for all ages, while next door is Woody’s Cafe, your ski-in hot-chocolate stop.

Off-slopes fun can be had at the impressive Buller Air Zone, filled with trampolines, climbing walls and a giant air bag. Your dollars stretch further in Buller too, with child prices extending to 18 years old.

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