fit for A King

Fancy a European ski trip? Try the Spanish Pyrenees—a royal favourite, this resort offers 146km of groomed runs and plenty of off-piste excitement

Eat

The tasting menus at warm and welcoming Casa Irene offers culinary tours of the region. The restaurant’s small but sumptuous selection changes with the seasons. Past favourites have included roast pigeon with cream of artichokes and baked turbot with winter vegetables. Try the homemade walnut liqueur as a digestif. It’s best to make a booking. hotelcasairene.com

Stay

Location is everything when it comes to ski accommodation, and you’ll find the cool and contemporary (yet cosy) fivestar Hotel Val de Neu just 45 metres from the ski lift. Book the Neo Royal suite for amazing mountain views and free-flowing hot chocolate and churros. After a tough day on the slopes, relax in the frothy outdoor jacuzzi, take a swim in the pool or slip into your fluffy robe and head to the spa. Cheese connoisseurs will love La Fondue restaurant. The main lounge has sprawling sofas in front of crackling log fires.

hotelbaqueiravaldeneu.com

indulge

Forget gluhwein. The well-heeled Spaniards at Baqueira Beret prefer their après-ski beverages cold, sparkling and served in flutes. And where better to imbibe bubbles than the hip and happening Moët Winter Lounge. baqueira.es