What’s new this winter?

There’s plenty to be excited about this ski season, whether it’s news of ski area expansions, new lift connections or historic anniversaries. Among the top headlines is news from across the pond, where American favourite Aspen is opening its first new terrain since 1985 – in the process increasing its ski area by 20 per cent. Its neighbour Steamboat is making waves, too, with the final stages of a $200million (£165million) investment – one of the biggest in history – including a transformation of its base area and 650 acres of new expert terrain, making it the second largest resort in Colorado.

Yet European resorts aren’t to be overshadowed. This winter will be the first chance skiers get to cross the Italian-Swiss border on the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing – a game-changer for those looking to clock up big mileage between the resorts of Cervinia or Zermatt. On the slopes there are exciting changes in store. Les Deux Alpes has set its sights on the next generation of skiers in the redeveloped Vallée Blanche sector, while experts will be exploring the newly opened touring itinerary in Cortina d’Ampezzo, which takes in the Torri ski area from Mount Lagazuoi to Tofane – highlights of Italy’s northeastern Dolomites.

It’s not just on the slopes that ski holidays are advancing, with rejuvenation in Alpine hotels and chalets at the forefront this winter. Skiers will be able to relax in an innovative glass-bottomed rooftop pool at the Das Central Hotel in Sölden and guests will return to the storied halls of Grace La Margna – one of the most historic five-stars in St Moritz. If your budget is on the larger side, you can indulge in a stay at the new Six Senses Crans-Montana or enjoy the all-inclusive delights of Club Med’s new resort in Kiroro, Japan.

Operators are also making moves to keep ski holidays enticing. While Eurostar’s ski train will return this winter – albeit on an indirect route – Inghams is leading the way by launching rail-ski packages, including to resorts beyond France. In the skies, new jets will fly between London and Bolzano, operated by SkyAlps, as skiers seek out the value of the Italian slopes. Off-the-beaten-track specialist Ski Safari is branching out in Norway to the resort of Gausta, and French self-catering experts Peak Retreats is adding further lesser-known resorts to its portfolio. Crystal Ski has expanded its beginner-only holidays, and in the luxury market, the Orient Express will operate a dedicated service to the Alps. The anticipation for winter really is palpable.

Lucy Aspden-Kean