When most travellers think of luxury ski escapes, they picture the timeless peaks of the Alps - Verbier, Courchevel, St. Moritz. But for those seeking less crowded pistes, unique cultural settings, and a sense of discovery, a new generation of skiers are heading beyond Europe’s most famous slopes.
When most travellers think of luxury ski escapes, they picture the timeless peaks of the Alps - Verbier, Courchevel, St. Moritz. But for those seeking less crowded pistes, unique cultural settings, and a sense of discovery, a new generation of skiers are heading beyond Europe’s most famous slopes.
With private jet travel, the world’s most unexpected ski regions become surprisingly accessible. Whether you’re carving through champagne powder in Japan or heliskiing in the high Andes, Villiers Jets gives you direct access to slopes that are off the radar, but no less extraordinary.
Here are some of the most compelling alternative ski destinations for 2025 and beyond - where snow, style, and adventure await.
Niseko, Japan - The Powder Capital of the East
Tucked into Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, Niseko has gained cult status among serious skiers thanks to its legendary powder snow, often exceeding 15 metres annually. Unlike the glam of the Alps, Niseko offers a laid-back vibe with hot springs (onsen), izakaya dining, and minimalist mountain lodges.
While it may seem remote, Villiers Jets can arrange seamless itineraries via New Chitose Airport (CTS) or Hakodate, with ground transfers straight to the base of the resort. From Tokyo or Sapporo, short-range private flights are also available for those combining city and slope.
Looking for something spontaneous? Browse our empty leg flights for Asia-based ski escapes.
Gulmarg, India - High Altitude, High Thrills
Located in the Kashmir Valley, Gulmarg offers an entirely different flavour of skiing - steep off-piste terrain, deep snow, and some of the highest gondola-serviced ski runs in the world (nearing 4,000 metres). It's a destination for the adventurous, not the après-ski crowd.
Private flights can be arranged to Srinagar Airport (SXR), followed by a short transfer to the slopes. This region is best suited to experienced skiers and those seeking a sense of the wild, without compromising on comfort, as luxury chalets and boutique hotels are emerging quickly.
Bariloche, Argentina - The Southern Hemisphere Secret
While Europe and North America wrap up their winter seasons, Argentina's Bariloche is just getting started. Nestled in Patagonia’s Lake District, the Cerro Catedral ski resort offers beautiful views, varied terrain, and a distinctly South American alpine culture.
Travel via private jet to San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC) for direct access to the region, ideal for a July–September ski trip that breaks with the norm. Extend your itinerary with wine tasting in Mendoza or tango in Buenos Aires.
Villiers specialises in multi-leg journeys - see how we build custom itineraries.
Aspen, Colorado - The Classic with a Twist
Not entirely “unexpected,” but Aspen deserves a place on this list for one reason: the ease with which you can escape the crowds by flying private. While most visitors fly into Denver and endure a long mountain drive, private jets land directly at Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE), mere minutes from your chalet, lodge, or slopeside resort.
Aspen’s four mountains (Ajax, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Highlands) cater to every level of skier. Combine your trip with luxury shopping, world-class dining, or exclusive events like the Aspen Ideas Festival or X Games.
Need a last-minute winter trip to the U.S.? Speak to our team about availability and ski-ready jets.
How Villiers Jets Gets You Closer to the Slopes
What sets Villiers apart is not just our access to a global fleet of over 10,000 private aircraft, but our ability to create door-to-door ski experiences, no matter how remote or exclusive the mountain.
We provide:
Direct access to regional and alpine airfields
Tailored itineraries for ski groups, couples, or solo travellers
Cabins with ski-friendly baggage configurations
Onboard catering with winter warming menus
Heli-transfers to mountain resorts where needed
Looking for something unique? Our mystery flight programme offers travellers the chance to be surprised with a snow-covered destination that fits their budget and availability.
Final Thoughts: Escape the Ordinary This Winter
While the Alps will always be a classic, the world of skiing is much bigger, and far more diverse, than most people realise. With Villiers Jets, these less-travelled slopes become your next playground, accessible with privacy, efficiency, and style.
Ready to rethink your winter escape?
Start planning your off-the-beaten-track ski trip with Villiers Jets today.
