Robb Report Heli ski
Robb Report
Why a Heli-Ski Safari Is the Most Thrilling Way to Hit the Slopes
Heli-skiing
For skiers looking to go off-piste, there’s nothing better than a day spent heli-skiing. But why limit your helicopter-fueled shredding to just one day—or even one place? Instead, luxury hotels and expert outfitters are upping the ante, offering a fresh take on the adventure, with an experience dubbed the heli-ski safari. Instead of skiing one location in one day you get to ski multiple sites (sometimes in different countries) over the course of a few days or weeks—perhaps hitting all four European Alps in one vacation. The trips come with personal guides who will determine the best itinerary for you based on weather, snow conditions, and your mood and desires—the opportunities are endless, and the choice is yours
When it comes to planning your first-ever heli-ski safari, travel outfitter Swiss Ski Safari may be your best bet. The company claims to have invented the concept 13 years ago, and they employ a roster of mountain experts that will work closely with you to determine your schedule. They operate in France, Switzerland, and Italy, so be prepared to cross borders (maybe a morning in France and an afternoon in northern Italy?), speak different languages, and try different cuisines in between runs. At night, you can tuck into an über-comfortable bed at one of Europe’s grandest ski resorts, as Swiss Ski has partners in top resort towns including Zermatt, Verbier, Courmayeur, and Chamonix Mont-Blanc. So even in high season, you’ll catch up on hard-earned R&R at some of the most luxurious suites on the mountain.
