For travel professionals curating winter itineraries, the intersection of alpine sport and haute cuisine is becoming a decisive factor. Ski Solutions, the UK-based specialist tour operator, has identified three destinations that deliver both exceptional skiing and serious gastronomy: San Cassiano in Italy's Dolomites, Courchevel in France's Three Valleys, and Whistler in Canada. Each offers a distinct culinary identity, from Ladin mountain fare to Michelin-starred French dining and Pacific Northwest seafood.
San Cassiano: Alpine tradition meets refined Italian cuisine
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, San Cassiano is a gateway to the Sellaronda circuit. The village's culinary scene blends Ladin and Italian influences, with a focus on local ingredients like mushrooms, game, and cheeses. At the heart of this experience is Hotel Ciasa Salares, located just 100 metres from the nearest ski lift. The property houses two distinct dining venues: Sori Restaurant, which offers a contemporary take on regional dishes, and Cocun Cellar Restaurant, a more intimate setting known for its wine pairings and traditional recipes.
For clients seeking a complete package, Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay at Hotel Ciasa Salares, including flights and transfers, from £3,195 per person, departing 13 February 2027. This positions San Cassiano as a compelling option for food-focused skiers who want to avoid the crowds of larger resorts while still enjoying world-class slopes.
Courchevel: Michelin-starred dining in the Three Valleys
Courchevel, part of the expansive Three Valleys ski area, has long been synonymous with luxury and fine dining. The resort boasts more Michelin stars per square kilometre than almost any other ski destination, with chefs like Stéphane Buron leading the charge. Buron, who heads the kitchen at Hotel Le Chabichou, has earned a reputation for inventive French cuisine that draws on Alpine ingredients. Guests at Le Chabichou can also participate in cooking classes, offering a hands-on culinary experience that goes beyond the plate.
Ski Solutions packages a seven-night stay at Le Chabichou, including accommodation, flights, and transfers, from £6,645 per person. This price point reflects the property's five-star status and its prime location near the slopes. For agents, this represents a high-value sale for clients who prioritise both skiing and gastronomy.
Whistler: Pacific Northwest flavours on the slopes
Across the Atlantic, Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia offers a different but equally compelling culinary proposition. The resort's village is home to a vibrant dining scene that showcases Pacific Northwest seafood, locally sourced produce, and a strong farm-to-table ethos. The Westin Resort & Spa serves as a convenient base, with easy access to both the gondolas and the village's restaurants. Notable dining options include Red Door Bistro, a small plates venue known for its creative small plates, and Araxi Restaurant + Oyster Bar, a staple for fresh oysters and seasonal Canadian dishes.
Ski Solutions offers a seven-night stay at The Westin Resort & Spa, including flights and shared transfers, from £3,245 per person. This makes Whistler an attractive option for clients seeking a long-haul ski holiday with a culinary twist, especially those who appreciate the relaxed yet sophisticated vibe of the Canadian resort.
Implications for travel advisors
These three destinations highlight a growing trend in ski travel: the elevation of dining to a primary motivator. For agents, this means tailoring recommendations not just on snow conditions and lift access, but on the quality and uniqueness of the food scene. Ski Solutions' curated packages simplify the booking process, bundling flights, transfers, and accommodation, while leaving room for clients to explore the local gastronomy independently.
As the winter season approaches, operators should consider promoting these gourmet ski experiences to clients who may have previously viewed ski holidays as purely athletic. The combination of world-class slopes and Michelin-starred restaurants is a powerful selling point, and destinations like San Cassiano, Courchevel, and Whistler are leading the way. For more on how the industry is catering to food-focused travellers, see our coverage of gourmet gift boxes on VIVA Cruises and Belmond's festive culinary experiences.
