The 2023–24 ski season unfolded under the influence of a weak and delayed La Niña event, a climatic phenomenon typically associated with cooler, wetter conditions in northern latitudes, and warmer, drier weather in southern zones.

This year, however, the global picture was more fragmented. While certain regions benefited from sporadic snow surges, others contended with prolonged dry spells and increasingly unpredictable snowfall patterns. Some locations, particularly southwest Switzerland, had excellent seasons thanks to lower-than-normal temperatures, which helped to preserve snow cover. On balance, the season was slightly below average, with January emerging as a particularly dry month across many key Alpine markets.

Despite these challenges, the top five performers in the Resilience Index (Vail, Zermatt, Val d’Isère, Aspen and Breuil-Cervinia) all demonstrate the enduring importance of altitude and snow retention capabilities. Each of these resorts is situated at higher elevations, where lower temperatures help preserve snowpack and extend the ski season. In an era of growing climate volatility, these characteristics are becoming increasingly relevant. The ability to maintain consistent snow coverage is no longer just desirable; it is a strategic necessity.

Lower-altitude resorts such as Furano in Japan and Whistler Blackcomb in Canada experienced favourable snow conditions this season, but their long-term resilience remains in question. Warmer temperatures are beginning to interfere with snow formation and retention, threatening the long-term viability of these destinations during winter. Shorter seasons and reduced snow reliability are likely outcomes unless significant adaptation measures are introduced.

Glacial resorts such as Chamonix are also facing mounting pressure. Glacial retreat, driven by rising temperatures, is outpacing winter restoration, placing these resorts at risk of slipping down the rankings in the future.

North America saw notable shifts in the index. Mont Tremblant in Canada surged 26 places to reach 17th position, a remarkable ascent given its relatively modest altitude. The resort recorded snowfall levels 35 inches above average and gained five additional snow days, particularly in December and January. This performance underscores the potential for lower-altitude resorts to outperform expectations under the right conditions, though such outcomes are increasingly rare. In the United States, Aspen and Vail continued to demonstrate strong resilience. Vail claimed the top spot globally, supported by a five-month season, high elevation and consistent snowfall patterns. With 285 inches of snow, Vail’s reliability and snow consistency reinforced its position as the most resilient ski destination in the Savills Resilience Index.

Swiss resorts delivered a mixed performance, but low temperatures helped ski resorts across the country. Zermatt continued its upward trajectory, moving into second place. Its high-altitude terrain and year-round skiing, enabled by the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, provide unmatched reliability. In a season where many lower-level resorts faced growing uncertainty, Zermatt’s consistency stood out despite other Swiss destinations struggling. St Moritz, Davos and Gstaad all experienced significant declines. Gstaad, in particular, fell 35 places due to a dramatic drop in snowfall from 1,100 centimetres to just 335 centimetres. While this figure remains respectable compared to other European resorts, the volatility highlights Gstaad’s vulnerability. Its location near the northern fringes of the Alps limits its exposure to diverse snowstorm systems, making it more susceptible to climate variability.

Italy’s performance was shaped by both promise and concern. Breuil-Cervinia maintained a strong position at fifth, supported by its high altitude and glacial terrain. However, it slipped from the top spot due to reduced snowfall compared to its previous record-breaking season. With the 2026 Winter Olympics approaching, attention has turned to Cortina d’Ampezzo. While snow coverage is expected to be sufficient for the games, the long-term outlook is less certain. Natural snowfall across the Dolomites has been declining steadily, and many Italian resorts are increasingly reliant on artificial snow. Cortina’s mid-range altitude and modest snowfall reliability place it in the middle tier of the Resilience Index, raising questions about its long-term sustainability beyond the Olympic spotlight.

Austria’s ski resorts faced a challenging season. Warmer-than-usual temperatures and a reduced frequency of Atlantic-driven snowstorms reaching inland led to lower snowfall levels across major destinations. Ischgl, Obergurgl, Zell am See and Saalbach dropped 17, 10, 15 and 17 places, respectively. Despite Austria’s traditionally strong snow retention rates, the lack of fresh snow proved decisive. Compared to other European markets, the decline was more pronounced, highlighting Austria’s vulnerability to shifting weather systems and its reliance on consistent Atlantic flows.

In contrast, French resorts enjoyed a strong season, particularly those situated at higher altitudes. Val Thorens, La Plagne and Tignes ranked seventh, ninth, and tenth, respectively, benefiting from robust late-season snowfall driven by evaporative cooling. These resorts capitalised on their geographic advantages (north-facing slopes and central Alpine positioning) to capture a wide range of snow-bearing systems. Val d’Isère emerged as a standout performer, climbing into the top three with a remarkable 934 centimetres of snowfall. This was bolstered by one of the most intense April snowstorms in recent history. Its high altitude, glacial terrain, and consistently cold temperatures reinforced its resilience and long-term viability.

Japan’s Niseko rebounded strongly, climbing 23 places in the rankings. Despite its relatively low altitude, the resort enjoyed a robust powder season early in the year, driven by cold Siberian air masses crossing the Sea of Japan. However, rising sea temperatures and global climate shifts are beginning to affect snowfall patterns. Niseko’s future resilience may be compromised if these trends continue, particularly given its vulnerability to erratic weather and low elevation.

Scandinavian resorts, among the lowest-altitude destinations in Europe, remained relatively stable in the rankings. Geilo in Norway moved up one place to 19th, demonstrating that altitude is not the sole determinant of resilience. In this case, northerly latitude plays a critical role. Geilo sits just below the Arctic Circle at 60 degrees north, where exceptionally cold conditions prevail. These conditions are often intensified when the polar jet stream shifts southward, allowing colder air from the polar vortex to penetrate deeper into Scandinavia. This dynamic enhances snow retention and ensures sustained low temperatures, supporting the resilience of these northern resorts.

The 2024–25 ski season underscored the growing importance of altitude, geographic positioning and snow retention capabilities in determining resort resilience. While some destinations capitalised on favourable conditions and strategic advantages, others struggled with declining snowfall and increasing climate volatility. As the industry looks ahead, the ability to adapt to changing weather patterns and invest in sustainable infrastructure will be key to maintaining long-term viability. The Resilience Index continues to serve as a vital tool for understanding which resorts are best positioned to thrive in an increasingly unpredictable climate landscape.

If you’re considering a move, whether buying, selling or renting, our team would be delighted to assist with your ski property enquiries.

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