The Alps

Ever dream of stepping into a gorgeous mountain painting or twirling on a hilltop? More than likely, you’ve conjured up an image of the Alps, the picture-perfect peaks that carve their way through Switzerland, France, Italy and more, creating some of the most idyllic scenery.

Thanks to world-class slopes and a pedigree of famous visitors (Elizabeth Taylor, Robert De Niro and Madonna), postcard-worthy alpine villages like Gstaad, St. Moritz and Andermatt play host to some of the most luxurious accommodations in the region.

But it’s not just internationally renowned ski runs (St. Moritz hosted the Winter Olympics twice) and high-end hotels drawing visitors. Comforting cuisine, a hodgepodge of cultures and even warm-weather activities like hiking continue to attract travelers year after year.