In search of the ultimate James Bond ski resort experience? Lets cut to the chase. On skis of course…
We’ve taken a look at the prestigious snowy slopes and secret spots that starred alongside 007. So if you’re looking for an Alpine getaway where you can feel like a hero in your own story (hopefully with no bad guys after you though, right?) these are the hotspots where 007 made his mark.
The Alpine Escapades of 007: Ski Resorts from Bond Films
Skiing crops up several times in James Bond movies, across the 25 films (and counting). And of course he’s a skier, he’s an international playboy.
The character of James Bond is also half-Swiss, on his mother’s side, which might explain why he seems to be a natural on the snow. In the books, Bond also spent time in Kitzbühel, which was to improve his German, but of course he also honed his skiing. And probably spent a lot of time honing his wise cracks and seducing beautiful women.
Actually, part of Bond’s link to Kitzbühel is down to author Ian Flemings time spent in the resort and his appreciation for the town.
So with the iconic spy’s links to Austria and Switzerland, it’s perhaps no surprise that he’s spotted at some of the most prestigious ski resorts.
Spectre – starring Sölden
Spectre showcases the Austrian destination of Sölden, highlighting its impressive Gaislachkogl peak and modern Ice Q restaurant nestled 3,000 m above sea level.
In the movie Spectre, the clinic of bad guy Franz Oberhauser, played by Christoph Waltz, is portrayed as the elegant Ice Q restaurant. This is also where The intense chase scene through the Ötztal Glacier Road and Rettenbach tunnel was also shot in this location, providing an exhilarating experience for viewers.
Director Sam Mendes had nothing but praise for Sölden as a “wonderful place”, which comes as no surprise given its stunning features on display throughout filming.
The World is Not Enough – starring Chamonix
The French resort of Chamonix serves as the thrilling setting for a spot of heli-skiing, off-piste and the obligatory action packed high-speed ski chase in The World is Not Enough. In this heart-pumping scene, Pierce Brosnan’s Bond and Elektra King, played by Sophie Marceau, engage in an adrenaline-fueled confrontation with four paragliders.
This exciting pursuit takes place against the stunning backdrop of the Vallée Blanche, showcasing the beauty of France’s Alpine region.
The Living Daylights – starring Weißensee
The movie The Living Daylights features a thrilling escape sequence in Weißensee, Austria. In this scene, Timothy Dalton’s Bond doesn’t actually get to ski himself. However, he rides down a mountain slope while riding in a car equipped with skis, and then in a surprising turn of events, on top of a cello case!
Captured against the stunning backdrop of Weißensee’s snow-covered mountains and frozen lake, these action-packed ski scenes add an exciting element to this particular 007 adventure.
A View to a Kill – starring Diavolezza
Probably one of the first cinematic portayals of snowboarding, A View to a Kill finds Bond outwitting the bad guys at Diavolezza in Switzerland on both skis and a snowboard.
While the ski resort itself is not that well known, it was chosen as it needed to double for Siberia. With the access to the Pers Glacier, the terrain managed to look not as Alpine as other ski chase scenes in the film series. It’s a pretty cool ski scene though, with Bond sporting a natty white ski jump suit with fur trim.
He even manages to elude the bad guys by skimming across the water on a snowboard as he escapes.
The Spy Who Loved Me – starring St Moritz
St. Moritz becomes one of the most iconic filming locations in Bond lore during The Spy Who Loved Me. Renowned ski racer Willy Bogner skillfully captures an iconic chase scene that adds to the film’s acclaim, climaxing with Bond base jumping off a cliff and unleashing his Union Jack parachute.
The heart-stopping ski pursuit demonstrates expert use of suspense and intensity on the slopes, as Bond races down with his adversaries close behind. Set against St.Moritz’s breathtaking mountain landscape and pristine snow cover, this memorable sequence highlights its majestic setting at a grander scale.
For Your Eyes Only – starring Cortina D’Ampezzo
The popular Cortina D’Ampezzo in the Italian Alps takes centre stage in the film For Your Eyes Only. The movie prominently showcases the stunning location with a thrilling ski and motorcycle chase which might be one of the best ski chases in the series.
Bond even skis a toboggan run!
During filming, lead actor Roger Moore and the rest of the cast stayed at Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel – a luxurious lodging with spectacular views of the stunning Alps.
This hotel is an ideal starting point for those seeking to experience their own Bond-worthy skiing adventures amidst Italy’s majestic alpine landscape.
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service – starring Jungfrau
The Schilthorn summit in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland was prominently featured in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service 1969.
In fact, the thrilling ski chase features arguably some of the best skiing from the entire Bond movie franchise. Even bad guy Blofeld, played by Telly Savalas, gets in on the snow based action.
There are several locations that crop up in the film, including the Piz Gloria restaurant (the mountain top HQ of Blofeld), and the nearby towns of Lauterbrunnen and Murren.
Roger Moore’s Alpine Retreat: Crans Montana
Although Crans Montana didn’t feature in a Bond Film, this prestigious resort in Switzerland’s Valais region was home to Roger Moore for several years. It is said that he fell in love with the charm of the Swiss Alps so much that he decided to make it his permanent residence.
Moore’s passion for skiing greatly influenced his role as Bond, evident from his impressive ski scenes in films such as A View to a Kill, which were filmed on location in Switzerland. These moments left us all wishing we could master skiing like 007 does.
Read our review of Crans Montana.
How to Dress For Skiing Like Bond
Looking the part is crucial to skiing like Mr. Bond, as his wardrobe plays a significant role in defining his identity and license to kill on the slopes. Of course, this also depends on the era that you’re looking to associate with.
The more modern Bond tends to keep it stylish and minimum with muted colours, such as blacks. However, the 80s era Bond and beyond would be more likely to go for a bright yellow jump suit with oversized goggles.
In Spectre, 007 sports Tom Ford’s Quilted Shell and Wool Ski Jacket with matching Ski Wool-Twill Trousers.
In The Spy Who Loved Me, he makes a statement in a yellow ski suit with red accents by Bogner ski wear.
And let’s not forget the trademark sleek black Pierre Cardin 30/7 ski goggles. If you wanna style it like Bond, go for sleek designer gear – obviously (or go full vintage for that Roger Moore vibe).
Bond Themed Ski Resort Experiences
As a devoted fan of the Bond franchise, consider taking your ski trip to new heights by incorporating some Bond-themed experiences. These resorts offer an unparalleled 007 experience with specialized ski trails, tours and luxurious accommodations.
From carving down Chamonix’s James Bond Trail to indulging in ultimate relaxation at Cortina D’Ampezzo’s Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel, these options are sure to transport you directly into a thrilling bond film. Embrace your inner spy and embark on this one-of-a-kind journey through the world-renowned mountainous terrain offered by these carefully chosen resorts.
The Piz Gloria restaurant in Switzerland’s Jungfrau/Grindelwald offers visitors a unique experience with:
- a revolving restaurant that provides breathtaking views, fit from a movie scene
- an exciting helicopter simulator for those seeking adventure
- and even its own cinema where you can catch some beloved classic films.
You can even enjoy their Bond-inspired menu, featuring delicious dishes such as ‘Cappuccino 007’ and ‘Martini 007’. The perfect addition to any fan’s visit at this iconic location.
Themed Ski Trails and Tours
One unique way to fully immerse yourself in the world of James Bond is by tackling ski trails inspired by his iconic adventures.
The town of Chamonix boasts its own thrilling route, aptly named the James Bond Trail, which follows the path that was taken by Bond and Elektra in “The World is Not Enough” down Vallée Blanche.
If you’re looking for more opportunities to feel like a secret agent on skis, Sölden in Austria has got you covered with their ‘Big 3’ ski trails.
These exciting routes will take you through breathtaking landscapes atop three magnificent mountains – Schwarze Schneide, Gaislachkogl and Tiefenbachkogl – all towering above 3,000m. And for an added dose of adrenaline similar to what Bond experiences on screen, visitors can also try out their bobsleigh track at this resort.
Bond-Inspired Luxury Accommodations
Unwind in true Bond style after a day of skiing at a 007-themed hotel. James Bond enthusiasts often visit the Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel, located in Cortina D’Ampezzo, and the Hotel Bergland, situated in Sölden.
The Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel was home to the cast of For Your Eyes Only during filming while Daniel Craig himself stayed at the Hotel Bergland for Spectre’s production. These hotels offer guests an opportunity to immerse themselves into Bond’s lavish world filled with all the glamour and adventure seen on screen.
Summary
If you need to Live and Let Die, take yourself to the Alps this winter to remind yourself that the World is Not Enough. Try not to scare the Living Daylights out of yourself by going too far off piste, and if you get the opportunity to Casino Royale, remember not to gamble more than you can afford to lose 😉
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