The start of the ski season is about to get underway.

But if you thought all the action happened out on the slopes, you can think again.

For a minority of super-rich holiday makers, the real entertainment is to be found back in the palatial chalets that dot the world’s most exclusive resorts.

The stunning accommodation on offer at rental company Ultimate Luxury Chalets feature swimming pools, saunas, cinemas, hot tubs and even nightclubs.

Other include wine cellars, state of the art spas and fully-equipped gyms.

But if you want to hire the most exclusive properties at destinations including Verbier in Switzerland and Val D’Isere in France, you’ll need to be among the world’s highest earners.

A week at the sprawling nine-bedroom Swiss chalet owned by billionaire businessman Sir Richard Branson will set you back an eye-watering £112,000-a-week.

Situated on a quiet road just 250m from the main ski lifts and backing onto one of the returning pistes, The Lodge is in a perfect location for the slopes.

Guests are attended to by a team of 12 staff.

The property features a mini ice rink, indoor swimming pool, outdoor Jacuzzis and a luxury spa.

The Lodge can accommodate up to 18 adults in nine bedrooms and up to six children and young adults in a specially designed bunkroom.

Chalet N, located in the Austrian ski resort of Lech, is said to ‘set the benchmark for true Alpine over-indulgence’.

(dailymail.co.uk)