Written by Menswear Style
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Travel
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27th September 2024
Is there anything more freeing than skiing? Apart from perhaps skydiving, which let’s be honest isn’t for everyone, skiing and snowboarding have long been a favourite pastime for tourists seeking a fun activity in the various stunning snowy landscapes you can find across the globe – but where are some of the best places to visit whether you are new to the slopes or are an experienced ‘ripper’.
To help, you’ll find 4 destinations here that are well worth considering, from some of the biggest and best resorts to some of the most unique ones to experience. Even if you’re a much bigger fan of Après-Ski (in other words, the nightlife after skiing), there’s something for everyone in this quick list.
#1 – Avoriaz, France
Nestled in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area that has 12 resorts connected between France and Switzerland, Avoriaz stands out as a top destination for its impressive altitude and snow reliability, open from December to April. It’s a 100% pedestrianised retro-looking resort that can ensure a tranquil atmosphere and stunning high-altitude skiing.
Avoriaz offers direct access to over 600 km of slopes as well as 61 off-ski activities (including dog sledging and even parachute jumping) and 7 slopes for Nordic skiing, making it ideal for skiers of all levels. Its unique architectural style, with buildings clad in wood to blend into the cliffside, adds to the charm.
It’s also great for families, with a renowned ski school that caters to children, allowing them to learn in a fun, safe environment with 3 zones for beginners. For those seeking Après-Ski activities, Avoriaz provides a vibrant scene with live music, bars, and restaurants that cater to a diverse crowd too. With its extensive facilities and breathtaking views, there is lots to love about Avoriaz that makes it a ski paradise you won’t want to miss.
#2 – La Thuile, Italy
La Thuile is a hidden gem in the Italian Alps that offers skiers a serene setting with its expansive and uncrowded slopes that are also family-friendly. Located at the border of Italy and France, the resort is part of the international Espace San Bernardo ski area, allowing visitors to ski across borders into La Rosière in France with 152 km of linked slopes. This helps to provide a varied skiing experience that combines the best of both Alpine cultures.
The former mining town in Valle d’Aosta is renowned for its long runs and challenging descents, which appeal to intermediate and advanced skiers. Beginners aren’t left out, as there are several gentle slopes perfect for learning. Open from late November to April, the snow conditions in La Thuile are consistently excellent, thanks to its favourable position and high altitude creating a microclimate that helps the winter sports season go on for longer. As noted by travel insurance provider Staysure, the resort is renowned for its shorter queues and peaceful slopes even during peak times, ideal if you want to avoid the busier resorts in Europe.
Off the slopes, La Thuile offers a taste of authentic Italian mountain life with its quiet, rustic charm and stunning views of Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa and Matterhorn. The town has just 793 year-round residents and away from the skiing, you can experience the Rutor glacier that covers a surface area of 8.4 km2, home to stunning waterfalls where there are plenty of great views. La Thuile is certainly ideal for those looking for a unique and less crowded setting.
3 – Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Perhaps you’ve not considered Slovenia as a skiing destination, but with Kranjska Gora nestled in the Julian Alps near the borders with Italy and Austria, you have an enchanting ski resort known for its picturesque village setting and family-friendly slopes. This resort is particularly suited for beginners and intermediate skiers across its 18 ski routes on Vitranc Mountain, with well-maintained runs and a relaxed atmosphere that makes first attempts at skiing less daunting for newbies.
Kranjska Gora offers a variety of Winter sports activities alongside skiing, including snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing for a bit of variety. The area is also famous for its après-ski scene, which, while not as extensive as some larger resorts, provides a cosy retreat with traditional Slovenian hospitality. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, warm firesides, and occasional live music events.
The resort also caters to families with children through its organised activities and ski schools, ensuring a memorable and stress-free holiday for visitors of all ages. With ski season between December and April, this is an ideal destination to consider.
#4 – Vail, Colorado, USA
Vail, set in the majestic Colorado Rockies, is one of North America’s largest and best-known ski destinations, famed for its expansive bowl-shaped slopes and exceptional ski conditions. The resort boasts 5,317 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski areas in the United States. Its diverse landscape caters to all levels of skiers, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging runs and the legendary Back Bowls that offer endless powder during peak season.
The town of Vail complements its world-class skiing with a vibrant cultural scene, featuring upscale dining, luxury shopping, and lively Après-Ski for those looking to unwind after a day on the slopes. Inspired by Alpine villages, it creates a European feel in the heart of Colorado.
With skiing season between November and April, Vail is also known for its high-quality ski schools and family-friendly activities, including a scenic gondola ride through the mountains and nature discovery centre. With its world-class facilities and efficient lift system, Vail continues to set the standard for an enjoyable ski holiday, ensuring a seamless and exhilarating experience for every visitor.
Ready To Hit The Slopes? Be Sure You’re Prepared
Before heading to the slopes at one of the ideal destinations above, it’s crucial for any skiing holiday to be well-prepared, including securing travel insurance that comprehensively covers Winter sports. The reason is that not all insurance policies will cover this as standard, instead providing optional cover or as an add-on. Companies like Staysure offer tailored travel insurance policies that include protection for medical emergencies and equipment loss or damage, which are essential for not just ski trips but any type of holiday you may be planning.
Of course, whilst being insured for your trip is good to have, having all the right skiing essentials packed like a thermal jacket, ski trousers, base layer, gloves, and goggles is also crucial. The Ski Club of Great Britain has a handy packing list to help with this, so you’ve got no excuse not to have all you need in good time.
Research each destination to see what the hiring costs are and whether this will help you save on travel costs. It goes without saying that proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable skiing experience, and the weather is one thing that you’ll want to keep an eye on – you can find the weather for 5270 ski resorts worldwide here to help you stay up to date.
There you have it, four superb destinations to satisfy your skiing urge that will ensure you have a memorable trip. Remember to book suitable travel insurance to cover the various activities you want to try and start your packing list now so you don’t have any last minute problems getting all the essentials.
