Time for powder?! Ski holidays in Europe
Wondering what the plus side to these brisk breezes and cold nights is? It’s nearly ski season! Time to dig out the gloves and beanie, dust off the skis and see if you still fit into your boots. With some of the best powder, traditional Alpine accommodation and range of resorts available, it’s no wonder Europe is the place to ski. Here are a few of the very best ski destinations across the pond:
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Expert skiers and snowboarders — this is the place for you! With steep slopes and a beautiful backcountry, it’s hard to beat ski holidays in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Located in southeastern France, Chamonix was the site of the very first winter Olympic Games, held in 1924. It’s long history as a ski resort proves the area’s timeless beauty and, with many ski chalet holidays available, it could be perfect for you this winter.
Obergurgl, Austria
With only a few hundred residents year-round, the ski village of Obergurgl comes alive in the winter. The ski resort in Austria’s Tyrol region includes the area of Hochgurgl, resulting in plenty of downhill and cross country slopes, as well as tobogganing — a fantastic activity if you’re taking whole family.
Val Thorens, France
The highest ski resort in Europe, Val Thorens is exactly what you picture when you think of the French Alps. Its 2,300 meter altitude means you typically get a lengthy ski season and a good snow report from November to May. Part of ‘Les Trois Vallées,’ or ‘The Three Valleys,’ ski domain, Val Thorens and its neighboring resorts make up an impressive 600 kilometers of piste. Needless to say, you won’t run out of things to do here! With catered ski chalets, hotels and self-catering apartments to pick from, Val Thorens has all the makings for a spectacular winter holiday.
Verbier, Switzerland
For those looking for quality skiing during the day and a place to let your hair down at night, consider Verbier, in southwestern Switzerland. Home to some tough runs with some deluxe accommodation to balance things out, this destination is known for its après ski offering, from chic Alpine tapas restaurants to swanky terrace bars and live music venues. If that’s not enough to convince you then keep in mind it’s the choice ski resort for many European celebrities and members of various royal families…
Pal-Arinsal, Andorra
Finally, for somewhere less flashy but still attractive, head to Pal-Arinsal, in the beautiful Andorran Pyrenees. A trip here won’t set you back as much as other resorts, making it a good choice for those on a budget. An altitude of over 2,000 meters also ensures a long, quality season. There are slopes fit for everyone here, from beginners to experts, so sharpen those skis and get ready to go.
For luxury both on and off the slopes, it’s difficult to beat the Alpine slopes of Europe for a ski holiday. Just remember to pack plenty of layers!
Images by SpeckledOwl and Alex Grechman used under creative commons license.
