SKI VACATIONS & SKI TRIPS WITH SNOWTREX - SNOW UP YOUR LIFE!
1.Book with Europe’s No 1: Cheap ski packages in up to 500 resorts and 2,500 hotels & apartments!
2.Ski deals incl. lift pass, Best-Price & Snow Guarantees!
3.Affordable cheap ski holiday deals with high discounts for children
4.Many bookable extras: Ski lessons, equipment hire and more
5.Free cancellation and amendment possible
6.Further holiday information
SnowTrex - Quality and expertise from the winter sports specialists
Book your ski holidays with the experts! SnowTrex is an internationally leading tour operator for winter holidays and is currently available in 13 languages.
Each year, SnowTrex sends more than 100,000 customers from all corners of the world on their well-deserved winter holidays.
Whether it be Austria, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland or other countries in Europe and throughout the world – SnowTrex offers numerous winter holiday destinations, allowing everyone to find their most fitting ski holiday!
Ski deals with SnowTrex - A large selection of offers for your ski holidays!
For your perfect snow holidays, SnowTrex provides you with a selection of 500 ski resorts and 2,500 accommodations in ski areas both in and outside of the Alps.
For most of the offers, you’ll find ski holidays including lift pass, and all that with a great price-service ratio!
Whether you want to travel with your family, plan a group holiday, stay the night in a hotel on the piste, spend your ski holiday in a chalet or take a luxury wellness holiday – the SnowTrex offers available will satisfy your every wish.
In order to find the most fitting offers for your winter holiday, try using the numerous filter options on the SnowTrex website.
Book cheap ski deals – with numerous extras!
Along with the attractive ski package holidays with Best-Price-Guarantee and Snow Guarantee, SnowTrex also offers many bookable extras like ski lessons, equipment hire and more.
High children’s discounts at numerous accommodations and ski areas, along with the possibility to cancel for free or amend the booking round off the SnowTrex selection nicely – here, every winter sports fan is guaranteed to find the perfect ski deal!
Book affordable ski deals – cheap offers incl. lift pass!
A special feature of the SnowTrex programme are the Low-Cost ski holidays in the French ski areas.
From just £93, SnowTrex offers a one week ski holiday deal including lift pass in ski areas with more than 100 km of piste and comfortable accommodations with sauna, heated outdoor pool or fitness room. That’s a cheap ski holiday with a great price-service ratio!
Flexible winter holidays – even with removable lift pass!
You don’t want to go skiing or snowboarding, but would still like to book a winter holiday with SnowTrex? No problem: Most of the SnowTrex offers allow you to easily remove the lift pass.
While a ski package holiday with hotel incl. lift pass is an offer available with SnowTrex, it’s not mandatory.
Book ski holidays – safely!
SnowTrex is a specialist for ski holidays and winter holidays, is a member of the German Association of Travel Companies. In order to provide you with extra protection, you can book our Flex-Option .
This will allow you to cancel/change your booking free of charge up to 32 or 16 days before arrival.More than 1 million customers have put their faith in SnowTrex since the company’s founding in 1999.
With SnowTrex, you can decide between booking your ski holiday or winter holiday online or over the phone. The SnowTrex Team is happy to assist you further with all booking enquiries.
Best Ski Holidays: Where Adventure Meets Alpine Beauty
1.Ski vacations France
France – A skiing nation with plenty of superlatives! The Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps, the Vanoise Express the biggest and fastest double floored cable car in the world, and Les 3 Vallées claims to be the largest ski area in the world.
Whether you want to ski the glacier in Les 2 Alpes, on the Olympic slopes of Chamrousse, the interconnected ski areas in the region Les Sybelles or in the small but not any less nice ski area as in Valfréjus – in France, you can find whatever you’re looking for.
Why book ski holidays in France?
What are the main reasons to spend your ski holiday in France? This beautiful country attracts many tourists each year and the reasons are versatile. Is it its cultural and scenic diversity, or perhaps its culinary specialities?
At least one of these should be reason enough! France offers one-of-a-kind, delicious food and classically world-famous wines. While France offers a seemingly endless selection of delicacies, it still doesn’t explain why you should visit during the winter.
However, the spectacular skiing and snowboarding conditions will surely speak for themselves! French ski regions belong to some the largest, highest, and most spacious in the world.
The French Alps are beautiful, snow-sure, and the ski areas simply massive with high altitudes, offering perfectly prepared pistes as well as amazing deep powder possibilities and freeride terrain.
Just imagine skiing your perfect line in the sun viewing the Mont Blanc massif surrounded by your friends, family and glowing, white snow. Last but not least, let’s not forget that a ski holiday in France is so affordable!
Additionally, France offers unique day-trip destinations and beautiful sights.
One city you should certainly visit at least once in your lifetime is Grenoble, located in the middle of the French Alps and offering practically anything you can imagine (besides a great ski resort): e.g. museums or the Bastille, which offers a stunning view of the city as well as of the mountains that surround Grenoble, who were hosts of the 1968 Winter Olympics.
Where to go skiing in France?
So many ski areas and sporting activities don’t make it easy to choose. That being said, the largest ski areas are located in Savoie.
In the Vanoise Massif in the southern Savoie Alps, you can find the famous resorts of La Plagne, Val Thorens, Tignes and Valmeinier. At some point, this region will transform into the largest ski area and winter sports territory in the entire world!
The ski area Trois Vallées offers over 600 km of piste, 200 ski lifts and are connected with the following resorts: Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens/Les Menuires.
The Trois Vallées are quite snow-sure and a popular place to go early on in the season: Val Thorens is even the highest ski resort in Europe, with an altitude reaching up to 2,300 m. Isère is possibly the most versatile ski region in France, reaching from the marginal mountain ranges of the French Pre-Alps to the Écrins massif.
The Écrins massif also offers a truly majestic, high-mountain view of the Dauphiné!
Even more majestic is Europe’s highest point, the Mont Blanc (4,810 m) which lies in the Haute Savoie. Haute Savoie is located in the eastern part of France, just along the border of the Swiss cantons of Valais and Geneva and also along the border of Italy.
Majestic mountain scenery meets pristine landscapes with lakes and rivers sprinkled throughout the valley. Chamonix is quite a popular destination, having hosted the 1924 Winter Olympics, and has everything nature-lovers and winter sports fans adore.
Here alone, you can select a variety of ski areas like Chamonix, Les Portes du Soleil and La Clusaz. Les Portes du Soleil, offering a total of 650 km of piste!
These all compose 12 interconnected ski resorts that can partly be found in Switzerland, so crossing the border and back on skis has never been easier!
Also worth mentioning are the unforgettable views skiers and snowboarders can take in on sunny days. Another destination to consider is the Aiguille du Midi (3,842 m), where a glacier run starts, of which is one of the longest and most spectacular deep snow ski runs in the world with 20 km running through the Vallée Blanche down into Chamonix.
Mont Blanc isn’t the only high mountain in France, though. Lots of high peaks are located in the Hautes Alpes: The Barre des Ecrins (4,102 m), the southernmost 4,000 m peak or the Le Meije (3,983 m) and the Mont Pelvoux (3,946 m), both of which nearly touch the 4,000 m barrier.
With all of these massive peaks available and a plethora of diverse ski areas, winter sports fans are sure to find something in France.
2.Ski vacations Austria
Austria, country of Kaiserschmarrn, not only offers its beautiful capital, Vienna, to visitors, but also holds a variety of wonderful ski areas. Some of the world’s most popular ski resorts are located in the states of Tyrol, Salzburg, and Carinthia.
Whether more than 200 lakes located in just one state, or the 3,798 m high Großglockner: you will find your perfect ski holidays there.
Austria also provides snow-sure skiing on its glaciers, some of which include the Stubaier Glacier, the Hintertux Glacier, or the Kitzsteinhorn, each of them having an altitude of over 3,000 m at their peaks.
Besides the well-prepared pistes, lovely winter hiking routes and local cuisine, Austria is known as the number one Après-ski location.
Where to go skiing in Austria?
The heart of Austria, Tyrol, is located between Arlberg and the Kitzbüheler Alps. Tyrol also happens to be the heart of the Alps – especially when it comes to skiing and snowboarding!
This is the place where all the popular skiing resorts of Kitzbühel, Ischgl, Sölden or St. Anton are located.
Another great option for skiing is in the Salzburger Land, where you find great snow, both early and late in the season, thanks to the 3,000 m high Kitzsteinhorn, which is located in the holiday region Zell am See/Kaprun and has its own glacier, providing snow-sure skiing.
Austria’s southernmost state, Carinthia, offers great skiing opportunities as well as winter hikes, cross-country tours and ice skating. It’s beautiful to spend the winter in Carinthia and enjoy its natural surroundings.
Over 200 lakes in addition to the imposing mountain scenery make it a stunning place. If you want to sunbathe during your skiing holiday, East Tyrol might be the place of choice!
This doesn’t mean there’s less snow, though – skiing in the sun is what everyone dreams of and you can surely find it here.
Still, there are several more regions and states to stay in for an enjoyable ski holiday.
Further well-known areas are the Montafon and the legendary resorts of Lech and Zürs in the state of Vorarlberg. These provide you with amazing views on the mountains and landscape and lie at high altitudes, which also makes them snow-sure.
Why book ski holidays in Austria?
There’s not just one reason to go skiing in Austria – there are several! Imagine the local cuisine, friendly people, amazing hospitality, awesome ski resorts, perfectly prepared pistes, great snow-sure skiing on the glaciers… and an endless list of opportunities to have fun.
Also, the huge selection of different types of accommodations should be considered, with possibilities ranging from affordable housing to luxury mountain getaways. Everyone will find their perfect way to enjoy the Austrian Alps.
What is special about Austrian ski holidays?
Once you have skied in Austria, it’s very likely that you will keep the impressions in your mind for a long time: quaint, traditional villages, and indescribably impressive landscape, snow-covered mountains, deep snow, vast terrain and massive skiing areas.
The largest ski areas also extend over several peaks.
At least 100 lift systems are also provided and the pistes are well connected. Glaciers additionally help keep the snow-sure season going, even during the summer!Skiing has a long history in Austria.
Today, many world cup competitions are held in Austria’s skiing regions, such as the famous, annual “Hahnenkamm” competition in Kitzbühel. Furthermore many people still remember the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck.
How long is it possible to ski in Austria?
The season begins early on and ends even later on the glaciers! In Sölden, the season begins in October and extends well into April. Not only that, the Hintertux Glacier is Austria’s year-round ski area, along with other glaciers also allowing for summer skiing.
3.Ski vacations Germany
Germany is often underestimated as a winter sports destination. And yet the ski areas give a big variety. The Alpine region nestled in southern Germany of course offers a wide range of ski areas, much to the delight of winter sports fans everywhere.
Familial, little ski areas can be found in the Harz, the Black Forest, the Thurungian Forest and even in the North Rhine-Westphalian Sauerland.
Where to go skiing in Germany?
If you ask winter sports fans where you could possibly go skiing in Germany, many will find one destination immediately coming to mind: Zugspitze.
The highest mountain in Germany, with an altitude of 2,962 m, is located in southern Germany and makes up a part of the natural border to Austria. Being the highest ski area in Germany helps make it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in Germany.
The altitude of the resort lies at 2,720 m and therefore, great snow can be found here up until May.
Zugspitze is accessible from Grainau, Garmisch-Partenkrichen, a city that is not only a nice place for ski holidays but also has a great winter sports centre: the Four Hills Tournament of ski jumping as well as the the FIS Ski World Cups are held there annually along with many different winter sports events.
That being said, the Zugspitze isn’t the only destination worth seeing in the Bavarian Alps. The Allgäu or Fellhorn-Kanzelwand-Grenzgebiet offers lovely ski areas as well.
For example, Oberstdorf, located in the Allgäu, is world-famous for being the first stop of the annual Four Hills Tournament and is the second venue next to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany.
Oberstdorf offers 128 km of piste, which reaches all the way to the Little Walser Valley in Austria. It is also one of the largest ski areas in Germany.
Another attractive region is Berchtesgadener Land, comprising of six lovely ski areas that lay in front of the majestic Watzmann Mountain. The Watzmann rises up to 2,713 m altitude and is the third-highest mountain in Germany – right after the Zugspitze and the Hochwanner.
Far away from the Alps, a few more ski areas can be found as well. You won’t believe it at first, but there are 600 ski areas in total in Germany! However, some of them are quite small, with some having just one or two lifts and few slopes.
On the other hand, there are also larger ski areas which offer diverse skiing and snowboarding pistes. The Bohemian Forest, for example, is not only the biggest forest in Germany and a very popular holiday destination, but it is also a spacious, low-lying mountain range and the home of a handful of lovely ski areas.
The forest is a great region spend your ski holiday, especially for families.
A popular destination and the highest mountain in the Bohemian Forest is the Big Arber (1,456 m), where you can ski at least ten km of piste. Families with kids love the Arbär-Kinderland there, a special children’s area where little ones can test out their skills.
The Bohemian Forest extends until Czech Republic, where it is called “Sumava,” and is a popular holiday destination. Another well-known holiday destination is the Black Forest.
The ski areas here might not as popular as the forest they’re found in, but are still a great alternative to the German Alps. The Feldberg ski area also offers pleasant skiing and snowboarding with 63 km of piste and a large snow kite area on top of the mountain.
It’s probably difficult to imagine that skiing is also possible in eastern Germany, in the Ore Mountains and in western Germany in the Sauerland. Winterberg, however, offers 27.5 km of piste and is a popular daytrip-destination for people living in western Germany who are simply too far away from the Alps.
Why book ski holidays in Germany?
What’s great about Germany’s winter sports region is its diversity. Where the altitude and surface area tend to make for smaller ski areas, the sports programme proves to be much larger.
The terrain is in most places quite wide and fairly level, so that a few cross-country centres, for example, have been able to take root and provide an extensive cross-country network throughout the area.
Nordic sports has developed into a booming trend like never before, especially in the states of Thüringen and Saxony.
Along with it comes the unique culture and natural landscapes, of which makes Germany a truly interesting holiday destination for nature-lovers and those seeking a bit of rest and relaxation.
Those who prefer a laid back holiday surrounded by a snowy winter wonderland with access to several non-ski related activities will feel right at home in the German Mittelgebirge (a low-lying mountain range).
What is so special about ski holidays in Germany?
A diverse leisure programme, smooth pistes, and manageable ski areas with blue pistes – German ski areas are the ideal winter sports destinations for families with small children.
The little areas are quite navigable and offer excellent child care services. However, beginners and intermediates of all ages will also find German ski areas to be the perfect fit.
The somewhat larger ski areas also provide some fun slopes, timed runs and sizeable snow parks, so the youth and adrenaline junkies will definitely get their money’s worth.
In the Mittelgebirge, between 900 and 1,600 m, many of the pistes lie below the tree line, so that winter sports fans will find many romantic, wintry forests along the runs.
How long is it possible to ski in Germany?
Due to the low altitude in the Germany’s Mittelgebirge, there is enough snow to have the main season run from December to March.
Areas that typically receive quite a bit of snow include the Ore Mountains and the Black Forest, as well as some parts of the Allgäu and areas along the edge of the Alps like Berchtesgadener Land and the Zugspitze region.
The longest ski season in Germany can be found in the Zugspitze region thanks to its altitude ranging between 2,000 – 2,720 m.
The ski area is normally open from December to the beginning of May. The sun tends to shine higher up, while the valley and the lower-lying ski areas disappear underneath the clouds.
4.Ski vacations Italy
Italy has it all: dazzling cliffs and famous World Cup slopes in the Dolomites as well as powder snow paradises like Livigno. Here, alpine hospitality and cosy mountain lodges are usually to be found in the South Tyrolean ski regions – and all that with a healthy dose of sunshine for free.
Italy also offers a perfect combination of cuisine and sports! Further, the country has been recognized as a skiing destination worldwide when it was the host of the 1956 Winter Olympics (Cortina d’Ampezzo) and once again in 2006 (Turin).
Why book your ski holiday in Italy?
Welcome to “Bella Italia”! Italy is where “Dolce Vita“ is not only a motto, but real life in this diverse country. Enjoying life with all its offerings and being happy – Italians truly love their country and its opportunities.
In keeping with the motto, skiing and snowboarding is just as special a treat.
“Vino”, “Gelato”, “Cappuccino”, “Pizza”… Italian cuisine is certainly famous throughout the entire world, although their skiing is just as famous as their dishes!
That’s why you should never go to Italy in winter without considering to visit to one of the numerous, lovely ski resorts and while there, do make sure to taste the delicious food and wine before you pack up your skis.
“Lo Stivale,” or “The Boot,” has been used to describe the Italian Peninsula because of its boot-like shape, and offers paradises for adrenaline seekers as well as leisure skiers thanks to the large, wide pistes that are perfect for cruising and carving huge curves.
Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen with you on your ski holiday – Italy is fortunate to be drenched in sun quite often – this might even be one reason for their radiating happiness.
So, enjoy your day on the slopes with a great view in front of you, pleasant snow under your feet and the sun on your face.
Where to go skiing in Italy?
There are six amazing areas in Italy to choose from for your ski holiday. The largest connection of lift systems can be found in the Dolomites, which are part of the Southern Alps and are recognized for their beauty not just in Europe, but worldwide.
The Dolomiti Superski region offers 1,200 km of piste and 460 lift systems accessible with just one lift ticket. The Dolomites are partly located in South Tyrol, Belluno and Trentino.
South Tyrol is referred to the sunny side of the Alps, where skiers and snowboarders find true, sunny happiness. Next to the Dolomiti Superski with 12 connecting skiing areas founded in 1974 and its well-known ski areas of Sellaronda and Gardena Ronda, tourists can also enjoy smaller ski stations and numerous cosy lodges.
The Dolomites in Trentino are easily accessible from the Brenner motorway and offer some beautiful ski areas. The Lombardy province is really sporty, with Bormio being found here, where several World Ski Championships have already taken place.
It is located in Lombardy’s northernmost region of Sondrio. Furthermore, Italy’s freeride and telemark capital, Livigno, is located in Sondrio just on the Swiss border.
This city does not only claim pioneer status regarding avalanche safety in Italy, but is also a duty-free resort and shopping paradise as well as a great, affordable ski resort with a fantastic winter season event programme, providing the perfect place for ski holidays for everyone.
You can also try out heliskiing in Livigno – the supreme discipline for great skiers and for those who can afford this unique luxury.
Heliskiing is also possible in Piedmont, which lies close to Turin near the French border. Here, skiers and snowboarders will find 1,365 km of piste.
Turin hosted the 2006 Winter Olympics, with the snowboard competition having taken place in Bardonecchia, so snowboarders should be sure to not miss the slopes here!Another great place for skiing and snowboarding is the Aosta Valley, near the borders of Switzerland and France.
You can spend your ski holiday without missing anything here as there are nice hotels, cosy ski lodges and a range of different restaurants and nightlife opportunities.
Furthermore, some amazing skiing and slopes can be find in the province Belluno, located in Venice, a region that stretches from the Adriatic coast up to the Dolomites.
Here, you can find one of the longest pistes in Europe, which offers 12 km of amazing pistes and pure joy starting at the famous Marmolada peak, of which is also a part of the Dolomiti Superski.
Are the Dolomites the most beautiful mountains in the world?
The Dolomites, part of the Southern Alps, are considered to be the most beautiful mountains in the world.
Is that true? Perhaps… especially when you visit them on a sunny day, as fresh powder has just fallen, the white blankets twinkling in the sunlight, and the majestic scenery around you is glowing with shades of small clouds, providing that special feature to the mountainous landscape – you will simply have to decide for yourself!
The Dolomites have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remain so since 2009. Their highest peak is the above-mentioned Marmolada Peak, rising up to 3,342 m altitude.
What else can you do in your ski holiday in Italy?
There is a lot to do here during your ski holiday. The number one activity next so skiing and snowboarding is cross-country skiing. There are lots of amazing trails for all levels, from beginners to experts, and long trails consisting of above-average lengths.
The best area for cross-country skiing is Alta Pusteria. These trails are part of Europe’s largest cross-country carousel, the “Dolomiti Nordicski” network, which consists of more than 1,300 km of trails in 13 areas.
Further activities include snowshoe hiking, hang gliding, paragliding or even ice-climbing or horse sledging.
5.Ski vacations Switzerland
Switzerland offers breathtaking alpine beauty and traditional top ski resorts that alternate with family-friendly and idyllic winter sports resorts.
Together with the 4 Vallées or Les Portes du Soleil, you can also find high-end interconnected ski areas that link several top ski regions – sometimes even crossing borders! The Swiss lodges are well known for their rustic, cosy atmospheres as well as for their hearty cheese fondue.
Where to go skiing in Switzerland?
Most of Switzerland’s area is occupied by the Alps, which makes Switzerland a top skiing destination. The country is known worldwide for its high peaks.
You’ll find most of the ski resorts in southeast Switzerland. The Bernese Oberland offers many well-known resorts, such as Grindelwald and Meiringen-Hasliberg.
Further south, the Wallis is home to Switzerland’s landmark, the Matterhorn (4,478 m), as well as incredible regions like Les 4 Valées, Les Portes du Soleil and Saas-Fee.
Grison is the largest canton of Switzerland and is located next to Austria and Italy.
It is here where you’ll find world famous resorts like Davos, St. Moritz and Samnaun.Skiing in Switzlerland is even possible beyond the borders. You will find ski resorts that connect two countries.
For example, the region of Les Portes du Soleil (unites 12 French and Swiss areas), located south of Lake Geneva, provides you with a variety of approx. 580 km of slopes.
Why book ski holidays in Switzerland?
No other Alpine country has as many mountains towering above 4,000 m as Switzerland. This fact alone is the reason for your guaranteed snow-sure winter holiday. In these high-lying areas, you get a spectacular view of the surrounding mountainous landscapes.
Switzerland is especially famous for its cosy villages, with some areas even being car-free zones. These perfect conditions make for a relaxing getaway from your daily routine.
The cultural diversity in Switzerland is huge: not only are four different languages spoken in the comparatively small country, but the range of culinary delicacies is wide.
When you think of Swiss cuisine, what do you think of first? Cheese fondue, of course, which is made out of delicious, regional melted cheese and white wine combined with flavours such as black pepper and garlic.
What is special about skiing in Switzerland?
Switzerland offers a huge amount of high-quality accommodations as well as modern lift facilities and restaurants.
High standard services are of the utmost importance to the Swiss, so if you’re looking for a perfect retreat, Switzerland is certainly the place to go.
This country offers you a plethora of opportunities for city trips, especially with many idyllic cities being built along and around Switzerland’s numerous crystal-clear and sapphire lakes.
Combine your skiing holidays with a visit to one of these countless lakes, like Lake Geneva.
How long is it possible to ski in Switzerland?
The four glacier skiing areas of Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Flims-Laax-Falera and Aletsch allow a long skiing season from early October until late May, but the high altitude skiing resorts like Engelberg, Arosa and Verbier can even keep up with a great snow security. The sky’s the limit!
6.Ski vacations Czech Republic
The Czech Republic not only offers “the Golden City of Prague” to travellers, but also holds many more fascinating destinations – for instance, a wide variety of wonderful ski areas!
Many lower mountain ranges like the Bohemian Forest, the Ore Mountains or the Giant Mountains promise exciting winter adventures. In the home of the “Rübezahl,” the Giant Mountains (Czech: “Krkonoše”) in the north have many possibilities for winter sports fans.
Besides the well-prepared pistes and cross-country ski trails, the highly equipped ski centres also offer toboggan runs and lovely winter hiking routes.
Why book your ski holiday in Czech Republic?
In the Czech Republic, you can find familiar ski areas for every kind of winter sport. Whether you ski, snowboard, like cross-country or hiking, you can do all of this surrounded by a fascinating landscape covered in snow.
The Czech Republic is suitable especially for families with children and ski beginners. Nevertheless, advanced skiers and snowboarders will also have fun on the excellently prepared pistes. Furthermore, new ski lifts in the Czech ski areas are planned in the future.
Where to go skiing in Czech Republic?
There are several ski regions in the Czech Republic such as the Eagle Mountains, Izera Mountains, Ore Mountains, with the two largest mountain chains in the Czech Republic being the Bohemian Forest and the Giant Mountains (CZ: “Krkonoše”).
The Bohemian Forest is in the south-west of the country and stretches along the German, Czech and part of the Austrian border. The Mountain range measures up to 200 km length in total.
The highest peak is the Great Arber, with an elevation of 1,456 m and is located on the German side of the German-Czech border. There are a lot of smaller ski resorts within the Bohemian Forest.
You can spend your winter holiday in resorts like Frymburk, Kašperské Hory, Liberec, Lipno nad Vltavou, Mariánské Lázně, Stachy or Železná Ruda.
The second largest and most popular mountain range are the Giant Mountains (CZ: “Krkonoše”). They are the largest part of the Sudetes, and lie along the Czech – Polish border, with its highest elevation, the Sněžka mountain, reaching 1,603 m. Mountain lakes and jagged stone ridges are typical for this region.
Modern lift systems, well-prepared pistes and endless cross-country ski trails provide the opportunity for a successful skiing holiday.
Černý Důl, Pec pod Snezkou, Špindlerův Mlýn (Spindler’s Mill) and the most well-known winter sports centre, Harrachov, are all Czech ski resorts located in the Giant Mountains.
What else can you do in Czech Republic?
Besides trying out the excellent Czech cuisine and enjoying wonderful winter hikes in the valleys and along the mountain tops, you can take some excursions to the most popular cities.
Be sure not to miss the most impressive city in the Czech Republic: Prague. See the Metropolitan St. Vitus Cathedral, the Prague Castle, the Old Town Square and the Charles Bridge, the latter of which being the most famous historic bridge and crosses the Vltava River.
The capital of the Czech Republic is a tourist magnet due to its timeless, impressive buildings, beautiful bridges and international lifestyle.
Liberec is the biggest and most important city in the northern part of the Czech Republic. Some attractions include the Liberec Botanical Garden, the Liberec Town Hall and the Ještěd, which is the highest mountain peak near Liberec.
If you are looking for a little spa atmosphere or another fun attraction, you can take a visit to the Centrum Babylon. This city is the perfect place to visit during your winter holidays since it is so close to the Giant Mountains.
The university city of Budweis is the largest city in the south-western region of the Czech Republic. You can reach Budweis from the southern Bohemian Forest in less than 100 km.
Besides the Town Square, Samson Fountain and Black Tower, you can visit the Budweiser Budvar Brewery, from where the world-famous Budweiser beer comes from.
7.Ski vacations Poland
Poland is home to impressive mountain ranges such as the Table Mountains (Gory Stolowe). In the southern part of the country, the Holy Cross Mountains, the Beskids, the Carpathians Forest and the Sudetes can be found here as well.
The only high-altitude mountains in Poland are the Carpathians along with the High Tatras, with the highest mountain in Poland, the Rysy, reaching 2,499 m. The High Tatras and the Giant Mountains are perfect for winter sports.
Why book your ski holiday in Poland?
Do you like familiar, smaller ski resorts? How about spending your winter holiday in Poland, then? Skiing areas in Poland are not as crowded as their Austrian and French counterparts.
However, Poland’s Carpathian Mountains and Sudetes have perfect conditions for winter sport fans. Also, the hospitality and cuisine is simply lovely to experience. The Polish are open-minded and cooperative.
Skiing in the biggest ski centres in Szklarska Poreba and Karpacz gives you the opportunity to spend your winter holiday in an idyllic, unique landscape with familiar ski areas.
Where to go skiing in Poland?
The popular ski regions of the Carpathian Mountains and Sudetes have one thing in common: perfect winter sports conditions for every ski level. The Carpathians are a mountain range across Central and Eastern Europe.
The range stretches from the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania and Serbia. You can find the Polish section of the Carpathians in the South and Southeastern regions.
Kraków, Bielsko-Biała, Zakopane, Krynica-Zdrój, Krosno, Sanok and Przemyśl are all Polish cities in and near the Carpathians Mountains.
Zakopane is popular for its skiing tourism and is also known as “the winter capital of Poland.” Zakopane is located in the High Tatras, which is the highest part of the Carpathians.
The skiing resort is approximately 110 km away from Kraków and lies right at the border to Slovakia. From the beginning of the 20th century, Zakopane established its first hotels and more people began to travel to the resort.
Due to many northern ski championships, as well as biathlon championships and ski jump competitions, Zakopane gained fame and has become and remains a well-attended city.
The resort offers 16 km of pistes and ski area altitudes between 1,014 m – 1,987 m. You can make use of 2 km green/blue pistes, 7 km red and 7 km black pistes.
Aside from the imposing views the mountains, the High Tatras also offer ideal conditions for winter sports.
Another large mountain range in Central Europe are the Sudetes, of which stretch across the three countries of Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic, with a majority located in Southwestern Poland.
The highest peak of the Sudetes is the Sněžka Mountain, located in the Giant Mountains along the Czech Republic–Poland border, with an altitude of 1,602 m.
Cities in and near the ski area are Wrocław, Jelenia Gòra, Świeradów-Zdrój, Szklarska Poręba and Karpacz.Because of its location, Karpacz counts as the most important centre of tourism in the Polish part of the Giant Mountains.
The resort lies at an altitude of 630 m near the border of the Czech Republic. The ski area Karpacz/Sniezka provides access to 6 km pistes with 10 lifts.
You can find a unique landscape that draws in both winter hikers and skiers alike. Szklarska Poreba is the second most important tourism centre in the Giant Mountains besides Karpacz.
The ski area offers 15 km pistes at an altitude between 707 m up to 1,362 m. Szrenica is the highest peak in the ski area where you will ski along the Poland – Czech Republic border and offers ideal conditions for active winter sports with plenty of snow.
What else can you do in your ski holiday Poland?
Skiing, cross-country and hiking through a charming landscape should be on the top of your list, but if you’re looking for a short break from winter sports, you can also take some excursions to bigger cities near the ski areas along the Carpathian Mountains and Sudetes.
Don’t miss the royal capital city of Kraków. This second largest city in Poland offers a variety of cultural attraction such as the magnificent medieval market place and Wawel Royal Castel.
Furthermore, Kraków is a hotspot for international students and business. You can also take a city tour with a horse-drawn carriage and see all the attractions this gem has to offer.
Wrocław is one of the oldest cities in Poland and inspires with culture and numerous Gothic buildings in its historical centre. The city has been awarded as 2016’s cultural capital and is the fourth largest city in Poland.
A must-see in Wrocław is the Racławice Panorama, Centennial Hall and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, which is the landmark of the city.
A little further away from the mountain range, but still worth seeing, is Warsaw. The capital of Poland has huge political and cultural importance.
This city mixes modern skyscrapers with historical architecture, with Downtown Warsaw counting as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landmark of the city is the observation deck of the Palace of Culture, which is also the highest building in Poland at 230 m altitude.
8.Ski vacations Andorra
The mini state of Andorra offers a ski area in the Pyrenees that is anything but small: Grandvalira is in fact Europe’s largest ski area outside the Alps!
Andorra, between its large neighbours France and Spain, is not to be overlooked. Even though Andorra only has two ski areas to offer, these areas offer first-class skiing fun.
In addition, Andorra is well-known for its great shopping. Every year streams of shopping tourists make Andorra their destination of choice, bringing along a great source of income for the tax-free country.
This money, in turn, is invested in the winter sports infrastructure and other leisure centres such as spas and ice skating rinks, which means that Andorra has much to offer on and off the piste. Two large ski areas have therefore been established, which are sure to impress you!
Why book ski holidays in Andorra?
Andorra might not be your first thought when you are planning your skiing holiday in Europe. This might be a mistake.
The mini state Andorra offers amazing skiing and snowboarding areas. Whether you are with your friends or family you will find the right slope and activity for you.
Although Andorra is one of the smallest independent states in Europe and not as well-known as a skiing destination as other countries are, it has some advantages.
The slopes are excellently maintained and belong to the most modern in the world. Skiing areas in Andorra offer awesome beginner and early intermediate terrain as well as some good off-piste areas.
Where to go skiing in Andorra?
As there are just two skiing resorts the choice isn’t the biggest. But both areas offer awesome skiing opportunities. So why not spend your skiing holiday in Pas de la Casa or Soldeu which are both located in Grandvalira.
The link between these two areas in Grandvalira makes it Europe’s largest ski area outside the Alps. In the beginning there some small ski areas existed. Later these became the two large ski areas in Andorra.
After their fusion Ordino-Arcalis and Pal-Arsinal became Valnord, a nice skiing area offering 91 kilometers of piste. Grandvalira is Encamp, Soldeu-El Tarter and Pas de la Casa-Grau Roig.
When the resorts in Grandvalira were connected they formed Europe’s largest ski area outside the Alps with 210 kilometres of pistes. Grandvalira is therefore bigger, well connected and offers more ski runs.
Soldeu is the best place to explore the vast Grandvalira area which is shared with different ski bases. Soldeu’s symbolises “sun god” and yes, it is sunny! But snow quality is also really good as most slopes are north-facing. Snow reliability is better than expected.
Snowboarders will feel like home in Andorras’s skiing area Soldeu. It is where you find the best terrain parks in the Pyrenees. The ski area is not only a good place for experts but also offers nice beginner slopes as well as great off-piste terrain.
Off-Piste terrain can be found for example in Arcalis which offers steep terrain. Best tree-skiing is to be found in Pal. Located at an altitude of 2,100 m the sunny resort Pas de la Casa is offers direct access to the pistes.
After skiing it is well known for its bargain beer and wild nightlife. But first you have to earn your beer on the slopes and tracks which are various! There are also trails for beginners as well as experts in Saint Juliá de Lòria and in La Rabassa.
What else can you do in your ski holidays in Andorra?
A skiing holiday is all about skiing and snowboarding. That’s right for sure but you can keep in your head that there are a lot more possibilities to enjoy your skiing holiday in an active way even in the small state of Andorra.
One of these activities is Cross-country Skiing. Andorra is a great place for Cross-country Skiing because you can find numerous tracks surrounding the resort Grau Roig and also in the resort Pas de la Casa. Grau Roig is recommended to the more experienced cross country skiers.
Another possibility to spend your day is snowshoe hiking, which is very popular in Andorra for enjoying the fantastic nature and beauty of the Pyrenees.
Tourists that love dogs will be thrilled by doing mushing (dog sledding). Speed lovers will like the opportunity of racing through the endless white with snowmobiles.
Families might want to tray snow tubing or ice-skating in their skiing holiday – which is fun for the whole family. Another great family activity is spending the day in “Naturlandia” park full of nature and wildlife.
The mountains are not high enough? You want to breathe the air above and fly over the mountains? Then take a balloon ride! It is fun and you will enjoy amazing views over the Pyrenees and Andorra.
After mentioning the bargain beer and party the big amount of après-ski opportunities should not be forgotten. Many bars, pubs, nightclubs and discos are located in Soldeu, Pas de la Casa, Canillo and also in Encamp.
The choice is yours! If you like to go shopping, Andorra is the place to be! Getting some bargains during your skiing holiday and bringing them back home along with all your unforgettable skiing memories can be a satisfying feeling.
Andorra is a duty-free area. This means it offers great bargain prices for spirits, tobacco and cosmetics.After spending the whole day on the slopes you might be exhausted.
This is when “Caldea” in Andorra-la-Vella is the place to be! Caldea is only Europe’s largest spa and wellness institution and you can find any possible way to relax and recover from skiing or snowboarding.
9.Ski vacations Slovenia
Slovenia lies in the heart of Europe and borders with Italy in the west, with Austria in the north, with Hungary in the east and with Croatia in the south. The entire country offers 20,273 km² of terrain and is therefore one of the smallest European countries – yet unbelievably diverse.
Picturesque river landscapes, vast forests, rough rocky plains, soft hills and the steep peaks of the Eastern Alps all belong to Slovenia’s marvellous nature.
A third of the country is covered as nature reserve. Whilst the climate in the south and on the Mediterranean coast are milder, the hilly north benefits from cooler and dryer air, but gets more precipitation, which is ideal for the winter sports regions.
The capital is Ljubliana with 278,000 inhabitants and is located quite centrally in the country and therefore offers perfect access to all surrounding holiday regions.
Where to go skiing in Slovenia?
The alpine and low mountain ranges extend over the North of Slovenia, so that the most ski areas can be found between Triglav National Park in the North West and in Pohorje in the North East.
The most-known mountain ranges are that of the Julian Alps, the Karawanks and Kamnik Alps at the border to Austria and Italy. Here the alpine mountains reach up to a height of 3,000 m. Slovenia’s highest mountain can also be found in the Julian Alps: the Triglav with a height of 2,864 m.
The prominent Mountain is the centre of Triglav National Park and is depicted on the slovenian Flag as national symbol. The national park is characterised by high rocky mountains, deep karst caves, widespread river valleys and a large diversity of plants and animals.
Kranjska Gora, one of the most well-known ski areas in Slovenia is located in this beautiful landscape north of Triglav mountain. The area became famous when it hosted the Ski World Cup and comprises 20 km of piste and 17 lifts. It was chosen to be the best ski area in Slovenia several times.
In the North East at the border to Austria and Hungary, the Pohorje Mountains extend to a height of up to 1,500 m.
As a low mountain range it offers flat high plateaus, moderate gradients and great observation point, making it a holiday paradise for winter lovers and families who want to spend a relaxed ski holiday.
At the foot of Pohorje Mountains and outside the cultural metropolis Maribor lies Slovenia’s largest ski area with approx. 42 km of pistes: Maribosko Pohorje.
Why book ski holidays in Slovenia?
The holiday region has its very own charm thanks to its diverse landscapes. Wherever you turn, you will find romantic panoramas of mountain landscapes and lake sceneries awaiting holidaymakers with various leisure time activities.
60 % of Slovenia is covered with forests, so that the ski areas are often embedded in woody mountain ridges which make for a snowy winter wonderland.
Here, winter activities such as hiking, cross country skiing, tobogganing and skiing have a deeply romantic feel. The Drau region Podravska in Lower Styria offers a particularly good mix of relaxation and winter sports.
Especially in and around the metropolis of Maribor you can find cultural-historic sights, regional culinary treats, thermal baths and numerous leisure time activities in the mountains and in the city. The ski areas are very family friendly, well assessable, sure of snow and have partly been awarded.
How long is it possible to ski in Slovenia?
As there are no glacier ski areas in Slovenia the season is limited to the three main winter months and a few weeks before and after. As in the most ski areas, the official start of the winter is in December and the season goes on until April.
The important ski areas Kranjska Gora and Vogel in the West, as well as Rogla and Maribor in the east open in the first week of December and close in the first week of April.
10.Ski vacations USA
Champagne powder, steep slopes, runs through thick woods… In the winter sports paradise of the U.S.A., everyone gets their money’s worth. Whether on one board or two, beginner or expert – pure winter fun is guaranteed on this ski holiday.
In the snow-sure regions of the U.S.A., some magnificent ski areas have been created. From the extraordinary celebrity hotspot to a rustic-romantic mountain village, there is surely something for everyone here.
Why book your ski holidays in the USA?
Why travel all the way across the ocean to the States just to go skiing when the Alps are right in front of us? That’s a sound question, but there are several reasons that justify a ski holiday in the States, even if it is a long way travelling from Europe.
First, let’s talk about the snow. Utah claims to be the home of the “Greatest Snow on Earth,” which can even be found written on the state license plate, proudly displayed on locals’ cars.
As a matter of fact, the snow is pretty fantastic! You can find dry, light and fluffy powder snow and you’ll notice that it snows a lot, especially in the Rocky Mountains.
This type of snow is called cold smoke or champagne powder, and it causes less avalanches because of its dryness – meaning it is unable to bind. However, this is still a quite uncommon experience, as this can only happen when temperatures are very low and when there is no wind at all.
Additionally, the off-piste terrain along the slopes also belongs to the domain of the ski area – not just the groomed pistes! In the U.S., the definition of a ski resort includes the off-piste terrain as well, which is contrary to European standards!
This way, you can safely ski and snowboard between the trees and cliffs – it’s all possible!
Skiing along both the groomed pistes and natural terrain can be provide a satisfying feeling of freedom! Tree skiing is not allowed in the Alps, but in the States, not only is it possible, but it’s a real highlight in North America.
The slopes between the trees are prepared in summer to expand the experience in winter. Another highlight is Catskiing: Catskiing operators bring you to secret spots and the first powder lines. Some day trips are not too expensive.
Also, the pistes are mostly uncrowded and offer a lot of space for high speed and huge curves. If you are an expert skier or snowboarder, you will love the access to extreme terrain and double black diamond runs. What an adrenaline rush!
Another reason to go are the people and their relaxed, friendly atmosphere. “Easy-going” is the theme here – whether you’re on the slopes, in the waiting queue or during après ski.
The people in the U.S. show how much fun they have on their ski holiday and are bursting with life. People here are also very service-oriented, helpful and very friendly.
Where to go skiing in the USA?
In the land of endless possibilities, there are also endless skiing and snowboarding possibilities. The best states to spend your ski holidays in are Utah and Colorado. The Mormon state Utah has it all, including very easily accessible ski resorts!
The gateway to a dozen ski areas that can be reached within a short amount of time is the capital city of Salt Lake City. Salt Lake City International Airport can be reached from many European cities via direct flights.
Utah is not only the home of the “Greatest Snow on Earth,” but also receives almost double the amount of snow compared to other ski areas in the US It’s quite deep!
Salt Lake City was the host of the 2002 Winter Olympics in combination with Park City, which is home to the largest interconnected ski area in the United States since 2015.
Park City is only a short, 20 minute ride from Salt Lake City and is the place to stay in order to have access to some amazing ski resorts, some of which being the luxurious Deer Valley or powder-paradise Snowbird, and the skiers-only resort of Alta as well as the Park City Mountain resort itself.
The former mining city was a ghost town until skiing recently brought it back to life. The historic Park City Main Street is accessible with your skis from the Park City Mountain Resort and is a great place for events, dinner and some nice après ski locations – like the famous No Name Saloon & Grill or the High West Distillery & Saloon.
Each night in winter, the Main Street transforms into a party street. Recently, Park City and The Canyons joined together, resulting in the largest ski resort in the US with 27 km² of pistes to enjoy.
Colorado might be the most popular state for ski holidays in the States, as the most well-known ski areas are located in there.
Plenty of sunshine, great snow and peaks reaching over 4,000 m high as well as large ski areas and modern lift systems make it a superb ski holiday destination.
One of the most popular areas is Vail – especially after having hosted the 2015 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships with Beaver Creek.
Vail and Beaver Creek both offer great skiing and even greater service. Lots of celebrities spend their ski holidays in Vail, so be aware that you might meet stars such as Clint Eastwood, who has a residence in Beaver Creek.
The “Colorado Ticket” grants skiers and snowboarders access to the ski areas of Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and the Arapahoe Basin, for a total of 772 km of piste and 117 lifts.
Another great, modern resort is Copper Mountain in Summit County, which is not yet well-known among tourists.
The three villages of East Village, Copper Village and Union Creek are located in Copper Mountain, where tourists can find any accommodation they are looking for, from cosy mountain lodges to luxurious hotel rooms. Also, parties and restaurants are sure to be found at Copper Mountain.
A first-class ski holiday can be experienced in the Victorian-style town of Breckenridge with its lovely resort centre and main street with numerous shops and charming restaurants.
However, the most important aspect of this town are the many, many pistes to be found: 123 km of well-prepared pistes and great tree skiing terrain await enthusiastic skiers.
The ski area expands between 2,908 m – 3,914 m altitude and is therefore very snow sure. With the “Summit Ticket,” it’s possible to ski along 639 km of piste and 111 lifts in Breckenridge, Keystone and the Arapahoe Basin as well as spend half days in Vail and Beaver Creek.
Additionally, with the “Winter Park & Copper Mountain” lift pass, 108 km of piste at Copper Mountain and 122 km of piste in Winter Park are accessible.
Moreover, Winter Park, located in Grand County in North Central Colorado, is also known for its terrain composed of beautiful natural landscapes and steep runs for experts.
What else can you do on your ski holiday in the USA?
Take your time! During your ski holiday in the States, you will be happy to have some extra time for activities. One amazing activity tourists can take part in is a visit to the nearby national parks even in winter!
The national parks in Utah and Colorado are simply breathtaking, so if you have some time during your ski holiday, it is absolutely worth it to take a day trip (or longer!) to visit the some of them and take in their spectacular landscapes and natural beauty.
Another interesting highlight could also be a stopover on your way in to one of the fascinating metropolises like Chicago or New York.
