Active recreation has become the most popular leisure activity during the winter holiday season. With the onset of the season, many tourists flock to the best ski resorts in Europe in search of snow, scenery and extreme sports.
And really, what could be better than riding on neatly laid snow crust, and at the same time admiring the picturesque landscapes opening above and below? Well, if you add to these advantages of a winter holiday the best conditions for comfortable accommodation - comfortable hotels in the style of mountain chalets, luxury hotels, restaurants with delicious and hearty dishes - then you will very soon understand why more and more tourists prefer to plan their holidays precisely in the cold season.
Today there are many opportunities to have a good rest in the mountains. There are many places that are pleasing to the eye and mood that you should definitely visit, but today’s review is dedicated to the best ski resorts in Europe.
It offers ski tourists ideal ski slopes and high-quality service, designed for both VIP clients and guests with above-average income. A holiday here will never be cheap. 
Popular ski resort in Europe Meribel meets all these characteristics. Comfortable and carefully groomed trails, gorgeous winter panoramas - all these advantages make your vacation as interesting, useful and relaxing as possible. Fans of extreme racing have plenty to do, as the length of the sports tracks exceeds 150 kilometers!
Another French ski resort, the famous Chamonix. This name has long become a household name for the French Alps. The most famous skiers in the world, businessmen and celebrities love to relax on the slopes of the “White Valley” - 20 kilometers of virgin soil. Off-piste routes are available here for fans of extreme descent and professionals. The total length of Chamonix trails is 170 km. One of the best ski resorts in Europe became known for its beauty back in the century before last. Today it remains a mecca for skiing with a developed tourist infrastructure surrounded by pristine nature.
It is rightfully considered another interesting place for lovers of active winter recreation. Val d'Isere. This comfortable European ski resort is part of the famous Espace Killy area, giving athletes and non-professionals an amazing feeling of adrenaline and delight. There are trails of varying levels of difficulty here, and not a single self-respecting ski tourist will pass by Val d’Isere.
Ski resorts in Switzerland
From France we move on to the ski resorts of Switzerland. This small mountainous country is literally replete with easy-to-descend routes and virgin lands. The oldest and most famous ski centers in Europe are located here. 
Take for example the brilliant Zermatt, comfortably nestled among three mountain peaks: Matterhorn, Dufour and Monte Rosa. There are about 200 kilometers of marked trails, many of which are accessible to the public year-round. The maximum altitude of the Klein Matterhorn station, to which the lift takes athletes, exceeds 3800 meters! Is it worth talking about the stunning nature and clean frosty air, saturated with the aroma of the mountains? Specially trained personnel strictly ensure that not a single car can enter the territory of one of the best ski resorts in Europe.
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Another Swiss ski resort that has gained worldwide fame is, of course, St. Moritz- a favorite vacation spot for aristocrats and wealthy philanthropists. While riding on the local slopes (which are about 350 km long), you can easily meet some of the representatives of the royal families. A holiday in St. Moritz is one of the most expensive and exclusive pleasures. But a tourist who shells out fabulous sums for a trip to the mountains can be confident in the high quality of service in restaurants, hotels and on the slopes. Expensive service does not deter travelers at all. Over one and a half million guests come to St. Moritz every year.
Ski resorts in Austria
A conservative and wealthy country, it is famous for its beautiful towns, which look like someone copied them from Christmas cards. Cottages with pointed roofs, buried in the snow on the tops of the mountains, open their doors invitingly to ski lovers. 
This is what a resort is Zell am See. Interestingly, a holiday here costs much less than in Switzerland and France. Despite the relatively short length of the slopes (only 130 kilometers), this European ski resort is accessible for skiing at any time of the year. For example, the Kaprun glacier can be visited both in spring and summer, when it is already quite hot below.
Let's fast forward to another popular ski destination - the resort St. Anton. In 1922, the world's first ski school began operating here. Over the years, the place has not lost its popularity: the most luxurious hotels and restaurants are concentrated here. Wealthy travelers flock here to get their first snowboarding or skiing instruction. Experienced athletes will appreciate trails of varying difficulty levels, stretching for 276 km.
The most popular ski resort of the Austrian Arlberg - Lech- will be of interest to both wealthy tourists and middle-class travelers. There are acceptable price solutions for everyone here with ideal quality service. The snowiest winters occur here. That is why this resort has been delighting ski lovers from all over the world for many years.
Many people in winter strive to go skiing and spend their holidays in Europe, which is not surprising: it’s not a bad idea to combine a holiday with walks through famous cultural places and unique European villages. And, as it turned out, for this it is not at all necessary to go to expensive resorts, since countries such as Bulgaria and Serbia can also boast of their ski resorts. You can also go snowboarding and skiing on a budget in the Czech Republic, Romania, Slovenia, etc. In this article we will talk about the most inexpensive ones in Europe, the ratings of which are presented below.
20th place: Formigal, Spain
It is one of the most modern and cheapest resorts in Spain, which is located in the Tena Valley, not far from This ski resort includes 150 kilometers of slopes and routes. Many Europe, and this one in particular, allow skiing from December to early March. This resort is a great place for a family vacation. There are kindergartens, playgrounds and 200 instructors ready to teach children to ski. The lift ticket will cost 40 euros per day. You can purchase a ticket for the entire season, and its price will be 600 euros.
19th place: Ttsuma, Switzerland
The Four Valleys region offers luxurious and expensive holiday destinations. You can also find budget ski resorts in Europe here. Among them is Tsuma, almost unknown to Russian tourists. Based on the outskirts of this region, you can ride on the slopes near the popular Thion, Vaison and Verbier. In addition to the ski routes, it is famous for its 10-kilometer toboggan run. Accommodation here usually costs a lot, although you can rent a room for 80 euros.
18th place: Bansko, Bulgaria
There is an opportunity to relax in Bansko for 300 euros. At the same time, there will be plenty of impressions and emotions. This is one of the most modern and newest winter resorts, and it has already won the recognition of fans of active winter recreation, who have long chosen the ski resorts of Europe. Bansko offers 6 trails with a length of more than fourteen kilometers. They are located at an altitude of 2.5 km above sea level. Funiculars and ski lifts can serve 3,000 passengers per hour.
17th place: Schladming, Austria
It is number one among the resorts in Styria. This resort is located in the western part of the region at an altitude of 750 m above sea level. This is a town with colorful houses and incredibly hospitable residents. There is a free bus to take you anywhere in the region and 86 ski lifts. Many ski resorts in Europe, including this one, offer you skiing from December to April. The cost of a lift ticket for an adult is 31 euros, for children - 16 euros.
16th place: Livigno, Italy
More recently, Livigno was a small Italian provincial town. It is 35 km from Bormio, next to the Swiss border. In Livigno, the weather is always wonderful and there is practically no wind, and this speaks of the advantages of relaxing here. The snow cover in this place reaches 2.5 m. For an adult, a lift ticket will cost 36 euros.
15th place: Montgenevre, France
Anyone who chooses Montgenevre for a winter holiday will have access to 100 km of slopes of varying difficulty, and you can ski in both France and Italy, since the town is located 2 km from the border, and it is connected by ski lifts to the resort of Clavières. If we consider ski resorts in Europe for beginners, then it is worth noting that this one is ideal for them, since there are experienced instructors who will teach you how to stand on your skis correctly. Almost every hotel here has a category of 1-2 stars. The cost of accommodation in them is about 50 euros for a 2-bed room (you can find cheaper!)
14th place: Kappl, Austria
Few people can relax in the elite Ischgl: hotel prices are steep and can scare off anyone who does not consider themselves to be among the rich. But you can ride on the same slopes completely freely by staying in the town of Kappl, 5 km from here, where a double room in a hotel will cost 60 euros. At the same time, Kappl has its own ski area, so if you are still unsteady on skis, 40 km of slopes will be enough for you (and you will save money: a 60-day pass for this area costs 20 euros less).
13th place: Pinzolo, Italy
You can ski in Italy cheaply if you come to the town of Pinzolo, where hotel rooms cost around 50 euros. In the middle of the coniferous forest around the village there are 40 km of easy trails. For those who choose budget and high-quality ski resorts in Europe, this place is ideal.
12th place: Soldo, Andorra
The best ski resort in the area is located here. Everything in this place is new - ski lifts, hotels, and very few tourists. When looking for cheap ski resorts in Europe, you can also go to the neighboring town of Pas de la Casa, where there are 58 ski lifts at your service. By choosing any hotel, you will stay in a double room for 40 euros.
11th place: Saint-Gervais, France
When shopping for affordable ski resorts in Europe, look no further than the classic spa town, just a gondola ride away from Megève. You can also get here by tram, which goes on and then gets to this resort.
Here you can find a cozy little house that will cost you much less than in Megève, located next door. Accommodation in a double room will cost 40 euros.
10th place: Brides-les-Bains, France
This budget resort is located close to Meribel, a 25-minute gondola ride away. Of course, you will miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the small villages located on the peaks, the nightlife and the mountain atmosphere. However, you will not be able to ski back down, since you will also have to take a gondola to get to the hotel in the evening. Accommodation at the hotel during high season is quite inexpensive - from 30 euros for double occupancy.
9th place: Bohinj, Slovenia
This is a beautiful ski resort. It is located on the coast of the lake of the same name in the center of the Triglav National Park. This resort is ideal for holidays all year round. In winter, in this place, all those who are just starting to ski, as well as all who have been skiing for a long time, but who are interested in the cheapest ski resorts in Europe, will find a lot of impressions. The resort is divided into 2 ski areas: Kobla and Vogel, which are 12 km from each other. Lift tickets cost $20 and ski rentals cost $10.
8th place: Kopaonik, Serbia
In Serbia, Kopaonik is considered one of the best ski holiday centers. This is a modern resort located in Eastern Europe. It boasts a developed infrastructure. The Kopaonik resort is not inferior to more expensive resorts in many respects. In this place, a week's vacation will cost you about 20,000 rubles.
7th place: Popova Shapka, Macedonia
Popova Shapka is one of the cheapest places. Many ski resorts in Europe have high prices, but here a week's vacation will cost you 20,000 rubles. It is located in a picturesque mountainous area and offers beautiful views. Of course, this resort is inferior in terms of service and quality of amenities to the elite towns of Switzerland and France, but its main advantage lies in the low cost of the holiday.
6th place: Borovets, Bulgaria
Ski resorts in this country are always popular among fans of winter sports who choose an inexpensive holiday. Borovets is distinguished by high service and high-quality trails, as well as low prices. The resort is suitable for couples and young people. There is something to do here even in the evening: parties, etc. A week's holiday here costs about 18,000 rubles per person.
5th place: Jasna, Slovakia
If the best ski resorts in Europe (Austria, Switzerland and France) are too expensive for you, you need to turn your attention to the town of Jasna. Cheap and popular, it is located in Slovakia. Its advantages include modern ski lifts, reasonable prices, excellent snow cover, and a huge number of trails for professionals and beginners. A week's vacation will cost you 19,000 rubles.
4th place: Spindleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic
A huge number of tourists combine excursions in the Czech Republic with active recreation at ski resorts. If you want to diversify your sightseeing in this cozy country with an active holiday, then the Spindleruv Mlyn resort will be the best option. It is equipped with modern high-quality ski lifts; this place has many trails of varying difficulty. A week's holiday here costs about 19,000 rubles.
3rd place: Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Assessing inexpensive ski resorts in Europe, we can say that Jahorina is one of the cheapest. It boasts trails of varying difficulty, designed for skiers and snowboarders of varying skill levels. A week's vacation in this place will cost you 19,000 rubles.
2nd place: Veghel, Slovenia
If you can’t stand noisy resorts with a huge number of tourists, but prefer a calm and quiet family vacation, then go to Vogl, located in Slovenia. It is a modern ski town with picturesque views, well-equipped slopes, and cozy small restaurants. In this place, a week's vacation will cost 18,000 rubles.
1st place: Poiana Brasov, Romania
This resort is the most popular in Romania. If you do not want to spend large sums, but still want to get a quality holiday, then Poiana Brasov is the best option. Several years ago the resort was completely reconstructed. For a week's holiday here you will need to pay 16,000 rubles.
As we can see, the best ski resorts in Europe may not be as expensive as it might initially seem. Vacation expenses can be kept to a minimum by searching for cheap hotels and air tickets on your own.
Ski resorts have a lot of nuances that affect the quality of your vacation. Some shortcomings “pop up” when changing something is problematic. This question is especially acute for those who are going to ski resorts for the first time.
When choosing a ski resort, you need to proceed from two parameters: the amount you are willing to spend on your vacation, and your wishes regarding the conditions of your vacation.
With the price, everything is more or less clear: there are cheaper/more expensive hotels, the price depends on the rise/fall in demand (New Year’s tours are 15-20% more expensive than the same thing at the end of January), the cost will be increased by various additional services, and so on.
How to determine the criteria of the resort itself?
Ski resorts in Europe
Difficulty level of ski slopes
Ski slopes in Europe are usually marked with a certain color depending on their difficulty. Each resort has its own set of trails, information about which should be clarified when choosing a vacation spot.
- Green route– the easiest level, for children and beginner skiers. The track is usually quite wide, the slope is no more than 15%, the snow is treated with a snowcat (a special machine that compacts freshly fallen snow and levels the surface of the slope, since deep ruts and unevenness form when skiing on it)
- Blue track– simple difficulty level, similar to green, but has a steeper slope (from 10% to 25%). Processed with a snowcat. Those who have mastered the most basic skiing skills move here
An example of ski slope markings in Europe - Red route– average level of difficulty, can be quite narrow, slope from 20 to 40%, processed with a snowcat only where equipment can pass, has safety fences in dangerous areas. Suitable for experienced skiers and snowboarders
- Black track- difficult, only for very trained people. Steepness - 40-50%, sharp lateral slopes and drops, often not treated with a snowcat, but has safety fences and is patrolled by the resort rescue service
- Yellow or orange track- such markings are available at some ski resorts - super-difficult-level pistes with non-standardized slope angles. Suitable exclusively for extreme sports enthusiasts, not processed, not patrolled or fenced
Distance of routes from the location
The tracks are sometimes located at a considerable distance from each other and from hotels. If it is important for you to ski close to the hotel and not depend on transport (ski buses), pay attention to this option.
Hotel location
It happens that hotels stand alone, away from the main village and general infrastructure (cafes, shops, entertainment, etc.). Not everyone likes to live on the outskirts - if you are one of them, check the distance of the hotel from the main entertainment
Resort infrastructure
Entertainment and additional services are available at any ski resort, but their range varies. Find out whether the resort has what you need: Russian-speaking instructors, kindergartens, separate excursions, and the like.
Ski resorts in Europe: general features
Despite all the diversity of ski resorts in Europe, there are several common features inherent in them as a whole. Wherever you go, you can definitely count on:
- Well-developed infrastructure for recreation: cafes and restaurants for every budget, spas and nightlife, shops and attractions, etc.
- At any ski resort you will have the opportunity to go on a historical excursion to some nearby medieval town
Ski resort Chamonix, France - Short distances between settlements: in one trip you can visit several ski resorts and even countries
- Well-developed transport network and communications: Internet, telephone, taxi, excursions and regular bus service are everywhere
- High level of service and life in general: even in a 2* hotel you will receive quality services, decent rest and helpful staff
- At all resorts you will find equipment rentals, ski schools, various types of lifts (skittles, tow ropes, capsules), storage rooms, etc.
Ski resort Val Thorens, France Ski resorts in Austria
Most of Austria's territory is located in the Alpine mountains - an ideal place for practicing all types of winter sports, especially alpine skiing and snowboarding. Austria probably has the highest density of ski resorts per capita. The variety of local ski areas dazzles your eyes. Here you can find a resort to suit any needs and budgets, for the most varied companies and all categories of skiers.
Ski resort Saalbach, Austria Saalbach-Hinterglemm
Expensive, prestigious, impeccable service, pistes in perfect condition. Hinterglemm is quiet and family-friendly, Saalbach is parties, fireworks, get-togethers. Blue, red and black tracks. The ski lifts run directly from the village. The nearest city is Salzburg, 90 km away.
Mayrhofen
Low heights, suitable for small children and pensioners. Trails of all difficulty levels. Snowboard park. There are Russian-speaking instructors. Some routes and hotels are at a considerable distance from the center. The nearest city is Innsbruck.
Ski resort Mayrhofen, Austria Solden
Several villages over a large area. Picturesque, mild climate. Trails: blue, red, black, most are difficult. Huge park for snowboarding, freestyle, ride. Most hotels are near ski lifts. Many inexpensive hotels, affordable prices.
Zell am See
Three villages, active life in the center. There are all kinds of trails, the easiest ones are in the village of Kaprun. Skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier is possible all year round. There is a kindergarten in every village, a large selection of hotels, which can be overcrowded during the season. The nearest city is Salzburg, 80 km.
Ski resort Zell am See, Austria Ischgl
Very stretched, look at the location of the hotel when choosing. Lots of Russians, generally crowded. There are many luxury hotels, everything is expensive. There is a large duty free zone nearby. Blue, red and black tracks.
Kitzbühel
Nice medieval town. With tracks of all difficulty levels, the Streif is one of the most dangerous in the world. There are four ski areas; cable cars are not available everywhere. There are ski safaris. Different prices. During the World Cup, prices skyrocket.
Ski resort Kitzbühel, Austria Innsbruck
Big city, sights, great excursion. Seven large ski areas, the closest is 10 minutes from the city. Trails of all levels. Cheap equipment rental. The level of hotels is lower than at other resorts, reasonable prices.
Bad Gastein
Located on three levels. Five ski areas, some of which can only be reached by bus. Trails of different levels, ski school for children 3-5 years old. There are many thermal springs, including open ones (t +36). Medical and health complexes, casinos.
Ski resort Bad Gastein, Austria St. Anton
It is considered expensive and prestigious. Most ski slopes are difficult. The ski lifts are located almost in the center of the resort. Some of the best ski schools. Noisy and crowded, especially on weekends.
Lech
A vacation spot for aristocrats and bohemians. The only resort where skiers are officially allowed to be transported by helicopter to extreme ski areas. There are exclusively children's ski areas with excellent infrastructure. The best restaurants in Austria.
Ski resort Lech, Austria Ski resorts in Italy
Italy, in the minds of the average person, is a hot southern country, saturated with sun, sea and the smell of lemons. Few people remember crunchy snowdrifts and endless snowy plains when they hear the sound of a tarantella. But in vain. Winter holidays in Italy are no less good. Do you want to see the crazy Italian temperament against the backdrop of harsh Alpine snow? Ski resorts in Italy are not cheap, but very original.
Val di Fassa
Family resort, calm, most fun in Canazei. It stretches for 20 km, there are many villages, some are difficult to access. Blue and red tracks are not interesting for professionals. Modest hotels. The lifts do not always work, you can get stuck.
Ski resort Val di Fassa, Italy Val Gardena
The best family resort in the Dolomites. Good tracks, many hotels, children's entertainment. Expensive, a lot of people. There are few trails and entertainment for young people. Picturesque villages, large territory. There are ski safaris. The nearest cities are Verona and Venice.
Cervinia
Reasonable prices, compact location of routes and hotels. Trails of all levels, there is “virgin land” for extreme sports enthusiasts. It gets crowded. On the upper slopes there is often wind and skiing is prohibited. The nearest cities are Milan and Turin.
Ski resort Cervinia, Italy Cortina d'Ampezzo
Small town. There are a lot of Italians (they don’t ski, they just relax). Active nightlife, great shopping, many excursions. Beginner and intermediate level trails. Prices are above average. Small ski area. The nearest city is Verona.
Sestriere
Not crowded, comfortable, large ski area. Heel-skiing and snowboard parks. There is not much entertainment: a couple of nightclubs and one kindergarten. Good sports infrastructure: swimming pools, gyms, saunas, skating rink. The nearest city is Turin.
Ski resort Sestriere, Italy Courmayeur
Prestigious, expensive, near Mont Blanc. The ski area is not large, but interesting, more suitable for experienced skiers. Good freeride. Some hotels are far from the ski lifts. There are many luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants. Fantastic shopping experience.
Alta Badia
Six villages, the noisiest is Corvara, the rest are quiet. Prices are above average, crowded. Most of the tracks are in one place (blue and red, few black). Trails for snowboarding and cross-country skiing. Amusement park, kindergartens, discounts for children in hotels and rental offices.
Alta Badia ski resort, Italy Ski resorts in France
The ski resorts of France are of excellent quality and unique French charm in everything - from the interiors to the style of service. All resorts are located in the French part of the Alps and are constantly used as a site for various winter international competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships. Therefore, the quality and variety of trails, as well as the level of service in France, are simply excellent.
Val Thorens
The highest mountain in Europe, no road transport, long transfer to the resort. Blue, red and black slopes, skiing from the door. Family friendly, there is animation for children and a large play center. Excellent restaurants, one Michelin.
Restaurant in the ski resort of Courchevel, France Courchevel
Large territory - four villages, crowded, very expensive. There are many social events, some of the public come only for entertainment. Easy and medium level trails. The ski lifts are close to the hotels.
Chamonix
Very old resort (200 years old), special atmosphere. Not far from Mont Blanc. Several skiing areas, trails of all difficulty levels, freeride. Casinos, cinemas, nightclubs, children's activities. We are especially proud of our branded coffee shops with baked goods.
Meribel ski resort, France Meribel
Strongly stretched, and vertically, from remote places to the center there are steep roads up or down. Accommodation in chalets and apartments, almost no hotels. Village atmosphere. Prices are above average. Not suitable for kids or partygoers.
Megève
Rothschild residence, bohemian place. An ancient aristocratic town. Picturesque forest trails, easy to intermediate level. There are black trails nearby. Your own airfield, lots of entertainment. The guests are all celebrities, everything is very expensive.
Ski resort Megeve, France Alpe d'Huez
Large ski area, trails of varying difficulty. Lots of sun, crowded, short transfer to the resort. It is considered the best in terms of entertainment and leisure. Prices are average, the level of hotels is affordable. The lift system between all parts of the resort makes it easy to get to.
Val d'Isere
Extensive ski area, difficult trails, many pros and freeride enthusiasts, there are night trails. Small area for beginners. Some hotels are on the outskirts. Prices are high. Hotels are expensive, chalets are cheaper. Lots of family fun and spa treatments.
Les Deux Alpes
Located near a glacier, skiing is available all year round. The ski lifts are close to the hotels. Trails of all levels. There are a lot of young people and families with children, entertainment for every taste, prices are average. Nearby is La Grave - the dream of all extreme sports enthusiasts. Prices are average.
Ski resort Les Deux Alpes, France Ski resorts in Switzerland
Switzerland is a stronghold of centuries-old traditions, solidity, stability and tranquility. The same atmosphere reigns at the ski resorts of Switzerland. Local resorts are considered the standard, like everything Swiss. Holidays here are expensive, but very comfortable. It’s worth forking out money for Switzerland not only for the best trails in all of Europe, but also for purely aesthetic pleasure: you won’t see such fabulous landscapes and gingerbread houses surrounded by mountains anywhere else.
Ski resort St. Moritz, Switzerland St. Moritz
One of the best in the world. Respectable, expensive, elegant. Comfortable climate, few trails for beginners, some areas are difficult to access. Entertainment to match the public, many social events and international events.
Davos
Six ski areas connected by ski buses. Not boring, pistes for all categories of skiers. Snowboard area: cheap, great park, lots of young people. A huge children's area is a hotel city. There is an area of difficult trails for pros. Hotels are average.
Ski resort Davos, Switzerland Grindelwald
Unrealistically beautiful mountains. Elite place, but there are inexpensive apartments. Trails of varying difficulty. Few spas and nightclubs, many activities for family tourists. Very popular at Christmas - good entertainment.
Villars-Gryon
A picturesque place, a family resort, a very large area. Trails of all levels. 5 amusement parks, near Lausanne, Geneva, Montreux. Lots of events at the resort itself. Good spa and restaurants. Live music, few night bars. For large companies.
Hotel in the ski resort of Villars, Switzerland Zermatt
Geographically very stretched, travel by ski bus (choose your hotel carefully). Motor transport is prohibited. Universal trails, skiing all year round. The price level is above average. There are inexpensive hotels. Suitable for families and large companies.
Gstaad
Cozy, small, with its own contingent of vacationers. A classic of alpine holidays, the highest service, but without pathos and glamor. Easy trails. Family. Individual approach in everything. The price level is decent. There are many celebrities among the vacationers.
Ski resort Gstaad, Switzerland Le Diableret
Very similar in atmosphere to Gstaad (see above), but the prices are much lower. Family entertainment, few expensive hotels. There are no spas or wellness centers. The slopes are average, the ski area is small. Quiet, calm: a rural idyll.
Saas-Fee
Year-round resort, varied trails. Very drawn out - be careful when choosing a hotel. Cars are prohibited, but there are subways and electric cars. Suitable for all categories of tourists with any budget.
Ski resort Saas-Fee, Switzerland Ski resorts in Bulgaria
Bulgarian ski resorts are not distinguished by impeccable service and comfort. Winter recreation in Bulgaria began to develop relatively recently, and so far they are far from perfect. It is believed that the local resorts have very affordable prices. True, recently Bulgaria has been losing the title of “the cheapest European country,” but holidays here can still be called economical. Other advantages: there is almost no language barrier, easy visa processing and a short flight.
Borovets
The oldest and largest resort in the country. Plus: the ski areas are located in the forest - picturesque, windless, safe. A lot of entertainment . Minus: the village's infrastructure is very chaotic, some routes cross roads.
Ski resort Bansko, Bulgaria Bansko
The newest and most fashionable in Bulgaria. Mild climate, lots of snow. Trails of all difficulty levels. The ski area is remote from the village, but some hotels provide transfers. A UNESCO natural heritage site, there is a lot to see.
Pamporovo
The southernmost and sunniest. The trails are not difficult, are located in a forest area, and are maintained in good condition. Modern lifts. Family friendly, lots of excursions. Many clubs, restaurants, large selection of hotels.
Ski resort Pamporovo, Bulgaria Ski resorts in Spain
The main feature of all Spanish ski resorts is that they are located near the coast. Skiing on any of them can be combined with a beach holiday, since many of them are located high in the mountains, and you can almost always find tracks where the snow does not melt all year round. The second undoubted plus is that from any ski resort in Spain you can organize an excursion trip to nearby cities, which are famous for their history, medieval beauty and a huge number of attractions.
Ski resort Sierra Nevada, Spain Sierra Nevada
Located in Andalusia. Six ski areas. Trails of all categories, good technical equipment, high service. Eat Russian speakers instructors Lots of entertainment, including for toddlers. Prices are moderate.
La Molina
Extensive ski area, good trails of varying difficulty. Not very crowded, mostly Spaniards. There is little entertainment, but a good excursion (near Barcelona). Hotels are cheaper in neighboring villages. Cheap, calm, cozy.
Ski resort La Molina, Spain Formigal
Wide trails, easy and medium. Mogul, heli-ski, 2 snow parks, fireride. A lot of sun . Family friendly, fun, quality hotels and entertainment. There are nightclubs, a zoo, an amusement park, golf courses and wineries with tastings.
Serler
The highest mountain in Spain, two ski areas, easy access. Well thought out and high-tech. Trails for everyone. Half-pipe for snowboarding. Accommodation: hotels, hostels, apartments for rent - prices vary. Lots of family fun.
Ski resort Formigal, Spain Espot Eskui
Calm, family friendly, forest trails of all difficulty levels. Very cozy atmosphere. Hotels of any category, there are apartments for rent, many wooden eco-houses. Excellent service at very reasonable prices. Young people can be bored.
Baqueira - Beret
The most popular in Spain, 3 ski areas for all categories of skiers. Ski lifts near hotels. Two snow parks. Cheap, fun. There are nightclubs and children's animators. The prices are high, the crowd is decent. Favorite resort of the King of Spain.
Ski resort Baqueira Beret, Spain Panticosa - Los Lagos
Small town, two ski sectors. One of the best in the Pyrenees in terms of service. Family friendly, most of the trails are simple and moderate. Good equipment, convenient infrastructure, comfort in everything. Prices are average.
La Masella
Typical alpine resort, forest trails. Lots of snowboarders. Ski slopes of all categories. Russian speaking staff in many establishments (hotels, cafes, ski schools). Good spa, wide selection of entertainment.
Ski resort La Masella, Spain Ski resorts in Germany
Germany's main ski resorts are concentrated in Bavaria on the German side of the Alps. There are many old villages and coniferous forests typical of Bavaria. The infrastructure of the resorts is thought out with German meticulousness down to the smallest detail: the ski slopes are in perfect condition, the hotel service is impeccable, there is no fault with the ski schedule, there is entertainment for all categories of tourists. Prices, as elsewhere in Germany, are steep, but the level of ski resorts is worth it.
Ski resort Garmisch-Pertenkirchen, Germany Garmisch-Pertenkirchen
The ratio of easy and difficult trails is 50/50. Several ski areas, good infrastructure, two snow parks and an international level half pipe. Lots of entertainment, local festivals, excursions.
Berchtesgaden
Five towns, a thermal resort, outdoor pools and salt adits, a national park. The trails are easy, there is a bobsleigh track and night skiing. Winters are warm and snowy. Huge selection of accommodation options. Very short ski season.
Ski resort Berchtesgaden, Germany Oberstdorf
Three ski areas, pistes of different levels. World class sports grounds: alpine skiing, speed skating, carving, snowboarding, trampolines, curling. Respectable, expensive, many celebrities. Excellent SPA center, excursions.
Wright-im-Winkl
Large ski area, slopes for pros and beginners, half-pipe and son-park. Sunny, picturesque. Entertainment is traditional Bavarian (beer pubs, folk music, walks through ancient towns) or sports (bowling, curling, swimming pools, etc.).
Ski resort Obersdorf, Germany Ski resorts in Andorra
Andorra is essentially one big ski resort. People come here first of all to ride, secondly to go shopping (the entire territory of Andorra is a duty-free zone), and thirdly to have a good time with a large group. Its unique location allows you to visit two countries with the richest excursion routes at once - Spain and France, and getting to the nearest Barcelona, Carcassonne or Toulouse is not difficult. The main advantage of Andorra: prices are much lower than European ones.
Ordino-Arcalis
A very diverse landscape, popular with all categories of skiers. Small, behind the scenes, with its own contingent of regular tourists. Most skiers are local. Good family infrastructure, best trails for beginners.
Ski resort Ordino, Andorra Pal-Arinsal
Two ski areas with a common network of lifts. Gentle slopes, trails for beginners and advanced. Separate children's areas. There is almost no wind. Lots of entertainment, good service. At the peak of winter, the ski tracks reach directly to the hotels.
Grandvalira
A huge ski area, the largest in Europe - 6 resorts (Pas de la Casa, Grau Rouge, El Tarter, Encamp, Soldeu, Canillo). There is a single ski pass for all areas. The infrastructure defies description: there is everything for everyone, it is impossible to list even briefly. Prices vary, you can find options to suit any budget.
Grandvalira ski resort, Andorra Ski resorts in Scandinavia
Scandinavia is a region where alpine skiing is not only a way to attract tourists, but also an integral part of the national culture and a favorite sport of local residents. Scandinavians build ski resorts primarily for themselves, and only then for various visiting foreigners. Therefore, the ski resorts of Scandinavia are organized with the highest knowledge of the matter and great love for alpine skiing.
Ski resort Ruka, Finland Kuusamo-Ruka (Finland)
Near the Arctic Circle (you can see the aurora). Trails of different categories include slalom and cross-country skiing. Two ski areas: easy (eastern) and difficult (western). Everything for snowboarding. Sports and family entertainment, yes aquapark.
Vuokatti (Finland)
Calm, measured, family. A lot of simple tracks, good base snowboard. Aquapark, sports entertainment, village Santa—Klaus, fishing—deer—canine sleds, some museums. Trails different levels, freeride, snow—a park, children's entertainment. Highlight: local serpentine iron road With amazing species.
Lillehamer (Norway)
One from the best V Scandinavia, universal tracks. Small city, homeland elves And trolls (chip resort). Four zones skating – carrying out international competitions. Three zones skating, different level difficulties. Superpipe (height 6m). Snowkiting. Entertainment: traditional Scandinavian (dogs, fishing, motor sleigh). Funny, crowded.
Hemsedal (Norway)
Big resort, main area stages cup peace By slalom. Chic tracks
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The travel portal Travel.ru has compiled a rating of the most inexpensive foreign resorts for winter holidays.
When calculating the budget for one person, the cost of living in a three-star hotel, the cost of dinner in a cafe, the price of a ski pass and prices for visiting a spa were taken into account.
The most inexpensive Ski resorts in Eastern European countries - Bosnia, Romania and Croatia - are called foreign. Tourists can plan their budget at the rate of 50-90 euros per day.
The most expensive For travelers, there are resorts in France, Switzerland and the USA, where you will have to spend from 250 to 350 euros per day.
The top 10 foreign ski resorts included:
Jahorina, Bosnia (budget 50 euros per person)
Poiana Brasov, Romania (55 euros)
Platak, Croatia (77 euros)
Strbske Pleso, Slovakia (78 euros)
Harrachov, Czech Republic (80 euros)
Sljeme, Croatia (81 euros)
Kopaonik, Serbia (83 euros)
Zakopane, Poland (86 euros)
Slovenia (87 euros)
Pamporovo, Bulgaria (89 euros)
The most expensive are the French ski resorts of Courchevel (351 euros), Val Thorens (budget 258 euros) and Meribel (274 euros), Swiss St. Moritz (276 euros) and American Aspen (280 euros).
Top 50 foreign ski resorts
and their budget (per person per day, euros)
1. Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina - 50
2. Poiana Brasov, Romania - 55
3. Platak, Croatia - 77
4. Strbske Pleso, Slovakia - 78
5. Harrachov, Czech Republic - 80
6. Sljeme, Croatia - 81
7. Kopaonik, Serbia - 83
8. Zakopane, Poland - 86
9. Bohinj, Slovenia - 87
10. Pamporovo, Bulgaria - 89
11. Spindleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic - 90
12. Bansko, Bulgaria - 92
13. Encamp, Andorra - 111
Top 10 ski resorts: popular ski resorts among holidaymakers. Reviews from tourists and experts.
Everyone's idea of proper rest is different. For some, a tropical paradise with stretching white sand beaches and coconut palms is just what the doctor ordered. Others choose a more active pastime, conquering the snowy slopes of magnificent ski resorts. With dozens of scenic winter adventure destinations, from Aspen to Zermatt, the best downhill racing fans can find today.
Aspen, Colorado
If you want to join the select circle of the rich and famous, then one of the most expensive American ski resorts, Aspen, is at your service. Located in Colorado, the city is known primarily for the slopes of four unrelated mountains, allowing skiers of different skill levels to enjoy skiing and local natural beauty. Both beginners and professionals will be able to find a holiday to their liking here. The only negative (and for some it may be a plus) is the extremely high price for all types of services.
Aspen, Colorado
New peaks and luxurious tracks. Early booking discounts up to 25%!
– from 68,000 rub. for two. – from 68,000 rub. for two.
– from 72,000 rub. for two. – from 51,000 rub. for two.
Promotions, gifts! Discounts for children up to 50%. Buy a tour. Interest-free installments!
Cortina, Italy
Cortina is an Italian ski resort in the Dolomites, with a rich sporting history and aristocratic spirit. It was here that the 1956 Winter Olympics, various championships and other competitions were held. Today, the Cortina ski slopes are an important stage in the World Cup and a worthy competitor to other resorts. Like Swiss Zermatt, the whole life of the city is centered around small but extremely pretty streets.
Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
Combining the Canadian version of the French "art of living" with luxury is Tremblant, one of the most famous eastern Canadian resorts. A real paradise for skiers first announced itself in 1939 and became one of the first places intended for skiing in all of Canada and the second in North America. What makes the slopes of Mont Tremblant particularly attractive is its proximity to Montreal, the largest city in the province of Quebec and the second largest Canadian population center. It's only an hour away.
Stowe, Vermont, USA
This is one of the most famous and picturesque ski resorts on the map, combining traditional New England charm with enormous elevation changes. There are two ski areas here - Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest point, and Spruce Peak. Stowe is one of a limited number of interconnected American resorts. A well-developed tourism industry in the form of at least 90 shops and 60 restaurants will not let you get bored during your free time from skiing.