A Guide to Skiing Holidays

This month Lisa de Silva explores what to consider when planning a skiing holiday, along with non-skiing activities to suit all ages and interests...

Blending adventure and relaxation amid stunning mountain scenery, a skiing holiday offers so much more than winter sport. While many are motivated by the exhilaration of gliding through the powder, there are plenty of other wonderful winter activities to enjoy for non-skiers. In fact, just soaking up the scenery of majestic snow-capped mountains and cosy alpine villages can boost wellbeing.

Choosing a resort

One of the most important factors to consider is your skill level and the variety of slopes offered by a resort. While beginners will appreciate ski schools and gentle runs, more experienced skiers will want more complex terrain and a cable car and lift system that allows access to extensive linked ski areas. For example, Les Trois Vallées in the French Alps offers 600km of connected ski slopes across famous resorts such as Méribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens.

Altitude is also becoming increasingly significant, as global warming can mean there is no snow guarantee at lower lying resorts. To make the most of your trip, it's also a good idea to consider the accessibility of the resort and transfer times from the wider transport network.

Your travel party will also be a factor. A young family may prefer a resort orientated to child-friendly activities, while a group of friends may prioritise nightlife and the après-ski scene. Cost is an additional consideration. While some Italian resorts and those in Poland, Bulgaria and Slovakia, offer great value for money, some of the popular French, Swiss and Austrian destinations can be expensive.

Choosing accommodation

There is a range of alpine accommodation to choose from including traditional chalets with and without catering, alpine hotels and self-catering apartments. Factors to consider include the distance from the resort, whether you require the convenience of a ski-in/ski-out location, whether you are happy to self-cater and the type of onsite facilities you require. For example, after a long day on the slopes, many people appreciate the benefits of an onsite spa to help relax and recharge sore muscles.

Ski gear, equipment, lift passes and lessons

While experienced skiers may prefer to bring their own gear and equipment, it is often easier to hire what you’ll need. This avoids costly travel baggage fees and gives you access to the most modern equipment available. Ski rental can be arranged before you travel and the equipment can often be left in the boot room or ski locker of your accommodation. For beginners or infrequent skiers, it's best to invest in a few base layers, thermal socks and waterproof jackets and trousers, which can be easily repurposed.

Lift passes and ski lessons should also be arranged in advance, allowing you to maximise your time on the slopes.

Winter activities for non-skiers

For non-skiers, an alpine winter holiday offers a wide range of activities to enjoy. For those still wanting to enjoy the snow, activities such as snowboarding, snowshoeing, tobogganing and snowmobiling offer plenty of scope for fun and adventure. While resort-based activities such as ice skating, dog sledding, horse-drawn carriage rides and cosy cafés and restaurants add to the winter wonderland vibe.

Non-skiers can also enjoy soaking up the scenery with cable car trips to explore the mountain landscape. What’s more, many resorts offer world-class spa facilities, so for those who are content to admire the mountains from afar, it’s a chance to relax, refresh and revive.

Après-ski activities

Whether you want to dance the night away to DJ sets, curl up by the fire with a hot chocolate, feast on fondue or relax in a hot tub under a starry night, there are après-ski activities to suit all appetites and tastes.

Alpine cuisine and dining opportunities are another attraction, with local and regional produce top of the menu. Delicacies include cheese fondue, rösti, raclette and hearty tartiflette, a warm and comforting baked dish of reblochon cheese, potatoes, lardons and onions. A great way to refuel your energy levels.

Long leisurely mountainside lunches are also part of European ski culture. While skiing in North America is more of an all-day activity, in Europe lunch is often a relaxed and social affair enjoyed on a sunlit terrace. There is usually a range of independent family-owned on-piste restaurants where you can enjoy high-quality regional delights.

So, whether you want high adrenalin adventures on the ski slopes or prefer to take a leisurely stroll through a chocolate box winter wonderland, there is a perfect winter mountain experience for all.