Austria: The Top Ski Destination for 2025/26
Austria’s snowy peaks, modern ski infrastructure, and exceptional value make it the standout choice for winter holidays in 2025/26. More travellers are choosing Austria over France thanks to its unbeatable combination of world-class resorts, traditional charm, shorter transfers, and more affordable skiing. Whether you’re a first-time skier, a family, or a seasoned expert, Austria delivers the perfect ski experience for every group size and budget.
Why Choose Austria Instead of France?
While France is known for its enormous ski domains, Austria has become the preferred choice for skiers seeking value, efficiency, charm, and world-class snow reliability. Austria stands out thanks to:
- Shorter, easier airport transfers from Innsbruck, Salzburg, Munich, Zurich and Vienna.
- Lower prices for lift passes, dining, ski schools, and accommodation.
- Modern, fast ski lifts with heated chairs, high-capacity gondolas, and minimal queues.
- Snow-sure slopes, with industry-leading snowmaking across resorts.
- Traditional Alpine villages with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Legendary après-ski and a focus on hospitality you won’t always find in high French stations.
Austria combines efficiency with charm — the perfect blend of convenience and authenticity.
Austria vs France: The Key Differences
| What Skiers Love About… | Austria | France |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere & Villages | Charming, traditional Alpine towns with warm hospitality. | Modern resort hubs with plenty of ski-in/ski-out options. |
| Ski Terrain | Varied pistes, fantastic grooming, and excellent for cruisy mileage. | Huge linked ski areas like the 3 Vallées, Espace Killy & Paradiski. |
| Lift Systems | Known for very modern lifts, heated chairs & continuous investment. | Fast, extensive networks covering some of Europe’s largest ski areas. |
| Snow Reliability | Excellent snowmaking coverage & many high-altitude options. | Exceptional high-altitude skiing, particularly in glacier resorts. |
| Value for Money | Often more affordable for lift passes, dining & family trips. | A wide accommodation range, from budget apartments to premium stays. |
| Après-Ski Style | Lively and traditional, with iconic venues and warm hospitality. | Varied—everything from cosy bars to world-famous après spots. |
Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in Austria
Austria excels for families thanks to its safe villages, English-speaking ski schools, gentle terrain, and affordable lift passes. Some of the best family-friendly ski resorts in Austria include:
- Obergurgl: Quiet, snow-sure and traffic-free, with excellent ski schools and wide, beginner-friendly slopes.
- Saalbach Hinterglemm: Plenty of blue runs, great childcare options, and a fantastic lift network for mixed-ability groups.
- Zell am See / Kaprun: Lakeside charm combined with glacier snow reliability for a perfect all-round family destination.
- Söll (SkiWelt): One of Europe’s most family-oriented ski regions with night skiing, easy gradients, and fun slopes.
- Mayrhofen (Ahorn): Dedicated beginner areas and a lively but friendly town make it ideal for families and groups.
The Top Austrian Ski Resorts (And Why They Matter)
St Anton am Arlberg – Innsbruck to St Anton transfer, après-ski capital, Arlberg slopes
Known as the “cradle of Alpine skiing,” St Anton sits at the heart of the vast Arlberg region. With 306 km of well-connected pistes, challenging terrain and some of the world’s best après-ski at MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh, it’s a true bucket-list destination. A sophisticated lift network links St Anton with Lech and Zürs, while efficient airport transfers from Innsbruck minimise hassle and maximise slope time.
Ischgl – Innsbruck to Ischgl transfer, faster routes from Innsbruck & Munich; nightlife & cross-border skiing
Ischgl’s Silvretta Arena spans 238 km of slopes and boasts ultra-modern lifts, reliable snow, and the chance to ski across the border to Samnaun in Switzerland. With famously energetic nightlife, concerts, and events, Ischgl appeals to both thrill-seekers and leisure travellers. Direct transfers from Innsbruck and Munich ensure you arrive rested and ready for adventure.
Sölden – Innsbruck to Sölden transfer, glacier access & World Cup resort
Host of the FIS World Cup opener, Sölden delivers glacier skiing from October to May, 144+ km of runs and three peaks above 3,000 metres for spectacular views and serious vertical. Quick airport connections from Innsbruck and Munich make Sölden ideal for early and late-season breaks.
Obergurgl – Innsbruck to Obergurgl transfer, high-altitude, early-season snow
One of Austria’s highest and most snow-sure destinations, Obergurgl is peaceful and family-friendly, with gentle slopes and dependable snow cover. Its season starts early – November 14, 2025 – making it a top pick for the first turns of winter. Easy transfers from Innsbruck and Munich keep travel times short.
Zell am See – Salzburg to Zell am See transfer, scenic lakeside skiing & glacier access
For picturesque charm and reliable snow, Zell am See’s lakeside setting paired with nearby Kaprun glacier skiing offers an unbeatable combination. Airport transfers from Salzburg, Munich, and Innsbruck make the area highly accessible, while its broad range of runs ensures something for every ski level.
Saalbach Hinterglemm – Salzburg to Saalbach transfer, Austria’s biggest ski area
The Saalbach Ski Circus is the largest interconnected ski area in Austria, with over 270 km of pistes, known for its variety and vibrant village life. Fast transfers from Salzburg and Munich mean you spend less time travelling and more time enjoying the slopes.
Mayrhofen – Innsbruck to Mayrhofen transfer, Zillertal valley & snow parks
Renowned for its lively town spirit and varied mountains (Penken and Ahorn), Mayrhofen is great for all levels. The resort offers excellent snow parks, family zones and access to the wider Zillertal valley. Airport transfers from Innsbruck, Munich, and Salzburg provide seamless access to the region’s powder and freestyle terrain.
Lech – Innsbruck to Lech transfer, Arlberg luxury & premium skiing
Prestigious Lech and neighbouring Zürs epitomise Tyrolean luxury, featuring wide, uncrowded slopes, gourmet dining, and charming hotels. Easy transport from Zurich and Innsbruck, including private and group transfers, makes Lech a favourite for families and discerning skiers seeking a refined atmosphere.
Kitzbühel – Innsbruck to Kitzbühel transfer, Hahnenkamm race & medieval charm
Home to the legendary Hahnenkamm race, Kitzbühel blends medieval charm with 233 km of pistes ideal for intermediates and experts. Airport transfers from Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Munich remain fast and straightforward — essential during busy race weeks and holiday periods.
Obertauern & Söll – Innsbruck to Söll transfer, high, snow-sure & family-friendly SkiWelt access
Obertauern offers one of Austria’s most snow-sure ski areas, with a long season and plenty of ski-in/ski-out accommodation. Its circular ski layout means you can tour the entire area on skis without removing your equipment, making it both fun and convenient. Transfers from Salzburg keep journey times short.
Söll, part of the vast SkiWelt region, is a family favourite with wide, gentle runs, night skiing and fun slope areas for children. Quick arrivals from Innsbruck, Salzburg and Munich make Söll an excellent choice for families and mixed-ability groups.
How Our Austria Ski Transfers Stand Out
Easy and reliable airport transfers are at the heart of Austria’s appeal. Whether booking a private vehicle, shared shuttle, or luxury minibus, travellers benefit from regular, direct services across all major gateways. Advanced booking locks in the best prices and ensures equipment and luggage can be accommodated at no extra charge.
- Direct to your hotel or chalet (door-to-door), minimising wait times and changes.
- Maximum 90-minute wait for shared services, offering flexibility for short breaks and midweek travel.
- Luggage, skis, boards, and child seats always included.
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and all-season support in resort.
Top Austrian Transfer Destinations Prices
| Destination | Airport | Shared Price (from) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Anton | Innsbruck | £79.94 pp | 1hr 30 mins, famous après-ski, large connected area, door-to-door transfer. |
| Ischgl | Innsbruck | £89.00 pp | 1hr 45 mins, cross-border skiing, top nightlife, direct service. |
| Mayrhofen | Innsbruck | £63.33 pp | 1hr 30 mins, huge area, direct valley links, quickest route to slopes. |
| Sölden | Innsbruck | £79.00 pp | Glacier skiing, FIS World Cup resort, modern lifts, 90-minute direct transfer. |
| Obergurgl | Innsbruck | £83.20 pp | High-altitude, early snow, fast shared transfer, quieter slopes. |
*All prices are examples based on off-peak travel and may vary depending on season, availability, and group size. For the most accurate price, please use the quote generator.
Travel Seamlessly to Every Resort
Let Ski-Lifts take you direct to your accommodation, saving you time and hassle – leaving more time for fresh tracks and après-ski!
Ski-Lifts Shared Transfers: More Destination with Seamless Service
New Destinations for Shared Transfers in France
Ski-Lifts started over 20 years ago offering shared transfers from Geneva Airport to Morzine, Avoriaz and Les Gets. These classics remain among our most popular, now joined by a host of new routes for Winter 2025-26. Shared transfers are part of our DNA, offering choice for groups, solo travellers and budget conscious guests across France, Austria and Bulgaria.
New for This Season
Looking for a cost-effective yet reliable way to reach the slopes? Our door-to-door shared transfers are designed to give you great value without the hassle that comes with many competitor services.
Unlike scheduled shuttle buses or shared transfers that require you to change vehicles, wait around, or get dropped off at a central stop, we take you directly to your accommodation. That means no lugging bags through the resort, no standing around in the cold waiting for a connection, and no extra stress on travel day.
All new routes offer door-to-door shared transfers, with a maximum wait of 90 minutes and availability 7 days a week. They are perfect for short breaks, midweek escapes or anyone travelling outside regular schedules.
- Flaine & Les Carroz
- Val D’Isere & Tignes
- Les Arcs & La Plagne
- La Rosiere & Sainte Foy
- Three Valleys: Val Thorens, Meribel, Courchevel
And don’t forget our established shared routes from Geneva to Morzine, Avoriaz, Les Gets, Chamonix, plus transfers to Austria, and Bulgaria from Sofia to Bansko & Borovets.
How Ski-Lifts Shared Transfers Stand Out
- True door-to-door drop-off at your accommodation (where accessible by road)
- Maximum 90-minute wait at the airport
- Daily departures, ideal for short breaks & weekday travel
- Luggage, ski equipment and child seats always included in the price
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and 24/7 in-resort support
Top Shared Destinations & Example Pricing
| Destination | Airport | Price (from) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morzine | Geneva | £52.00 pp | Door-to-door, 1hr 30mins transfer, flexible arrival and group options, direct Portes du Soleil access. |
| Avoriaz | Geneva | £62.00 pp | Drop at Welcome Centre, 1hr 45mins transfer, easy arrival for groups, direct access to Portes du Soleil . |
| Val Thorens | Geneva | £89.62 pp | Door-to-door, 2hr 45 mins transfer, Europe’s highest resort, reliable snow and direct Three Valleys access. |
| Les Arcs 1950 | Geneva | £96.33 pp | All main stations (1600, 1800, 1950, 2000), 3hr transfer, Paradiski hub, ideal for groups and families. |
| Flaine | Geneva | £59.90 pp | Door-to-door, 1hr 45min transfer, Grand Massif area, perfect for family ski breaks. |
| Meribel | Geneva | £84.11 pp | Door-to-door, 2hr 30 mins transfer, central Three Valleys, après-ski and varied accommodation. |
| Courchevel 1850 | Geneva | £84.29 pp | Door-to-door, 3hr transfer, luxury altitude resort, premier Three Valleys stop. |
| La Rosiere | Geneva | £96.33 pp | Door-to-door, 3hr transfer, Italian border resort, scenic, family-friendly. |
| Chamonix | Geneva | £120.42 pp | Door-to-door, 1hr 30min transfer, legendary alpine terrain, direct valley access. |
| Bansko | Sofia | £33.72 pp | Door-to-door, 2hr transfer, Bulgaria’s premier resort, great group/family value. |
| Obergurgl | Innsbruck | £83.21 pp | Door-to-door, 1hr 45 mins transfer, Austrian high-altitude gem, efficient shared service. |
| St Anton | Innsbruck | £80.56 pp | Door-to-door, 1hr 30 mins transfer, après-ski hub, fast airport access, ideal for groups. |
| Mayrhofen | Innsbruck | £62.74 pp | Door-to-door, 1hr 30min transfer, large area, lively village, direct routes from airport. |
* All prices per person, one way. Each route runs daily and offers Ski-Lifts’ hallmark reliability, convenience, and customer service. Door-to-door service is available where the accommodation is accessible by road.
Travel Seamlessly to Every Event
Book with Ski-Lifts for simple, direct transfers to your accommodation and spend more time on the slopes!
The Best Events in the Alps for 2025/2026: The Ultimate Guide
The Best Events in the Alps for 2025/2026: The Ultimate Guide
Whether you dream of carving through fresh powder, cheering at World Cup ski races, tackling legendary mountain bike trails, or soaking up festivals in the high mountains, the Alps are packed with events for every taste. Plan your adventure with Ski-Lifts for seamless transfers to every destination.
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Winter & Spring Alpine Festivals 2025/26
- Snowbombing, Mayrhofen, Austria (April 6–11, 2026) Europe’s biggest ski and music adventure: dancefloors, world-class DJs, slope parties, and more.
- Snowboxx, Avoriaz, France (March 14–21, 2026) Music festival meets ski holiday: huge stages, après parties and non-stop spring snow sessions.
- Tomorrowland Winter, Alpe d’Huez, France (March 21–28, 2026) Legendary global festival, magical snowscapes, world’s biggest DJs, high-altitude stages and après-ski vibes.
- Greenfield Festival, Interlaken, Switzerland (June 2026) The Alps’ top rock, punk & metal open-air, with major international and Swiss bands.
- Electric Mountain Festival, Sölden, Austria (April 13–18, 2026) International DJs, massive parties on the slopes at 2,300m. Ski ticket doubles as entry.
- Snow Attack, Les Deux Alpes, France (January 17–24, 2026) Season-launch music and snow festival: sports, live acts, and themed parties.
- Enter the Snow Festival, French Alps (2026) Festival guide and details on dates, tickets and lineup for this major spring snow/music event.
2026 Winter Olympics & Alpine World Championships
- Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games (Feb 6–22, 2026) World’s biggest winter sports event, with events in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Livigno, Bormio and more. Tickets and disciplines: check the official site.
- FIS Alpine Ski World Championships, Kvitfjell & Hafjell, Norway (March 2026) The world’s best ski on the grandest stage.
- Speed events (Downhill & Super-G): Kvitfjell, racing the Olympiabakken (March 21–22, 2026)
- Technical events (Giant Slalom & Slalom): Hafjell, racing the Olympialøypa (March 24–25, 2026)
Major Snowboarding & Freestyle Events
- Laax Open, Laax, Switzerland (January 17–18, 2026) Europe’s premier FIS Snowboard World Cup (halfpipe & slopestyle) brings world elite to the Alps.
- FIS Snowboard World Cup 2025/26, Multiple Alpine stops including Davos, Scuol, and Simonhöhe for alpine, Montafon and Isola 2000 for snowboard cross, Silvaplana for halfpipe & slopestyle. See full calendar online.
- Olympic Snowboard Events, Cortina d’Ampezzo & Livigno, Italy (Feb 2026) Snowboard cross, parallel giant slalom, slopestyle and big air at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Summer Cycling, MTB & Extreme Events 2026
- Tour de France, Alpine route (July 4–26, 2026) The 2026 route and stage towns, including Alpine climbs, will be announced in autumn 2025. Expect an Alpine mountain stage and legendary cols. Routing info will appear here when released.
- Tour de France Femmes (August 1–9, 2026) The 2026 women’s Tour will again feature challenging mountain stages; details pending autumn 2025 announcements.
- L’Étape du Tour de France (July 2026, date TBC) The official amateur event brings thousands to the Alps to ride a Tour de France mountain stage. Location TBA.
- Pass’Portes du Soleil MTB Festival, Portes du Soleil (June 2026) Ride and test bikes on epic Alpine trails between France & Switzerland resorts.
- La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes, Alpe d’Huez, France (July 2026) Europe’s most legendary Granfondo returns; registration opens autumn 2025.
- Mountain of Hell, Les Deux Alpes, France (June/July 2026) World famous glacier-to-valley MTB descent; dates TBA.
- UCI MTB World Cup, Leogang & Haute-Savoie (Summer 2026) The world’s best battle on classic Alpine trails; specific dates TBA for 2026 season.
Travel Seamlessly to Every Event
Book with Ski-Lifts for simple, direct transfers to every festival, race and Alpine resort into autumn 2026.
Your Alps Events FAQs
Top picks include Snowboxx in Avoriaz, Tomorrowland Winter in Alpe d’Huez, Rock the Pistes in Portes du Soleil, Zermatt Unplugged in Zermatt, and Polaris Festival in Verbier. All combine vibrant music, adventure, and stunning settings.
World Cup events are held in iconic destinations such as Kitzbühel, Chamonix, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and Courchevel and Meribel. Snowboarding fans should check out the Laax Open and Freeride World Tour. Book tickets through official event sites and pre-arrange your Ski-Lifts transfers for easy access.
Don’t miss the Pass’Portes du Soleil MTB Festival, Tour de France‘s Alpine stages, and Mountain of Hell in Les Deux Alpes. The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and La Marmotte Granfondo bring cyclists and fans to world-renowned climbs.
Ski-Lifts offers direct transfers from major airports and hotels to all key Alpine resorts and event venues. Book ahead for smooth, stress-free travel and more time at your chosen event.
The full 2026 route with Alpine stages will be announced October 23, 2025. Early reports suggest major Alpine climbs such as Alpe d’Huez, but final confirmation will be added here as official details are released.
Bookmark this page for updates for key 2026 events, including festivals, ski races, snowboarding comps and cycling, will be added as organisers publish confirmations.
Exact dates and lineups for summer alpine festivals are typically released by each organiser between autumn and winter the prior year, therefore check back regularly for the latest announcements.
2025/2026 European Ski Season Dates
2025/2026 European Ski Season Dates
Timing is everything when it comes to planning the perfect ski getaway, and knowing exactly when your favourite resorts open makes all the difference. To help you make the most of every run, we’ve gathered the essential 2025-2026 European ski season dates. Whether you picture yourself carving through fresh powder in the French Alps, awe-inspiring vistas in Austria, or tackling legendary slopes in Italy, your smooth arrival is just as important as the après-ski. With Ski-Lifts, you can count on reliable, stress-free transfers to every ski resort, so you can focus on maximising your mountain time.
Ready to hit the slopes without a hitch? Let’s get your ski journey started in style!
Andorra ski resort opening dates
| Andorra La Vella | 5th Dec 2025 – 6th April 2026 | Andorra La Vella ski transfers |
| Canillo | 5th Dec 2025 – 6th April 2026 | Canillo ski transfers |
| Pas de la Casa | 5th Dec 2025 – 6th April 2026 | Pas de la Casa ski transfers |
| Soldeu | 5th Dec 2025 – 6th April 2026 | Soldeu ski transfers |
Austria ski resort opening dates
| Hintertux | Open ALL year round | Hintertux ski transfers |
| St Anton | 29th Nov 2025 – 26th April 2026 | St Anton ski transfers |
| Ischgl | 27th Nov 2025 – 3rd May 2026 | Ischgl ski transfers |
| Kitzbühel | 11th Oct 2025 – 3rd May 2026 | Kitzbühel ski transfers |
| Mayrhofen | 6th Dec 2025 – 13th April 2026 | Mayrhofen ski transfers |
| Solden | 15th Nov 2025 – 3rd May 2026 | Solden ski transfers |
| Seefeld | 6th Dec 2025 – 6th April 2026 | Seefeld ski transfers |
| Obergurgl | 13th Nov 2025 – 27th April 2026 | Obergurl ski transfers |
| Lech | 29th Nov 2025 – 27th April 2026 | Lech ski transfers |
Bulgaria ski resort opening dates
| Bankso | 14th Dec 2025 – 13th April 2026 | Bankso ski transfers |
| Borovets | 13th Dec 2025 – 13th April 2026 | Borovets ski transfers |
France ski resort opening dates
| Alpe D’Huez | 06th Dec 2025 – 27th April 2026 | Alpe D’Huez ski transfers |
| Avoriaz | 12th Dec 2025 – 20th April 2026 | Avoriaz ski transfers |
| Chamonix | 13th Dec 2025 – 03rd May 2026 | Chamonix ski transfers |
| Courchevel | 06th Dec 2025 – 20th April 2026 | Courchevel ski transfers |
| Flaine | 13th Dec 2025 – 20th April 2026 | Flaine ski transfers |
| La Plagne | 13th Dec 2025 – 26th April 2026 | La Plagne ski transfers |
| La Tania | 13th Dec 2025 – 20th April 2026 | La Tania ski transfers |
| Les Gets | 20th Dec 2025 – 5th April 2026 | Les Gets ski transfers |
| Les Menuires | 13th Dec 2025 – 26th April 2026 | Les Menuires ski transfers |
| Méribel | 16th Dec 2025 – 20th April 2026 | Meribel ski transfers |
| Val d’Isere | 29th Nov 2025 – 03rd May 2026 | Val d’Isere ski transfers |
| Val Thorens | 22nd Nov 2025 – 03rd May 2026 | Val Thorens ski transfers |
| Tignes | 22nd Nov 2025 – 03rd May 2026 | Tignes ski transfers |
| Morzine | 20th Dec 2025 – 26th April 2026 | Morzine ski transfers |
Germany ski resort opening dates
| Garmisch | 13th Dec 2025 – 05th April 2026 | Gamisch ski transfers |
Italy ski resort opening dates
| Arabba | 06th Dec 2025 – 06th April 2026 | Arabba ski transfers |
| Cervinia | Open ALL year round | Cervinia ski transfers |
| Cortina | 22nd Nov 2025 – 05th April 2026 | Cortina ski transfers |
| Sauze d’oulx | 06th Dec 2025 – 13th April 2026 | Sauze d’oulx ski transfers |
| Sestriere | 06th Dec 2025 – 13th April 2026 | Sestriere ski transfers |
| Courmayeur | 29th Nov 2025 – 05th April 2026 | Courmayeur ski transfers |
| Livigno | 29th Nov 2025 – 03rd May 2026 | Livigno ski transfers |
| Madonna Di Campiglio | 22nd Nov 2025 – 05th April 2026 | Madonna Di Campiglio ski transfers |
| Selva Val Gardena | 06th Dec 2025 – 06th April 2026 | Selva Val Gardena ski transfers |
Norway ski resort opening dates
| Beitostolen | 29th Nov 2025 – 19th April 2026 | Beitostolen ski transfers |
| Geilo | 29th Nov 2025 – 05th April 2026 | Geilo ski transfers |
| Hafjell | 29th Nov 2025 – 19th April 2026 | Hafjell ski transfers |
| Hemsedal | 6th Dec 2025 – 03rd May 2026 | Hemsedal ski transfers |
| Trysil | 29th Nov 2025 – 26th April 2026 | Trysil ski transfers |
Slovenia ski resort opening dates
| Kranjska Gora | 29th Nov 2025 – 01st April 2026 | Kranjska Gora ski transfers |
Switzerland ski resort opening dates
| Davos | 22nd Nov 2025 – 12th April 2026 | Davos ski transfers |
| Klosters | 29th Nov 2025 – 05th April 2026 | Klosters ski transfers |
| Gstaad | 13th Dec 2025 – 12th April 2026 | Gstaad ski transfers |
| Saas Fee | 25th Oct 2025 – 03rd May 2026 | Saas Fee ski transfers |
| Verbier | 29th Nov 2025 – 27th April 2026 | Verbier ski transfers |
We cover over 200+ ski resort destinations! Book your transfers today to secure the best rates and availability!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions about our service, please contact us. You’ll also find relevant information on our FAQs page or below.
Most European ski resorts begin opening for the 2025/2026 season from mid to late November, with high-altitude and glacier resorts such as Val Thorens, Tignes, Zermatt, and Sölden among the first to welcome skiers, some even earlier. Meanwhile, many other popular resorts across France, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland open by early December, with exact dates depending on altitude, snow conditions, and resort policies. Therefore, before you book your trip, it is always best to check directly with your chosen resort for the most up-to-date opening information.
The European ski resorts with the longest seasons in 2025/2026 are Hintertux, Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Cervinia, and Val Thorens. These resorts open early and stay open well into spring, with some (like Hintertux and Zermatt) offering skiing almost all year round thanks to glacier terrain. There are several more across the Alps with similarly extended seasons, but these are among the best known for reliable long-season skiing.
Ski resorts that guarantee snow early or late in the season are typically those with glaciers or very high altitudes. The most reliable options in Europe include Hintertux, Zermatt, Sölden, Cervinia, and Saas Fee, all of which offer glacier skiing and are known for excellent conditions in both early winter (November–December) and late spring (April–May). Many more high-altitude resorts such as Tignes, Val Thorens, and Val d’Isère also have strong snow records and invest heavily in snowmaking to extend their seasons.
Yes, several ski resorts in Europe are open for summer skiing, mainly on glaciers. The most reliable summer ski areas for 2025 include Zermatt (Switzerland; open year-round), Hintertux (Austria; open year-round), Saas Fee (Switzerland; opens for summer in mid-July), Cervinia (Italy; open late June–early September and linked to Zermatt), and Tignes (France; open for summer glacier skiing from 21 June to 20 July 2025). Always check for updates, as opening dates depend on snow conditions and climate.
To find out if a ski resort has beginner, family, or advanced terrain, check the resort’s official piste map and website, which typically show the percentage and colour coding (green/blue for beginners, red for intermediates, black for advanced) of available slopes.
Yes, it’s strongly recommended to pre-book your ski transfer for early or late season dates. During these periods, transfer schedules may be more limited, certain routes or shared services might not operate daily, and booking early ensures guaranteed availability and often better rates.
Now that the 2025-2026 ski season dates are live, the countdown to your next mountain escape has officially begun. Whether you’re planning to carve first tracks at a world-famous resort or discover somewhere new, Ski-Lifts is ready to get you there with seamless transfers across Europe. Wherever the powder calls, trust us for a smooth, stress-free journey. Ready to secure your ride and get excited for the snow? Book your Ski-Lifts transfer today and let us take care of everything except the turns!
Skiing in Norway: The New Destination of Choice for Winter Sports
Skiing in Norway: The New Destination of Choice for Winter Sports
As the world looks beyond the Alps for its next great ski adventure, Norway is fast emerging as the must-experience destination for the 2025/2026 ski season. With its breathtaking scenery, rich ski heritage, and a wide selection of modern, family-friendly resorts, Norway offers something for everyone. Convenient transfer options from Oslo or Bergen with Ski-Lifts make planning your trip simple and stress-free. Norway is setting the standard for a fresh and memorable winter holiday experience.
Get Your Norway Ski Resort Transfer Quote
Why Choose Norway for Your Next Ski Holiday?
- Home of Skiing and the Winter Olympics: Norway boasts more Winter Olympic medals than any country, plus world-class facilities, crowd-free pistes, and a family-friendly vibe.
- Dramatic Natural Beauty: Fjords, snowy forests, and mountain views frame the skiing experience; try Hafjell’s open slopes, Hemsedal’s backcountry, and Geilo’s terrain parks.
- Reliable Snow & Long Seasons: Excellent coverage from November well into April (sometimes even May) at top resorts, many offering a snow guarantee.
- Off-Piste & Wellness: Enjoy snowshoeing, Northern Lights, classic log cabins, and après-ski focused on hygge, food, and relaxation.
The Best Ski Resorts Near Oslo by Ski-Lifts Transfer
| Resort | Transfer from Oslo | Best For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trysil | ~2 hours | All abilities, snow parks | Norway’s largest; wide pistes, great snowparks |
| Geilo | ~3.5 hours | Families, all abilities | Excellent family facilities, scenic mountains |
| Hemsedal | ~3 hours | Advanced, off-piste | Steep slopes, vibrant après-ski |
| Beitostølen | ~3 hours | Beginners, families | Gentle slopes, Nordic charm, cross-country |
| Kvitfjell | ~3 hours | Advanced, Olympian runs | Olympic pistes, night skiing |
| Hafjell | ~2.5 hours | Families, intermediates | Quiet slopes, terrain variety |
Family-Friendly Resorts & Activities Beyond the Slopes
Norway’s ski resorts are renowned for being exceptionally family-friendly, making them a top pick for groups with children or mixed abilities. Safe, gentle slopes, welcoming ski schools, and fun adventure zones are hallmarks of resorts like Geilo, Trysil, and Hemsedal.
- Outstanding Ski Schools: English-speaking instructors, dedicated children’s areas, and playful beginner zones make learning to ski fun and relaxed for all ages.
- Kids’ Activities: Snow playgrounds, treasure hunts, tobogganing slopes, and indoor play centers ensure children have as much fun off the piste as on it.
- Family Après-ski: Enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, swimming pools, family-friendly restaurants, bowling, and storytelling by the fire—all designed to create magical winter memories.
Explore More: Norway is also a paradise for non-skiers. Try dog sledding, ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country Nordic trails, or set out to see the Northern Lights from your cozy mountain cabin. Many resorts host winter festivals and local cultural events, offering a truly unique Scandinavian experience.
Hassle-Free Private and Coach Transfers from Bergen and Oslo Airports
Begin your Norwegian ski adventure the smoothest way, with a pre-booked private or coach transfer directly from Bergen or Oslo Airports, from just £52.21pp.
- No queues or waiting for taxis (or worrying if any are available).
- Avoid the stress of driving on unknown, snowy roads.
- Experienced local drivers provide a seamless, door-to-door transfer right to your resort.
Enjoy more time on the mountains and less time worrying about logistics, get there easily, safely, and in comfort with our trusted transfer partners.
Why Skiing in Norway is the Next Big Thing?
- Fewer crowds: Enjoy wide empty pistes, even at peak times.
- Snow sure: Long, reliable ski seasons with regular fresh snowfall.
- Full experience: Night skiing, cross-country trails, Northern Lights, and Scandi wellness are all standard.
Considering Norway for Your Next Ski Holiday?
With world-class skiing, Scandi comfort, family-friendly resorts, and stress-free transfers straight from Oslo or Bergen, Norway is poised to be the new favorite for adventurous skiers in 2025/2026. Whether you’re gliding down Trysil’s wide pistes, exploring Geilo‘s terrain parks, or tackling Olympian runs in Kvitfjell, Norway has the perfect winter for you.
Ready to ski Norway?
Pre-book your Norway ski transfer with Ski-Lifts for a smooth, hassle-free experience!.