Hidden Gems

 

Hidden Gems Ski Resorts

Did you know that Europe is  home to many unknown ski resorts? You may have heard of Tignes and you may have heard of Chamonix – but the line doesn’t stop there! From Bulgaria to France to Italy – there are many hidden ski resorts that are nestled away in the snowy mountains. Here are our top 5 – 

Soldeu

The small village is popular with families and those after a little luxury. Everything’s lined up along one central road and it’s only around 10 minutes’ walk to get from one end of the village to the other, meaning it’s really easy to get around. Soldeu is in the the biggest ski area in Andorra. The gondola takes you up to the slopes where you’ll get good snow and views from day one. The slopes are slopes that are especially suited to beginners and intermediates however, more experienced skiers can set out to explore the rest of the area, then ski back down to Soldeu on tree-lined blue or black runs.

Toulouse Airport to Soldeu transfer time is approx. 2hrs 15mins

Pamporovo

Pamporovo’s a great resort for your first ski holiday. There’s an award winning ski school with some excellent beginner-friendly runs. With 36km of trails, getting your bearings is easy, so you can just enjoy the skiing. Pamporovo’s hotels are surrounded by thick pine forests, with a handful of restaurants and bars in the resort. Skiing in Bulgaria is much cheaper than Western Europe, Pamporovo is no exception, so you can ensure that you won’t be spending a fortune on your ski holiday here. 

Sofia Airport to Pamporovo transfer time is approx. 3hrs

Serre Chevalier

When it comes to finding the best hidden resorts in France, look no further than this place. Serre Chevalier is one of the most underrated ski resorts near Grenoble. Despite its hidden status, skiers at this resort also have the option of using their lift pass at the nearby resorts of Alpe d’Huez and Les Deux Alpes. Long blues and reds make up most of the mountain, though there’s also a nursery area in each village for beginners, and advanced skiers won’t want to miss the black run called Olympic. As well as this, the laid-back style of this resort, friendly locals and cheaper prices than will leave you coming back for more.

Turin Airport to Serre Chevalier transfer time is approx. 2hrs

Arraba

Arabba is one of Italy’s quiet ski resorts that is located in the heart of Dolomites. You will be assured to have an unforgettable ski break at this hidden resort.  Arabba, is surrounded by 62km of the best intermediate and advanced slopes in the whole of Dolomiti Superski. The view of Portavescovo Mountain will leave you in awe. However, the skiing at Arraba is always the number one priority. As the resort is home to some amazing technical pistes, you will not be disappointed here. Also, those wanting to learn to ski will be pleased to know that there are some perfect nursery slopes lower down the mountain. 

Innsbruck Airport to Arabba transfer time is approx. 2hrs30mins

Seefeld

The lifts are fast and modern, and there’s a gentle area to get you started, as well as a separate mountain with steeper runs when you’re more confident. Seefeld boasts a spacious ski arena covering a total area of over 600,000 square metres equipped with state-of-the-art lift facilities for beginners and experienced skiers. 26 kilometres of slopes and no fewer than 34 cable-cars, chairlifts and tows ensure non-stop skiing fun for sports fans and sun worshippers alike.

Salzburg Airport to Seefeld transfer time is approx. 50mins

We cover over 200+ ski resort destinations! Book your transfers today to secure the best rates and availability!

Fresh Snow is on its way to the Alps!

 

Fresh Snow

After North America and Japan getting all the fresh snow in the last couple of weeks, it now looks to be the Alps turn, with cold weather and snow heading in from Sunday. One stand out on the forecast currently is Alpe D’Huez  and Les Deux Alpes suggesting upwards of 50cm of fresh snow on Sunday and Monday alone. Val Thorens over 40cm and Avoriaz over 30cm.

The weather in the Alps will remain mostly fine for the rest of this week before it turns much more unsettled from the west on Sunday,” said the alpine weather expert, Fraser Wilkin from weathertoski.co.uk “This much anticipated change in the weather is likely to bring significant snow to the north-western Alps (exactly where it is most needed) late on Sunday and on Monday.

We’ll be watching carefully as the forecast evolves for later into next week and will keep the updates coming across our social media as to where is expecting the most snow.

What we know for definite is that demand for transfers throughout December and into January is still at the highest we have ever seen and we know they’ll be an increase in demand after the dump on Sunday! Click below to receive an instant quote for your ski transfers.

We cover over 200+ ski resort destinations! Book your transfers today to secure the best rates and availability!

Top 10 Ski Resorts with Short Transfer Times

 

TOP 10 SKI RESORTS WITH SHORT TRANSFER TIMES

Your time is valuable when you’re on holiday and there’s skiing to be done. No one wants to be wasting time on a transfer from the airport to the ski resort, especially when time isn’t on your side. 

Here at Ski-Lifts, we ensure that your transfer is seamless, get an instant quote today and book a hassle-free transfer with Ski-Lifts, to one of these ski resorts with short transfer times.

Morzine, France

Morzine is one of the resorts across the Portes du Soleil ski area in France, which stretches up the FranceSwitzerland border. With 52 hotels and 41 bars and restaurants, there is no shortage of facilities. With that being said, Morzine still manages to pull off that genuine mountain village vibe. When it comes to the slopes, Morzine is a perfect ski resort for beginners and intermediate skiers, with plenty of gentle pistes.

Even if you’re not a dedicated skier, Morzine is one of those ski resorts where there is an abundance of other activities to fill up your holiday while everyone else is whizzing down the slopes. These adventurous activities include ice-diving in a lake, nature discovery tours, snowmobiling, tobogganing, snowshoeing and of course, shopping. 

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to Morzine (75 minutes, 76km)

Chamonix, France

Chamonix town in Chamonix Valley is bustling with life, thanks to the 9,000 permanent residents and plenty of tourists. While Chamonix could hardly be classed as a tranquil alpine retreat, the surrounding cliffs and tumbling glaciers of the Mont Blanc massif makes a stunning setting. The town’s old buildings have kept their authentic look and also now that Chamonix centre is traffic-free, it offers pleasant walkways, with cafés looking over the river Arve’s torrent and no shortage of quirky shops – galleries, bookshops and speciality food, along with classic souvenirs and the latest ski and snowboarding gadgets.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to Chamonix (65 minutes, 99km)

Verbier, Switzerland

Verbier is the main resort in the 4 Valleys, the largest Swiss ski area. Verbier’s success is due to a combination of a sunny, scenic location, brilliant terrain and a lively bar scene.  Verbier has been a long-time favourite of the young and sporty clientele. The fact that Verbier is so easy to access from Geneva Airport has also helped with the popularity.

Thanks to the altitude of the ski area and the snowmaking, Verbier is a safe bet when you’re booking for early or late season.  The resort itself sits at 1,500m, however, heights of more than 2,700m can be reached by a couple of gondola rides, which only take around 11 minutes altogether.  At 2700m you can guarantee there will be abundant snowfall.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to Verbier (120 minutes, 160km)

Courmayeur, Italy

Much like Chamonix, located on the French side of Mont Blanc in Chamonix Valley, upmarket Courmayeur is one of the great ski and climbing towns in the Alps. The Italian side of Mont Blanc has a totally different weather pattern to that of the French side. In the winter Courmayeur gets much more sunshine than shady and chilly Chamonix. The centre of Courmayeur village is pedestrianised and lined with high-end boutiques, lively bars, quality restaurants and even antique and homeware shops. The main ski area is reached by cable car from the centre of the village. The top lift reaches a maximum height of 2,755m and the bottom of the slopes lay at 1,224m.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Turin Airport to Courmayeur (90 minutes, 150km)

St Anton, Austria

St Anton is, Arlberg is situated in the western part of the Austrian Tyrol region, the town has always been well known for its natural beauty, reliable snowfall and the excellent condition of the slopes. The large, networked lift system in St Anton includes the neighbouring resorts of St Christoph and Stuben and a St Anton ski pass also covers the resorts of Lech and Zurs.  Although the town does lay low, luckily there’s a good range of skiing from 1200m to almost 3000m. The ground is grassy and below 2000m, so there’s no real need for a large snow base to make the runs skiable. However, well over a metre of snow is needed to cover the rocks above the treeline. Early on in the season, lower resorts are likely to have more runs open.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Innsbruck Airport to St Anton (60 minutes, 100km)

Mayrhofen, Austria

Skiers and snowboarders have been hitting the slopes by Mayrhofen for more than a century and for the locals, providing hospitality, is a way of life. The Zillertal, where Mayrhofen lies, is also famous for being one of Austria’s most musical valleys – almost every member of local families can boast of being a member of a band. The musical theme extends to all the way to the mountain, where music can be heard across the slopes from every mountain hut.  Mayrhofen boasts 136km of runs and 57 lifts, a reputation for consistent snowfall throughout the season and runs which sit between 1,650m and 2,500m. Mayrhofen is packed full of red runs and suits versed intermediates perfectly. For those experts, Mayrhofen is home to Austria’s steepest slope, the Harakiri.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Innsbruck Airport to Mayrhofen (60 minutes, 70km)

La Clusaz, France

La Clusaz is an authentic mountain village that boasts a rustic and Gallic charm. Due to the proximity to Geneva airport, La Clusaz attracts a tonne of weekend visitors. The local slopes are all below 2500m, so snow conditions can be unpredictable, however, there is a lot of snowmaking to make up for that. There are steep black runs and bumps, as well as decent off-piste when conditions allow. There are also challenging but wide blues, as well as gentle nursery slopes up to the mountain. La Clusaz is home to rustic huts throughout, and a few lively bars to keep you occupied.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to La Clusaz (90 minutes, 70km)

Solden, Austria

Solden is home to some challenging red pistes and exceptionally long top-to-bottom runs.  For those who love the lively bar scene, Solden is the place for you. The ski area in Solden is not enormous. However, the runs go high and all sectors offer serious vertical and also some long runs. Snowmaking spans across 67% of the area, including all slopes on Giggijoch. Even in a generally poor season, you can usually count on coverage, even down to resort level.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Innsbruck Airport to Solden (70 minutes, 83km)

Kitzbuhel, Austria

This medieval silver-mining centre deserves its reputation as one of the most picturesque ski towns in the Alps. Old coaching inns which have now inevitably been converted into four- and five-star hotels compete for space in the medieval streets alongside expensive fashion boutiques and fancy cafés. The town stands at 800m and the top lift at 2,000m. For guaranteed snow, head to Kitzbuhel between the end of January and the majority of February. Although Kitzbuhel may look like one of the most expensive resorts in Europe, surprisingly prices fail to reach anywhere near the heights of Courchevel or Zermatt.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Innsbruck Airport to Kitzbuhel (80 minutes, 83km)

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a city, not a ski resort, right? Our answer to that is, take a look at the map.  Innsbruck is a place surrounded by mountains. To the north lies the Nordkette. South-east of Innsbruck city centre is the Patscherkofl, while to the south you will find the east-west ridge of the Alps and the slopes of the Stubai Glacier. To be precise, there are nine ski areas surrounding the city, covered by the same lift pass. These ski areas offer a brilliant variety of terrain.

Ski-Lifts Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Innsbruck Airport to Innsbruck (15 minutes, 6km)

Book your ski transfer today

If you’re heading to one of these ski destinations with a short transfer time, don’t forget to book your airport to resort transfer with us here at Ski-Lifts! We offer transfers to over 200 resorts across Europe and America, whether you’re an individual, couple or a group – and booking online is hassle-free. Once your transfer has been organised, you’ll be able to start planning for your ski trip. It’s that simple! Get an instant quote today. 

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2022/2023 European Ski Season opening dates

2022/2023 European Ski Season opening dates

 

After the success of the 2021/2022 season, we are all very excited to return to our favourite European ski resorts! Our aim at Ski-Lifts is to make your ski experience as seamless as possible, so we have compiled a list of opening dates for European resorts that are open for Ski, Snowboard (and Transfer!) bookings.

Austria ski resort opening dates

Bad Kleinkirchheim08/12/22 – 02/04/23Bad Kleinkirchheim ski transfers
HintertuxOpen all year roundHintertux ski transfers
Ischgl24/11/22 – 05/01/23Ischgl ski transfers
KitzbühelEstimated 29/10/22 – 16/04/23Kitzbühel ski transfers
MayrhofenEstimated 03/12/22 – 15/04/23Mayrhofen ski transfers
Solden19/11/22 – 28/04/23Solden ski transfers
St Anton02/12/22 – 23/04/23St Anton ski transfers
Innsbruck25/10/22 – 28/04/23Innsbruck ski transfers

Bulgaria ski resort opening dates

BanksoEstimated 12/12/22 – 13/04/23Bankso ski transfers
BorovetsEstimated 18/12/22 – 15/04/23Borovets ski transfers

France ski resort opening dates

Alpe D’HuezEstimated 03/12/22 – 23/04/23Alpe D’Huez ski transfers
AvoriazEstimated 10/12/22 – 23/04/23Avoriaz ski transfers
ChamonixEstimated 17/12/22 – 16/04/23Chamonix ski transfers
CourchevelEstimated 03/12/22 – 23/04/23Courchevel ski transfers
Flaine03/12/22 – 16/04/23Flaine ski transfers
La Tania19/11/22 – 08/05/23La Tania ski transfers
Les Gets17/12/22 – 10/04/23Les Gets ski transfers
Les Menuires09/12/22 – 23/04/23Les Menuires ski transfers
Méribel03/12/22 – 23/04/23Meribel ski transfers
Val Thorens19/11/22 – 07/05/23Val Thorens ski transfers
Tignes26/11/22 – 07/05/23Tignes ski transfers
Morzine17/12/22 – 10/04/23Morzine ski transfers

Germany ski resort opening dates

Garmisch16/12/22 – 02/04/23Gamisch ski transfers

 

 

Italy ski resort opening dates

Arabba08/12/22 – 16/04/23Arabba ski transfers
Cervinia01/10/22 – 07/05/23Cervinia ski transfers
Cortina26/11/22 – 01/05/23Cortina ski transfers
Sauze d’oulxEstimated 08/12/22 – 13/04/23Sauze d’oulx ski transfers
Livigno26/11/22 – 29/04/23Livigno ski transfers
Madonna Di Campiglio03/12/22 – 02/04/23Madonna Di Campiglio ski transfers
Val Gardena03/12/22 – 11/04/23Val Gardena ski transfers

Slovenia ski resort opening dates

Kranjska Gora02/12/22 – 16/04/23Kranjska Gora ski transfers

Switzerland ski resort opening dates

Davos & KlostersVarious datesDavos & Klosters ski transfers
Gstaad10/12/22 – 10/04/23Gstaad ski transfers
Saas FeeEstimated 29/10/22 – 23/04/23Saas Fee ski transfers
VerbierEstimated 03/12/22 – 23/04/23Verbier ski transfers

 

We cover over 200+ ski resort destinations! Book your transfers today to secure the best rates and availability!

 

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS SKI TRANSFERS

 

CHRISTMAS SKI TRANSFERS AVAILABLE TO BOOK NOW

 

Are you dreaming of heading to snowier climates this festive season? It’s time to turn those dreams into reality. Christmas Ski transfers to popular resorts during the busy season are already getting booked up, so, to make the decision easier, we’ve put together a list of our favourite resorts to spend this Christmas.

Courchevel, France

Just a 2 hour, 30-minute transfer from Geneva Airport, Courchevel is located at one end of the world’s largest lift-linked ski area, the Three Valleys. You’ll have access to 600km of pistes and over 70 lifts! The snow in Courchevel is usually some of the best in the whole of the Three Valleys, thanks to the local slopes facing north. There’s terrain to suit everyone from beginner to expert, making Courchevel a perfect family getaway for Christmas.

Wengen, Switzerland

If you’re looking for a truly festive Swiss break, then Wengen will delight you.  The streets are decorated for Christmas and Christmas Eve. If you want to take in some local culture, join the local Swiss families and attend Midnight Mass, then get together afterwards to share homemade doughnuts and hot chocolate. Sharing a ski area with GrindelwaldWengen sits on a sunny shelf and most of its slopes sit above its neighbour, under the north face of the Eiger.  If you purchase a Jungfrau lift pass then you can ski in both resorts, as well as next-door Mürren.  

Wengen is perfect for families, just a 2 hour, 30-minute transfer from Geneva Airport. The resort is virtually car-free and in the centre, there’s a snow-covered field that serves brilliantly as a nursery slope and a playground.  The main way up the mountain is the cog railway, which gives any progressing children the chance to access the village from Lauterbrunnen down in the valley.

Megeve, France

Megève was originally created to give France its very own St Moritz. As the story goes, in 1914 the French set about transforming the original farming village into what it is today, a resort with expensive boutiques, fancy restaurants and hotels all lining the town square and the cobbled streets. The Swarovski Christmas tree in Megève is a must see!

If you’re looking for a lavish Christmas break, just an hour and twenty-minute transfer from Geneva, then Megève is the place for you. Altogether there are seven 5-star hotels, one 3-Michelin-star restaurant and four that have 1-Michelin-star. Megeve has its brilliant share of accommodation, including hotels, private rentals, residences, chalets, and guestrooms. 

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is Switzerland’s most famous resort. Approximately a 2hrs, 30 minute transfer from Geneva Airport – Think horse-drawn sleighs, glowing shop windows and chestnut and glühwein stalls, that’s exactly how Zermatt is at Christmas. The world’s most photogenic mountain, the Matterhorn ensures that Zermatt is loved by many and known all around the world, so it’s time to book your Christmas ski transfers ASAP!

If you’re worried about early-season snow at Christmas, well, you needn’t worry about Zermatt’s snow-sure slopes from late November. Its high-altitude top stations (all the way up to 3,820m), a modern and slick lift system and the fantastic mountain restaurants, ensure Zermatt is a cut above the rest. There are links to Cervinia over the Italian border from here, so you can even pop over for a pizza.

Val Thorens, France

Val Thorens is the highest resort in the huge Three Valleys ski area, Val Thorens is actually the highest resort in Europe. The high-altitude of Val Thorens slopes means that this resort is snow-sure from November onwards, so there’s no need to worry about snow cover over the Christmas period. 

The terrain around Val Thorens suits everyone from beginner to expert, however, intermediates are those who Val Thorens suits the most.  If you’re up for some long, cruising runs over the Christmas period, then head over to Les Menuires and St Martin de Belleville.

he closest airport to Val Thorens is Chambery, but there are plenty of other nearby airports that the big airlines fly into. The journey from Geneva may take longer at 3hrs (than Chambery at 90 mins), but Geneva airport is preferred by some skiers for its relatively faster luggage processing and other facilities.

Kitzbuhel, Austria

This amazing alpine village is nestled in Tyrol, it’s a beautiful picture-perfect Austrian resort. From the 26th November, you’ll find a festive filled Christmas market with local handicraft stores, fir trees and plenty of konditorei (a cafe selling pastries). Spend your days skiing and enjoying pony rides and a petting zoo. Each evening from 6 pm, the central square is filled with singing from the local choirs. Transfers from Innsbuck to Kitzbuhel take around 1 hour and 30 minutes, you can also fly to Salzburg and Munich, which takes about 2 hours to Kitzbuhel.

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It’s snowing in Val Thorens

 

 

Val Thorens

The latest news from Val Thorens is that they still hope to open the resort on 26th November, just 3 days away!

 

The resort teams have reported heavy snow 3 hours ago, with more to come over the next few days.

 

Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe and part of the infamous Three Valleys ski area. With 600km of pistes, the highest lift at 3230m, its great snow record and well-linked lift system. A Three Valleys ski pass covers the entire Three Valleys ski area. Covering resorts such as Méribel, La Tania, Courchevel and more. A Three Valleys ski pass will give you access to more than 600km of runs, including 30 black, 108 red, 129 blue and 51 green runs. Val Thorens itself is a purpose-built resort in the Belleville valley situated above the resorts ofLes Menuires and St Martin De Belleville, its high altitude guarantees a longer season than many places. On a beautiful day, the positioning of the resort offers an unbeatable winter panorama.

Many people say Val Thorens is one the liveliest resorts. The resort usually puts on a big event each month, like the JBL Snow Party (with performers including Tinie Tempah) and Festi Val Tho (an electro event), making it very popular for student ski trips. All season long, bars like 360 and Folie Douce mark the end of the skiing day with loud music and dancing, while Le Malaysia (the biggest nightclub in the Alps) is the place to end your night. 

Ski-Lifts offer a range of award-winning quality airport transfers to Val Thorens and many other ski resorts in France.  Our service is reliable, safe and our drivers have decades of local knowledge with great value prices.  We offer private, luxury and coach transfers to Val Thorens from surroundings airports. 

Transfers from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens take approx. 2hrs 30 mins.

Transfers from Chambery Airport to Val Thorens take approx. 1hr 30 mins.

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Where can I ski right now?

 

 

 

As the nights draw in, thoughts are turning to fresh snow and blue bird days on the mountains…

I’m sure you are already thinking about where your next ski trip will be, but in which ski resorts is the snow forecast? We’ve put together a list of ski resorts across the world that are open or are opening very soon…

AUSTRIA – SNOW FORECAST
Austria is one of the most famous and most popular skiing destinations in the world. The amount of ski resorts is vast and because of this, there is something to suit everyone. 
Obergurgl is due to open this weekend and Kitzbuhel has already opened some of its high altitude runs, with snow forecast looking positive. Consider recommending Glacier ski areas, both Hintertux and Solden ski resorts now have more than 30km of runs open, the most in Europe!

Transfers from Innsbruck Airport to Austrian resorts all take less than 2 hours!

SWITZERLAND – SNOW FORECAST
Switzerland has an extensive history in Alpine sports, being one of the pioneer countries in the sport of skiing.
Verbier announced it is opening its Lac Des Vaux slope and will continue to open more as due to good snow forecast, until the main season starts on December 3rd. Sass Fee, which has reported the best snow depth in the world and Zermatt, has over 15 miles of runs available.

Transfers from Geneva Airport to these Switzerland Resorts take between 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes.

FRANCE – SNOW FORECAST
France is one of the most popular destinations for a skiing holiday in the world, and rightly so. The range of destinations on offer caters for every standard, every type of skier there could possibly be, and every winter budget. Val Thorens delayed its opening date but with good snow cover on the tops, they have a revised opening date of November 26th which is the same as TignesVal d’Isere have announced its season start will be December 3rd with snowfall down to about 1500 metres.

Transfers from Geneva Airport to these French Resorts take between 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours.

ITALY – SNOW FORECAST
There are three large, linked ski areas in Italy, so it is easy to get some serious amounts of skiing packed into your ski holiday. First of those ski areas is the Dolomiti Superski, which covers 1200km of pistes. Next up is the Milky Way ski area, the 400km of pistes connect multiple resorts. Finally, the Monta Rosa ski area. This ski area is often touted as one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. There are extensive off-piste runs to explore, as well as 180km of pistes. A few resorts have opened, Cervinia has had fresh snowfall and Val Senales is open with 4 miles of high-altitude terrain available.

Turin Airport to Cervinia transfer time is approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
Geneva Airport to Cervinia transfer time is approx. 3 hours


USA/CANADA – SNOW FORECAST
It’s great news for the North American ski slopes with a number of ski areas announcing early open dates due to good snowfall.

Vail calls itself ‘North America’s favourite ski resort’. That’s a grand, subjective statement we can’t confirm, but there is one thing we do know for sure: it’s America’s biggest ski resort. Vail’s got over 5,289 ski-able acres and 7 legendary back bowls spanning 7 miles. Free buses and heated walkways connect its four distinct base areas. Breckenridge is an American ski resort giving you access to 155 individual pistes and 32 ski lifts. Although the proportion of black runs available vs blue & green runs might appear intimidating to less experienced skiers, Breckenridge is actually an excellent resort for all levels of ability.

Denver Airport to Vail transfer time is approx. 2 hours 15 minutes
Eagle Airport to Vail transfer time is approx. 1 hour

Denver Airport to Breckenridge transfer time is approx. 2 hours
Eagle Airport to Breckenridge transfer time is approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

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The best French Après Ski Resorts

 

Après Ski Resorts

 

A day on the mountain is hard to beat, but what do you do after a day of skiing or snowboarding can make your trip one of the best!

We have asked our team here in Morzine and have decided on our favourite top 5 French resorts for Après Ski!

Val d’Isere

The Val d’Isere’s après ski scene has something for everyone and is known for its Après Ski scene worldwide. We are sure you’ve heard of the Folie Douce, this bar has performers who dance, play instruments, perform circus tricks and generally form a massive mountainside party every afternoon. Top DJs play at Dick’s Tea Bar in the town centre where you are able to dance until 5am! Cocorico is also a must visit if you like live music on the piste-side. So, whether you are young or old, you are sure to enjoy the Après Ski in Val d’Isere.

Transfers from Geneva Airport to Val d’Isere take approx. 3hrs.

Meribel

Meribel’s Rond Point – also known as the Ronnie – is a world-class après ski institution and has been drawing in crowds for decades with its live bands and loud DJ sets. Its sister venue is the O’Sullivans Club, where you’ll find drinks deals and themed funk, soul and disco nights. This Three Valleys resort is huge with British skiers and snowboarders, so if you want a home-from-home party atmosphere with the bonus of mountains on your doorstep, this is the après ski destination for you!

Transfers from Chambery Airport to Meribel take approx. 1hr 30 mins. 

Transfers from Geneva Airport to Meribel take approx. 2hrs 15 mins.

Alpe d’Huez

Alpe d’Huez is no sleepy ski resort. It has its own branch of Folie Douce, the Freeride Café with its pool tables (and a slide to the toilet!) and Smithy’s Tavern with its Tex Mex menu, beer jugs and band nights. When everywhere else has shut up shop for the night, there’s a nightclub called L’Igloo which stays open until the early hours. Drinks and dancing aren’t the only après ski activities, there’s also a big outdoor ice rink, where you can sometimes watch ice hockey games and the Sports and Convention Centre offering swimming, squash, climbing and bouldering.

Transfers from Grenoble Airport to Alpe d’Huez take approx. 1hr 40 mins.

Val Thorens

Val Thorens is the highest resort in the Alps, and many people say it’s also the liveliest. The resort usually puts on a big event each month, like the JBL Snow Party (with performers including Tinie Tempah) and Festi Val Tho (an electro event), making it very popular for student ski trips. All season long, bars like 360 and Folie Douce mark the end of the skiing day with loud music and dancing, while Le Malaysia (the biggest nightclub in the Alps) is the place to end your night. 

Transfers from Geneva Airport to Val Thorens take approx. 2hrs 30 mins.

Transfers from Chambery Airport to Val Thorens take approx. 1hr 30 mins.

Courchevel

Posh, but never too posh to party, Courchevel is world-renowned for its expensive and exclusive après ski scene. Follow the routine of the rich and famous and slip from the slopes (or the shops) into a chic bar like Le 8611 for an aperitif, move on for a Michelin starred meal in one of the celebrated eateries, then head to Les Caves nightclub to spend a small fortune on a jeroboam or two of champagne. While Courchevel 1850 is the place to see and be seen, the other villages also have some great bars, for example, Fire and Ice and Bubble Bar in 1650.

Transfers from Geneva Airport to Courchevel take approx. 2hrs 30 mins.

Transfers from Chambery Airport to Courchevel take approx. 1hr 30 mins.

So, now you’ve chosen your next Ski Trip, it’s time to book your transfers! Click below to get an instant quote!

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France Opens to UK Tourists – What are the rules?

France Opens to UK Tourists – What are the rules?

The news we’ve been waiting for since the middle of last month has now broken, with France set to allow British tourists to visit again from Friday 14th January 2022.
The timing couldn’t be better, with great snow conditions across the Alps and glorious sunshine waiting for you.

Mont Blanc

France have updated their travel rules for the UK to France with immediate effect, meaning that fully vaccinated travellers from the UK can enter France without the need for a compelling reason to travel, or the requirement to isolate on arrival.

Anyone over 12 years old will simply need a negative Covid test (PCR or anitgen) from an approved private test provider, taken within 24-hours pre-departure and must complete a sworn attestation confirming that they have not experienced any COVID-19 symptoms or been in contact with a positive case before travel. You can download and complete this form in English.

If transiting through Geneva to enter France, the rules regarding tests and vaccination status are basically the same, there is no need for any additional tests for this, but you must also complete a Swiss Entry Form.

For your return to the UK, there is no requirement to take a test prior to the return journey, you simply need to complete a UK Passenger Locator Form and you must then take a Day 2 PCR or antigen test after your return, but again there is no requirement to isolate while you wait for the results.

We hope this info is useful and we recommend checking out the UK Government official site for up to date and more detailed information.

 
We’re already seeing a surge in demand since the news broke, so our top tip is to get your plans sorted early and book your transfers with Ski-Lifts as soon as possible to get the best price and avoid missing out, especially for peak dates.

All of us in the Ski-Lifts team look forward to seeing you very soon!

Can I ski in 2022? Current UK Travel Guidelines

Where can I ski in 2022?

Where is best to travel, tips for travelling and
guidelines for UK travel from December 2021

Originally published 22nd December 2021, updated Jan 5th with reduced UK requirements.

Are you dying to go on your ski holiday but nervous about current testing requirements? While difficult to understand and keep track of, current regulations are actually less stringent than in the summer, when many people were able to travel abroad and enjoy their holidays. In reality, it is still easy to travel to and plan your ski holiday for 2022, and probably less expensive than you think. In this guide, we have sourced the most reasonable test kits and advise how to book a trip that is fully protected for your peace of mind.

From this week (Jan 5th) lateral flow tests are acceptable for your day 0-2 test on return and no self-isolation is required will you wait for your result. These tests are cheaper than a PCR test, with prices starting from£18.00 per test. Moneysupermarket has a list ofgovernment-approved home antigen or lateral flow test kit suppliers here. These are also fit for travel to countries that require the use of antigen tests.

This guide is up to date as of the 5th of January 2022, and although we will keep updating the guide, it is always best to check for up to date guidance from the UK government page for each country, or their own government site.

Italy

Double-vaccinated people or those that have a proof of Covid-19 recovery pass can visit Italy freely without isolating on arrival. To enter Italy you simply need to fill out a passenger locator form and have either a negative PCR test within 48 hours or a negative antigen test within 24 hours of entering Italy. For more information you can visit the gov. website here.

Cost rundown:

  • Negative antigen test 24 hours before arrival£18.00-22.00.
  • Day 0-2 antigen test on return£18.00-22.00.

Total cost:£36 –£44.00

Switzerland

Double-vaccinated people orthose that have a proof of Covid-19 recovery pass can visit Switzerland freely. Beforehand they need a negative PCR test result taken within 48 hours of arrival or a negative antigen test, taken within 24 hours before arrival into Switzerland. They also need to complete an immigrant form (similar to a passenger locator form) before travel, which you can find here. For more information visit the government page here.

Cost rundown for a weeks stay:

  • Negative antigen test 24 hours before arrival £18.00-22.00.
  • Day 0-2 antigen test on return £18.00-22.00.

Total cost: £36 – £44.00

Austria

Austria is open to vaccinated skiers or tourists that have proof of recovery from Covid-19. On entry to Austria, you either need proof of a booster vaccination or a negative PCR result to avoid quarantine and fulfilling a passenger locator form.

Cost rundown:

  • Negative PCR fit to fly test 48 hours before arrival (not neccesary if you have recieved a booster vaccination) £35.00 for an Amazon home kit, £55.00 – 80.00 for an in-person test with one day or less turnaround.
  • Negative antigen test 24 hours before arrival £18.00-22.00.
  • Day 0-2 antigen test on return £18.00-22.00.

Total cost: £71 – £124.00, if you haven’t received the booster jab (otherwise max£44.00).

Panoramic view of Zell am See with Zeller See lake in twilight during blue hour at dusk in winter, Salzburger Land, Austria
Zell am See Lake, Salzburger Land, Austria. Open to double-vaccinated tourists with no testing requirements.

Returning to England

If you are double vaccinated, and returning from a country not on the red list you need to have the following on arrival:

  • Filled in passenger locator form (available for you to complete 48 hours before arrival in the UK).
  • To have booked a lateral flow or PCR test to take by the second day of your return.

Protecting your holiday from cancellations

Travel insurance

When planning any holiday, but particularly with current events, travel insurance is necessary. Every provider listed on Moneysupermarket offers emergency medical treatment and repatriation for coronavirus claims as a minimum. To protect you under any circumstance, choose insurance which will cover you if you test positive at the resort so you are covered if you need additional accommodation and return travel.

Plus, if you like going off-piste or snowsports outside of skiing and snowboarding there are options to cover you.

Flexible bookings

Book flights and accommodation with providers that have flexible terms that allow you change dates or cancel for free and be refunded without excessive admin fees.

Flexible airport transfers

At Ski Lifts we have always provided a flexible service with free cancellations and amendments to bookings up to 7 days before departure. We now protect our customers even further with our covid-19 guarantee, which allows covid related cancellations up to the day before planned departure before 4:00 pm. Book your ski transfers now, or find out more here.