The Best Mountain Biking in the French Alps

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The Best Mountain Biking in the French Alps

Are you thinking about a mountain biking holiday this summer? The Alps is one of the best places any thrill-seeking mountain biker could visit and in particular the French Alps. We know the amount of choice in terms of where to go can be overwhelming. There are tonnes of places throughout the French Alps which are home to amazing trails with stunning scenery. Don’t worry, with our guide to mountain biking in the French Alps, you can make an informed choice.

Find out more about mountain biking in…

Portes du Soleil
Isère
Savoie

Mountain Biking in the Portes du Soleil

Mountain biking in Morzine

Set in the heart of the massive Portes du Soleil, Morzine is a perfect location to base yourself for a mountain biking holiday in the French Alps.

There are tonnes of great trails which are easily accessible from the town. You can also take the chairlift to access some of the equally challenging runs around Les Gets, Avoriaz, Châtel and Champéry.

You can access the lifts from 10th June 2018 to 3rd September 2018.

Mountain biking in Les Gets

Known as one of the best mountain biking destinations in Europe, Les Gets is the perfect base for people who want to ride trails in the Portes du Soleil.

For all you downhill bikers, there are 12 runs on offer in Les Gets. They all vary in difficulty, so there’s pretty much something for all abilities. As well as 12 downhill runs, Les Gets is also home to 3 jump parks, 2 north shore trails and many technical zones.

If you’re looking for some cross-country mountain biking, then you’re also in the right place! There are a total of 7 cross-country mountain bike trails in Les Gets. If you’re a beginner, look out for the green runs. Alternatively, if you’re an advanced or expert biker, head for the red and black runs. Blue runs are for intermediates (they are the same colour coding as ski runs).

The summer lift opening dates for Les Gets are 16th June 2018 – 2nd September 2018.

Mountain biking in Chamonix

If miles upon miles of classic singletrack is your thing, then Chamonix is the perfect location for your mountain biking holiday in the French Alps. The singletrack is full of technical sections and flowy descents which pass down the most well-known valley in Europe.

If you really want to challenge yourself, then head over to Vallorcine. There are also graded trails for all abilities in the mountain bike areas at Le Tour, Flegere, Brevent and Les Houches.

For a true test, there’s a 5-day ‘Tour de Mont Blanc’. This takes riders on a 200km adventure uphill and downhill around Mont Blanc. This isn’t for the light-hearted, however, If you do decide to challenge yourself, you will be rewarded with some of the most stunning scenery in the Alps.

The summer lift opening dates for Chamonix vary for different areas, but they are generally mid June 2018 – mid-August-mid-September 2018.

Get a quote now for transfers from Geneva Airport to Chamonix.

Mountain Biking in Avoriaz

Whether you have a preference for cross-country or downhill, Avoriaz has you covered!

For some downhill, head over to Linderets bike park and then from there take the chairlift to Chatel. Then try your hand on the blue track (Chesery), which takes you down until you eventually join into a winter piste.

Also, check out the 3 tracks on the Avoriaz side of Les Lidarets, with 1 blue, 1 red and 1 black. The blue run here is perfect for beginners.

The summer lifts in Avoriaz are open from 7th June 2018 to 13th September 2018. Rather than dragging yourself up steep inclines (unless you want to do that, of course!) Make use of the lifts which thankfully have adapted racks and hooks for bikes.

Don’t forget, Ski-Lifts provide transfers throughout the summer to all of these resorts. Get an instant quote and book your transfer online today!

Mountain biking in Isère

Mountain biking in Alpe d’Huez

The bigger the better, that’s usually how it goes right? If you’re a believer in that saying, then Alpe d’Huez is perfect for you. This resort right in the middle of the of the largest mountain biking areas in the French Alps.

With over 250km of trails, you’re absolutely spoilt for choice! The 8 resort villages of Alpe d’Huez (Auris en Oisans, Allemont, Bourg d’Oisans, Le Freney, Oz en Oisans, Vaujany and Villard Reculas) are all linked through the trails. As with resorts in the Portes du Soleil, the chairlifts make the trails easily accessible.

Alpe d’Huez also boasts a total of 3 bike parks, 2 north shore areas, 3 pump tracks and 2 four cross tracks.

The summer lift opening dates for Alpe d’Huez are 30th June 2018 – 26th August 2018.

Mountain Biking in Les Deux Alpes

Les Deux Alpes is one of the most popular mountain biking resorts in the Alps and rightly so.

If you’re heading here on your summer holiday, you can spend your time flying down over 110kms of downhill trails, which are spread across 4 different areas. 2 of the trails have a descent of over 2,500m. The trails here have something to test riders of every ability. All the way from family-friendly green runs to the more challenging red and black marked trails.

As well as a whole host of downhill runs, Les Deux Alpes offers a Whistler A-Line style freeride and also many cross-country options.

There are 10 lifts here that can transport bikes. The summer lift opening dates are 23rd June 2018 – 3rd September 2018.

Mountain biking in Savoie

Mountain biking in Les Arcs

Les Arcs isn’t always the top of everyone’s list when they’re deciding where to go on their summer holiday in the Alps. However, if you’re looking for trail after trail, then Les Arcs should be top of your list! This summertime gem has enough trails to keep you going for the whole of summer. All of the villages which make up Les Arcs (Bourg St Maurice, Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950 and Arc 2000) are all intertwined with mountain biking trails.

For thrill seekers, there’s a permanent black run, which you can fly down for the majority of the summer season, all thanks to the Bourg St Maurice funicular. Overall, there are 8 lifts which are available to use in the summer, which give you access to around 20 green, blue, red, black and cross-country trails.

The summer lift opening dates for Les Arcs are 7th July 2018 – 1st September 2018.

Mountain biking in Courchevel

If you’re looking for exciting trails which also offer stunning mountain scenery, then Courchevel is the place for you. What really makes Courchevel one of the most appealing mountain biking destinations in the French Alps is the unrivalled cross-country riding. The routes here do cater for all ability of rider, but if you’re looking for a true challenge, then set your sights on the Three Valleys 117km loop!

All of the trails here in Courchevel are well marked and graded in the same way as many other trails in the Alps and the same way as ski pistes. As mentioned, Courchevel is part of the gigantic Three Valleys area, so you have much more on your doorstep than just the trails around Courchevel. The whole area is interconnected with lift accessed downhills tracks. It’s pretty much impossible to find yourself riding the same trails twice on your mountain bike holiday in Courchevel.

The summer lift opening dates for Courchevel are 7th July 2018 – 31st August 2018.

Mountain biking in Meribel

Located 200km east of Lyon, Meribel is in the heart of the huge Three Valleys ski area. There are plenty of mountain biking opportunities to keep you occupied during your time in Meribel. There are over 100km of trails, 3 cross-country loops and 8 downhill tracks. That’s just for starters. You’re right in the middle of the world’s largest ski area, so that means there ample opportunities for more trails all around you.

All of the trails in Meribel can be access through two main lifts; the Pas du Lac and Tougnete. You can easily get off the lift halfway to ride some of the lower level trails, or if you’re wanting to access some of the higher trails which also link to Courchevel and Val Thorens Valleys, then stay on until the top.

The summer lift opening dates for Meribel are 8th July 2018 – 31st August 2018.

Mountain biking in Tignes

If wide open and rocky trails are your cup of tea, then I suggest you jump on a plane and head to Tignes for your summer holiday. Tignes is an area packed with a whole host of opportunities to partake in summer activities and even summer skiing. However, it’s the mountain biking which is one of the main attractions here.

There’s something for everyone here. If you’re looking for a mellow ride on a steady slop, Tignes has you covered. If you’re after a hair-raising ride on a steep, unforgiving slope, Tignes also has you covered! For you freeriders out there, we suggest getting yourself over to Kamasutrail, where you can test your skills on the ski-jumps, hip jumps, road gap and step-ups.

The summer lift opening dates for Tignes are 30th June 2018 – 2nd September 2018.

Mountain biking in Val d’Isere

One of the most well-known and visited ski resorts in the winter, Val d’Isere doesn’t disappoint during the summer either. As a whole, the Solaise and Borsat chairlifts and the Olympic Gondola on the Bellevarde mountain give you access to a total of 21 downhill track,s 2 cross-country trails, 2 family trails and 21 downhill tracks.

You’ll have access to a total of 150km of mountain bike trails if you decide to head to Val d’Isere, so there’s no chance of getting bored! Put down a small deposit for your lift pass and you will have access to all these trails for free. What more can you ask for? The three lifts in Val d’Isere also link up with another 2 in the close by the resort of Tignes.

The summer lift opening dates for Val d’Isere are 30th June 2018 – 2nd September 2018.

Don’t forget, Ski-Lifts provide transfers throughout the summer to all of these resorts. Get an instant quote and book your transfer online today!

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The Best Places to Ski in June, July and August

Think ski holidays are only in winter? Not in Europe! Home to some incredible glacier ski resorts, you can still hit the slopes when the sun is shining. With some of the best summer ski resorts located in Austria, France and Switzerland, we’ve shared the best places you can ski in June, July and August.

Summer skiing in Austria

Stubai Glacier, Austria

Open: 5th May 2024 onwards

Nearest Airport: Innsbruck Airport

Transfer Time: Transfers from Innsbruck Airport to Neustift take approximately 1 hour.

If you thought spending a full day on the slopes in Europe wasn’t possible past May, you’re wrong. Stubai is Austria’s largest glacier skiing area and has a wide range of activities in the summer. Whether you visit the viewing platform, family hikes, mountain tour or even skiiing the glacier has alot to offer. Classed as the ‘spring season’ you’ll be able to enjoy cheaper lift passes and fewer crowds.

Other activities include climbing, enjoying the viewing platform, hiking tours and geocaching.

Stubai Glacier Summer — Stubai Glacier in the Summer

Hintertux, Austria

Open: May 2024 to October 2024 (Summer Season)

Nearest Airport: Innsbruck Airport

Transfer Time: Transfers from Innsbruck Airport to Hintertux take approximately 1 hour 35 minutes.

Remaining 365 days a year, Hintertux is the ultimate destination for a summer ski holiday. Although its known for its challenging, steep terrain, its 22km of runs cater to a range of abilities. Betterpark is perfect for freestylers and features a half-pipe, table-tops, rails and fun boxes.

Other highlights in the resort include Nature’s Ice Palace, a beautiful glacial crevasse with ice stalactites, ice crystals, frozen waterfalls and a glacial lake. You can also do a took of Spannagel Cave, Europe’s highest altitude publicly accessible cave or enjoy the incredible views from the Panorama Terrace.

Summer skiing in France

Tignes, France

Open: June 2024– TBC

Nearest Airport: Geneva Airport

Transfer Time: Transfers from Geneva Airport to Tignes take approximately 2hours 50 minutes

One of the most popular ski resorts in the Alps, Tignes offers a summer skiing until the beginning of August. The 20km of pistes of the Grande Motte Glacier offers a variety of terrain (blue, red and black runs), all accessed by chairlifts and drags. In addition, the Glacier Snowpark is a popular choice for amateurs and pros, featuring a half-pipe, rails, moguls, a hip ramp, quarter-ramps and a rainbow rail.

Other activities to get involved with include the bike park, archery, golf, hiking, climbing, rafting, white water swimming, horse riding and fishing. Visitors can also have fun in Acroland where you can slide, or ride, down a ramp and into Tignes’ Lake.

© Photo by Gergely Csatari (www.flickr.com/photos/macskapocs/5380633336/)

Les Deux Alpes, France

Open: May 2024 to TBC

Nearest Airport: Geneva Airport

Transfer Time: Transfers from Geneva Airport to Les Deux Alpes take approximately 3 hours 30 minutes

Guaranteeing natural snow on a glacier sitting at an altitude 3,600 metres, Les 2 Alpes is a great option for summer skiing. Open from 7.30am to 12.30pm during the summer ski season, visitors have the chance to ski one of the largest summer ski areas in Europe. Opening Glacier 3200 – 3600, the summer area features 1 red run, 9 blue runs and 1 green, served by 2 chair lifts, 8 ski tows, 2 gondola lifts, 1 cable car, 2 drag lifts, 1 funicular lift and an elevator. In addition, the Snowpark is open, complete with a superpipe and big air.

Other activities include hiking, mountain biking, climbing and paragliding.

© Photo by lucianf (www.flickr.com/photos/lucianf/2422203945/)

Summer skiing in Switzerland

Zermatt, Switzerland

Open: June 2024 – October 2024

Nearest Airport: Geneva Airport

Transfer Time: Transfers from Geneva Airport Airport to Zermatt take approximately 3 hours.

Based on the Theodul Glacier, you can still ski, snowboard and freestyle up to midday. Europe’s highest and biggest summer ski resort, visitors can enjoy 21km of pistes in addition to the Summer Snowpark. Guaranteeing snow cover all year, summer skiing in Zermatt attracts international athletes, with over 100 teams from 22 nations using the slopes to train for the winter season.

In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, dirt scooter riding, kick biking and mountain carts.

© Photo by Kosala Bandara (www.flickr.com/photos/kosalabandara/14844923823/)

Saas Fee, Switzerland

Open: July 2023 – October 2023

Nearest Airport: Geneva Airport

Transfer Time: Transfers from Geneva Airport to Saas Fee take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

Sitting at an altitude of 3600m, skiing at Saas Fee is the perfect way to cool down this summer. National and international teams head to the 20km of diverse glacier pistes offered at the resort, in addition to the Freestyle Park. Featuring kickers, rails, boxes and transitions, the park is everything you need to prepare you for the winter season.

Apart from skiing, Saas Fee offers a wide variety of activities including mountain tours, hiking, mountain biking, boccia, volleyball, golf and Nordic walking.

© Photo by Robert J Heath (www.flickr.com/photos/67769979@N06/28822109720/)

We hope this post has inspired you to visit Europe for a summer ski holiday!

If you’re planning to ski in Europe during June, July and August, get an instant quote for your transfer from the airport to the ski resort with Ski-Lifts and book online now!

The Best Places to Cycle in the French Alps

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The Best Places to Cycle in the French Alps

As temperatures increase and the snow melts, thrill seekers look for other ways to get their adrenaline rush in the mountains. Thanks to the millions of people across the globe watch the Tour de France pass through the region each year, the Alps has established itself as one of the greatest cycling locations in the world. We’ve shared some of the best places to cycle in the Alps to help you choose your cycling holiday destination.

When to Cycle in the Alps

Alps Cycling Season

Loved by skiers and cyclists alike, the Alps is a place with two distinct seasons. For half the year, during the winter months, most of the best climbs are covered with snow and ice and the low temperatures don’t make for a pleasant trip.

The cycling season in the Alps generally runs from mid-April to mid-October, although areas above 1,500m, such as the Col du Galibier, are usually open from Mid-May/June to September.

Weather

The Alps is a mountainous region and subject to variable weather, with temperature variations of up to 10C from one day to the next.

Generally, July and August are the driest months, with rainfall occurring in short, heavy afternoon storms.

Whilst June to August offer the highest temperatures, September is one of the best months for cycling in the Alps, with temperatures dropping slightly.

It is also worth noting that weather conditions at the foot of a climb may not be the same at the summit and conditions can rapidly change at any time of year. As a rule, temperatures fall by 6.5C per 1000m increase in altitude, although this difference can be much more dramatic.

Traffic

The Alps are a popular holiday destination, and with this popularity comes the associated traffic.

Traffic is at its peak from mid-July to the end of August, with the roads up to the highest or most famous passes the busiest.

Passing through the region in July each year, the Tour de France brings significant crowds. If you want to avoid this, visit a couple of weeks before or after the race.

Cycling Destinations in the Alps

The dramatic landscape of the Alps might make a spectacular cycling location, but it does cause some difficulty in getting from A to B.

We recommend these destinations as a base within each reach of the best mountain passes:

Annecy

A beautiful town next to a lake, Annecy is the perfect destination for those looking to explore lower or quieter climbs.

Climbs nearby: La Semnoz and Col de la Colombiere.

Getting there: Transfers from Geneva Airport to Annecy take approximately 45 minutes.

Bourg d’Oisans

A small town in the Romanche Valley, Bourg d’Oisans sits at the foot of Alpe d’Huez and is a popular option for cyclists visiting the area.

Climbs nearby: Alpe d’Huez, Col du Glandon, Col de Sarenne, Col du Galibier and Les Duex Alpes.

Getting there: Transfers from Geneva Airport to Bourg D’Oissans take approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.

Morzine

Situated at the foot of the Col du Joux Plane, Morzine is perfect for reaching iconic Tour de France climbs as well as popular mountain biking routes in the Portes du Soleil area.

Climbs nearby: Col du Joux, Col De Ramaz, Cole de la Joux Verte, Avoriaz and Col de la Ramaz.

Getting there: Transfers from Geneva Airport to Morzine take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne

Close to the capital of uphill cycling, Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, Saint Michel-de-Maurienne is the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts.

Climbs nearby: Croix de Fer, Galibier, Glandon, Lacets de Montvernier and Madeleine.

Getting there: Transfers from Geneva Airport to Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne take approximately 1 hour 55 minutes.

The Best Climbs in the Alps

Alpe d’Huez

With views of over a fifth of France, Alpe d’Huez is one of the most iconic climbs in the French Alps. Featuring 21 hairpins and the famous ‘Dutch Corner’, this climb has featured in the Tour de France 28 times since 1952.

Length: 13.2km

Average gradient: 8.1%

Elevation gain: 1,071m

Lacets de Montvernier

Despite only being 277m high, Lacets de Montvernier is by no means an easy climb. Featuring 18 hairpin bends, this pass was made famous by the 2015 Tour de France when it captivated the world.

Length: 3.4km

Average gradient: 8.5%

Elevation gain: 277m

Col du Galibier

Scalable both the north and the south, Col du Galibier is ranked as hors catégorie (beyond category) by the Tour de France, making this not an option for the faint-hearted.

Length: 18.1km (from Valloire)

Average gradient: 6.9%

Elevation gain: 1,245m

Col de la Madeline

There are two ways to approach Madeline, each providing its own unique challenges. One of the toughest climbs, cyclists are rewarded with stunning views of Le Massif de la Lauziere and Mont Blanc.

South from La Chambre

Length: 19km

Average gradient: 8%

Elevation gain: 1,529m

North from Augueblanche

Length: 28.3km

Average gradient: 5.4%

Elevation gain: 1.540m

Col du Telegraphe

A gateway to the Galibier, Col du Telegraphe is consistent throughout its entire length, letting you find your rhythm in these magnificent surroundings.

Length: 11.8km

Average gradient: 7.8%

Elevation gain: 856m

We hope these incredible places to cycle in the Alps has helped to inspire your next cycling holiday.

If you’re planning a cycling holiday to the Alps, get an instant quote from Ski-Lifts. Ski-Lifts will provide hassle-free and reliable transfers from the airport to your cycling destination. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

10 Reasons you should go on a ski holiday to Canada

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10 Reasons you should go on a ski holiday to Canada

Stretching from the USA in the south, to the Arctic Circle in the north, Canada is the ultimate destination for a ski holiday. Combining vast areas of wilderness with bustling cosmopolitan cities, Canada offers huge variety with one of the most reliable snowfalls in the world.

If you are thinking about destinations for a winter break, here are 10 reasons why you go on a ski holiday in Canada:

10. The Snow

Snow is one of the main considerations for a winter ski holiday. The last thing you want to worry about after booking a ski holiday is if there is going to be enough snow to enjoy the slopes. A nation renowned for its snow, Canada offers quality and reliability.

Unlike some European resorts, Canada rarely has a poor snow year and Canmore received nearly 2 feet of snow in April 2017 alone! With a season spanning from mid-November to the end of May (even later if you count glacier skiing), there is plenty of time to take advantage of these snow-sure slopes.

9. Uncrowded

It’s never fun to spend half of your ski holiday waiting in long lines, only to then feel rushed when you do finally make it onto the slopes. If you want to spend your ski holiday skiing, then Canada is the destination for you.

The world’s second largest country by total area, Canada’s ski resorts benefit from a lack of crowds. Even on busy days, resorts are never overcrowded or have long lines and it is easy to find a quiet space thanks to the massive acreage offered.

Whistler Blackcomb is North America’s largest ski resort and transfers from Vancouver Airport to Whistler Blackcomb take approximately 2 hours.

8. Exceptional Service

Ski resorts in Canada provide outstanding service with a genuine smile. Apart from snow, Canada is also known for its friendliness and ski towns are filled with polite locals willing you to have a great time on your ski holiday. Providing the highest level of customer service with an infectious level of passion and enthusiasm, ski resorts in Canada provide exceptional service.

7. World-class Facilities

If the incredible snow wasn’t enough of a reason to visit Canada for a ski holiday, the incredible facilities certainly are!

With most resorts built-for-purpose, accommodation is of a great standard, with a lot being ski-in ski-out and on a larger scale than in Europe. The majority of villages are fully pedestrianised and there is a good range of restaurants catering for all tastes and budgets.

Modern, fast lifts transport you to perfectly groomed slopes and off-piste is easily accessible, giving you more powder snow!

Speaking of off-piste, unlike in Europe, everything inside the ski area boundary is patrolled and made safe by the resort. As long as the tree run or powder bowel is within the rope-marked boundary, you can ski wherever you want!

6. The Scenery

Any mountain covered in snow makes for a spectacular backdrop, but the National Parks in Canada are truly breathtaking.

The ski resorts blend perfectly with the astounding natural beauty and Elk and mountain goats are frequent visitors to Lake Louise.

With some of the world’s largest dark sky preserves, lucky skiers might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Banff, and a trip to the Banff Upper Hot Springs is a must!

5. Amazing Value

Although you might think of Canada as an expensive option, it couldn’t be further from the truth. When you consider the outstanding facilities and services offered, Canadian ski resorts offer incredible value for money.

Early bird deals are often available until the middle of November and offers such as free rentals are common.

4. Wide Variety

In addition to the incredible, world-class facilities on offer, many ski resorts cater to every level, from complete beginners to experts, children to adults.

Those looking for an adrenaline rush will be pleased to know that British Colombia is one of the world’s best locations for adventure activities, with ski resorts such as Whistler Blackcomb offering amazing heli-skiing options.

If you’re looking for something a little wilder, then Panorama is a great choice.

There are also plenty of things to do for non-skiers, with spas, shopping, hiking and other winter activities just some of the many things on offer.

3. Best Ski Schools

Whatever your ability, there is the perfect ski school for you. Canada has some of the best ski schools in the world and is an ideal place to learn or improve your skills on the snow. Benefit from small class sizes and instructors well trained in safety so you can truly take advantage of these incredible slopes.

2. No language barrier

Although it’s nice to immerse yourself in other cultures whilst travelling for a ski holiday, sometimes it makes things a bit easier if you speak a common language. Whether it be learning how to ski for the first time, finding out the best secret spots or in emergency situations, speaking the native language makes communicating much easier.

1. Bluebird powder days

One of the biggest reasons for visiting Canada for a ski holiday is bluebird powder days. Thanks to their Inland location, resorts like Banff boast some of the highest numbers of bluebird powder days. By the time snow has crossed the coastal ranges, snow is dry and light, giving clear skies, feathery light powder and the ultimate ski experience.

We hope this post has inspired you to have a ski holiday in Canada!

Don’t forget, if you’re planning a ski holiday to Canada, make sure you get an instant quote for your airport transfer from Calgary Airport or Vancouver Airport to the ski resort.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The Best Ski Resorts for Beginners in Colorado

The Best Ski Resort for Beginners in Colorado

When you think of Colorado, you probably think of skiing. Home to the likes of Aspen and Vail, Colorado is known worldwide as one of the best ski holiday destinations. With over 30 ski areas currently in operation, it can be easy for beginners to feel intimidated. To help you make the most of this fantastic destination, we’ve shared the best ski areas for beginners in Colorado, all easily accessible by transfer from Eagle County Regional Airport and Denver International Airport.

Beaver Creek

The Resort

Owned by Vail Resorts, transfers from Denver Airport to Beaver Creek take just over 2 hours. The area has 1800 skiable areas, accessed by 25 lifts and sits at just over 8,000 feet above sea level. Although the resort hosts World Cup ski events, there are plenty of skiing opportunities for beginners. Beaver Creek also famous for handing out free, fresh cookies every day and is perfect for families.

Beginner Runs

Head to Bachelor Gulch and try runs such as Cabin Fever, Dally, Strawberry Pak and Intertwine. We also recommend trying Red Buffalo which sits at nearly 11,500 feet. Offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, the run is a wide, gentle slope, passing by a handful of glades such as Jack Rabbit Alley.

Après Ski

Beaver Creek offers world-class fine dining, with numerous dining experiences available. Many of the resort’s venues are smart lounge bars, but we recommend Coyote Café and the Mountainside Bar and Grill if you’re looking for something a bit livelier.

Breckenridge

The Resort

A high-altitude ski town, Breckenridge boasts a long season spanning from November to April. Around two hours away from Denver Airport, Breckenridge offers 2,908 acres on five different peaks. An old gold mining town, the ski town is one of the most visited in the western hemisphere.

Runs

Breckenridge boasts some of the best trails to learn on in western USA thanks to its wide-open spaces. We recommend trying Silverthorne, Red Rover and Twister. Frontier is also a great option and includes ski-through tepees and mines. Additionally, Springmeier is often marked as slow and family-friendly.

Après Ski

Breckenridge offers fantastic apres ski, with over 50 restaurants and bars located in the town centre. It has a permanent festive atmosphere thanks to Christmas lights and decorations remaining throughout the season. In addition, to the nightlife, Breckenridge has a reputation for its breweries and distilleries.

Keystone

The Resort

Just under 2 hours away from Denver Airport, Keystone Resort is made up of 3 connected mountains, complete with tree-runs. Spanning across 3,087 acres, Keystone offers 120 runs and more lighted trails than any other resort in Colorado. Known for being one of the most family-friendly resorts, there are lots of activities for both kids and adults.

Keystone Ski Resort, Colorado - Airport Transfers

Runs

With green runs conveniently located at the resort base and at the top of Dercum Mountain, Keystone is a great option for beginners. Lessons often take place on the Discover slope, with 50 easy runs to progress on to. We recommend trying Endeavor which begins just below the Summit House and Schoolmarm, which is a designated family ski zone.

Après Ski

Although night-life in Keystone is mainly family orientated, there is still plenty to keep everyone entertained. Activities such as sleigh rides, night skiing, tubing and ice skating are available for those looking for more adventure. River Run Village contains the majority of après ski bars, with Kickapoo Tavern and Northern Tavern offering a selection of locally micro-brewed beers.

Loveland

The Resort

Loveland Ski Area is a ski and snowboard paradise around 1 hour 30 minutes from Denver Airport. Receiving an average of 422 inches of snow annually, Loveland consists of 1570 acres with a base elevation of 10,800 feet. The area is home to the Loveland Derby, the largest and oldest ski race in North America. Featuring a season that runs from October to May, Loveland’s 93 trials offer something for people of all abilities.

Runs

There are plenty of facilities for beginners at Loveland, including a Magic Carpet. Lifts 1 -7 (including the Ptarmigan Lift) all lead to beginner runs, but we recommend trying Lift 3 and 7 first. Whilst Lift 7 only serves gentle green runs, Lift 3 offers progression to blue runs within a safe, contained area. It’s also worth noting that there are no free skiers crossing paths with lesson groups in Loveland basin.

Après Ski

Nightlife at Loveland is mute, but there are still options for those looking for entertainment after hitting the slope. The Loveland Basin offers Wedge bar or The Rathskeller, whilst the Loveland Valley boasts the Fireside Room.

Snowmass

The Resort

9 miles from downtown Aspen, Snowmass is one of the best ski resorts for beginners in Colorado. Located in the White River National Forest, Snowmass is part of the Aspen/ Snowmass complex, but offers a completely different personality. The biggest of the four Aspen/Snowmass mountains, the village was inspired by the French Alps and offers lots of ski-in/ski-out accommodation.

Runs

Beginners should head to Lowdown Park where there is a small halfpipe to experiment on. There are also multiple Fun Zones scattered across the mountain, and the Boot Camp Park on Fanny Hill is also recommended.

Après Ski

There’s so many apres ski options in Snowmass that it’s hard to narrow down our favourites. As a starting point, we recommend the new Belgium Ranger Station at the Westin Snowmass or Venga Venga on the Snowmass Mall. If you’re looking for a patio to relax on Sneaky’s and Base Camp are great options whilst the Bar at Wildwood is the perfect nightlife spot.

We hope you’ve found inspiration for your next ski holiday to Colorado. Don’t forget you can get an instant quote from Ski-Lifts for your transfer from Denver Airport to all the main Colorado ski resorts. Don’t forget we cover plenty of other resorts in Colorado, including; Aspen, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain and Vail.