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Travel to the EU after Brexit: how it would affect my ski holidays?
Since the 31st of January 2020, the United Kingdom is no longer part of the European Union. The new political relationship brings new arrangements for travelling across borders and with it new questions about how everything will work from now on.
Even if we’ve been reading news about the new political situation for the last few years, some people still have questions about what’s happening after Brexit. So far, British tourists in the EU haven’t experienced any important changes to their holiday, such as needing a visa to visit a European country or paying extra charges, as the travelling conditions will remain the same until the end of the current transition period.
But, what does the transition period involve?
The 31st of January 2020 started the transition period. This means that the UK is no longer part of the European Union, but many agreements decided before this stage will still be effective, especially the ones related to travellers. The transition period will be over by the 1st January of 2021, bringing new rules and agreements that haven’t yet been defined.
Will I need a visa to travel to the EU?
With the UK and the European Union having a new set-up for the borders, the first question that comes to the mind of a British tourist is: will I need a visa to travel to Europe? During the transition period, British citizens won’t need to get a visa if they’re going to stay as a tourist for up to 90 days in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
Therefore, after the transition period, British citizens will become “third-country nationals” and it’s likely that they will have to pay for a ‘visa-exempt travel’ if they’re travelling in 2021. Also, the European Union will implement the European Travel Information and Authorization System (Etias) by 2022, a specific programme for non-EU citizens that would like to travel in Europe, including British citizens. The application for Etias will cost 7 Euros.
What will I need to travel after Brexit?
After the transition period, at border control, British citizens may need to show their return ticket and prove that they have enough money for their stay. Also, once at border control, British citizens will have to queue in different lanes from EU, EEA and Swiss citizens. Besides that, when travelling between the UK and the EU, you’ll need to declare cash of £10,000 or more (or the equivalent in another currency).
Do I need a new passport?
After the transition period, you’ll need to renew your British passport if the expiration date is shorter than 6 months or if it is more than 10 years old. If you are travelling after the 1st of January 2021 and you need a new passport to meet this requirement, keep in mind that renewing your passport usually takes 3 weeks.
How long can I stay in the EU?
British citizens will be able to stay as a tourist for up to 90 days in any 180 days in an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
Can I drive in the EU with my British driving license?
Driving in Europe will be the same for citizens with a British driving license until 2021. After the transition period, citizens with a British driving license may need to purchase an International Driving Permit (IDP) 1968 or 1949, it will depend on which country they are going to and how long are they staying. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the regulation of the country you’re visiting for your holiday.
If you’re travelling in the EU with your car, you might also need a ‘green card’ or valid proof of insurance and a GB sticker.
Of course, there are other issues with driving to ski resorts yourself and this is where a quality ski transfer operator can come in handy.
How will Brexit affect travel insurance?
Until the end of the year, citizens with the European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) are entitled to have healthcare in any EEA member state as well as Norway, Iceland, Lichtenstein and Switzerland.
Therefore, the Ehic is not a substitute for travel insurance and it’s recommended to always have travel insurance that covers your healthcare and pre-existing medical condition.
What will happen to roaming charges after Brexit?
The guarantee of free-roaming for British mobile in EU countries will disappear after the 1st of January 2021. We recommend you check the new terms with your phone operator to avoid any ghastly bills from getting that perfect photo for the ‘Gram. However, a new law protects you from getting phone charges over £45 without you knowing.
Travel after Brexit Checklist
Check passport is valid for the next 6 months.
Get travel insurance that covers healthcare and pre-existing medical conditions.
Check roaming conditions with phone operator.
Decide whether to learn the driving regulations of the country or to get airport transfers.
We hope this information has been useful and we’ve solved your questions about travelling after Brexit. In case you need more details, you can find more advice here: https://www.gov.uk/visit-europe-1-january-2021
If you are going on a ski holiday after the 1st of January 2021, we recommend visiting gov.uk to check the latest news about Brexit.
For many skiers, a great holiday must include excellent snow and delicious haute cuisine. After a day on the slopes, you need to relax, enjoy the company and have a nice meal so the next day you are ready for those pistes. If you’re a foodie, taste a classic and warm raclette or explore new flavours like céleri and wild sorrel in sorbet, or risotto with smoked onion at some of the fanciest restaurants in the Alps.
At St. Anton, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Innsbruck Airport.
St. Anton is a great destination for après-ski plans and that makes it a remarkable ski resort for foodies. Hospiz Alm, located in St. Christoph am Arlberg, is upscale fine dining with traditional alpine decoration, gourmet balcony and a wonderful terrace to enjoy the sun. The opulent restaurant serves traditional Austrian cuisine, such as Tyrolean duck and filet of pike.
L’Atelier Edmond, Val d’Isère, France
At Val d’Isère, approximately 3 hours away from Geneva Airport.
Part of the illustrious Espace Killy ski area, Val d’Isere is a world-renowned luxurious destination with top-rated accommodations and restaurants such as L’Atelier Edmond, with 2 Michelin stars for chef Benoit Vidal. A little bit pricey, the food of L’Atelier Edmond is well-known in the region. The menu has references to the traditional local cuisine and includes dishes such as céleri and wild sorrel in sorbet or crawfish with candied lemon. Also, the brasserie food is delicious too and it has a more reasonable price compared to the other dishes.
Azimut, Courchevel, France
At Courchevel, approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Geneva Airport.
Courchevel is part of the famous Three Valleys ski area and one of the most exclusive ski resorts in France. The cosy and rusticCourchevel ski resort is also home to 7 Michelin-starred restaurants, with it being the resort with most Michelin-rated establishments in the Alps. Amongst these prestigious restaurants, Azimut stands out for its creativity in dishes like foie gras with caramel and braised chicory with orange and Porto cream.
Petit Royal, Courmayeur, Italy
At Courmayeur, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Geneva Airport.
The charming Courmayeur is one of the best ski resorts to enjoy the traditional home-made Italian cuisine combined with the alpine gastronomy. The chef of The Petit Royal, Paolo Griff, is considered one of the most promising cooks in Europe. His colourful dishes and his attention to local products has caught the attention of the gastronomy critics, giving him a Michelin star for his results at the Petit Royal.
Les Explorateurs, Val Thorens, France
At Val Thorens, approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Geneva Airport.
Home to some of the smartest hotels in the French Alps, the resort also has prime restaurants for the most exquisite palates. Inside the 5-star Hotel Pashmina is Les Explorateurs, awarded with a Michelin star and with a colourful decor inspired by mountaineering expeditions. The signature dish of Josselin Jeanblan is a combination of sea scallops, Nori seaweed and truffle and declination of Jerusalem artichokes: yum!
Da Vittorio,St Moritz, Switzerland
At St Moritz, approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes away from Zurich Airport.
Close to the Italian border, the three-times Michellin-awarded chef Fratelli Cerea decided to open a restaurant in St Moritz, a recognised destination for superb après-ski plans. Da Vittorio St. Moritz is located inside of the elegant Hotel Carlton and it has a beautiful view of the mountain. Stefano Bacchelli, the resident young chef, explores new dishes around the traditional Italian cuisine. Some of the dishes you should try are the risotto with smoked onion or the classic Paccheri alla Vittorio.
Il Gallo Cedrone, Madonna di Campiglio, Italy
At Madonna di Campiglio, approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Verona Airport.
Madonna di Campiglio has a traditional charm, with centenary buildings and barely being able to spot a car in the streets. Still, in the centre of the resort, Il Gallo Cedrone combines an updated and modern style with traditional Alpine decoration. The young chef, Sabino Fortunato, doesn’t limit his menu to the traditional mountain cuisine and surprises the clientele with creative dishes with lobster and sea bass.
Piz Boè Alpine Lounge, Alta Badia, Italy
At Alta Badia, approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Bergamo Airport.
With over half of the 130km piste marked blue, Alta Badia is a great destination for beginners, families and newbies who want to test themselves on the slopes. After trying your best for the first time, you deserve a fancy menu at Piz Boè Alpine Lounge with a stunning view of the valley. The restaurant offers Landin cuisine, a fusion of Italian and Tirolean styles that includes dishes such as carpaccio or barley soup.
Le Chesery, Gstaad, Switzerland
At Gstaad, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Sion Airport.
Gstaad is famous for skiers and non-skiers who are looking for a luxury holiday. Amongst the extravagant places you can go, Le Chesery is a Michelin-starred restaurant ran by the Chef Marcus G. Lindners. The dishes change depending on the season and the preferences of the chef, but always maintains an updated traditional approach of the Swiss Alpine cuisine with a wide choice of fishes.
L’Arlequin in Aime 2000, La Plagne, France
At La Plagne, approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Geneva Airport.
The general quality of La Plagne is moderate, but some restaurants make the exception. One of these restaurants is L’Arlequin in Aime 2000, with a great customer service provided by Monique and Georges, famous in La Plagne for their hospitality. The alpine-homelike restaurant serves raclette, fondue and tartiflette, some of the must-eat food on your holiday in the Alps. Also, you can find other unique dishes such as their creamy risotto with morille mushrooms or a salmon and beef tartare.
How to plan a family ski holiday without breaking the bank
Guest contribution from Mountain People, the simplified way for you to book your next tailor-made Alpine winter and summer holiday, allowing you to book everything you need for your next trip all in one place
A common misconception still remains around the ski industry, that ski holidays are for the chosen few and are expensive. Like all holidays though, they can be as expensive or in this case, as inexpensive, as you want.
Of course, whether you are a seasoned skier family returning to the slopes this season or a family considering your first ever ski holiday (which you won’t regret), the options open to you are endless and this is all reflected in your budget. There are plenty of benefits of booking a package skiing holiday with a reputable tour operator or agent and if you do so in good time you can certainly find a bargain! However, we know some families may prefer to book a holiday independently, and if that includes you, here’s how you can do it.
Family Holiday
Let’s consider the options available for a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children). Your first port of call has to be looking at your flight options; do you have to fly Saturday to Saturday? The answer is simply no! With the emergence of low-cost carriers and competition between the others, flight prices vary significantly, why not fly on a Friday or any other weekday that works for your party or consider an early morning flight which means more time in the resort. This will all have a significant effect on your flight prices for the whole family.
The Resort
Your choice here will have some effect on your budget, but most resorts will have a wide range of accommodation types ranging from Self Catered Apartments, Hotels and Chalets with deals to be found in all. For you, looking for resorts within as short a distance as possible from your airport will start reducing costs from the get-go. Transfer times to resorts range from an hour and thirty minutes up to four hours, depending on your chosen airport and chosen resort, so do your research.
Most big resorts are situated within a larger ski area, like the Portes du Soleil, Les Trois Vallées, Arlberg Ski Region, Dolomiti Superski etc. The majority of these ski areas have smaller resorts or what are known as satellite resorts nestled in the Valleys around them. These smaller resorts and satellite resorts are just smaller villages nestled in the same ski area and here you can make savings on accommodation and also enjoy a quieter space if that is what you and your family like. So why not consider Les Gets in the Portes du Soleil or Les Menuires in the Les Trois Vallées as options when considering where to go.
Transfers
Coach, Scheduled, Shared or Private transfer options, they scale in price accordingly. For a family on a budget, your best option could be a return shared or coach transfer to and from resort. Timing is a factor to consider here, so booking as early as possible will always be your best option as prices can go up if left until last minute!
Accommodation
Self-catering accommodation has to be next on your list for a budget-driven ski holiday. An apartment for a family of 4 will start off at €500 for non-peak season weeks. Non-peak season weeks are a good option to consider if you want to keep your price down and stay away from the large crowds in-resort. Peak weeks around Christmas, New Year’s, February mid-term, and Easter see prices increase and large numbers travelling, so if you can avoid these peak periods for your winter holiday, you will save accordingly. There are countless Residence operators across the vast majority of European resorts and this will give you access to self-catered apartments ranging from small studios for 2 – 4 people up to 3 and 4 bedroom apartments for 10 – 12 people if your family is slightly bigger or you convince another family to come with you (you won’t have to convince them ever again). One thing you will never forget after waking up in a ski resort is the view you will be greeted with every time you look out the window or stand on your balcony.
Ski Pass
Let’s be honest, you do not need a full area access ski pass, it is your first time skiing, a local area ski pass is going to be more than you need for your first trip and your next one (once you start skiing, you won’t stop). The difference between these two options is significant; you will save between €50 and €60 per ski pass. This will aid greatly in reducing your overall price. Further discounts are also available if you purchase a family pass which is available for groups of 2 Adults and 2 Children minimum, across a range of resorts.
Rental
You will be learning how to ski or snowboard and spending some time on your bum laughing in the snow, so you will require basic equipment. You’ll need an economy pack (Skis, Boots, Poles or Snowboard and Boots) for the week which will cost you around €90 per adult and between €50 and €70 per child depending on their age. A must recommend for us is a helmet, not everyone wears them (but you should), some insurance companies have gone as far as stating that you must wear a helmet under their insurance policy. An adult helmet will cost another €25 with children’s helmets costing around €20.
Lessons
The only way to ski or snowboard is to learn! With numerous Ski and Snowboard school providers in each resort, you will have a choice to make in terms of who to go with? Some of the big names have been around for years and subsequently charge accordingly. However, these providers will give you and your family some of the most reliable and focused ski and snowboard lessons on the mountains. For a family of 2 adults and 2 children having lessons every morning (half day) for the duration of their stay (6 ski days) the cost will be €740 approximately, that breaks down to €185 per person. To keep your family lesson costs down, take your lessons in a group. Each of these groups will generally have up to 6 people sharing a lesson with a dedicated instructor. These other people in your group will be of the same skill level as you and it is a great way to meet new like-minded people while in resort. Kids will love the group lesson experience and will receive a badge or equivalent at the end of the week after completing their lessons.
Travel Insurance
This is a must! No matter what level of Skier or Snowboarder you are, travel insurance with winter sports cover is something you and the whole family should have. Travel insurance comes in various options, where you can avail of a cheaper single holiday cover. However, if you will be travelling again later in the year, it may be more beneficial to get yourself multi-trip cover. There are countless travel insurance providers so you will always find a good deal for this.
With more than a thousand ski resorts in the Alps, it can be hard to find the perfect place for that amazing trip that ticks all the boxes, especially if it’s your first time going on a ski holiday. Therefore, we’ve created a quiz to help you find your ideal destination and guide you in the right direction in your search. At each question right down your option -A, B, C or D- and at the end of the quiz count the letter it has been repeated the most. Here we go!
1. Apart from skiing, why would you like to go on a ski holiday?
As a break-away from the routine
I just want to take to the slopes!
Discover a new place
Have a great time with my friends
2. How much should the transfer take from the airport to the resort?
I don’t mind as long as the trip has a beautiful view
Less than 2 hours, I’m too impatient!
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” – Lao Tzu
I just want to arrive on time for the après-ski
3. What type of skier are you?
The one that takes their time to contemplate the views
I’m a snowboarder
The adventurous kind
An après-skier
4. What’s your skiing level?
Intermediate
Expert
Beginner
I can try…
5. Which is your most-used emoji?
?
?
?
?
6. Best company to tackle the slopes with?
My partner and people from my closest circle
Anyone who loves the snow as much as I do
Somebody willing to explore around
Friends! The more, the better
7. How will you spend your evening?
Relaxed at the spa
Still snowboarding or skiing
Discovering a new place in town
Drinking with my friends
8. The most important thing about the resort?
The scenery
The pistes
The connections
The bars
Majority A – Val Thorens, France
At Val Thorens, approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Geneva Airport.
After working so hard you look forward to treating yourself and relaxing. A great ski holiday must come along with a great spa! In the top-floor of the Pashmina Hotel, you’ll find the Occitane. You can have a massage, relax at the jacuzzi or at the steam room and take a nourishment treatment before descending the slopes.
While you relax, and let the treatments take full effect as you have a glass of the finest champagne, you can enjoy the stunning winter panorama of the Trois Vallées. Also, if you want to explore other ski resorts, the Three Valleys is well connected by lifts with Méribel, La Tania, Courchevel and more.
Even if the first development built was a somewhat unsightly apartment block, Val Thorens is now home to some of the smartest hotels in the French Alps, more sympathetic with the Savoyard style. Some of the best hotels in the resort are Altapura, with an elegant Scandinavian style and Koh-i Nor, named after the largest diamond in the world.
Majority B – Avoriaz, France
At Avoriaz, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Geneva Airport.
All you care about is taking on those slopes! You are happier on the pistes and surrounded by snow, that’s why you’ll love the stunning views over the Morzine valley and Mont Blanc. Avoriaz has one of the best conditions to snowboard and ski: it has 600km of pistes to freeride, it’s usually one of the first resorts to get snow, and it’s the highest resort of the Portes du Soleil ski region (over 5900 feet). Also, the alpine resort has some of the best snowparks in Europe, including the Stash, a fun ungroomed area to freeride and freestyle.
But if you go to Avoriaz don’t forget your swimming costume (yes, your swimming costume), you are going to need it at Aquariaz Indoor Water Park. Built on the top of a cliff, you can see the whole valley covered in snow while you’re swimming in a heated pool. Aquariaz has all the features you expect from a water park: a gently-flowing river to float around, an aquatic play area for young children, massage tables, and even a 10-metre high water half pipe.
Once a year, Avoriaz also hosts the Snowboxx Festival, with many ski and snowboard activities and an epic après party. Each year the line-up of the festival is headed by some acclaimed DJs such as Jax Jones, Annie Mac and Rudimental, amongst other artists.
Majority C – Borovets, Bulgaria
At Borovets, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Sofia International Airport.
For you, each day is a chance to discover the world and skiing is just a pretext for new adventures! If you know the Alps well already, and they’ve lost their charm, then you should ski in Borovets, located at the foot of Mount Musala, the highest peak in the Balkans. This Bulgarian resort has great connections to other places worth exploring and it’s easy to find excursions to Sofia and Plovdiv. Also, it’s near the Rila Mountains and you can visit the fascinating Rila Monastery, the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria.
At 2925 metres of altitude, Borovets is a more budget-friendly destination compared to the Alps, and it has a wide offer of courses and activities for beginners. Still, intermediates can also have fun in the Balkans.
The resort also offers great après-ski plans where you can make other international friends, have fun and share some travelling recommendations. Besides, many skiers highlight Borovets’ nightlife as a key feature, as it’s the ski resort with the most bars per square km in Europe. Bulgaria is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe to buy beer, but you might want to try Rakia, Bulgaria’s national drink.
Majority D – St. Anton, Austria
At St. Anton, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Innsbruck Airport.
Taking to the slopes is an exciting idea, but you can’t stop thinking about the après-ski plan! St. Anton nights are well-known in the ski scene. Skiers and snowboarders can start their afternoon in the legendary après-ski mile, listening to live music and having an Austrian beer in bars like Mooserwirt, Taps, and Krazy Kanguruh. If it’s after 8pm and you are still looking for a place to continue the party and have some Jagermeister, you can go to Piccadilly/Postkeller, a complex in the middle of town with two ambiences: an area to drink and talk and another one if you feel like dancing.
St. Anton is one of the snowiest areas in Europe, offering excellent snow conditions suitable for skiers and snowboarders of any level. However, experts will have a great time on the slopes in the resort and they can test their skills in areas like Galzig. On the other hand, the Nasserein area is more suitable for beginners and they can join the Ski School Arlberg, the largest school in Austria.
The Alberg region is the largest linked ski area in Austria and the lifts are highly efficient. With your ski pass, you’ll be able to ski at any point of the 305km in the Ski Arlberg area and visit neighbours resorts of St Christoph and Stuben and any of the other place in Lech and Zurs.
Happy with your resort? Which one is going to be your next destination? Share it with us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, we’d love to know the result!
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, so if you only have a short amount of time to spend on your ski break, get an instant quote today and book a hassle-free transfer with Ski-Lifts, to one of these ski resorts with short transfer times.
1. Morzine, France
Ski-Lifts’ Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to Morzine (75 minutes, 76km)
Morzine is one of the resorts across the Portes du Soleil ski area in France, which stretches up the France–Switzerland 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. And we can get you there!
Ski-Lifts’ Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to Chamonix (65 minutes, 99km)
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.
3. Verbier, Switzerland
Ski-Lifts’ Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to Verbier (120 minutes, 160km)
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 bet your house there will be abundant snowfall. Get an instant quote online today to see how much your speedy ski transfer could cost.
4. Courmayeur, Italy
Ski-Lifts’ Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Turin Airport to Courmayeur (90 minutes, 150km)
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. Get a hassle-free quote for your ski transfer in Italy online today.
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.
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. For your speedy 60-minute transfer, get an instant quote online at Ski Lifts.
7. La Clusaz, France
Ski-Lifts’ Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Geneva Airport to La Clusaz (90 minutes, 70km)
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.
8. Solden, Austria
Ski-Lifts’ Airport to Ski Resort Transfer Time – Innsbruck Airport to Solden (70 minutes, 83km)
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you love the mountains as much as we do here at Ski Lifts, you’ll agree that there is no better way to bring in the New Year than spending your time skiing and partying late into the night at one of these resorts in the Alps!
Read on to discover some of the best ski resorts in the Alps for New Year celebrations, and why not also get an instant quote for your ski transfers to your pick of these incredible destinations?
St Anton
Think huge parties in the streets, live music and late openings – that’s exactly what St Anton is like on NYE. Head down to the pedestrianised centre of the town and you can enjoy one of the rowdiest countdowns in the Alps, with fireworks exploding in every direction above you. What could be better than staying in a catered chalet with your hosts rustling up a feast? All you have to do is relax!
It may come as no surprise, but the slopes around St Anton on 1st January are usually pretty empty until midday, so if you fancy some early morning skiing, this is the perfect time! Of course, you’ll need every second to explore the 350km of slopes in St Anton and the surrounding resorts.
Pas de la Casa
Pas de la Casa stands at Grandvalira’s highest point at 2100m and opens at the end of November, so there will more than likely be a good covering of snow come New Year. Pas de la Casa, like most Andorran resorts, is known for being cheap, so it may come as no surprise to hear that this resort is a fantastic place for big parties and small prices. There’s no time to be twiddling your thumbs in this resort, with 210km of slopes and 3 snow parks. Pas is up there with the best when it comes to après. Think free shots, cheap beers everywhere and constant happy hours, that’s what you’ll get here. The perfect recipe for NYE celebrations when pubs and clubs usually stay open until the early hours of the morning.
Sauze d’Oulx
You don’t need to break the bank this New Year when heading to the Alps. Sauze d’Oulx can do everything that the neighbouring Swiss and French resorts can do – for much cheaper. You certainly won’t be compromising when it comes to parties and pistes. You’ll be spending your New Year skiing on the 400km slopes of the Milky Way, which link over to Montgenevre, on the French side of the border. Sauze has some of the liveliest bars in the Italian Alps, which is perfect for anyone wanting a party on the 31st! Not forgetting, Sauze is only an hour’s transfer from the nearby Turin Airport.
Zermatt
Zermatt is a stunning village with its timber buildings, famous church spire and cobbled streets, all overlooked by the marvellous Matterhorn. The standard of food in the lavish gala dinners that most hotels throw is sky high. There are lots of local traditions that happen here in Zermatt on the 31st – everyone gathers in the church square to enjoy fireworks, music and drinking from the outdoor bars, which accompany the countdown. There’s a huge amount of area to cover when it comes to skiing around Zermatt, with 200km of slopes covered by the local lift pass alone.
Meribel
A favourite amongst the Brits and for good reason as well, a New Year celebration in Meribel is high on any skier’s bucket list. The NYE celebrations usually start with a family-friendly torch lit descent into the Chaudanne area. Following that, the amazing firework display begins, with roaring and colourful fireworks launching in every direction in the sky. For a true alcohol-fueled New Year, it is recommended to head to legendary Le Rond Point, on the only night of the year it is open until the early hours. Of course, there is always the option of an early night and getting up prior to midday to explore the near-empty 600km of slopes across the Three Valleys.
Mayrhofen
There are a few options when it comes to celebrating New Year in Mayrhofen. One of these options is to jump on the New Year’s Eve train, where the Zillertal Railways will take you from Jenbach to Mayrhofen, whilst stopping for entertainment at each of the train stations along the way. There’s always the option to head to one of the rowdy and heaving bars in the resort. Then on New Year’s Day, there’s usually a horse-drawn carriage procession leading to the racecourse, where you can place your bets and see if your year will get off to a lucky start.
Book your ski transfers for NYE in the Alps with Ski Lifts
If you’re planning on seeing the New Year in with a fun-filled ski trip to the Alps, make sure to get a quote from Ski Lifts for your airport transfers. We specialise in providing a safe and professional transfer service, specifically for ski holidays. Simply fill in one of our online forms and receive an instant quote for your upcoming ski trip!
Did you know that Europe and Canada are 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 Switzerland and Andorra – there are many hidden ski resorts that are nestled away in the snowy mountains. Luckily for you, we have compiled a guide of the top ten quiet ski resorts that you need to visit. Read on!
1. Soldeu, Andorra
As the largest ski resort in Andorra, you might not expect to see Soldeu on this list of the top ten unknown ski resorts. However, due to Andorra’s proximity to the likes of France, Italy and Switzerland, this small country can often get overlooked as a skiing destination.
Why go skiing in Soldeu…
Well, for one, this Andorran ski resort has been voted one of the best cheap ski resorts in Europe. This has undoubtedly been helped by Andorra being duty-free! However, the duty-free status does not bring many party goers, so Soldeu is one of the best quiet family-friendly ski resorts in Europe.
2. Borovets, Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of Europe’s top destinations when it comes to finding undiscovered ski resorts – take a look at Borovets!
Tourism in Borovets can be traced back to the 19th century, making it one of the oldest ski resorts around. This Bulgarian resort is one of the best quiet ski resorts for beginners and includes internationally renowned ski instructors in the resort, who generally speak English. There’s plenty of choice when it comes to après ski in Borovets. Those who do know the resort would be familiar with the cheaper alternatives available to the much more expensive alpine bars elsewhere.
You might not expect to see Les Houches being named as one of the hidden ski resorts in France, especially with it being 6km from the hugely popular ski resort Chamonix.
The village is typical of the Savoy region in France. The quaint resort is made up of hamlets which are scattered over the 5000 hectares that Les Houches covers. The exceptional backdrop of Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc and the stunning panoramas of Les Houches ski area, truly set this resort apart. As one of the best quiet ski resorts near Geneva, you might be wondering why you’ve never been here before.
4. Pamporovo, Bulgaria
Pamporovo is set in beautiful picturesque pine forests and certainly stands out on this list of top ten unknown ski resorts.
You might expect one of the advantages of skiing in Bulgaria is that everything is much cheaper than Western Europe, and you would be correct to assume this. Pamporovo is no exception to this rule, so you can ensure that you won’t be spending a fortune on your ski holiday here. The ski area itself isn’t massive, but the number of green and blue runs make Pamporovo excellent for beginners.
The extensive resort of Serre Chevalier is made up of four different villages and towns, which go by the names of; Briancon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve and Le Monetier-Les-Bains.
When it comes to finding the best hidden resorts in France, look no further than this place. Serre Chevalier is definitely one of the most underrated and quiet 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. As well as this, the laid-back style of this resort, friendly locals and cheaper prices than some of its neighbours will leave you coming back for more.
6. Obergurgl, Austria
Situated in the Tyrol region of Austria, Obergurgl sits right by the Italian border. This increasingly popular, but still relatively quiet ski resort is near Innsbruck Airport.
This small, family-friendly Austrian ski resort is a favourite amongst those who have visited previously. However, it remains one of Austria’s most quiet ski resorts. It’s difficult to understand why Obergurgl isn’t more popular, to be honest. It’s snow sure, there’s a quaint village with a traffic-free centre, and it hosts reputable ski schools. What more could you ask for?
7. Grindelwald, Switzerland
This lively, but relatively unknown Swiss ski resort is perfect for skiing and active summer holidays. Grindelwald sits under the north face of the Eiger and is surrounded by the Wetterhorn, Monch and several other glaciers. The picturesque surrounding scenery is a draw for lovers of Grindelwald, as well as for those wanting to find the best undiscovered ski resorts.
For non-skiers, Grindelwald is home to 100km of winter footpaths. This Swiss ski resort near Zurich is also home to the world’s longest toboggan run.
Situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Crans Montana is one of Europe’s quiet ski resorts, but is becoming more popular with skiers and summer activity seekers. On a visit to Crans Montana, you’ll have access to 140km of pistes, including Pointe de la Plane Morte, and a glacier reaching 2,927m.
If you follow the Alpine Ski Racing World Championships you may recognise the name, Crans Montana, as this was the venue for their 1987 championships.
Located just above the picturesque town of Golden in Canada is the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. This resort is known (to some) for its distinctive views and legendary terrain. In Canada, Banff and other large resorts can often overshadow some of their smaller neighbours.
However, when it comes to finding the best hidden ski resorts in this country, you shouldn’t pass up on a trip to Golden. Never mind the best unknown ski resorts in North America, Golden is up there as being one of the best resorts in North America.
As well as world-class skiing at this quiet Canadian ski resort, you can enjoy; skating, tubing, snowshoeing and direct access to snowmobile tours and heli-skiing.
10. Arabba, Italy
Set at an altitude of 1600m, 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.
Even without mentioning the skiing, 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.
Now you know the top ten undiscovered ski resorts, book today!
If you are thinking of heading off the slopes for a quiet ski holiday, make sure to take note of the above. At Ski Lifts, we offer airport transfers to numerous ski resorts around Europe. Thinking of staying at a particular ski resort? Be sure to get an instant transfer quote online.
We’re sure you LOVE skiing as much as we do, so why be stuck somewhere with weather like this …
When you can ski somewhere like this…
Early season can be a great time to go on a skiing holiday and there’s plenty of great offers around for ski holidays in the run-up to Christmas. No one wants to book a ski holiday when there isn’t going to be promised snowfall, which is why we have put together some of the best ski resorts for guaranteed snow.
November resorts
Tignes/Val d’Isere, France
Tignes, France
If you’re looking to sharpen up your technique, Tignes is the place for you. This French resort is full of English speaking ski schools which are open in November. Having the glacier means there is a long winter season and even a summer season for skiing and snowboarding. With its great snow record and the highest lift standing at 3450m, you are sure to have a great time on the mountain in Tignes.
Val d’Isere has the largest artificial snowmaking plant in the whole of Europe. Le Snow Factory could cover Wembley Stadium to a depth of half a metre in just one hour. Impressive! Even in ‘bad’ snow years, Val’d’Isere and Tignes remain accessible, meaning the snow conditions are hard to beat.
Situated in north-west Italy in the Alpine resort of Valle d’Aosta, Cervinia is one of the world’s best ski resorts for guaranteed snow. Breuil-Cervinia has a particularly long season and is known for its snow-capped mountains, including the pyramid-shaped Matterhorn.
Cervinia’s glacier allows the resort to stay open throughout the summer, but the winter season starts in October. Cervinia stands at 2,050m, with lifts going up to 3,480m. The joint ski area with Zermatt is the highest in Europe, ensuring snow cover is guaranteed in these resorts between November and early May.
Situated in the Tyrol region of Austria, Solden is the largest ski resort in the Otztal Valley. There are plenty of bars and clubs at this famous party resort – popular for skiers who like to play hard and ski hard. However, if you are looking for something quieter, don’t worry! Away from the main strip, there are several ski-in ski-out hotels on the edges of town.
With two high-altitude glaciers, 150km of pistes, and a park – the range of skiing and snowboarding on offer cannot be overlooked. We recommend getting up early and making the most of the area. If early starts aren’t for you, there is always night skiing. When it comes to Solden being one of Europe’s best ski resorts for guaranteed snow, it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Solden opens in late November, but the 10 lifts on its two 3,250m glaciers ensure that snow cover also runs through the autumn.
Fun fact: did you know that the hit James Bond film ‘Spectre’ was shot here? After the release of this film, visitor numbers at this resort have shot up. The association with Bond has indeed proved positive for Solden as they try to change their image from an international to a luxury Austrian resort.
Val Thorens is a purpose-built resort in the Belleville Valley situated above the resorts of Les Menuires and St Martin De Belleville. On a stunning day, the positioning of Val Thorens offers an incredible winter panorama.
Val Thorens is the highest ski town in the Alps and its great altitude guarantees a longer season than many other ski resorts. This means doorstep skiing and snowboarding is possible in the resort from November to May! Val Thorens is also part of the infamous Three Valleys Ski Area in France. With its great snow record, well-linked lift system and 600km of pistes – the Three Valleys is a must-visit destination for any ski and snowboard enthusiasts.
When it comes to early season skiing, Copper Mountain is a perfect destination. The resort is committed to early season snow making because the U.S. national ski teams train on the mountain in October. The mountain itself opens to the general public in early November.
Summit County, Colorado has a high elevation, making it a popular choice for December skiing. Copper Mountain can cover 331 acres with its snowmaking operation. It also has three distinct sections for different abilities and enjoys a higher base elevation (9,712 feet) than most other resorts in the area.
With a relaxed family-friendly vibe, this purpose-built resort village has three linked areas and the free shuttle bus takes just five minutes to travel between them. Centre Village is the main focal point for bars and restaurants. For those wanting an even bigger selection, the small town of Frisco a six-mile shuttle ride away.
Having opened in 1946, Les Deux Alpes was one of the first French Ski resorts and has grown in popularity throughout the years. Home to Europe’s largest skiable glacier, Les Deux Alpes is perfect for skiers and snowboarders. Les Deux Alpes is split into two areas – the Valley Blanche and Glacier side. Within the resort, there is an extensive ski terrain, modern lift system and a great amount of sun with south-facing slopes.
Home to slopes from 3,570m to 1,650m, you can enjoy early Autumn skiing here. However, the resort is officially open for the winter in December.
When it comes to finding the best ski resorts for guaranteed snow, The Austrian village of Ischgl is certainly worth paying a visit. It has a good snow record and long history dating back over 1,000 years. The ski resort has something for everyone. It is the perfect location for a holiday with a selection of beginner, intermediate and advanced pistes, parks and pipes and night skiing.
Ischgl is known for the energetic après activities it hosts every year, and not to mention its massive mid-mountain concert featuring world-class headline acts. It also includes the charm and sophistication of resorts like Kitzbuhel, and promises nightlife that rivals St Anton. The slopes in Ischgl best suit eager intermediates who enjoy covering as much ground as possible each day. Ischgl is not your typical snow-sure candidate. The village itself has an altitude 1,400m and a maximum height of under 3,000m.
Les Arcs is part of the huge Paradiski ski area and includes many areas such as Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Arc 1600, Arc 1800, Arc 1950 and Arc 2000. Each area is situated at different altitudes all with their own character and atmosphere.
Les Arcs would be a good choice for those wanting to find the best ski resorts with guaranteed snow. The high altitude resort is home to the infamous speed skiing course. It has 425km of pistes, a lift at 3250m, a varied terrain, and a great snow record. These features make Les Arcs the perfect resort for beginners all the way through to experts.
When you purchase a whole area lift pass, you’ll also be able to explore Les Arcs’ sister resort of La Plagne. La Plagne is home to its very own glacier and a further 225km of pistes.
Best Airport for Transfers – Our Les Arcs ski transfers from Geneva Airport take approximately 3 hours.
Lech, Austria
Lech, Austria
Lech is a typical Austrian ski resort popular amongst the rich and famous. With chocolate box chalets, snowy mountains, luxury hotels and high-end restaurants – choosing to ski at this resort would definitely would be a good choice.
There is ample skiing for everyone as Lech is accessible to its neighbours St Anton and Zurs (around 276 KM worth of pistes).
Lech has a brilliant snow record, with a 60% snow cannon coverage. This makes the resort earn the title of being one of Europe’s best ski resorts with guaranteed snow. The Lech also offers a fantastic array of off-piste opportunities and is one of the only Austrian resorts to offer heli-skiing.
Closest airport – Our Lech ski transfers from Innsbruck Airport take approximately 1.5 hours.
Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier is one of the Alps’ most famous and best ski resorts for guaranteed snow, attracting celebrities such as The Beckhams and Richard Branson. The resort itself is renowned for its combination of scenic views, exciting terrain, and lively nightlife.
Skiers and snowboarders of all levels will be entertained for as many weeks as they have spare. The exciting terrain on Verbier’s doorstep has given rise to thrilling spectator events, and the Patrouille des Glaciers is a gruelling ski touring race from Zermatt.
Verbier has 80 lifts which access more than 400km of runs and is the main resort in Switzerland’s largest ski area, The 4 Valleys. The altitude of the ski area and its extensive snowmaking means that it is safe to book early season.
Closest airport – Our Verbier ski transfers from Geneva Airport take approximately 2 hours.
Now you know the best ski resorts for guaranteed snow, book today!
If you are headed off to the slopes this winter, make sure that you take note of the above. At Ski Lifts, we offer a variety of airport transfers to thrilling ski resorts around Europe. If you do decide that you want to stay at any of the resorts we have mentioned, be sure to get an instant transfer quote online.
If you have any questions regarding our airport transfers, feel free to get in touch with our team. We’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Alternatively, visit our FAQs page where we have provided answers to many queries we frequently receive.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The best time of the year is just around the corner. The 2019/20 ski season opening dates for most North American resorts have now been released. It can often be difficult to trawl the internet to try and find ski resort opening dates so we thought we’d make it easier by doing the work for you. Below is a list of the opening dates for the most popular ski resorts in North America.
Just take a look at the list below to find out when the ski season starts in Canada and the USA.
Your end-to-end guide to planning your first ski holiday
So you’ve decided you want to book your first ski holiday? Excellent choice! Now you’re wondering where to begin though. It’s true that booking and planning a ski holiday gives you plenty to consider, from the gear you’ll need to which resort is best for you. Your first skiing holiday is always going to be a bit of a learning curve with so much to plan, so here’s everything you need to know to make your first memory of the slopes a happy one.
Choosing where to go
Choosing where to go on your first skiing holiday can be a daunting task. You maybe haven’t even considered yet that different resorts are perhaps better for beginners. As it’s your first ski holiday, you’re going to need a resort with good, easily-accessible slopes.
The first thing to do is to work out what anyone you are going with wants from the holiday and the practical considerations.
For example:
Is scenery important or do you just want to be near to the slopes?
Will you all be travelling from the same place?
Is this everyone’s first ski holiday or do others have more experience?
Which type of accommodation will suit your needs? Do you want a hotel or chalet?
Are you purely going for skiing or is downtime/nightlife important too?
What are your budgets?
When would you ideally like to go?
If scenery is important to you and you want somewhere picturesque then some of the more purpose-built resorts in the likes of France may not have the same appeal as some of the quaint resorts you’ll find such as Kitzbühel in Austria or Cortina in Italy.
Whether it’s just you and your partner, your family or a larger group, there will be resorts more suited to your needs. If you are travelling with children, there will be resorts better-tailored for families and some that will even let kids ski for free. If you’re travelling in a group and have different levels of skiing experience, then a resort catering for people of all abilities is going to serve your needs better. Also, as it is your first ski holiday, resorts that have dedicated nursery areas, blue runs and novice-friendly lifts such as button/drag lifts or, even better, gondolas are going to be less daunting.
Although skiing and snowboarding are going to be the activities you’ll look forward to, it’s worth thinking about different experiences too, such as ice skating and other activities besides the slopes. Some resorts will have a larger selection of amenities, such as Avoriaz, which has a large indoor water park or Canillo, home to one of Europe’s biggest thermal spas. If nightlife is important to you, party resorts known for their aprés ski such as Tignes or Alpe D’Huez might appeal, whereas if drunken shenanigans aren’t your scene, you might consider a smaller resort that might be more tranquil.
If budget is a factor then you might be enticed by resorts in Southeastern European countries such as Bulgaria or Slovenia. These countries tend to have smaller resorts that would suit a beginner and typically cost less than the larger Alpine resorts.
Choosing when to go
Flexibility will certainly work in your favour when it comes to choosing when to go. If you haven’t been skiing before then you might not know the best times of year for hitting the slopes or even when it’s ski season. For example, early season skiing (which is considered November/December) could mean you get a great deal and that wherever you go won’t be too busy. It could also put you in the festive mood. However, more experienced skiers in your group might be dismayed by the lower levels of snow.
In contrast, skiing in February can be a much busier time, especially if you choose a French resort due to half-terms. It also means flight and accommodation prices might be inflated and you’ll have to endure long lift queues. However, it’s also a great time for snow due to the peak season so if February appeals to you, book well in advance to get the best possible deals.
March and at Easter could be a perfect time for booking your first ski holiday as resorts have been getting more snow later in the season recently and prices are usually more favourable.
Late season skiing (April – June) has similar downfalls as early season, with higher chances of slushy snow but it’s also the best chance for skiing in the sun.
When it comes to your first skiing holiday, planning ahead is better but the more experienced you become, the easier it will be to go on a spontaneous last-minute trip to chase the snow.
Where to stay
Where you stay will be determined by your resort of choice and what time of season you want to travel. In most resorts, you will have a choice between catered chalets, chalet-hotels and self-catered apartments.
Catered chalets are a very British staple and a foreign concept in much of the rest of Europe. They’re typically staffed private houses or ski apartments and can vary widely in terms of luxury. The staff on hand largely depends on how much you would like to pay, with most chalets being run by seasonaires. At the other end of the market though, professional hospitality staff who work in hotels or villas can be on-hand and there is usually a full-time chef.
They can be ideal if you are travelling as a family or a group of friends. The chalet experience can be as much a part of your first ski holiday as the actual skiing, whether it’s with people you know or through forming new friendships. An additional benefit of staying in a chalet when you are a first-time skier is that staff and veteran skiers can be on-hand to offer advice and guidance.
Chalet-hotels are a bridge between the locally-run hotel and the typically British-run chalets and are essentially chalets on a grander scale. They’re normally either locally-run or overseen by a tour operator and have a similar feel to a chalet, with a more relaxed atmosphere than a formal hotel. They also work well if you will be travelling in a larger group or you would like to mingle with other holidaymakers.
In fact, one of the main benefits of the chalet-hotel is that you can flit in and out of social activities, such as the in-house bar and social dining services. Most chalet hotels will offer social skiing to build a sense of rapport over the course of your stay. Chalet-hotels can also include more services such as a pool or restaurants.
Self-catering ski chalets/apartments can greatly reduce the overall cost of your trip and can cost as little or as much as you like. Some of them can be cramped so it’s important to research them thoroughly before you book.
Many resorts will rent out individually-owned apartments through the local tourist office and their website is a great place to start looking for the latest accommodation.
Jargon Buster – the basics
Aprés Ski – Literally French for “after ski”, it’s generally used to refer to the socialising (read: drinking) that takes place after a day on the slopes.
Backcountry/off-piste – Skiing on unmarked or unpatrolled areas that can be either inside or outside a ski resort’s boundaries. Not recommended for newbies.
Blue run – An easy slope for beginners that isn’t usually very steep.
Black run – An advanced, difficult slope more suited to expert skiers and snowboarders.
Lift pass – A ticket or pass permitting the use of a ski lift to ski in certain places.
Piste – A marked ski run or path down a mountain, synonymous with “slope”.
Salopettes – Trousers designed specifically for snowsports, normally with a high waist and a bib that braces can be attached to.
Seasonaire – Someone taking up seasonal work in a ski resort.
How to get there
There are a plethora of ways that you could get to the slopes. If you book a package with a tour operator then this will usually include flights and shared coach transfers from the airport to your accommodation and the resort. For a first-time ski holiday, this may appeal as everything is done for you.
However, more people are now opting to book their ski holidays independently rather than choosing a package holiday as this gives them more variety. If you are flying then your options are:
Dedicated airport transfers
Booking a dedicated ski resort airport transfer can ensure that all the stress is taken out of your journey. At Ski Lifts, we offer a variety of airport transfers to suit all group sizes and budgets and we’re usually cheaper than public transport, car hire and local taxis.
Public transport
Another option for getting to your ski resort is to take a public bus or train. These should operate fairly regularly from airports during peak season. This could be an option for those on a tight budget but obviously can be a significantly longer journey than an airport transfer and carrying your luggage can be an additional challenge.
Car hire
Some people prefer to hire their own car as this can give them more flexibility. If you are considering this option then it’s worth bearing in mind that roads can be tricky, especially in extreme weather conditions. You’ll also need to check the rules on snow chains and winter tyres in your country of choice.
Picking a lift pass
When it comes to booking your first ski holiday, lift passes should be a top consideration, as they can be expensive depending on the resort. For instance, pass prices in Eastern European countries and smaller, less-popular resorts are going to be lower than more recognisable Alpine resorts.
Many of the larger resorts will have passes that cover their whole area but as a beginner, those won’t be much use to you. In fact, beginner lifts can often be free and give you enough terrain until you’ve learnt the basics. Once you have, a local area pass is likely to be more than enough for a week of fun-filled skiing on your first trip.
It might be worth asking your ski instructor/school for their advice before purchasing a lift pass as they’ll know which areas you’re most likely to use and if you need to, you can usually buy an upgrade to your pass on a daily basis if you want to explore some of the more challenging runs.
Do you need lessons?
The short answer is yes, you’ll need skiing lessons if this is your first time, at least for the first week of your trip. Even if there are experienced skiers in your group, don’t let them teach you as they’re not going to know the correct teaching methods, they may have picked up bad habits and they’re never going to help you progress as fast as an instructor can. In fact, they would probably still benefit from a few lessons too.
Lessons may not be cheap but they’re the best way to learn. There will usually be an option for group ski lessons or private ski lessons.
Group lessons are usually less costly and can either be for a half- or full-day. You’ll normally be put into groups of similar ability on your first morning then stay with the same group for the week. This can be a fun way to learn and meet people but of course your instructor’s time will be divided between the group so you are unlikely to get many dedicated pointers. It’s also worth checking that the ski school has English-speaking instructors, such as Maison Sport, which operates across 250 ski resorts in France, Italy, Switzerland and Austria.
Private lessons can vary in length depending on your needs and can be fairly intensive, although it is probably the best way to progress. Because they can be tiring, it’s worth factoing in some rest time too.
It could also be worth taking one or two lessons at a local dry slope or snow centre so you can build up some confidence before your holiday and hit the snow running.
What gear will you need?
As with most activities or hobbies, it’s probably better to give skiing a go first before you invest too much in gear. For your first skiing holiday, it makes more sense to try and borrow or hire as much as you can. Resorts will have boots, helmets, skis and poles that you can hire and booking these in advance can normally get you a better price. The gear you need will normally be matched with your height and ability and be sure that your boots are the right fit because if they’re uncomfortable you won’t have a very pleasant experience.
Of course, you’re going to need some clothing for the cold weather. As it’s your first ski holiday, you may be able to borrow some things from others, such as goggles, a warm jacket or salopettes, until you’re sure that skiing is your thing. Take a look at our handy guide to what you need to pack in detail.
Do I need to be fit?
It might not have crossed your mind but skiing can work your muscles pretty hard and the altitude can make it a little more gruelling, so it’s a good idea to try and build up your fitness beforehand. It also can help prevent you from getting an injury on the slopes or needing an afternoon nap (although they never hurt).
Here are some exercises you can do to prepare you for your first time. Even trying to fit in a couple of sessions a week in the build-up to your holiday can make a big difference. If you are the pinnacle of health and fitness, then you may still be surprised as skiing can awaken a couple of muscles you didn’t know you had.
Should I get insurance?
You’ll absolutely need insurance, especially as it is your first skiing holiday and the risks are slightly higher. Even more so if you opt for snowboarding, which is generally considered a little riskier.
It hopefully won’t happen but you don’t want to be caught out in the unfortunate event of an accident, especially if you are skiing in the USA. The remote locations of the majority of ski resorts can also prove costly when it comes to emergency medical transport.
Normal travel insurance doesn’t usually cover accidents as a result of winter sports so you will need specialist winter sports cover, that can also cover stolen or damaged equipment. It’s also worth checking the fine print to make sure it covers everything that might crop up, including things such as going off-piste.
Conclusion
Skiing can be a seriously rewarding and incredibly fun holiday choice and with all going to plan, your first ski holiday will leave you hungry for more. It might seem daunting but with some planning and consideration, your first ski holiday will be a breeze.
