European Ski Holidays

Europe has a huge variety of resorts to offer. From the vivacious après resorts such as Ischgl and Tignes for those looking for some hardcore partying with a large side helping of skiing to the wide-sloped, picturesque resorts suited to those looking for a leisurely ski and to brush up on technique. France, Austria, Italy and Switzerland are the most popular countries to go skiing in Europe.

Europe boasts a whopping 3753 ski resorts. From bargain Bulgaria to the exclusive Three Valleys in France - you truly are spoilt for choice, and there is something for everyone.

Take a magical trip to Lapland for an unforgettable holiday with an abundance of activities to do in addition to skiing, such as husky sledding, ice-karting, horse-riding and, of course, visiting Santa!

For a high, snow-sure resort, Meribel, nestled in the heart of the Three Valleys in France, is a great place to visit in January. Cortina in The Dolomites is worth visiting for its excellent skiing, selection of accommodation, shops, and bars. Tofana area has a women’s downhill World Cup Run, and there are some fabulous gourmet mountain restaurants in this region.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Austria has a large and varied ski area; it also has the highest proportion of fast lifts in the world for the more impatient skiers among us. Other February favourites include Avoriaz in the Portes du Soleil area and Selva in The Dolomites.

Obergurgl is one of Austria’s highest resorts and is great for families. Obergurgl offers some experiences that you don’t often find in many other European ski resorts – try the night-skiing or head up the Festkogl gondola for a traditional Tyrolean meal at the cosy Hohe Mut Alm. Chamonix is also extremely popular during March.

Mayrhofen is home to the legendary Snowbombing festival in April and comprises 515km of piste with the Zillertal Superski pass. This traditional, yet diverse Austrian resort has something for all types of skiers and snowboarders, whether you are a beginner or looking to challenge yourself on Austria’s steepest run, the Harakiri. Val Thorens is another great resort in April, being the highest and most snow-sure ski resort in Europe.

Although there is a multitude of resorts to choose from, the crown for the best après-ski in Europe should probably go to Ischgl – famously known as ‘Ibiza on Ice’. Some other resorts boasting an outrageously vibrant après scene are Tignes, Val d’Isere, St Anton, Mayrhofen and Val Thorens.

Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe at a hefty height of 2300m. This snow-sure resort situated in the notorious Three Valleys is a fabulous place to ski all winter. Discover more snow-sure ski resorts.