Just like that, the summer is gone (well, almost). Our attention turns from beach vacays to autumn getaways, with many holidaymakers eager to partake in some early skiing trips. But where are the incredible snow-capped mountains where you can hit the slopes? We’ve got all the details with this guide to the best skiing holidays this autumn.
Tignes 🎿
A favourite in France, Tignes is a group of villages forming a high altitude ski resort in the French Alps. Check out the glacier ski area on the Grande Motte with its 10-plus miles of pistes. There’s something for every level of skier and snowboarder here, so you can enjoy the thrill whether you’re a beginner, pro or somewhere in between.
Zermatt 🏂
Zermatt is a plush mountain resort in the Swiss Alps known for its skiing. It has the highest lifts in Europe (3,899m) and is one of the best places to ski for early season adventure seekers – such as those looking for some autumn slopes. This ski resort is open all year round, so you can get your skis and visors out no matter the time of year.
Arinsal ⛷️
Andora isn’t necessarily a place you would associate with skiing, but this independent principality situated between France and Spain in the Pyrenees mountains is well worth your consideration in your search for top-notch skiing holidays this autumn. The area near Arinsal is great for beginners and intermediaries thanks to its favourable conditions, and there are plenty of great hotels to stay in, with both brand new and classic options on offer.
Utah ❄️
Europe isn’t the only place to go for a great skiing holiday, and the US is known for having an amazing ski slope or two. Park City in Utah is located 6,900 feet above sea level and is widely regarded as one of the best ski resorts in North America. It’s also the largest, after combining with neighbouring Canyons Resort, and offers 300 trails for all experience levels. If you’re looking for a shot of adrenaline, head to one of the four terrain parks for some serious slopes.
Valle Nevado ⛰️
Located on the west side of the Andes Mountains in Chile, Valle Nevado is a popular ski resort that sees people visit from all over the world. It’s just 90 minutes from Santiago and sits at an impressive 10,000 feet. That means you can enjoy majestic views of the Andes while you glide down the soft powdery snow on your skis.
Jasper National Park 🚠
Marmot Basin is set within Jasper National Park in Canada and is a great place to enjoy skiing holidays this autumn. It features 86 named runs across four mountains, so there’s plenty of skiing activities to keep you on your toes. Despite being a huge resort, there’s a localised feel here, making everything that much easier to find. All of the ski slopes are in one small area, and there are also plenty of ski parks to discover along the way.
Nozawa Onsen 🚡
Nozawa Onsen is one of the most popular ski resorts in Japan simply because of the amount of snow that falls throughout the year. It’s also located in a traditional Japanese village with hot springs, charming cafes & restaurants and friendly locals. Once you get on the slopes, expect snow depth to reach 3.5 metres, an elevation of 1,650m and a vertical fall of 1,085m.
Courchevel 🏔️
Back in Europe, Courchevel is the largest and most well-known of the interlinked ski resorts in the Three Valleys – or Trois Vallees to give it its official name. There are 150m alpine runs on offer, 60 lifts linking to 350-plus miles of interconnected ski runs and stunning glaciers at Courchevel. Overall, the area is spread across 10 summits and has altitudes of 2,500 metres.
Kitzbuhel 🏨
A bona fide sports destination in the Alps, Kitzbuhel is an impressive Austrian town that effortlessly combines tradition with sophistication. Stay at one of the rustic Tyrolean guesthouses or spend some time in a luxury boutique before getting out there on the soft powder during your skiing holidays this autumn. Kitzbuhel really is a place of legend, with international events like the Snow Polo World Cup and its award-winning restaurants. It’s a big hit with celebrities, who go there to enjoy a different type of glitz and glamour.
Stubai Glacier ⛄
There are 50-plus miles of slopes at Austria’s Stubai Glacier, all of which offer a great skiing experience between October and June. You’ll find around 35 pistes to explore, but the most impressive feat is Stubai Zoo, a snow park where freestylers go to test their skills and enjoy some serious skiing activities.
The best skiing this autumn
Whether you’re travelling around Europe or plan to head further afield, there’s bound to be a ski resort that meets your needs. Plus, you get to enjoy scenic sights and buzzing local towns and villages before getting your skis out and hitting the slopes in style.
