20 Alternative Winter Ski Resorts in Europe & Beyond (original) (raw)

Looking for quieter slopes, calmer apres-ski or unique places that combine winter sports with culture? Here are 20 of the best lesser-visited and underrated winter resorts around the world.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Hatsvali Ski Resort in Svaneti, Georgia

Svaneti, Georgia.

Georgia in the Caucasus offers the perfect combination of thrill-seeking adventure and cultural immersion. In summer, the historic Svaneti Region is known for its incredible village-to-village hiking, while one of the highlights of visiting Georgia in winter is hitting the slopes in the Greater Caucasus mountains.

The smallest of Georgia’s four emerging winter sports destinations, Hatsvali Resort has five runs covering a distance of 10 km, with a designated 300m run for beginners. Experienced skiers will enjoy exploring the varied and challenging freeride area. The resort is connected to Mestia via ski lift, and there are three lifts in total covering the slopes.

For more intrepid skiers, Tetnuldi Resort can also be accessed from Mestia and is ideal for free riders.

The nearby town of Mestia is relatively easy to reach from Tbilisi or Kutaisi, either by taxi or scenic flight. Be sure to visit the Ethnographic Museum and if you have time, take a day trip to Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe.

Hatsvali is very much an emerging winter destination in Europe, so don’t expect state-of-the-art infrastructure. Services are basic, but Svaneti Spirit in Mestia offers both ski lessons and equipment rental. Mestia is the best base, with accommodation options ranging from homely guesthouses to luxurious huts (if the latter is your style, Bude Mestia Cottages comes highly recommended).

Zieleniec, Poland

Zieleniec in Poland.

The Zieleniec Ski Resort is an unforgettable winter destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience the bright white snow in Poland.

Located in the beautiful region of Kłodzko, this ski resort is the perfect destination for powder enthusiasts who want to escape to the mountains. With ski slopes catering to both beginners and experienced skiers, the resort is perfect for those just starting out on the slopes or looking to take their skiing skills to the next level. First-timers can even get expert instruction from staff on site.

Beyond skiing, visitors to Zieleniec can also enjoy snowshoeing, tobogganing, and other winter activities. Those who need a day off from winter sports can relax in a cosy cabin and sip hot tea or cocoa.

Situated approximately 2 hours’ drive from Wroclaw and 3.5 hours’ drive from Katowice, the resort offers an idyllic escape from the busy cities of Poland. The ski season typically runs from December through March, with the best snow conditions typically occurring in January and February.

Temperatures during this time usually range from -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F). With its picturesque view of the Kłodzko Valley and the stunning landscapes of the Karkonosze Mountains in the distance, the Zieleniec Ski Resort is the perfect alternative winter getaway in Europe.

Suggested by Monica from This Rare Earth

Glenshee in the Cairngorms, Scotland

Winter in the Scottish Cairngorms.

There are limited options when it comes to skiing in the UK. In fact, many people say there is only really one option: the Cairngorms in Scotland.

Located within the Cairngorms National Park, an hours’ drive from Inverness, the Cairngorms area is known for its hiking trails through heather moors and lochs. Come winter, several ski resorts open up within the Cairngorms, and it’s fairly easy to move between them for variety.

Glenshee (which means Glen of the Fairies) is the largest resort in the UK, covering four mountains, over 2000 acres, and around 36 runs (40 kms of piste snow). There are also extensive facilities for snow-making, which allows the centre to stay open for longer. It has a ski school, cafe-restaurant, and other facilities for visitors.

There are plenty of accommodation options in nearby Braemar or Ballater, from glamping pods to cosy hotels. If you’re motorhoming in Scotland, there are even pitches with electric hookup that you can book at the ski centre.

Other nearby resorts include the Cairngorm Mountain ski area, which has over 30 km of piste runs, multiple lifts, ski schools, and is suitable for all levels of ability. Accommodation can be found around the area, mostly in nearby Aviemore, which has a great apres-ski scene too.

The season starts later than most other places in Europe: often the slopes aren’t snow-covered until late December.

If you’re not a skier, you might enjoy visiting the area in winter for the beautiful scenery, snow tubing (a must if you enjoy adrenaline!), winter hiking (there are plenty of guided options), sledding, meeting real-life reindeer, and of course the heartwarming local Scottish culture.

Suggested by Kat from Wandering Bird

Levi, Finland

Levi, Finland.

Finland as a country is quite flat and slopes are scarce. But Levi in Lapland, Finland’s premier skiing resort, will satisfy all your winter desires.

Since Levi is located in the north of Finland, above the polar circle, you can always count on snow from November to March, often even from October to April.

The resort of Levi can be found on the outskirts of the village Sirkka, in Kittilä municipality. There are plenty of slopes for skiing or snowboarding for all ranges of difficulty. Equipment rental is available on every corner, including clothing stores where you stock up on any additional layers you forgot to pack.

In Levi, it’s not only about going down the slopes. You can go cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking, ride a snowmobile across frozen lakes, and even ride a sleigh pulled by reindeer or huskies. Ice-fishing is also an option.

Levi is a great destination for the whole family, especially the active kind. If the conditions are right, you even have a chance to see the magical Northern Lights.

And it wouldn’t be Finland, if you couldn’t visit a sauna. There’s a sauna or two on every property, from hotels to private cabins. Rolling in fresh fallen snow after a good sauna session is nearly obligatory!

Levi lies in Sami territory. Learn about the indigenous peoples of the North and their unique culture in the Samiland Exhibition and on one of many specialised tours.

Suggested by Veronika from Travel Geekery

Bansko, Bulgaria

Bansko Ski Resort, Bulgaria.

Bansko Ski Resort, a 2-hour drive south of Sofia, has grown to become the premier ski resort in Bulgaria and poses a real alternative to the traditional ski resorts throughout Europe.

Bansko is a perfect winter destination in Bulgaria. The season typically runs from mid-December to late March; but with rain frequently falling in December, it is perhaps best to venture to the slopes in late January when the snow is guaranteed and the crowds aren’t as busy as in mid-February.

Bansko town is divided into two sections: the old town in the lower half of Bansko featuring the beautiful Church of St Trinity, and the new town in the upper half closest to the ski lift. Here is where you will find the majority of the bars, cafes and restaurants, all incredibly affordable.

Around the main ski lift you will also find an abundance of ski rental stores, each offering a budget-friendly skis, poles and boots package.

Aside from skiing, Bansko is famous for its traditional Balkan cuisine including hearty stews, delicious casseroles, and stodgy mixed grills. Just a 15-minute drive from Bansko you will find the thermal town of Banya, which showcases a number of impressive hot springs – the perfect way to unwind after a busy day on the slopes.

The hot springs and affordable living prices are just some of the reasons why Bansko has become one of the hottest Digital Nomad spots in Europe. It is perfectly suited to a working ski season, which is a great gap year idea for couples and anybody looking to escape for the winter.

With accommodation options varying from affordable Airbnb apartments all the way to the luxury Pirin Golf Hotel and Spa, there is something for everybody in this highly underrated winter resort.

Suggested by Ben from Ticket 4 Two Please

Bernex, France

Bernex Ski Resort.

Bernex is one of the most underrated winter resorts in France. Located 90 minutes’ drive from Geneva airport, it has convenient access by car. Nonetheless, there are no direct public transportation links to the town; therefore, it is less well-known compared to many other ski resorts in the region. Bernex is a quaint village and is well-loved by locals for its rich culture and community feel.

The best snow conditions for Bernex Ski Resort are from the end of January to the beginning of March. However, the season usually starts in late December and ends in mid-March. There are 22 runs at Bernex and 12 lifts. It is a small resort, but the lift pass costs reflect this. At the time of writing, you can purchase a one-day adult lift ticket for 29 Euro.

To improve your skills, you can arrange ski and snowboarding lessons with ESF (French ski school). Several rental shops at the base of the mountains rent out various winter sports equipment.

Bernex Ski Resort is best for beginners or families with children because the resort is intimate and easily navigated. The most common accommodation in Bernex is self-contained apartments and chalets, which are suitable for larger groups.

Even if you are not a skier, there are some excellent snow-shoeing trails around the resort. Plus, there is ice skating and sledding for the whole family to enjoy.

Suggested by Samantha from Continuous Roamer

Björkliden, Swedish Lapland

Swedish Lapland, a unique place to ski in Europe.

If you’re looking for a unique ski resort without the crowds in Europe, head north – all the way north to the Arctic Circle, in fact!

Just outside Abisko National Park, one of the gems of Swedish Lapland, you’ll find the small ski resort of Björkliden. The ski season has a bit of a late start, relatively speaking: it generally only runs from February to May, as it takes a while for enough snow to accumulate.

Björkliden is known for having some of the largest vertical drops in Sweden, so it’s a lot of fun for those who really want an adrenaline rush. That said, with five lifts and 23 pistes, almost every level can be catered to here, so you’re not out of luck if you’re a beginner skier.

There are a variety of accommodation options, including self-catered cabins (Kåppas Cabins and Solhyllan Log Cabins), some of which come with an outdoor jacuzzi to watch the Abisko Northern Lights. There’s also a full-service standard hotel on site, Hotel Fjället.

A ski school offers private lessons for adults and kids, and guided tours are available if you want to venture off-piste. If you prefer to skip the downhill stuff, you can also try cross-country skiing, which is a great middle ground for non-skiers who want to try skiing without the stress.

The resort has full equipment for hire facilities. If you don’t have your own gear (or if packing it is too burdensome), you can rent skis at the Sportshop.

Besides skiing, you can spend time in Abisko National Park hiking to frozen waterfalls (and for the brave, climbing them – guided by a professional, of course), and snowshoeing on Lake Torneträsk. This being Sweden, a sauna to warm up in is never too far away!

And of course, you can’t miss the chance to go chasing the Northern Lights all over the region by night.

Suggested by Allison from Eternal Arrival

Sierra Nevada, Spain

Skiing in the Sierra Nevada.

Skiing in Sierra Nevada Spain is one of the most unique winter experiences you can hope for. The southernmost ski resort in Europe, it is an underrated winter destination in every sense.

Located under an hour from the Spanish city of Granada and two hours from Malaga on the sunny Costa del Sol, the Sierra Nevada mountains offer 24 ski lifts and 130 different slopes. Levels range from beginner to difficult, so you are guaranteed to find several slopes that fit your style.

The ski season in southern Spain is one of the longest in Europe, usually from November to May depending on snowfall. Some years, the resort has remained open until June.

If you need to hire gear, there are plenty of rental shops in Pradollano ski resort town including one right next to the ski lifts. Here, you can also find instructors ready to teach you one-on-one, or you can join a group lesson.

There are a few great ski-in-ski-out hotels in the Sierra Nevada, but if you travel as a larger group, you might find it more convenient to rent an apartment. There are plenty within a short walking distance from the slopes.

Besides skiing, you can go snowshoeing, head to the lower Sierra Nevada to go hiking, or explore Granada and the magnificent Alhambra fortress, palace, and gardens.

Suggested by Linn of Amused by Andalucia

Arctic Heli Skiing, Iceland

Iceland.

Arctic Heli Skiing is one of the seven ski resorts in Iceland. It truly is one of a kind, since you have to take short helicopter rides to get onto the ski slopes.

Arctic Heli Skiing is located in the north of the country, an hour from Akureyri and two hours from the geothermal Myvatn area by car.

Its location is quite important as it is what makes this ski resort so magical. Imagine skiing in incredible powder in the north of Iceland while looking out at the blue ocean… Well, this is exactly what Arctic Heli Skiing is all about: incredible snow and views!

The ski season starts around November and ends in June. This ski resort is not recommended for beginners, therefore there are no ski schools. It’s only suitable for fit intermediate skiers, since heli-skiing requires good physical condition.

In terms of equipment, skis and avalanche safety gear are available at the lodge and included in their ski programs.

In summer, you can enjoy the midnight sun and ski at night. In winter, evenings and nights are for warming up in one of the many free hot springs in Iceland, while watching the Northern Lights dance in the sky.

Suggested by Soline from On The Road Diary

Alta Badia in the Dolomites, Italy

Alta Badia Resort in the Italian Dolomites.

The Italian Dolomites are famous worldwide and are an incredible destination for winter sports. However, not everyone is aware that Cortina and Val Gardena are not the only ski resorts in the area. One of the top Dolomites ski resorts (there are 12 in total) is Alta Badia, a lesser-touristed resort where you will find 120 km of slopes with a mix of levels and incredible scenery.

The resort includes five villages: Corvara is the most central and the biggest, Badia is the smallest and farthest away. All villages, including La Villa, San Cassiano and Colfosco, are connected to the slopes via lifts – so wherever you decide to stay, you will be able to get around with ease.

Each village has a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels with spas to modest apartments, ski schools, and rental shops. In La Villa, there are amazing facilities for travelling families, including a nursery on the slopes that caters to kids from six months to 11 years.

Food and wine are also a serious matter in the area. You not only have three different Michelin-starred restaurants in the valley, but many of the utia (refuges on the slopes) offer gourmet dining. There are multiple wine events held during the ski season, from the beginning of December until early April.

Suggested by Clotilde from A princess travelling with twins

Kitzski, Austria

Kitzski, Austria.

The Kitzski resort is located in the luxury jet-setter towns of Kitzbühel and Kirchberg in Tyrol, Austria. Depending on the snowfall situation and if temperatures are stable and cold, the resort opens up in November and closes the week after Easter every year.

Kitzbühel has long been known as a ‘secret hideout’ in the alps for the rich and famous. The yearly Hahnenkamm downhill skiing race, which has been described as the most difficult of its kind, has been held annually at the Kitzbühel Ski Resort since 1931.

Peak season is from mid-December to February, and you will find that prices tend to be on the higher end during these months. Plan a trip during the first week of December or in March for a more budget-friendly experience.

Families, groups of friends and couples will enjoy this Austrian resort equally. Most visitors to Kitzbühel tend to originate from Germany and the Netherlands, but you will also meet people from other parts of the world.

As it is a beginner-friendly ski resort that also caters to advanced skiers, you will have no trouble finding suitable runs and skiing classes. Instructors from all over the world are employed here, and therefore it is rather easy to find a private instructor who speaks your language in Kitzbühel.

Most accommodations are geared towards upscale visitors, but a good choice of Austrian-alpine style hotel classes can be found in the area.

Suggested by ​​Marina Helene from Paulmarina

Lesser-known places to ski in Asia & the Pacific

Shymbulak, Kazakhstan

Skiing in Kazakhstan.

Maybe Kazakhstan isn’t what you think of when it comes to skiing, but Shymbulak should change your mind about that.

The cable car base station is just a 30-minute drive from nearby Almaty, which at just 500 metres above sea level enjoys balmier temperatures. And while the season runs from December to April, the best time to visit Kazakhstan for skiing is March, when the temperatures at lower altitudes are more enjoyable, but there’s still plenty of snow in the mountains.

Shymbulak is certainly a budget-friendly winter destination: a day pass can cost as little as 14 USD, and you can expect to pay roughly the same to hire ski equipment. A 90-minute lesson costs around 30 USD, with food at the resort’s restaurants similarly reasonable.

Stay at one of the unique and cosy eco-cabins on the mountaintop or at the better-equipped Shymbulak Resort further down the slopes. Given how close Almaty is, you can also stay in the city and commute.

Outside of the resort’s 20 km of slopes, there are numerous walking trails plus a zip line, a high ropes course, and an ice rink.

Suggested by Zoe from Zoe Goes Places

Ruapehu, New Zealand

Mount Ruapehu.

New Zealand is home to some of the best ski resorts in the Southern hemisphere – and few people are aware they even exist. In under 5 hours’ drive from Auckland, you can find yourself skiing or snowboarding on one of New Zealand’s most active volcanoes: Mount Ruapehu.

It has been more than 15 years since the volcano last erupted, and constant monitoring ensures complete safety for visitors to this alpine resort.

Reaching the resort can be a bit challenging due to its distance from Auckland. The best option is undoubtedly to rent a car and drive to Ohakune for a few nights, making sure to purchase a New Zealand travel sim card before leaving the city to avoid getting lost.

Ruapehu recently split into two separately owned ski resorts: Turoa and Whakapapa. Both are easily accessible from the cute ski village of Ohakune. Due to its location on the North Island, the season can be variable at Ruapehu, but it typically runs from mid-June until late October.

The mountain contains around 1,400 metres of vertical descent across the two resorts. Both resorts are designed for all levels with plenty of beginner, intermediate and advanced slopes, however, Turoa is definitely the better option for snowboarders as Whakapapa can sometimes require the use of T-Bars.

The entire mountain and the nearby town is designed for winter sports, with plenty of places to rent gear plus a handful of fantastic apres-ski bars and restaurants. In typical Kiwi style, the vibe does tend to be a bit more laid-back in the evenings.

If you’re looking for a break from skiing, Ruapehu is located within Tongariro National Park. Weather-permitting, you’ll have access to arguably the best hikes on New Zealand’s North Island, including the world-class Tongariro Alpine Crossing. If you prefer adventure activities, you’ll find rafting, mountain biking, quad biking and Zorbing in nearby towns.

Suggested by Delilah from Travel Sim Expert

Gulmarg, India

Gulmarg Ski Resort in India.

In spring and summer, Gulmarg in India is known for its lush alpine meadows. Not many people realise that it is also a popular spot for winter activities, with fresh snow from late December through march. February is the winter high season at Gulmarg Resort, when the snow is the deepest.

Gulmarg is located in the far northwest of India in Jammu and Kashmir, 90 minutes from the city of Srinagar. In the 19th century, it was used as a summer hill station by the British, who also established the first ski club on the mountain slopes in 1927.

There aren’t too many ski resort options for beginners in Gulmarg. Pro skiers do rave about the quality of the powder and the fact that most of the skiing in Gulmarg is off-piste. If you’re looking for a family skiing trip to Gulmarg, it’s an idea to go with a Delhi-based travel company that can organise expeditions for beginners and pros.

Another option is skigulmarg.com, an outfit run by Canadians who offer both beginner and pro skiing and snowboarding packages in Gulmarg. They have accommodation options at three good ski resorts, ranging from budget to luxury, and organise everything including equipment and trainers.

Besides skiing, you can take a joyride on the cable car to the peak of Apharwat Mountain. Known as the ‘Gulmarg Gondola’, is the second longest and second-highest cable car in the world, with an elevation of nearly 4,000 metres. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Gulmarg village, but apres-ski options are more limited.

Suggested by Shweta from Zest In A Tote

Gala Yuzawa, Japan

Gala Yuzawa Resort.

Just 75 minutes from Tokyo via bullet train, Gala Yuzawa in Niigata Prefecture is a lesser-known ski resort among foreign visitors to Japan.

With the ski season opening in mid-December and lasting until the first week of April, Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort is perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels – and even non-skiers, too!

Upon arrival at the resort, visitors can pick up ski gear reserved in advance, hire on the spot, or purchase from the handy specialty store. The hundreds of lockers are also convenient for storing plain clothes and belongings during your day on the slopes.

Non-skiers can sign up at the ski school to learn, or enjoy some of the many other activities. Sleds can be hired for a small fee and enjoyed on a gentle slope, great for small children and adults alike. Other activities include Snow Mobile tours, Moon Biking, snowshoeing, and bathing in onsen (hot springs).

The Cheers Rest House is ideal for lunch with a view. Don’t miss the Bell of Love Observation Deck and its sweeping views over the Yuzawa area, accessible via the Diligence Gondola and Barouche chairlift. It’s a must for your Gala Yuzawa day trip itinerary.

Suggested by Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

Alternative winter resorts in the US & Canada

Schweitzer, Idaho

Schweitzer Ski Resort in Idaho.

While Sun Valley Resort in Central Idaho attracts tourists worldwide, Schweitzer Resort, located in the panhandle of Northern Idaho, remains one of the best-kept secrets for diehard powder lovers.

With 300 inches of snowfall and 2900 acres of terrain, Schweitzer is the largest ski hill in Idaho. Open from Thanksgiving weekend to March, skiers flock to Sandpoint, for its uncrowded runs and its stellar views of Canada, Idaho, Washington, and Lake Pend Oreille.

Schweiter is a full-service resort with a sleek modern hotel, restaurants, and chalet-style cabins. For those who want to do more beyond skiing, the resort also offers tubing, cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, and snowshoeing.

Thrill-seekers will want to book a cat skiing tour to get access to backcountry terrain, where you can descend untouched snow. When you reach the bottom, a snowcat will take you back up.

While many will be content to never venture out of the resort, tourists in the know will come down the mountain to see the charming town of Sandpoint, Idaho, in the winter. Acclaimed for being one of the most idyllic small towns in the US, the small town offers a hallmark-worthy downtown area and a thriving local food scene.

Suggested by Christina from Live A Wilder Life

Brian Head Ski Resort, Utah

Brian Head in winter.

With over a dozen ski resorts and a state motto of ‘Best Snow on Earth’, it can be difficult to choose which Utah ski resort to visit.

If you are a first-timer, consider Brian Head Ski Resort in Southern Utah. It’s close to several Utah National Monuments and Parks so you can see the iconic red rocks and famous champagne snow all in one trip.

Utah’s southernmost ski resort is located near the red rock hoodoos of Cedar Break National Monument, and just one hour from Bryce Canyon National Park.

Don’t let the latitude fool you – Brian Head has a higher base elevation than any other Utah ski resort, meaning they have great snow and are often open later than many of the other Utah resorts. There is plenty of terrain for all types of skiers, as well as several snow tubing lanes accessed by a magic carpet.

Two base areas offer skier services and dining, with a free shuttle bus running between the two. The village of Brian Head has additional lodging and dining options, while nearby towns of Beaver and Cedar City are each about 45 minutes away.

Summer operations include scenic chairlift rides, mountain biking, disc golf, zip lines, tubing, and concert events.

Suggested be Leigh from Campfires&Concierges

Mountain Top Resort, Vermont

Skiing in Vermont. Photo courtesy of Mountain Top Resort.

Welcome to Mountain Top Resort, deep in the rolling Green Mountains of Vermont. This sprawling and peaceful four-season property, which includes a traditional lodge, cosy cabins, and large rental homes, truly shines in winter and is an ideal retreat for couples, families, and groups.

Located an hour and a half south of the Burlington International Airport and three hours northwest of Boston, it is within easy reach.

During the winter, which lasts from December through March, Mountain Top Resort transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering many top cold-weather sports activities. The resort’s well-maintained cross-country slopes, which include nearly 65 kilometres of groomed trails, cater to all skill levels.

For downhill skiing, there is a shuttle available to nearby Killington Mountain, the largest ski and snowboard resort in eastern North America.

In addition to skiing, guests can explore miles of cross-country trails on snowshoes, ice skate on the resort’s outdoor rink, join a 30-minute horse-drawn sleigh ride, or grab a sled for carefree fun on the sledding hill behind the lodge’s Tavern restaurant.

If you’re looking for a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of winter beauty, comfort, and adventure, look no further – Vermont’s Mountain Top Resort will deliver.

Suggested by Janice from Gather And Go Travel

Fernie Alpine Resort, British Columbia

Fernie, BC.

Located in Eastern British Columbia, Fernie is a hidden gem nestled in the rocky mountains with lots to offer powder lovers of all ages.

Known for its abundance of powder days, steep shoots and charming town, Fernie is the perfect resort for a winter getaway away from the crowds, especially for experienced skiers who love going off-piste.

The season runs from December through to early April each year, offering plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes and experience the “Fernie factor” (when it snows 30+ cm despite just 5 cm being forecast).

You’ll have everything you need such as a great ski school, ample choice of equipment hire, delicious restaurants, and a large range of accommodation options right at the base of the slopes or Fernie Alpine Resort. If you’re looking for even more, the town of Fernie is just a 10-minute drive away.

Outside of the resort, you’ll have plenty to do such as cat skiing, spa treatments, shopping, fat biking and ice skating.

Suggested by Kate from Bags-Always-Packed

Marmot Basin, Jasper National Park

Marmot Basin.

Marmot Basin is an excellent yet underrated winter resort in Canada’s Jasper National Park. Often overshadowed by its more famous cousin to the south, Marmot Basin is truly a world-class facility.

With the highest base elevation of all Canadian ski resorts, around 400 cm of natural snow in the winter season plus 91 different runs spread across the mountain, visitors are spoiled with the variety and quality of skiing.

Marmot Basin caters to everyone. Approximately 30% of the resort’s runs are for beginners, 30% for intermediates, and 40% split between advanced and expert. There are all the facilities you could need: gear rental, multiple cafeterias and lounges, plus a ski school with lessons on demand.

Due to its high elevation, the ski season at Marmot Basin is longer than at most resorts. Every year changes according to conditions, but it’s usually open for six months of the year, from November to May.

While you cannot stay at Marmot Basin, the nearby town of Jasper (25 minutes by road) offers a very wide range of accommodations, from high-end luxury lodges to backpacker hostels. Be sure to book accommodation with a hot tub, as an after-ski soak is a Jasper winter activity not to be missed.

Besides hitting the slopes, there are plenty of other winter activities available in Jasper. You can go ice-climbing at Maligne Canyon, winter hiking, snowshoeing, ice skating, or even go on a foodie tour of downtown Jasper.

Suggested by Dotti from Travel Oasis

More winter travel ideas

• Winter road trip ideas
• Europe by train: 20 winter-approved itineraries