Ski resorts in Russia. The best ski resorts in Europe Inexpensive ski holidays
We don't blame you at all for wanting to save money. Alpine skiing is already not cheap, but with the current exchange rate, it is cheaper to buy a nine than a new top-end snowboard. Well, if you finally bought a snowboard, you want to try it out in the mountains, and not in the park behind the house.
Let's see where you'll spend the least money on beer, ski lifts and lodging. We will compare prices for the high season (end of December - mid-March). And for lovers of freebies, we advise you to go in April.
Accommodation : From €169 per person. This is seven nights in a 4-bed room, including breakfast, transfers from the airport to the ski lifts and some evening entertainment.
Ski pass for 6 days: €199
A full meal costs less than €10, and Slovaks take their food seriously. A night in a hostel with breakfast costs around £20.
Fresh powder, official freeride area, beer for € 1.20, what more do you need?
Accommodation :From 1000 rubles per night without meals
Ski pass for 6 days:7600 rubles (8,000 rupees)
Few people consider India as a ski resort, but in vain. Gulmarg is one of the best backcountry resorts for little money. But be prepared for real altitude and altitude sickness, this is the Himalayas after all. The lifts reach higher than 4000 meters.
But tickets to Singapore cost a lot, but this is compensated by the reasonable prices for a ski pass, accommodation and food.
Accommodation:from £10 per night + breakfast
Ski pass for 6 days: 10,000 rubles
Bulgaria is one of the largest and cheapest resorts in Europe. The season here starts and ends a little later, so you can find inexpensive spring deals.
Over the past few years, a lot of money has been invested here, and Bansko has acquired tens of kilometers of slopes, joint hotels and ski lifts.
This is a great place for beginners, but also for off-piste lovers there is plenty to roam around.
Accommodation: From £17 per night + breakfast
Ski pass for 5 days:£160
The UK may not be on the list of the best must-visit resorts in the world, but it is an option worth considering. It can get quite windy, but there are about 30 kilometers of trails, 11 lifts and an endless backcountry area.
For a few days you will definitely have something to roll, especially if a fresh plump one has fallen out. But we wouldn’t recommend going here for more than a week.
Accommodation: from €25 per night + breakfast and lunch
Ski pass for 6 days: €84
The resort is located 10 kilometers from the city and is one of the cheapest in the world.
With a maximum altitude of 2,030 meters and around 30 kilometers of pistes, it may not sound like much, but it does receive some serious snowfall during the winter months.
Well, beer is around 1 euro as a nice addition.
Accommodation: from $25 per night without meals
Ski pass for 6 days: $324
Extensive ski area, lots of snow and no queues. That's what Bridger Bowl is. At an altitude of 2,650 meters the chances of heavy snowfall are very good.
Tickets, of course, are a little expensive, but compared to Aspen and other American resorts, the prices here are ridiculous.
Accommodation: Apartments on Airbnb from £65\night for three
Ski pass for 6 days: €194.50
If you want to ride in the European Alps without overpaying, then this is the place for you.
The resort is located in a wide valley, near the Swiss border, and has long been chosen by European lovers of saving money.
For several years, off-piste skiing was prohibited here, now, thank God, this is a thing of the past, and now heliskiing is thriving here at very competitive prices.
The Livigno ski pass gives you a 50% discount on a one-day ski pass to St. Moritz if you want to see what the famous Swiss resort is like.
Accommodation: From €20\night
Ski pass for 6 days: €168
Few people outside Germany have heard of this place, but many world champions in alpine skiing are from here.
About 34 kilometers of pistes and 16 lifts are just an hour's drive from Munich.
Prices here are very reasonable compared to other European resorts. A seasonal ski pass, for example, costs €400 rather than €900. There are fewer queues on weekends, and it’s generally calmer here.
Accommodation : from £13 per night
Ski pass for 6 days: €139
Perched high above the beautiful Lake Bohil, this Eastern European resort is a real gem.
People have been skiing here since 1964. Vogel has 22 kilometers of pistes, excellent value for money, delicious home-cooked food and rivers of schnapps with stunning views of the Alps. Well suited for beginners who don’t need a whole web of lifts.
Accommodation: from £15 per night without meals
Ski pass for 6 days: €69
Popova Shapka is the main ski resort in Macedonia, just 35 kilometers from the capital - Skopje. The village has 200-300 chalets that can be rented and a couple of restaurants.
There's plenty to do on the slopes for both beginners and chubby connoisseurs.
For the second, you can contact the Eskimo Freeride company, they have the cheapest guides in Europe.
We haven’t looked at domestic resorts yet; we’ll talk about them separately.
When choosing a ski resort among European countries, the vast majority of tourists strive to find the cheapest option. This need is due to the fact that the cost of such vouchers usually does not include the price of accommodation at the place of stay.
In addition, vacationers are also forced to pay separately for meals throughout the entire period of their stay at the winter resort. By properly organizing your luggage, as well as choosing the most budget-friendly option for a travel destination, a tourist will avoid unexpected expenses and save money without compromising the quality of his vacation.
Ski resorts in Europe (inexpensive places are often not inferior in the quality of services provided to more elite destinations) can provide tourists with maximum pleasure only if they first think through the details of the trip.
By taking everything you need with you, the vacationer will save himself from the need to buy or rent things while already on the spot. When organizing your luggage, you must make sure you have skis or a snowboard.
Wardrobe items that you may need for a winter holiday in Europe include:
- Ski suit. It should be created specifically for active sports in the cold season. A membrane suit (pants and jacket) made from breathable materials would be ideal. On the sleeve of a professional kit there is usually a special pocket for storing a ski pass.
- Ski boots. Depending on the sport that the tourist plans to practice, he must first purchase shoes of the appropriate size. Wearing the wrong boots will make your skiing or snowboarding experience more difficult.
- Thermal underwear. Worn on a naked body under a ski suit as the first layer. It retains heat and provides moisture removal during active sweating.
- Fleece jacket and pants. The second layer, worn over thermal underwear under a membrane suit.
- Socks. It is advisable to buy them at a professional sports store. Socks for skiers are made from fine wool or mohair. They are high, which helps retain heat in the lower body and prevents snow from getting into the shoes.
- Scarf, hat and gloves. The scarf should be of the snood type. It will provide better protection from the wind. Gloves must have special hard inserts that protect the athlete’s hands from injury when falling. The hat is usually two-layered with windproof sections.
- Protective mask. It is necessary to prevent snow and ice fragments from getting into the tourist’s eyes at the moment of direct descent from the slope.
- Balaclava. Protective fabric covering most of the tourist's face can minimize the risk of frostbite during low temperatures or gusty cold winds.
Inexpensive hostels in European ski resorts or other places offered to tourists for accommodation usually have a minimum number of amenities.
To organize your own pastime and minimize unforeseen circumstances, when packing for a winter vacation, you need to remember the things listed below.
Don't forget to grab:
It is advisable to pack all things compactly, dividing them into 2 bags. One, with things that will only be needed on the ski trip, should be put in the luggage compartment; the second one is to take with you (you can put a first aid kit, money, documents and gadgets in it for entertainment on the road).
Rating of the best inexpensive ski resorts
Ski resorts in Europe (inexpensive options, despite a number of shortcomings, are more popular among vacationers than their elite counterparts), thanks to the variety of options, form a rating of top places for winter holidays.
| Resort name | Average cost of services |
| Bansko, southwestern part of Bulgaria |
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| Poiana Brasov, Romania |
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| Jasna, Slovakia |
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| Livigno, Italy |
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| Pal and Arinsal, Andorra |
|
The best budget ski resorts in Europe
Ski resorts in Europe, inexpensive and offering high quality services, also meet all safety requirements. If a tourist is injured, he must immediately receive qualified medical assistance.
Such places, combining key advantages (low price, developed resort infrastructure, high-quality service, professional staff), are:
Austria
The resort of Sölden, located in Austria. This is a lively place in the city of Tyrol, ideal for active extreme sports enthusiasts, groups of young people, as well as professional skiers, skaters, and snowboarders. 
The season here lasts from late October to early May. Among the main advantages: a large amount of thick layer of snow, modern equipment, the ability to combine winter holidays with treatment at thermal springs located on the territory of the resort. The average cost of a week's holiday in Sölden is from 620 euros per person.
Austrian resort Schladming, located near the famous city of Salzburg (about an hour away by car). On the territory of the complex you can most successfully ride from December to April.
The distinctive characteristics of this place are the safety of the slopes (well-prepared terrain), the latest equipment, as well as trained personnel keeping order in the territory of Schladming.
To make it easier for tourists to move between the slopes, a free bus runs between the slopes, capable of delivering the athlete both to his rented apartment and to one of the 86 operating ski lifts. The price for a week's holiday in Schladming varies from 120 to 250 euros.
France
The world famous resorts of Courchevel, Megeve, Chamonix in France. The season here begins in December and ends in the second half of April. The advantage of these resorts is that they offer their guests a wide range of accommodation and entertainment options, from the cheapest to the elite. 
Depending on the preferences and interests of the vacationer, he can practice extreme sports, enjoy the picturesque nature, sitting in one of the open-air bars, or study the selection in antique shops.
These resorts are suitable for both professional athletes and amateurs who come there primarily just for a change of scenery. The price for a weekly ski pass, as well as equipment rental and individual training, is approximately the same - from 250 to 400 euros.
Finland
Luosto ski resort in Finland, operating from late November to April. Despite the short period of operation of the resort, the snow-covered slopes attract more and more tourists every year. This is an ideal place for a family holiday; professionals will get bored here.
Safe trails, comfortable living conditions, as well as the opportunity to ride reindeer or dog sleds are the reasons why this resort is mainly chosen by people vacationing with children. The cost of a week's holiday here per person will be from 200 to 300 euros, depending on the age and availability of benefits for the tourist.
Italy
Italian winter resort Livigno, located near the Swiss border. Winds are extremely rare here, which makes staying in the complex as comfortable as possible. The season here lasts from November to April.
Considering the proximity of the location to Milan, tired of being at one with nature, it will not be difficult for a tourist to go to the “capital of civilization” on a constantly running bus. The average cost of a week's holiday here is 250 - 350 euros per person, excluding accommodation and meals.
Andorra
Two nearby ski resorts in Andorra, Pal and Arinsal, are distinguished by their developed infrastructure and the presence of modern ski lifts, with a traffic capacity of more than 50 people per hour. 
In addition to the traditional courses for beginner skiers or snowboarders, there are many bars and even high-end restaurants with panoramic views of the snow-capped hills. From Pal and Arinsal the nearest airport is a little more than 30 km, which makes it convenient to transport tourists to their destination. 
The average price for a weekly pass (lift service and equipment rental) varies from 150 to 200 euros, depending on the age of the athlete.
Germany
Ski resorts in Germany, for example Garmisch-Pantherkirchen, have a large number of slopes and slopes, the total length of which exceeds 60 km. A distinctive feature of such places is the presence of cafes, bars, hostels and hotels, which are the embodiment of Bavarian traditions.
If you intend to spend 5 to 7 days at a German winter resort, a tourist will have to pay from 120 to 250 euros, excluding accommodation and meals.
Switzerland
The famous winter resorts of Switzerland - Davos, Zermatt and St. Moritz - are a kind of symbol of the country.
These are one of the first “ski resorts” that were open to guests from all over the world. The Olympic Games and World Economic Forums have been held here several times, and there are also five-star luxury hotels designed to accommodate VIP guests.
One of the most famous ski resorts in Europe: Davos, Switzerland If you want to relax economically, a tourist will have to pay from 250 to 300 euros for a week’s use of the ski lifts, as well as equipment rented.
Norway
Ski resorts in Norway, for example, Lillehammer or Geilo, offer tourists not only to try extreme sports, but also to ride in a reindeer sled, take part in ice fishing, and visit cafes and atmospheric bars.
Each of the most famous Norwegian resorts has hosted the Olympic Games at least once, which explains the development of the infrastructure of these places. The total length of the routes reaches 80 km. The average price for a week's holiday for 1 person is 300 euros.
Sweden
Sweden is famous for its winter resort Åre. The prices for hotel accommodation here are quite reasonable (from 4,500 thousand per night). The territory of Åre includes 4 villages and 5 ski areas, between which a free bus constantly runs. 
The season here starts in November and ends in May. The total length of the tracks reaches 100 km, which is one of the highest in Europe. A weekly pass here will cost a tourist 320 euros excluding food and accommodation.
Czech
Ski resorts in Europe that are inexpensive but allow tourists to relax comfortably include Spindleruv Mlyn and Janske Lazne in the Czech Republic. They are located near the European capital (Prague), just over 110 km. People come here to ride from December to April.
The difference between these places is that in addition to traditional schools teaching resort guests how to ski, skate and snowboard, there are Russian-speaking instructors here. They work not only with adults, but also with the youngest tourists. The average price for a holiday in these places is from 100 to 200 euros (accommodation and meals are paid separately).
Georgia
Georgian Gudauri is not only ready to accept tourists, but also those who want to stay here for permanent residence. Apartments are sold here at a high price, but they “pay off” their owner’s investment within 8-10 years of constant skiing during the season.
At the resort you can not only learn skiing and snowboarding, but also play tennis, visit a Finnish sauna, a swimming pool and even a swimming pool. The cost of a ski pass and equipment rental valid for a week reaches 200 euros per person.
Bulgaria
Bulgarian ski resorts (the most famous among them are Bansko, Pamporovo, Borovets) are one of the “youngest”, but best-equipped winter destinations for tourists. The season here lasts from mid-December to the second half of April.
Despite the short total length of the trails, no more than 14 km in each resort, their popularity among athletes is growing every year. The increased interest is driven by the availability of housing and services provided locally. For example, the price for a lift for a week will not exceed 150 euros.
Romania
Romanian Poiana Brasov is considered an elite ski resort among the economy class. The total length of the slopes in this place is approximately 14 km. 
In addition to the presence of many slopes, there are chairlifts, artificially created skating rinks, swimming pools, saunas, gyms and so on. You can relax here for 300 euros, taking into account the lack of benefits and additional discounts.
Slovenia
Bohinj, geographically located in Slovenia, offers its guests not only to practice skiing, skating and snowboarding, but also to ride on virgin soil or on the usual slope, but at night. The best time to come here is from December to May.
Slovenian skiing is best suited for families with children who do not want to be in the center of social events on vacation (live concerts, sporting events, etc.).
There are 2 ski areas in Bohinj, and a free bus runs between them. The average fee for a subscription (lift + equipment) will be up to 180 euros per week.
Poland
Zakopane in Poland is a small city (population of more than 30 thousand people), on the territory of which one of the most famous ski resorts in Europe is located. World-class competitions are held here, and people from all over the world vacation here. 
Despite the fact that hotels in Zakopane are above average in price, prices for services provided at the resort are among the lowest. For example, a week of equipment rental and daily one-hour courses with an instructor will cost a tourist 180 - 250 euros Slovakia (Jasna)
Slovakia
In Slovakia, in order to relax in the winter season, tourists prefer to go to Jasna. This is a ski resort considered one of the most versatile in Europe. It will be interesting here for both a professional athlete and a child who comes to this place with his parents. 
Jasna offers to visit children's and adult slopes, ride a motor sleigh or visit local attractions. The lift capacity here is extremely high - about 12,000 people per hour. The cost of just a weekly pass here varies from 100 to 200 euros.
Contrary to popular belief that it is impossible to relax at a ski resort in Europe inexpensively, practice proves the opposite.
With the right approach to organizing a trip (collecting the necessary things and choosing a travel destination), a tourist will be able to not only relax as economically as possible, but also acquire new skills thanks to individual lessons with experienced instructors, as well as meet professional athletes for free.
Article format: Svetlana Ovsyanikova
Video on the topic: ski resorts in Europe
Famous ski resorts in Europe:
As it turns out, winter sports enthusiasts don’t necessarily need to go abroad to have great skiing or snowboarding. Russia is a great country, and domestic peaks are also capable of satisfying the needs of skiers of any level. Therefore, TravelAsk decided to prepare a list of the best Russian mountain resorts, which also have quite reasonable prices.
Belokurikha, Altai Territory (mountains of the Cherginsky range)
The ski resort is located in the river valley of the Altai Territory at an altitude of 250 meters above sea level. Thanks to the presence of underground warm springs of nitrogen-radon water at the resort, people come here from all over the country not only to ski or snowboard, but also to receive medical treatment.
Trails
For beginner skiers in Belokurikha there are small training trails and a ski school. For everyone else, there are trails of a higher level of difficulty, their total length reaches 27 kilometers. The maximum length of the route is 2,500 meters.
Ski season
The ski season here begins in December and lasts until the end of March, the air temperature can fluctuate from −10 to −26 °C, and there is practically no wind. On average, the level of snow cover reaches one meter, but recently they began to artificially raise it to two meters, thanks to which the ski season was extended to six months.
Prices
On average, the cost of one day of accommodation at the resort, with ski pass rental and lunch, will cost you approximately 2,500 rubles.
If you want not only to ski or snowboard, but also to improve your health, then you should stay in one of the sanatoriums or boarding houses, where they additionally provide medical services and carry out various wellness procedures. Accommodation there will cost about 3,000 rubles.
When choosing a regular hotel, the price per room will start somewhere from 1,800 rubles.
How to get to Belokurikha
The closest airport to Belokurikha is in Barnaul. A flight to there from Moscow and back will cost about 19 thousand rubles.
From Barnaul to the resort can be reached by bus or minibus within four hours.
Sheregesh, Siberia (mountains Karitshal and Mustag)
How to get to Sheregesh
How to get to Sheregesh
The nearest airport to Sheregesh is in, a plane ticket will cost about 17,000 rubles. You can also get to Moscow from Moscow by train; a reserved seat ticket will cost around 7,000 rubles. Next you will need to go by bus or taxi.
Dombay, Caucasus (Mount Mussa-Achitara)
It is located in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic on the territory of the Teberda Nature Reserve and is one of the most popular ski resorts in Russia.
Trails
The resort is notable for its large differences in altitude; the ski areas have an altitude of 2,600-3,000 meters. The Dombay trails, with a total length of 20 kilometers, are suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders; they are of varying difficulty and steepness. Tourists and an instructor can be transported to the top of the mountain by helicopter; although this service is not cheap, it gives an unforgettable experience.
Ski season
The Dombay mountain valley is well protected from the wind, the climate is mild, and the average winter temperature is -5 °C. The ski season here lasts 6 months: from December to May.
Prices
Your budget for one day spent in Dombay will be about 4,300 rubles.
The optimal prices for hotel accommodation are 1,000-2,000 rubles per night. The cost of double rooms starts from 2,000 rubles.
How to get to Dombay
A plane ticket from Moscow to Mineralnye Vody and back will cost you approximately 5,500 rubles. Then you will need to order a transfer to the resort itself or take a bus or taxi. The distance from the airport will be 230 kilometers.
Abzakovo, Ural (slope of Krykty-Tau)
The modern Abzakovo ski complex is located 60 kilometers from Magnitogorsk and attracts not only fans of alpine skiing and snowboarding, but also professional athletes.
Trails
The resort features 15 trails with a total length of over 20 kilometers. Russian national teams train here and competitions at various levels are held.
There are both complex trails and simple ones for those who are just starting to ski. All trails are cleaned by snowcats, and many, among other things, are equipped with snow cannons.
Ski season
The climate at the resort is moderate, the ski season begins at the end of November and lasts until the beginning of April. It is best to come at the end of February or March, at this time there are no severe frosts and the temperature does not drop below -15 °C.
Prices
One day at a ski resort will cost you about 3,200 rubles.
Hotel prices are not high; the best option would be a room for 1,000-2,000 rubles per night.
How to get to Abzakovo
The cost of a flight to Magnitogorsk will be about 14,000 rubles.
You can also get to Magnitogorsk by train; a ticket will cost you about 4,000 rubles.
Elbrus region, Kabardino-Balkaria (mountains Elbrus, Cheget)
The Elbrus region has very wide opportunities for skiers and is one of the famous resorts all over the world. It is located in the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria and borders on two mountain slopes: Elbrus and Cheget.
Trails
Elbrus is the highest point in both Russia and Europe. The eastern peak of the mountain reaches a height of 5621 meters above sea level, and the height of the western peak is 5642 meters. But at the same time, not only professionals, but also beginner skiers can ski on the slopes of Elbrus.
But as for Mount Cheget, it is suitable only for the most experienced skiers. On its slope there is one of the most difficult routes.
In total, in the Elbrus region there are 35 kilometers of trails and 12 kilometers of cable cars.
Ski season
Each high-altitude zone of the resort has its own climatic characteristics, but in general the skiing season for the region opens in November and lasts until mid-May.
Prices
One day spent in the Elbrus region will cost you approximately 3,900 rubles.
In more detail, the cost of a ski pass for the whole day will cost 1,300 rubles. For the lift to Elbrus you will have to pay 600 rubles per day, to Cheget - 800 rubles per day.
As for the hotel, the price for a room starts from 1,400 rubles per night.
How to get to Elbrus region
The initial route to the resort is the same as to Dombay - you need to get to Mineralnye Vody. And then 180 kilometers by taxi or bus, which will take 3-3.5 hours.
Probably every person once in childhood tried to get on skis and even moved a few meters on them. For many, a childhood hobby has grown into a favorite pastime in adulthood. They cannot imagine life without a winter walk through the forest on skis.
Passion for skiing is a completely different matter. Not everyone will decide on such an active holiday. This is a special category of people who strive to conquer the snowy slopes. Here you need special equipment, and the place is suitable. That is why the question often arises: “Where to go skiing in Europe?”
Experienced skiers already have their own resorts, where they gather annually with a company of like-minded people. It is on the basis of their reviews that the article presents a description of the best European ski resorts.
The most elite and prestigious resorts
Holidays at such resorts cannot be afforded by everyone. Here are the best trails, magnificent nature and unsurpassed service. Most resorts are located near cute European cities where you can go on an excursion or the next sale. Only a traveler who has been to both can appreciate the difference between budget and luxury resorts.
We present the five most expensive and prestigious ski resorts. If a ski lover has significant financial savings, he will be able to afford snow-white snow and excellent slopes.
France, Courchevel
There are a large number of wealthy citizens in Russia, so Russian tourists, as well as residents of the CIS, are regular clients of this resort. The very name of the resort is associated with undisguised luxury and wealth. In addition to the main activity - skiing, visitors can stroll through the elite boutiques, of which there are a great many.
The cost of a week-long tour to Courchevel per person is from 60 thousand rubles. Provided you stay in a three-star hotel.
France, Megève
If the first resort is a gathering place for Russian oligarchs, then the French and respectable Europeans prefer to come to Megève. The popularity of the resort is explained by the presence of trails of varying difficulty. For experienced skiers there are slopes whose duration is more than 2.5 thousand meters. At an altitude of about 2 kilometers there are coniferous forests that make the area even more beautiful. And the mountain air, filled with their aroma, becomes simply intoxicating.
Megève is the best place for a family holiday. It is very quiet and peaceful here.
Minimum prices for holidays are similar to Courchevel.
France, Chamonix
You get the feeling that all the best resorts are collected in France. This is partly true. Chamonix has a special charm. This resort is the oldest and most famous in France. A special historical fact is that the 1924 Olympic Games were held here.
There are special ski slopes here, because they are located on Mount Mont Blanc, whose height is just over 4 thousand meters. Therefore, Chamonix has the longest ski slopes in the world (more than 20 kilometers). This is a particularly difficult descent with a length of 3000 meters, it is located almost vertically and requires a fair amount of dexterity and skill to overcome it.
Video about the slopes in Chamonix:
This is the most popular ski resort in the world. About 5 million vacationers come here every year. A distinctive feature of the resort is its consistently smooth snow cover. There are also trails of varying degrees of difficulty. You can go here with children who have never skied before. Or you can visit experienced athletes who have seen more than one difficult route in their lives. Chamonix will find something to surprise them with. Indeed, thanks to its special geographical location, vacationers can conquer slopes located not only in France, but also in Switzerland and Italy.
Like all French resorts, the season at this elite resort starts in December and ends in April.
The cheapest tour costs about 55 thousand rubles for 7 nights.
Switzerland, St. Moritz
This ski resort is considered the king of the Alps. Vacationers come up with various synonyms for it - chic, aristocratic, fashionable and luxurious. This is a special place where representatives of royal dynasties, show business stars and people with millions of fortunes come.
Alpine skiing championships are held here from time to time, which indicates the excellent condition of the slopes. All trails are natural and are formed anew every year.
The sun always shines here. Cloudy days can be counted on your fingers. And such snow-white and dry snow is difficult to find anywhere else. For experienced skiers, the best slopes are on the Piz Noir peak.
It's hard to find such a variety of trails and slopes anywhere else. The resort has 350 kilometers of ski slopes, which can be reached by 55 types of different lifts.
On the territory of the resort there is the most famous restaurant in Europe, La Marmite.
Sweden, Are
This resort was included in the ranking of the most popular and prestigious European resorts not so long ago - in 2008. This was facilitated by excellent trails, developed infrastructure, incredibly beautiful nature, well-equipped slopes and impeccable service. This resort is suitable for families with children, as it creates a special homely atmosphere of comfort.
Young people will find a lot of interesting entertainment here - riding in reindeer sleds, entertainment in 24-hour nightclubs, bars and restaurants.
Here you can ski not only during the day, but also at night, as many slopes have additional lighting. The snow cover of the slopes is usually natural. But if the cover is not good enough, it will be “renewed” with the help of snow cannons.
The season here starts in November and ends in May. For the special convenience of tourists, the ski lifts are located next to the residential apartments. And the lifts themselves are combined into a common system that allows you to easily get to any desired point.
More budget, but no less wonderful ski resorts in Europe
True connoisseurs of alpine skiing choose the slopes first. There are many wonderful places in Europe with excellent slopes and equally wonderful service. Here are five of the best. The list was compiled based on reviews from people who have been there more than once.
Switzerland, Zermatt
All ski resorts located in the Alps are appreciated by vacationers. There is always wonderful snow here, a mild climate and trails of varying difficulty levels. Excellent infrastructure, steep slopes, excellent Swiss cuisine combined with a stunning alpine landscape attract a large number of tourists here every year.
A special advantage of this resort over others is the longest pistes with year-round access. The longest is at an altitude of 3800 meters. You can get to any point using a convenient lift.
Austria, Sölden
This resort is more suitable for young people. The resort has a wide variety of entertainment venues. The resort operates all year round, as the snow cover never melts. This is facilitated by the proximity of two glaciers.
Sölden is popular due to the presence of slopes for both beginners and professional skiers. A special bonus of the resort is the thermal springs, which allow you to combine active recreation with treatment.
Although the resort is open all year round, the best time for skiing is considered to be from November to April.
Switzerland, Davos
Here you can enjoy excellent skiing and treat pulmonary diseases. The air here is incredibly clean. Vacationers appreciate the resort for its convenient ski lifts, developed infrastructure and varied trails.
There is plenty of space here not only for skiers, but also for snowboarders.
Bulgaria, Bansko
This resort has many fans. The inimitable Bulgarian nature and interesting architecture of the city make the resort attractive. Usually the skiing season begins in December and ends in April.
But the resort operates all year round. When skiers leave, fans of mountain biking come here. All bases are located on the territory of the Bulgarian Pirin Park. Therefore, some of the routes run through picturesque forests.
– a great place to relax with children. In addition to the fact that easy trails are equipped here especially for little skiers, kindergartens are also opened.
Bulgaria is a European country, but prices here are significantly lower than in Austria or Switzerland. At the same time, the service is no worse. And legends are even made about the delicacies of Bulgarian cuisine. A daily ski pass costs about 1,200 rubles. Lunch for one person, consisting of three courses - about 1000 rubles. The minimum cost for a room with good conditions is 2000 rubles.
Georgia, Gudauri
The most budget-friendly and at the same time wonderful option for a holiday at a ski resort. This type of recreation began to operate in Georgia recently, so the tracks are not yet worn out, and the hotels meet the best requirements of European service. And if you add that specialists from Austria were involved in equipping the bases, it becomes clear that there is everything necessary for skiing and recreation.
The only drawback is the limited length of the trails. Their total length is about 16 thousand meters. The highest descent is at an altitude of 3 thousand meters. But this disadvantage is more than compensated by the wonderful climate and nature. A special bonus is Georgian hospitality, which cannot be found anywhere in the world.
Equipment rental
Of course, it is better to have your own equipment, but if you don’t have it, you can rent everything you need. Prices in Gudauri are the lowest in relation to other European ski resorts:
- Skis, ski boots, snowshoes – 700 rubles per item;
- Helmet and gloves – 1250 rubles;
- Telescopic ski poles – 375 rubles;
- Beeper – 1000 rubles;
- Slipboards – 1750 rubles.
Cost of lifts
Like all resorts in Gudauri there is a fee for using the ski lift. The prices are as follows:
- The cost of one use is 175 rubles;
- Fee for three times at once – 450 rubles;
- Night rise – 250 rubles;
- Purchasing a ski pass that allows you to use the lift all day – 1000 rubles for an adult skier and 625 rubles for children from 6 to 16 years old;
- Weekly ski pass – 5800 rubles.
If a tourist has a multi-pass, you can use it.
What to take with you to a ski resort
When packing luggage for a trip to a ski resort, it is worth remembering the weight restrictions that apply to air travel. Therefore, it is tedious to select only the most necessary things. Professional skiers always take equipment with them. Beginner athletes can rent it. Such a service is provided at any recreation center.
Therefore, before packing, you need to make a list of everything you need:
- Cloth. We're not just talking about warm sweaters and special overalls. Don't hesitate to buy thermal underwear. It is important to have special waterproof gloves and boots. A warm scarf and hat wouldn't hurt. Other things are at your own discretion.
- First aid kit. We take everything we use at home and supplement it with headache remedies, bandages, brilliant green and cold medicines.
- Equipment. Don't forget about your phone, video camera, camera. We add charging devices to the list.
- Cosmetics. The point is important not only for women, but also for men. Cold mountain air can chaff any skin, so a protective cream won't hurt. Everything steel is at your own discretion.
- Additional items. Be sure to pack sunglasses. The mountain sun has a very strong effect on the eyes. A small thermos and a shoe dryer wouldn't hurt.
The listed items are required at any ski resort. Arrange other items of luggage according to the degree of need. Put the most unnecessary items at the end of the list. If it doesn't fit into the suitcase, it won't be too bad.
Simple rules or what you need to know when visiting a ski resort
These rules are acceptable for those travelers who are going to the ski resort for the first time. The list is simple and small:
- Before going to a ski resort, collect all the information about it. First of all, the difficulty of the trails. They must be different. If a vacationer is easy to train, then after several days of riding on an easy route, he will become bored and want to find something more difficult.
- Minimum set of equipment. You don’t need to buy all the necessary equipment right away. After all, there is no guarantee that it will be needed next year. You may not like this kind of vacation at all. All necessary equipment can be rented at the resort. In any case, this is cheaper than buying professional equipment.
- Boil contact lenses. If a beginner has poor eyesight and cannot do without glasses, then they should be replaced with contact lenses. This is less dangerous.
- You should not show off your skills and abilities, especially if you don’t have them. There is no need to be embarrassed that a beginner has poor skiing skills and cannot cope with an easy descent the first time. The skill is achieved through long training. But a thoughtless descent along a difficult route can quickly interrupt your rest.
- Listen to the instructor in everything and don’t be surprised when he starts teaching you how to fall first, and only then how to stand on your skis.
These simple rules will help make your vacation more enjoyable and completely safe. Not every person can immediately show Olympic performance, so first of all you need to think about personal safety, and not about the impression that you can make on others.
The article provides only a small list of ski resorts. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Usually one trip is enough to understand whether this place is suitable or not. And one successful downhill skiing is enough to make you fall in love with this extreme sport for life.
Sutochno.ru presents to you the best ski resorts in Russia. Our rating contains all the most important things: where to go, what conditions are created for relaxation and where you can stay.
Sheregesh
This ski resort is located in the Kemerovo region, on the slopes of Mount Zelenaya. The complex is well developed and equipped, the snow here is always dry and lush, so it does not stick to the skis, and the slopes retain their shape perfectly. The temperature during the skiing season ranges from −10… -15°С.
How to get there: first to Kemerovo, Novosibirsk or Novokuznetsk, from there by bus to Tashtagol (from 3 to 14 hours), then again by bus to Sheregesh (20 minutes).
When is the season: from mid-November to the end of May.
Who is this resort for: for both beginners and experienced ones.
Trails: 15 trails with a total length of 23 kilometers. There are 4 difficulty levels. Experienced skiers ski at the top; here the sections are the most difficult. It gets easier closer to the bottom. If you are a downhill skier, there are two slopes with an incline of up to 45 degrees.
Equipment rental: for 1 hour - 200 rubles, for 8 hours - 700 rubles. 14 rental points are evenly distributed throughout the resort.
Belokurikha
This resort is located in the Altai Territory, here you can relax against the backdrop of the mountains. The sun shines often, and there is practically no wind, so it is comfortable to ride here, despite the fact that in winter the air temperature reaches -20°C. The thickness of the natural snow cover is about 1.5 meters. Skiing conditions are good; the resort often hosts alpine skiing competitions.
How to get there: by train or plane to Novosibirsk or Barnaul (as well as by train to Biysk), and then by direct bus to Belokurikha.
When is the season: end of November - beginning of April.
Who is this resort for: for everyone who loves alpine skiing in Russia.
Trails: There are 5 equipped slopes, and the total length of the slopes is about 7 kilometers. The longest descent is 2.5 kilometers, the elevation difference is 500 meters. For lovers of difficult trails, the Tserkovka descent is suitable. If you are not a very good skier, you should go to the “Grace” track, it is easier. Katun is suitable for a family holiday, where the elevation difference is only 180 meters.
Equipment rental: about 100 rubles per hour.
Kirovsk
Kirovsk ranks high in the ranking of ski resorts in Russia. It is located in the Murmansk region, thanks to which you can ride here almost all year round. At the beginning of December, the polar night begins here, so guests of the resort not only ski, but also enjoy the northern lights, as well as the picturesque landscapes of the Khibiny.
How to get there: first by plane or train to the city of Apatity, then by regular bus to the resort.
When is the season: from December to May, but there is snow on the peaks even in summer.
Who is this resort for: for beginners and professionals.
Trails: in Kirovsk there are 28 equipped slopes, which in total stretch for 30 kilometers. The elevation difference is from 400 to 600 meters. There are 3 slopes for beginners, 10 for amateurs and pros. There are also 5 slopes of increased difficulty. Chairlifts and rope tows are available.
Equipment rental: The cost depends on which ski area you go to, but the prices are quite low.
Krasnaya Polyana
Krasnaya Polyana is located near Sochi, not far from the Black Sea coast, and thanks to this it is quite easy to get here. The complex was involved in the 2014 Winter Olympics, so the infrastructure here is at a high level. In addition to Krasnaya Polyana itself, the resort includes the village of Esto-Sadok and several sports complexes: Gornaya Karusel, Gazprom (Laura) and Rosa Khutor. In addition to skiing, at the resort you can relax in bars, restaurants and nightclubs, as well as watch.
How to get there: by plane or train to Sochi, then transfer to the Sochi-Krasnaya Polyana train. You can also get to Krasnaya Polyana by car from Sochi and Adler.
When is the season: from mid-December to mid-April.
Who is this resort for: for both experienced and beginners.
Trails: the largest complex is Rosa Khutor, where there are all types of trails and you can practice freeride. The Laura complex is positioned as a family complex and will appeal more to beginners. "Mountain Carousel" is suitable for beginners and professionals, there are opportunities for freeride.
Equipment rental: works both in villages and directly on the highways. The average price for a set of skis or snowboard is 1,200 rubles.
Dombay
Located in Karachay-Cherkessia, on the slopes of the Caucasus. Dombay Glade is incredibly beautiful, and in addition to skiing, here you can admire the panoramas of neighboring mountains, forests and gorges. Dombay is in good standing on the list of ski resorts in Russia: it is actively developing, Russian and international competitions are held here.
How to get there: by plane to Mineralnye Vody, or by train to the same Mineralnye Vody, Cherkessk, Nalchik or Nevinnomyssk. Then take a bus from these cities to Dombay.
When is the season: from late November to early April.
Who is this resort for: for both professionals and beginners.
Trails: 12 descents, whose total length is approximately 20 kilometers. For beginner skiers there are gentle and straight slopes, for those who are braver there are more difficult slopes, and for professionals there are routes with sharp turns and sharp changes in elevation.
Equipment rental: there are a lot of rental points - both in the village and in all parts of the slopes. The kit costs on average 500 rubles per day.
Beloretsk
The Beloretsk ski resort is located in Bashkortostan. Ski slopes are located on Mount Mratkino, which is one of the highest in the Southern Urals. There is a lot of snow here, the air is clean, and the elevation difference is small. The ski slopes are surrounded by a beautiful pine forest.
How to get there: by plane or train to Magnitogorsk, Chelyabinsk or Ufa, then by bus to Beloretsk.
When is the season: from December to April.
Who is this resort for: for beginners and advanced riders.
Trails: the total length of 5 local trails is about 5 kilometers, the elevation difference does not exceed 300 meters. The simplest one is for riding with children, its length is 300 meters. The most difficult section is the giant slalom course, which is 1,250 meters long. The resort has 4 lifts - both rope tows and chairlifts. The routes have good lighting, the snow is dense, and is leveled if necessary.
Equipment rental: from 140 rubles per hour.
Gubakha
In the Perm region there is a beautiful and snowy resort called Gubakha. Here, in the southern part of the Northern Urals, there are a variety of trails for everyone who likes to ski.
How to get there: by any type of transport to Solikamsk or Perm, then by train or bus to Gubakha.
When is the season: from early December to mid-April.
Who is this resort for: for all lovers of ski holidays, including fans of difficult slopes.
Trails: 17 trails, which in total stretch for 20 km. The elevation difference is 300 m, the longest track is 2600 m. There are tracks of any complexity, including slalom, giant slalom, downhill and freeride.
Equipment rental: a set for 1 hour costs 400 rubles, for a day - 700 rubles.
Khvalynsk
Khvalynsk is located in the Saratov region. The ski resort here is located on the Volga Upland, at its highest point (379 m above sea level). This area is distinguished by relict pine forests, clean air and beautiful landscapes.
How to get there: by any transport to Saratov, and then by bus to Khvalynsk. You can also take a train to the Syzran, Balakovo or Vozrozhdenie railway stations, and then by car to Khvalynsk.
When is the season: starts in mid-December and ends at the end of March.
Who is this resort for: for lovers of ski holidays with different levels of training.
Trails: 3 trails of varying difficulty - for both experienced and beginners. The total length is 2.7 km, and the elevation difference is 180 m. The longest route is 1.2 km. There is artificial snowmaking and conditions have been created for evening skiing. There are 3 drag lifts in operation.
When is the season: mid-November - end of April.
Who is this resort for: both for experienced skiers and for beginners in this matter.
Trails: The resort has 13 trails, the total length of which is more than 15 km. The longest route is 2100 m, and the elevation difference is 475 meters. There are 7 lifts available. The resort is equipped with artificial snowmaking and lighting systems. There are also cross-country ski trails - their length is 5 and 10 km.
Equipment rental: ski kit costs from 350 rubles per hour and from 1000 rubles per day.