Andorra

The tiny state of Andorra offers a ski area in the Pyrenees that is anything but tiny: Grandvalira is even the largest ski area in Europe outside of the Alps! Andorra can therefore be seen in comparison to its large neighbors France and Spain. Even if there are only two ski areas available in Andorra, they offer top-class fun on the slopes. Andorra is also known as a shopping paradise. Every year numerous shopping tourists flock to the small duty-free state and represent a large source of income. Exactly this money is invested on the one hand in winter sports, on the other hand it is invested in numerous leisure facilities such as thermal baths or ice skating centers in order to optimize the offerings away from the slopes . This is how two large and modern ski areas were created, Why book a ski holiday in Andorra? Andorra may not be the first choice when planning a ski vacation for the new winter season. That could be a mistake! Because the tiny state of Andorra offers great slopes for skiers and snowboarders. Regardless of whether you are out with friends or family, the right slope or activity can be found for everyone. Although Andorra is one of the smallest independent states in Europe and a relatively unknown winter holiday destination compared to Austria or France, skiing in Andorra has some advantages. The slopes are excellently prepared and maintained and are among the most modern in the world. Ski areas in Andorra offer good conditions for beginners and advanced winter sports enthusiasts and even beautiful off-piste terrain. Where can you ski in Andorra? Since there are only two large ski areas in Andorra, the choice is accordingly easy. However, both ski areas have a lot to offer, especially when it comes to winter sports conditions. So why not go on a skiing holiday in Pas de la Casa or Soldeu, both of which are in Grandvalira? The connection between the two ski areas in Grandvalira makes it Europe’s largest ski area outside the Alps. It wasn’t always like this, at the beginning there were a few small ski areas. The areas later merged and became the two major ski resorts in Andorra. After the merger of Ordino-Arcalis and Pal-Arsinal, Vallnord was created, an attractive ski area with 91 kilometers of slopes. Grandvalira, on the other hand, now consists of the former small ski areas Encamp, Soldeu-El Tarter and Pas de la Casa-Grau Roig. After the small ski areas were connected, the largest ski area in Europe outside the Alps was created with 210 kilometers of slopes. Grandvalira is therefore the largest area in Andorra with good connections and significantly more slopes. The Soldeu ski resort is the best base for exploring the extensive Grandvalira ski area, which is accessible from various other ski resorts. The name Soldeu means “sun god”. You can actually see the sun quite often, but the snow is still of a surprisingly good quality, which is due to the fact that northern slopes dominate the ski area. The snow reliability in Andorra is also far better than many expect. Soldeu is the home of snowboarders. Boarders will find the best fun parks in the Pyrenees here. The ski area is not only particularly appealing for experts, but also a good place for beginners and offers enough off-piste opportunities for freeride enthusiasts. The freeride terrain can be discovered in Arcalis, for example, where the slopes are particularly steep. The best tree skiing opportunities are in Pal. The sunny ski resort Pas de la Casa with direct access to the slopes is located at an altitude of 2,100 meters. After skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy a delicious beer here at fair prices or you can dive straight into the wild nightlife of the place. What other activities are there in Andorra? A ski vacation is all about skiing and snowboarding. Rightly so, but keep in mind that there are many other exciting activities besides skiing and snowboarding to diversify and enjoy your skiing holiday – even in a small state like Andorra. One of the possible sports activities is cross-country skiing. Andorra is a wonderful place for cross-country skiers, as there are numerous great trails that lead around the Grau Roig and Pas de la Casa ski areas. The trails around Grau Roig are more demanding and therefore particularly recommended for experienced cross-country skiers. Snowshoeing is particularly popular in Andorra to enjoy the unique natural landscapes and beauty of the Pyrenees. Vacationers who love dogs will be delighted with dog sledding. Those looking for a thrill of speed will surely prefer a snowmobile tour through the endless white snow landscape. For families, tubing or ice skating are particularly suitable – fun for the whole family! Another unforgettable family excursion leads to the “Naturlandia” park, where you can experience nature and wildlife up close. If the mountains are not high enough for you, you should definitely fly over the majestic mountains in a hot air balloon and sniff the mountain air unique experience is fun and provides adrenaline rushes, After the cheap beer has already been mentioned, the large selection of après-ski options must not be ignored. Many bars, pubs, clubs and discos are located in Soldeu, Pas de la Casa, Canillo and Encamp. The choice is huge! Those who like to go shopping will love Andorra! In addition to all the wonderful memories, bringing home a few bargains from your ski holiday, the ski trip can put the icing on the cake. Andorra is a tax-free zone. So there are enough bargains to discover, alcoholic drinks, tobacco and cosmetic products are particularly cheap. After spending the whole day on the slopes, your body needs relaxation. This is where “Caldea” in Andorra-la-Vella comes into play: Caldea is the largest SPA and wellness center in Europe!

Austria

As Rum Doodle have their home base in Austria, what better company to provide you with information on the best places to visit. Perfectly groomed slopes, snow-covered deep snow slopes and snow-sure skiing fun on the glaciers: everyone is guaranteed to get their money’s worth in the winter sports paradise of Austria! Whether on one or two boards, beginner or professional – pure winter fun is guaranteed on a skiing holiday. And not just on the slopes. Austria is an après-ski stronghold and can therefore boast the absolute party hotspots. Where can you go on a skiing holiday in Austria? The heart of Austria, Tyrol, lies between the Arlberg and the Kitzbühel Alps. The heart of the Alps beats in Tyrol – especially when it comes to skiing and snowboarding! All famous ski resorts such as Kitzbühel, Ischgl, Sölden or St. Anton are located here. Another great region for winter sports is the Salzburger Land, where you can find great snow conditions both in the pre- and post-season. This is due, among other things, to the up to 3,000 m high Kitzsteinhorn, which is located in the Zell am See / Kaprun holiday region. The Kitzsteinhorn has its own glacier, which means that snow is guaranteed.   Austria’s southernmost federal state, Carinthia, offers a fabulous variety of winter sports such as winter hiking, cross-country skiing and ice skating – and of course great skiing and snowboarding terrain! Spending winter in the beautiful nature of Carinthia has a very special charm. More than 200 lakes complete the breathtaking mountain panorama. If you want to soak up the sun during your skiing holiday, East Tyrol is the ideal holiday region for you. But that does not mean that there is less snow – skiing in the sun is the dream of every winter sports enthusiast, which can come true, especially in East Tyrol. There are of course a few other regions and federal states with great conditions for skiing holidays. The magical Montafon, for example, is also very popular, the legendary Lech or the magical Zürs in Voralberg. These not only offer a fantastic panorama of the mountain landscape and valleys, but also ensure high snow reliability due to their altitude. Why ski holidays in Austria? There is not only one good reason to book your skiing holiday in Austria – there are so many! Think of the good cuisine, the hospitality, incomparable ski regions, perfectly groomed slopes, a high level of guaranteed snow on the glaciers, numerous leisure activities and much more. You also have a huge selection of different accommodations – from cheap apartments to luxury hotels. Everyone will find the perfect skiing holiday in Austria. What is special about skiing in Austria? Anyone who has ever been on a skiing holiday in Austria will most likely keep the pictures in their head for a long time: rustic, traditional villages and the indescribably beautiful landscape, snow-capped mountains, deep snow, challenging freeriding terrain and huge ski areas. The largest ski areas extend over several mountain peaks. A large number of lifts connect the slopes and the glaciers also ensure a high level of snow reliability – even in summer! Skiing has a long tradition in Austria. Many famous World Cup races such as the infamous annual Hahnenkamm race in Kitzbühel have their origins in the Alpine nation. And who does not remember the Olympic Winter Games in Innsbruck in 1964 and 1976? How long is the ski season in Austria? The season starts early and ends late on the glaciers! In Sölden, the season starts in October and continues into April. Not only that – the Hintertux Glacier is Austria’s year-round ski area and, together with other glaciers, offers winter fun all year round!

Bulgaria

Bulgaria has a lot to offer: traditional houses and quaint alleys, rustic restaurants with excellent gastronomy as well as modern and action-packed ski areas with guaranteed snow that stretch across the country’s imposing mountain ranges such as the Rhodope or the Pirin. There is something for everyone. A wonderful combination of tradition and modernity awaits you in Bulgaria. Bulgaria should certainly not be underestimated as a winter sports destination. The mountains take up about 30 percent of the country, which makes Bulgaria not only a respectable, traditional tourist attraction, but also an excellent winter sports destination for young and old. Where can you go skiing in Bulgaria? The main ski destinations in Bulgaria are in the Pirin and Rila Mountains as well as the Rhodope Mountains, which extend to the gates of the beautiful capital Sofia. The highest peak of the Pirin National Park reaches 2,914 m and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, where skiing is not only aesthetic but also a unique experience. At the foot of the Pirin Mountains is the Bansko ski area with its 75 kilometers of slopes and 14 lifts. The ski area is now one of the most important and most modern winter sports centers in Eastern Europe, where not only families but also sporty drivers get their money’s worth.  But Bulgaria has much more to offer, such as the large ski area of ​​Pamporovo, which extends in the middle of a unique forest area. The ski area is located in the Smolyan region, which belongs to the Rhodope Mountains and is therefore one of the southernmost ski areas in Europe. With its 63 kilometers of slopes, it also meets international standards. Why ski vacation in Bulgaria? In Bulgaria you will not only find many attractive ski resorts, but also a large selection of hotels with different standards and prices, a diverse selection of après-ski options such as bars or traditional restaurants and some of the most famous health resorts in the country where you can just sit back and relax and relax. In addition, the mountains in Bulgaria also impress with their enormous variety of plant and animal species. What is special about Bulgaria? Bulgaria has a lot to offer: traditional houses and picturesque alleys, rustic taverns with excellent cuisine, as well as modern and interesting ski areas with high snow reliability, which are located in the country’s impressive mountain ranges such as the Rhodope or the Pirin Mountains. As the country was inhabited by different nations in the past, today you can find a unique culture, deep-rooted trade tradition, admirable cloth factories and wood carvings. A wonderful combination of tradition and modernity awaits you in Bulgaria. How long is the ski season in Bulgaria? The ski season in Bulgaria starts in early December and ends in May, so that the season lasts around 130 days on average in the low and high areas.

Czech Republic

In addition to the “golden city of Prague”, the Czech Republic offers a lot more for people interested in traveling – including an excellent selection of wonderful ski areas! Many low mountain ranges such as the Bohemian Forest, the Ore Mountains or the Giant Mountains promise pure winter fun. In the home of the “Rübezahl”, the Giant Mountains (Krkonoše in Czech) in the north of the Czech Republic, there are many opportunities for fans of snow sports. In the well-equipped ski centers you will find well-groomed slopes and cross-country trails as well as beautiful toboggan runs and winter hiking trails. Why book a ski holiday in the Czech Republic? In the Czech Republic you will find ski resorts for every level of winter sports. Whether skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing or hiking, you can do all these activities in a fascinating, snow-covered landscape. The Czech Republic is particularly suitable for families with children and beginners. Nevertheless, even advanced skiers and snowboarders will have fun on the excellently groomed slopes. Continuous improvements such as new lifts are also planned for the future. Where should you ski in the Czech Republic? There are numerous ski regions in the Czech Republic, in the Eagle, Jizera and Ore Mountains as well as in the two largest mountain ranges in the Czech Republic, the Bohemian Forest and the Giant Mountains (Czech: Krkonoše). The Bohemian Forest is located in the south-west of the country and extends over Germany, the Czech Republic and part of Austria. The mountain range measures 200 km in total. The highest point is the Great Arber with a height of 1,456 m, but it is on the German side on the German-Czech border. There are several small ski areas within the Bohemian Forest. You can spend your skiing vacation in places such as Frymburk, Kašperské Hory, Liberec, Lipno nad Vltavou, Mariánské Lázně, Stachy or Železná Ruda.  The second largest and most famous mountain range is the Giant Mountains. It is the highest part of the Sudetes and is on the Czech-Polish border. The highest peak is the Schneekoppe at 1,603 m. Mountain lakes and stony rock edges are typical of this region. Modern ski lifts, well-groomed slopes and endless cross-country trails give you the opportunity for a successful ski holiday. Černý Důl (German Schwarzenthal), Pec pod Snezkou (German Petzer), Špindlerův Mlýn (German Spindleruv Mlyn) and the most popular winter sports center Harrachov (German Harrach village) are Czech ski resorts located in the Giant Mountains. What else can you do in the Czech Republic? It is worth trying the excellent Czech cuisine and enjoying the landscape on long winter hikes in the valleys and along the mountain peaks. You can also go on excursions to the most famous cities. Do not miss the most impressive city in the Czech Republic: Prague. Experience St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague Castle, Old Town Square and Charles Bridge, the historically most famous bridge that spans the Vltava. The capital is a real tourist magnet due to its timeless, impressive buildings, beautiful bridges and its international lifestyle.  Liberec is the largest and most famous city in the northern part of the Czech Republic. It offers a number of attractions, including the botanical garden, the town hall and Ještěd, Liberec’s local mountain. If you want some wellness or if you are looking for action and fun, then visit the Babylon Center. The city is the perfect spot for a trip during your winter vacation because it is so close to the Giant Mountains. The university town of Budweis is the largest city in the south-west of the Czech Republic. You can reach Budweis from the South Bohemian Forest in less than 100 km. In addition to the town square, the Samson Fountain and the Black Tower, you can also visit the Budweiser Brewery, from which the world-famous Budweiser beer comes.

France

France – a skiing nation with numerous superlatives! Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps, the Vanoise Express is the largest and fastest double-decker cable car in the world and Les 3 Vallées is the largest connected ski area in the world. Whether you want to ski on the glacier in Les 2 Alpes, the Olympic descents in Chamrousse, through the connected ski areas of the Les Sybelles region or through the small but no less beautiful ski area in Valfréjus – in France you will find everything that the skier- Heart desires. Why book a ski holiday in France? What are the main reasons to go on a skiing holiday in France? This beautiful country attracts many tourists every year, the reasons for this are varied. Is it because of the cultural or landscape diversity or maybe also because of the culinary specialties? At least one of these should be reason enough to travel to France! The country offers a unique selection of delicious food and world famous wines. Even if France offers a seemingly endless selection of delicacies, this is no reason why you should pay the country a visit in winter. The spectacular ski and snowboard conditions, however, do! The French ski regions are among the largest and highest in the world. The French Alps are not only beautiful and have guaranteed snow, they also offer perfectly groomed slopes and excellent deep snow opportunities at high altitudes. Just imagine: the perfect descent is waiting for you, the snow glistens in the sun and the Mont Blanc massif towers majestically in front of you. What more do you want? France also offers unique day trips and interesting sights. One city not to be missed is Grenoble, where the 1968 Winter Olympics took place. The city is located in the middle of the French Alps and offers almost everything your heart desires: museums, a citadel with a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding mountains. Another bonus point: A winter holiday in France is usually also quite inexpensive! Where can you ski in France? With so many ski areas and sports activities, choosing the right ski area is not easy. The largest ski areas are in Savoy. The Vanoise massif in the southern Alps of Savoy offers the famous ski resorts of La Plagne, Val Thorens, Tignes and Valmeinier. One day this region will probably grow together into the largest ski region in the world. The ski region Les 3 Vallées offers over 600 kilometers of slopes and 200 ski lifts, which connect the following ski resorts: Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens and Les Menuires. Les 3 Vallées is very snow reliable and a very popular travel destination for an early start to the ski season: Val Thorens is even the highest ski station in Europe, reaching up to 3,200 meters. The Isère area, which stretches from the foothills of the French pre-Alps to the Écrins massif, is probably the most varied ski region in France. The Écrins massif also offers a great view of the high mountains of the Dauphiné Alps. Even more fascinating is Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc (4,810 m), which is located in the Haute-Savoie region. This region is located in the eastern part of France, right on the border with Italy and the Swiss cantons of Valais and Geneva. In the valley, majestic mountain landscapes meet untouched nature with isolated lakes and rivers. The well-known winter sports resort of Chamonix, where the Olympic Winter Games took place in 1924, can offer everything that nature lovers and winter sports fans could wish for. Here alone you can choose from a multitude of ski resorts such as Chamonix, Les Portes du Soleil and La Clusaz. Les Portes du Soleil is made up of a total of twelve connected ski resorts, so that a total of around 580 kilometers of slopes can be used! Since some of the ski areas are located in Switzerland, Crossing the border on skis is easier than ever! The unforgettable view that skiers and snowboarders can experience on sunny days is also worth mentioning. Another interesting destination is the Aiguille du Midi (3,842 m). One of the longest and most spectacular high alpine ski routes in the world begins there. The route is around 20 km long and leads through the Vallée Blanche down to Chamonix. However, Mont Blanc is not the only high mountain in France. There are equally majestic peaks in the Hautes-Alpes, for example: the most southerly 4,000-meter peak in the Alps, Barre des Écrins (4,102 m) or the mountains Le Meije (3,983 m) and Mont Pelvoux (3,946 m), both of which almost reach the 4,000 m limit . With all these mighty peaks to choose from and through the abundance of different ski areas, winter sports fans are guaranteed to find the right skiing holiday in France.

Germany

We often underestimate Germany as a winter destination. The variety of ski areas is great. In the south of Germany, the Alps naturally offer a wide range of ski areas that will delight fans of high alpine sports. There are also small, familiar ski areas in the Harz Mountains, the Black Forest, the Thuringian Forest and even in the North Rhine-Westphalian Sauerland. Where can you ski in Germany? If you ask winter sports enthusiasts where they can ski in Germany, most of them think of one place: the Zugspitze. The highest mountain in Germany in the very south of Bavaria is widely known as a natural border with neighboring Austria and is also very popular as Germany’s highest ski area. The slopes on the Zugspitze plateau reach up to 2,720 m, the summit cross stands at 2,962 m, and there is enough snow here for almost unlimited skiing enjoyment until May. With the Allgäu or the Fellhorn-Kanzelwand border area, the Bavarian Alps have further natural pearls with attractive ski areas to offer. For example, Oberstdorf, located on the Nebelhorn in Oberallgäu, is world-famous as the venue for the Four Hills Tournament. With a whopping 128 kilometers of slopes, which extend to the neighboring Kleinwalsertal on the Austrian side, it is also one of the larger connected ski areas on German soil. The Berchtesgadener Land is also an attractive region with its six ski areas in the face of the majestic Watzmann (2,713 m).   Far away from the edge of the Alps, Germany has a lot more winter sports places to offer: officially, the Federal Republic has over 600 ski areas! Many of them are cute little areas with only one or two lifts and manageable slopes. But some areas are also of a respectable size and accordingly varied. After all, there are magnificent low mountain ranges in all parts of the country, which offer every opportunity to find fun in the snow. The Bavarian Forest, for example, the part of the Bohemian Forest in eastern Bavaria, is not only the largest forest landscape in Central Europe, but also an extensive low mountain range and home to beautiful ski areas. Popular destination and highest ski mountain in the Bohemian Forest is the Great Arber (1,456 m), On which 10 kilometers of slopes meander and which, with the Arbär children’s area, is also attractive for families. In addition, the Bohemian Forest extends over the border to the Czech Republic, where it is called Sumava and also represents a unique recreational area. The Black Forest enjoys a worldwide reputation. In addition to Bollenhut and Kirschtorte, the ski areas there are also known far beyond the country’s borders. Above all, the Feldberg lift network should be mentioned here, which with 63 kilometers of slopes is one of the larger ski areas in Germany. In addition to Bollenhut and Kirschtorte, the ski areas there are also known far beyond the country’s borders. Above all, the Feldberg lift network should be mentioned here, which with 63 kilometers of slopes is one of the larger ski areas in Germany. In addition to Bollenhut and Kirschtorte, the ski areas there are also known far beyond the country’s borders. Above all, the Feldberg lift network should be mentioned here, which with 63 kilometers of slopes is one of the larger ski areas in Germany. Smokers, Schwippbogen and mining romance – the Ore Mountains in the east of the republic not only offer tradition-conscious flair, but also versatile driving fun for all winter sports enthusiasts. A fascinating mountain and cultural landscape as well as cross-border ski areas make Saxony a very popular winter holiday destination. In addition, Nordic athletes get their money’s worth in the Ore Mountains: the Ore Mountains ski artery runs over the entire mountain ridge and across the border to the Czech Republic. One section runs around the Fichtelberg and thus past the health resort Oberwiesenthal, the highest place in Germany. It’s hard to believe, but in Germany skiing is possible in all directions: In the relatively flat west lies the Hochsauerland with the Winterberg ski lift, which unites 27.5 km of slopes. The middle is mainly characterized by the Thuringian Forest and the Oberhof ski center on the Rennsteig, which became popular with the Biathlon World Cup. Finally, in the north is the Harz, the northernmost low mountain range in Germany. Why ski vacation in Germany? The nice thing about the winter sports regions in Germany is their versatility. If the altitude and the area capacity do not allow for a large ski area, the alternative sports program is all the greater. In many places, the terrain is wide and relatively flat, so that, for example, cross-country skiing centers have been set up with an extensive network of trails. Nordic sport is still a big trend, especially in the new federal states such as Thuringia and Saxony. In addition, there are the unique cultural and natural landscapes that make Germany an interesting travel destination for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet. If you want to experience a relaxed holiday in a snow-covered winter wonderland with many options on and off the slopes, the German low mountain range is the right place for you. What is special about Germany? A wide range of leisure activities, flat slopes and manageable ski mountains with blue slopes – German ski areas are the ideal terrain for families with ski children. The smaller areas are manageable and offer extensive child care. But beginners and slightly advanced learners of all ages will also find the right area here. The somewhat larger ski areas also have fun slopes, timing trails and quite respectable snow parks, so that youngsters and sports cracks also get their money’s worth. In the low mountain ranges between 900 and 1,600 m, many of the slopes are below the tree line, so that winter sports enthusiasts will find romantic forest runs in many places. How long can you ski in Germany? Due to the lower elevations, there is sufficient snow in German low mountain ranges, especially in the core months from December to March. The Ore Mountains and the Black Forest are often blessed with a relatively large amount of snow, as are some parts of the Allgäu and the regions on the edge of the Alps such as the Berchtesgadener Land and the Zugspitze region. The Zugspitz area has the longest ski season in Germany thanks to its altitude of 2,000 to 2,720 meters. The ski area is usually open from December to early May. The sun often shines up here when the valley and the lower-lying ski areas disappear under a blanket of clouds.

Italy

Italy has everything to offer: classy steep slopes as well as famous World Cup slopes in the Dolomites and lush “snow holes” such as the powder snow paradise Livigno. Alpine comfort and rustic mountain huts can be found especially in the South Tyrolean ski areas. There are plenty of hours of sunshine free. Italy offers you the perfect combination of culinary and sporty enjoyment! Why book a ski holiday in Italy? Welcome to “Bella Italia”! In diverse Italy, “Dolce Vita” is not just a motto, but an actual attitude towards life. Enjoy life in all its facets and be happy – the Italians love their country with all its possibilities and pleasures. Part of this attitude towards life is of course the enjoyment of skiing and snowboarding. Vino, gelato, cappuccino, pizza – Italian cuisine is probably one of the most famous in the world, with skiing being at least as popular as Italian dishes. This is exactly why you should never travel to Italy in winter without visiting one of the many beautiful ski resorts. And once you are there, you should definitely not return home without having tried the delicious food and good wine. Italy offers adrenaline lovers and recreational skiers long and wide slopes that are perfect for carving. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen on your trip to Italy, as the country is blessed with many hours of sunshine – that could be one of the reasons for the Italians’ zest for life. So: enjoy your day on the slopes with breathtaking views, excellent snow conditions and the warming rays of the sun that caress your face. Where can you ski in Italy? In Italy you can go on winter holidays in six regions. Most of the mountain railways are in the Dolomites. The Dolomites are part of the southern Alps and are also known outside of Europe for their unique beauty. The Dolomites are spread over the regions of South Tyrol, Belluno and Trentino. South Tyrol is known as the sunny region of the Alps, where skiers and snowboarders find true satisfaction. In addition to the Dolomiti Superski region with 12 ski areas (including Sella Ronda and Gardena Ronda), there is also the opportunity to get to know smaller ski areas with cozy ski huts. The Dolomiti Superski region stands out with its unbelievable 1,200 kilometers of slopes and 460 lifts in just one lift pass!  The Dolomites in Trentino are easily accessible via the Brenner and also offer wonderful ski areas. The Lombardy region with the winter sports resort of Bormio has a sporting history – the World Ski Championships have already taken place here several times. The municipality is located in the province of Sondrio, the northeasternmost region of Lombardy. Another interesting ski area is located above Italy’s freeride and telemark Mecca, Livigno. The place is located directly on the Swiss border and is accordingly known as a duty-free zone and a shopping paradise. In addition, the inexpensive ski resort, which is also known for its pioneering status in terms of avalanche safety in freeriding, offers a fantastic event program in winter. In addition, in Livigno it is possible for good skiers and snowboarders to Heliskiing is also possible in Piedmont, near Turin and the French border. In 2006 the Winter Olympics took place in Turin. The competition for snowboarders took place in Bardonecchia, which is why the place is definitely worth a visit for snowboarders too! Another suitable place for skiers and snowboarders is the Aosta Valley near the border with France and Switzerland. The valley offers beautiful hotels, cozy ski huts and a large selection of different restaurants as well as numerous options for an entertaining evening. The Veneto region stretches from the Adriatic coast to the Dolomites. The alpine town of Belluno offers many beautiful slopes here. The Belluno ski area even has one of the longest slopes in Europe. Are the Dolomites really the most beautiful mountains in the world? The Dolomites, which are part of the southern Alpine region, are considered to be the most beautiful mountains in the world. Is that really you? Maybe … If you are visiting the region on a sunny day and fresh snow has just fallen, the white blanket of snow glistens in the sunlight and you are surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding mountains, you will surely agree without hesitation. Since 2009 the Dolomites have even been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highest peak in the area, the Marmolada, reaches a height of 3,342 m. What else can you do on a ski holiday in Italy? In addition to skiing, there is a lot to experience on a winter holiday. Cross-country skiing is particularly interesting. There are numerous beautiful routes in different degrees of difficulty – from beginners to experts, there is something for everyone. The most suitable region for cross-country skiers is the Hochpustertal with Europe’s largest cross-country skiing carousel. As part of the Dolomiti Nordicski network with approx. 1,300 km of trails in 13 regions within the Dolomites, ideal conditions are there. Other activities on a skiing holiday include snowshoeing, hang gliding, paragliding, horse-drawn sleigh rides and ice climbing.

Norway

Norway is a very snow-reliable ski country. The season starts at the end of October and continues into May. The highest point is the Galdhöpiggen at 2,469 meters. Cross-country skiing has a long tradition in Norway and the ski areas also offer a wide range of trails. Only the cost of living in Norway is very high compared to other countries in Europe. There are several beautiful coastal Cities in Norway that are well wroth the visit as an independent break or to bookend your more regional trip.

Portugal

Portugal is a wonderful location and we are developing our Destinations here. Initially we are providing City Breaks to Lisbon, Porto and Faro which are all worth a visit in their own right, however will expand along the coast. Please visit our site regularly to see updates as we deleiver new and improved products and are able to offer a selection of special prices on accommodation in Portugal for our guests. Check out our flight booking engine as well as accommodation booking and compare our prices to competitors, we look to be as reasonable as possible, but supply you with the best information for your individual holiday requirements.

Slovenia

Slovenia is a location between Austria and Croatia that has a vibrant Capital City of Ljubljana, Stunning Lake Bled, mountain resorts for Skiing and walking and even a stretch of coast. We highly recommend exploring Slovenia as a smallish country, it certainly packs a punch, with a similar landscape to Austria and in some parts considerably cheaper. Slovenia is located in the middle of Europe and borders Italy in the west, Austria in the north, Hungary in the east and Croatia in the south. With 20,273 km² it is one of the smaller European countries in terms of area and yet the landscape is very diverse. Picturesque river landscapes, extensive forests, rocky karst areas, gentle low mountain ranges and the towering mountain ranges of the Eastern Alps characterize the varied landscape. A third of the entire country is protected. While the climate in the south and on the Mediterranean coast is more Mediterranean, the mountainous north is characterized by dry, cold air and a lot of precipitation, which is ideal for the winter sports regions there. The capital Ljubljana with approx. 287. Where can you go on a skiing holiday in Slovenia? The alpine and low mountain ranges extend over the north of Slovenia, so most of the ski areas are located between the Triglav National Park in the northwest and the Pohorje in the northeast. The best known are the mountain ranges of the Julian Alps, Karawanken and Steiner Alps in the northwest on the border with Austria and Italy. Here the alpine ridges reach almost 3,000 m above sea level. The highest peak in Slovenia, the Triglav (2,864 m, German three-headed) is located in the Julian Alps. The striking mountain forms the center of the Triglav National Park and is depicted as a national symbol on the Slovenian flag. The national park is characterized by high rocky mountains, deep karst caves, extensive river valleys and a large variety of animals and plants. In this wonderful landscape, north of the Triglav, Kranjska Gora is one of the most famous ski areas in Slovenia. The area has 20 kilometers of slopes and 17 lifts, which is famous as a ski world cup location and has been voted the best ski area in Slovenia several times. In the northeast, on the border with Austria and Hungary, lies the Pohorje Mountains (German: Bacher Mountains) at an altitude of 1,500 m. As a low mountain range, it is not that high and offers flat high plateaus, moderate inclines and great vantage points, a holiday paradise for winter enthusiasts and families who want to take a leisurely ski holiday. At the foot of the Bachergebirge, at the gates of the cultural metropolis of Maribor, lies the largest ski area in the country with around 42 kilometers of slopes: Mariborsko Pohorje. Why ski holidays in Slovenia? Due to the variety of landscapes, each holiday region has its own charm. But wherever you turn, romantic panoramas of mountain and lake landscapes open up, where a wide variety of leisure activities await winter vacationers. Slovenia is 60 percent covered with forest. The ski areas are also often embedded in wooded mountain ridges that form a snow-covered winter dream backdrop. This gives hiking, cross-country skiing, tobogganing and skiing a deeply romantic note. The Drava region of Podravska in Lower Styria offers a particularly successful mix of relaxation and winter sports. In and around the metropolis of Maribor in particular, there are cultural and historical sights, regional culinary delights, thermal baths and numerous leisure activities in the mountains and in the city. How long is the ski season in Slovenia? Since there are no glacier ski areas in Slovenia, the season is limited to the three main winter months plus a few weeks before and after. As in most alpine ski areas, the ski season starts with the official winter start in December and usually lasts until April. The important ski areas Kranjska Gora and Vogel in the west, as well as Rogla and Maribor in the east open in the first week of December and close in the first week of April.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, the Alps unfold their full beauty: traditional top ski resorts such as Davos, St. Moritz or Zermatt alternate with family-friendly and idyllic winter sports resorts. With the 4 Vallées or Les Portes du Soleil, however, you will also find top-class combined ski areas that connect several top regions – sometimes across borders! The Swiss huts are known for their rustic, cozy atmosphere and of course for their hearty cheese fondue. Where is the best place to ski in Switzerland? Most of Switzerland is taken up by the Alps, so it is not surprising that Switzerland has some top ski destinations to offer. The country is known worldwide for its high peaks. Most of the ski areas are located in the southeast of Switzerland. The Bernese Oberland is home to many famous ski resorts such as Grindelwald or Meiringen-Hasliberg. Further south in the Welsh region is Switzerland’s landmark: the majestic Matterhorn with a summit height of 4,478 m. Where there are high mountains, there are usually great ski areas. The wonderful ski areas of Les Portes du Soleil, Saas-Fee and Les 4 Vallées are located in Valais.   The world-famous and exclusive ski resorts of Davos, St. Moritz and Samnaun are located in Graubünden, the largest canton in Switzerland that borders on Austria and Italy. Skiing in Switzerland is even possible across national borders: Les Portes du Soleil combines twelve Swiss and French locations into a single, huge ski area. Located south of Lake Geneva, Les Portes du Soleil offers absolute fun on the slopes on approx. 580 km of perfectly groomed slopes. Why book a ski holiday in Switzerland? No other Alpine country has as many peaks beyond the 4,000 m limit to offer as Switzerland. So it stands to reason that the Swiss ski areas are comparably high and benefit from excellent snow conditions. You can also enjoy an unforgettable view of the picturesque mountains from up here. Switzerland is particularly known for its pretty, original villages. In the cozy villages you can optimally hide the stress of everyday life and enjoy your winter vacation. In Zermatt or Saas-Fee, for example, there are car-free zones – perfect conditions for a relaxed holiday.   The cultural diversity in Switzerland is huge. On the one hand, four different languages ​​are spoken in the relatively small country, on the other hand, the selection of culinary delicacies is huge. What first comes to mind when you think of Swiss cuisine? Of course, Swiss cheese! So it stands to reason that the traditional cheese fondue made from regional products is a highlight of every holiday! Refined with white wine and spices such as garlic and black pepper, the cheese unfolds its full aroma. What is special about skiing in Switzerland? A large number of exclusive accommodations are offered in Switzerland. In addition, the lifts are in a state-of-the-art condition and restaurants offer high-quality menus. Perfect service quality has the highest priority in Switzerland! If you have very special requirements for your winter holiday, Switzerland is the right destination. Another argument in favor of the Alpine nation are city trips that are ideal when visiting Switzerland. Many of the picturesque towns are located on one of the numerous crystal blue lakes. Why not combine your skiing holiday with a trip to one of the numerous lakes such as Lake Geneva, which is not far from many ski areas? How long is skiing possible in Switzerland? The four glacier areas Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Flims-Laax-Falera and Aletsch allow a long ski season from the beginning of October to the end of May. Not only in these areas you can expect long skiing pleasure and optimal slope conditions, due to the altitude, ski areas such as Engelberg, Verbier and Arosa also offer a long ski season.