Did you know that almost 1.5 million Brits go skiing at least once a year?
And around 29% of that number go twice a year. But when and where do they go?
The main ski season runs from early December to late April, but the most popular time is February half term. The majority hit the slopes in Europe but there are some popular spots further afield. No matter if you’re a novice or a pro, the following are some of the most popular ski destinations for us Brits.
Chamonix, France
France is one of the easiest places for Brits to get to. A quick hop on a ferry, channel tunnel, short flight and easy driving gets you to one of over 250 ski resorts. Chamonix is among the best places to ski in France. It is part of a larger ski area known as Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Infamous for iconic scenery, challenging slopes, Michelin-starred restaurants and après-ski.
Ski area: 170km
Season: early December – late April
Shortest transfer time: 1.5 hours from Geneva
Kitzbuhel, Austria
Considering Austria is about 60% mountains, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of snow sports on offer. Among one of the more popular spots is Kitzbuhel, a traditional alpine village. The village hosts the Hahnenkamm Races, the world’s second-oldest alpine skiing competition. It has a great range of slopes for all levels and the village itself has a beautiful medieval atmosphere.
Ski area: 230km
Season: late November – early May
Shortest transfer time: 1.5 hours from Innsbruck
St Anton, Austria
Another jewel in the crown of Austria is St Anton. Located in the beautiful Arlberg mountain range, it’s known for being one of the best ski spots in Europe. It’s more for the advanced skier due to its steep slopes and difficult off-piste terrain. Well known for its exuberant après-ski scene so not ideal for families with small children.
Ski area: 300km
Season: late November – late April
Shortest transfer time: 1.5 hours from Innsbruck
Verbier, Switzerland
Switzerland is home to some of Europe’s biggest ski resorts. An easy hop from the UK and with fantastic transport links between the mountains it is easy to see why it’s so popular. Verbier is part of the vast Four Valleys ski area and is great for experienced skiers due to its challenging slopes. Widely known as one of THE best skiing areas in Switzerland. It also hosts the Freeride World Tour every year, so expect it to be super busy when this event is taking place.
Ski area: 400km
Season: late November – late April
Shortest transfer time: 2 hours from Geneva
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Though Italy is not as popular as France, Austria and Switzerland, it is also not as expensive. Gaining popularity among Brits due to being family-friendly and affordable. Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Dolomites is breathtaking and affordable. A large ski area offers a range of slopes and backcountry skiing options. It is a great place for skiers of all levels. It is not feasible to ski across the whole 1200km. You will need a car or public transport to get from place to place.
Ski area: 1200km
Season: late November – late April
Shortest transfer time: 2 hours from Venice Marco Polo
Sierra Nevada, Spain
Despite Spain’s reputation as a sun and sangria destination, it is gaining popularity for its affordable skiing. The Sierra Nevada is a favourite among Brits for being home to Spain’s highest peaks and its affordability. The Sierra Nevada offers a variety of runs, cross-country and telemark skiing. Popular with beginners but plenty on offer for the intermediate too with an almost 50/50 split between beginner and intermediate slopes.
Ski area: 113km
Season: late November – early May
Shortest transfer time: 1 hour from Granada
Åre, Sweden
Scandinavia’s best and largest ski resort. With 89 slopes, 100km of skiable area, 890 metres of vertical drops and green, blue, red and black pistes, this place is a playground for all levels of skiers. Alpine and Nordic skiing are both amazing here and children are well catered for too. Fantastic views and plenty of fresh Swedish air make it popular among Brits.
Ski area: 100km
Season: early December – late April
Shortest transfer time: 1.5 hours from Östersund
Banff, Canada
Part of UNESCO’s Canadian Rocky Mountain World Heritage site and home to one of North America’s longest ski runs. A trip across the Atlantic may not be affordable for all and no less expensive when you get there. Yet, it is still one of the most popular ski destinations for Brits outside of the EU. Three world-class ski hills and a long ski season make Banff an incredible place to visit. It caters for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. With a total of 260km of skiable area across three resorts and the possibility to ski until the end of May, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Other popular ski destinations are:
France: Meribel, Les Arcs, Val D’Isere, Morzine, Val Thorens, Courchevel and La Plagne
Austria: Obergurgl, Zell am See, Sölden and Lech
Switzerland: Zermatt, Arosa and St Moritz
Italy: Cervinia, Livigno, Val d’Aosta
Spain: Baqueira Beret, Spanish Pyranees
Scandinavia: Hemsedal – Norway, Riksgränsen – Sweden
Bulgaria: Bansko
Canada: Whistler
When it comes to choosing which is the best place to ski for you, there are a few things to consider. Costs, ski slope levels, season, transfer times, ski area, season and accommodation options. Each destination has its own awesome scenery, great skiing and so you’re sure to have a blast. Now go hit the slopes, but please don’t come back on crutches.
More on Winter Sports travel addon here
