If you’re new to skiing, have only been a couple of times, or are in a mixed ability party, choosing the right skiing holiday can be tricky. Experienced skiers will want something different to those who are new to the sport, and a family’s needs will differ from those of singles or couples. So, whether you seek a bustling après-ski scene or a family-friendly environment, plus a range of different ski runs, your priorities are crucial. Getting it right requires a little more than looking at pictures of perfect pistes.
This article is aimed at those who are relatively new to skiing, but those with more experience may find it useful too.
When to go and What’s the Weather?
The likelihood of good snow conditions depends on the time of year, weather patterns, and location and altitude. All are connected. Traditionally, the European ski season runs from early December to late April. However, recent years have seen little snow before Christmas, making January and February important months for snowfall. In a good snow year, April can be an excellent choice for higher resorts, offering longer, warmer days with snow still on the slopes.
Global warming and climate change significantly affect the skiing industry. European summers are becoming hotter and drier, and winters are becoming milder and wetter. Storms, whatever the season, are becoming stronger and seemingly more frequent.
Naturally, ski resorts depend on snow. But with changing weather patterns, snow falls that were reliable 25 years ago are not so any longer. Increasingly, resorts use artificial snow-making machines when the need arises. That’s better than nothing but the experience is not the same without natural snow. Therefore, before booking, have a look at snowfall patterns for different resorts, and consider long range weather forecasts for the regions you might go to.
Your skiing holiday – choosing the right location
In Europe, the choice of skiing destination can be influenced by both location and altitude. Typically, the further north and east you go, the colder the winters become. This would suggest potentially more snow in regions like the Tatra Mountains on the Polish-Slovakian border than elsewhere. However, many Alpine resorts are higher than their counterparts in the Tatra, often ensuring good snow conditions despite the more southerly location.
Each resort offers unique characteristics, from terrain variety to the quality of ski slopes. Higher resorts such as those in Val Thorens, Chamonix and Zermatt often provide better snow coverage and longer seasons. Consider both the altitude and historical snowfall data when selecting your destination.
Costs, Budgets and Value for Money
The price of your skiing holiday is influenced by several factors closely linked to the quality of skiing and, more broadly, resort facilities. Consider
- Is there likely to be snow? (Sounds a weird question, but it’s increasingly relevant),
- the variety of ski slopes (are there sufficient slopes of varying standards to suit every member in your party?),
- the cost of lift passes, and ski and boot hire if you don’t take your own,
- the cost of lessons, if you need them, and
- the range of other facilities.
Are there enough restaurants to provide variety at a price within your budget? Will you be staying in a hotel, a self-catering apartment, or a chalet? Do you prefer All Inclusive to B&B? If you’re travelling with children, apart from skiing lessons for youngsters, what other facilities are available?
In general terms, the greater variety and choice you have, the higher the price is likely to be so, for most people, making a choice is about finding a happy medium. Be cautious, though: price is not always the same as value for money, so think carefully to identify your priorities.
Other aspects to consider are the country you go to (for instance, Switzerland is generally more expensive than France or Austria), the star rating of accommodation, and whether you opt for a package deal or a tailor-made trip. All these impact on cost, so also consider your likely spend in resort on top of what you pay on booking. Remember to take some foreign currency as cash too. Sometimes it’s more convenient for small purchases and some independent retailers and cafés may prefer cash – plus it’s convenient for tips.
Choosing the right skiing holiday package is important. Package deals might include flights, accommodation, ski passes, and transfers – often at a lower cost compared to booking each component separately. However, a tailor-made approach allows for flexibility, particularly in selecting flights and transfers, which can be crucial for families, or if you’re just after a more luxurious experience.
Defining Your Skiing Holiday Focus
Not all skiers have the same preferences, and resorts are not identical. Some skiers prefer the convenience of ski-in, ski-out accommodations found in many purpose-built resorts; others seek the charm of traditional Alpine towns. Families often look for kid-friendly facilities and quieter accommodation, while singles and couples might prioritize a vibrant nightlife and social scenes.
Research the atmosphere of potential resorts. For a more authentic experience, traditional towns like Chamonix or Kitzbühel offer a real sense of the ‘local’ experience. Conversely, purpose-built resorts such as Avoriaz, Les Arcs and La Plagne are designed for convenience and accessibility, which can be ideal for families and those who want to maximise time on the pistes.
Book Early or Late?
For the best selection and often the best prices, booking several months in advance is usually best. Early booking, typically between April and July, ensures a wider choice of accommodation and flights and can secure early-bird discounts. This is particularly worthwhile for families as it means the holiday can be a fixed item in the family calendar.
Last-minute deals can offer significant savings, but they come with risks. The increasingly unpredictable weather may shorten ski seasons, reducing flight capacity and availability. Or, in a good season, there may be very few late bargains available. Those that are may not be discounted by very much. Ultimately, timing when you book may depend on how much you want to go skiing, or whether an alternative will do. Be aware that you’re balancing the potential for last-minute savings with the risk of missing out on preferred options.
Research always pays off
Booking the right skiing holiday involves balancing several factors: snow conditions, facilities, price, and value for money. By considering the time of year, location, and altitude, along with your personal preferences and budget, you can make an informed decision. Early booking usually offers the best selection and prices, especially for families, while last-minute deals can provide savings for the flexible traveller. Remember to stay informed about climate trends and weather patterns to improve your chance of booking a resort with reliable snow.
Choosing the best value skiing holiday might not be as simple as it once was, but with careful planning you can still find the perfect winter getaway.
By Declan Morton, writer and editor at Essiell Ltd and Money4Travel.
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