As someone who didn’t start skiing until adulthood, I had a lot of catching up to do. After years of exploring some of the best ski destinations, I’ve narrowed down my top five ski areas. Whether you’re seeking world-class powder or hidden gems, these destinations offer something for every skier. So, let’s dive into the details of Blackcomb in Canada, Sella Ronda in Italy, Monetier les Bains in France, Mayrhofen in Austria and Jahorina in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
-
Blackcomb, Canada
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Blackcomb offers a vibrant social atmosphere that caters to all types of visitors. The village buzzes with energy, especially after a day on the slopes. The ski area has beautiful wide bowls of terrain with spectacular views of the Rockies and rarely a queue for the lift. How many other resorts offer the luxury of “sniffle stations” (tissues) at the side of the lift? The season is long and although it’s a long way to go from the UK, it’s definitely worth the effort. Flying to Vancouver means you need a stop over topping and tailing the holiday but, if you can manage 10 days away, it’s not to be missed.
- Altitude: 675m to 2,284m
- Snow Sureness: Excellent (renowned for its deep, reliable snowfall)
- Slopes: Suitable for all levels
- Beginners: Ample green runs and dedicated beginner areas
- Intermediates: Challenging blue runs through scenic forests
- Pros: Extensive black diamond runs and famous off-piste terrain
- Cost: High (but the experience justifies it)
- Accommodation: High-end hotels, ski-in/ski-out lodges and more affordable S/C options
- Weather: Heavy snowfall from November to April; rain possible at lower altitudes
- Best Time to Go: February to March for the best powder conditions
Apres-Ski and Nightlife: The Garibaldi Lift Co. (GLC) is a popular spot for post-skiing drinks and live music. For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Mallard Lounge in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler provides a sophisticated setting for cocktails.
Culinary Delights: Blackcomb's dining scene is diverse and impressive. The Rim Rock Café is renowned for its seafood and game dishes, while Araxi Restaurant + Oyster Bar offers farm-to-table cuisine that showcases the best of Pacific Northwest ingredients.
Panoramic Views: The Peak 2 Peak Gondola offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers and forests. On clear days, you can see as far as the coastal mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
Good Things:
Blackcomb, adjacent to Whistler, is famous for its expansive terrain and varied conditions. Its world-class infrastructure, including the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, allows skiers to explore both mountains effortlessly. Blackcomb is a true mecca for advanced skiers and powder hounds, with steep runs, bowls and some of North America’s best backcountry skiing.
Downside:
It’s a pricey destination, and rain at lower elevations can sometimes dampen early-season skiing. It’s a long way from the UK!
-
Selva in the Sella Ronda, Italy
Located in the Dolomites the area enjoys Italian and Austrian influences and incorporates the Ladin culture which perfectly illustrates this factor. Selva is one of the many charming villages on the Sella Ronda circuit which is the largest interconnecting ski area in Europe. The circular “ski safari” can be done either clockwise or anti-clockwise and you won’t ski the same piste or use the same lift at any time. It takes the best part of a day if you’re going to enjoy the ride and you come back to your home village at the end. In one direction it is more for beginners and in the other direction it’s more for intermediate skiers, but all of it is on-piste and a “must do” if you want to enjoy the beauty of the Sella Massif from all angles.
- Altitude: 1,568m to 3,152m
- Snow Sureness: High (excellent snowmaking facilities complement natural snowfall)
- Slopes: Ideal for all levels
- Beginners: Wide and gentle slopes
- Intermediates: Abundant red runs
- Pros: Challenging black runs and extensive off-piste
- Cost: Moderate to high
- Accommodation: Ranges from cozy family-run hotels to luxury resorts
- Weather: Consistent snowfall from December to April
- Best Time to Go: January to March
Social Scene: The town centre comes alive in the evenings with bars and cafes filled with skiers sharing stories of their day. The popular Luislkeller bar is known for its lively atmosphere and occasional live music.
Gastronomic Experiences: Selva's cuisine reflects its Ladin heritage. Don't miss trying local specialties like canederli (bread dumplings) or apple strudel. The mountain huts, or rifugios, offer hearty meals with spectacular views.
Scenic Beauty: The jagged peaks of the Dolomites provide a dramatic backdrop to Selva. The Sassolungo mountain group, visible from many parts of the resort, is particularly impressive, especially during the "enrosadira" or alpenglow at sunset.
Good Things:
The Sella Ronda ski circuit is one of Italy's most famous ski areas, allowing you to ski around the Sella massif while covering 26 km of linked slopes. Selva, located in the heart of the Dolomites, is a favourite among skiers for its jaw-dropping scenery and diverse terrain. With excellent dining options, charming villages and rich culture, Selva offers a truly immersive experience.
Downside:
As a popular destination, it can get crowded during peak season and accommodation prices can be steep, especially in high-demand areas which are usually the villages on the circuit, so if you are a ski-bus ride from the actual circuit it could work out less expensive.
-
Monetier-les-Bains, France
In SE of the country near the Italian border. It is famous for its thermal springs which can be enjoyed in the evenings after a hard day on the slopes. Picture swimming out of the indoor pool through flaps, into the open air with a starry ski above and the whole area surrounded by snow clad mountains against the night sky. Magical! For the brave you can even try a roll in the surrounding snow!
- Altitude: 1,200m to 2,800m
- Snow Sureness: Reliable, with good natural snowfall and snowmaking
- Slopes: Great for all levels, especially intermediates
- Beginners: Gentle green and blue slopes
- Intermediates: Extensive red runs with beautiful scenery
- Pros: Challenging black runs and good off-piste
- Cost: Moderate (more affordable than the bigger French resorts)
- Accommodation: Charming chalets, hotels and apartments, often with thermal spa access
- Weather: Cold and sunny winters, with snow from December to April
- Best Time to Go: January to March
Social Scene: Monetier-les-Bains has a more laid-back atmosphere compared to some of its livelier neighbours. The apres-ski scene is centred around cozy bars and restaurants in the village centre.
Culinary Offerings: The resort is known for its Savoyard specialties. Le Caribou restaurant is popular for its fondue and raclette (grilled cheese), perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.
Panoramic Views: The resort offers stunning views of the Ecrins National Park. The Grand Aréa peak provides a spectacular backdrop, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
Good Things:
The village stands out for its traditional charm and access to thermal baths. With over 250 km of pistes, it offers a great variety of runs, especially for intermediate skiers. The lack of commercialisation compared to other French resorts provides a more authentic Alpine experience.
Downside:
The après-ski scene is quieter compared to larger, more popular ski towns and the area can be a bit more laid-back for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
-
Mayrhofen, Austria
- Altitude: 630m to 2,500m (with access to Hintertux Glacier at 3,250m)
- Snow Sureness: High, especially with glacier skiing
- Slopes: Excellent variety for all skill levels
- Beginners: Great beginner areas on the Ahorn mountain
- Intermediates: The famous red and blue runs, including the steep "Harakiri" black run
- Pros: Fantastic off-piste and freeride opportunities
- Cost: Moderate
- Accommodation: Options from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end hotels
- Weather: Consistent snowfall from December to April
- Best Time to Go: Late December to March
Apres-Ski: The resort is famous for its vibrant nightlife. The Ice Bar at the bottom of the Penken gondola is a popular spot to start the evening. As the night progresses, venues like Scotland Yard and Brück'n Stadl keep the party going.
Culinary Scene: Mayrhofen offers a mix of traditional Tyrolean cuisine and international options. The Wirtshaus zum Griena serves excellent local dishes, while Manni's Restaurant is known for its pizzas.
Panoramic Views: The Ahorn area provides stunning vistas of the Zillertal Valley. For an unforgettable experience, visit the White Lounge igloo bar at 2000m for breathtaking mountain views
Good Things:
Mayrhofen is a lively ski town known for its diverse slopes, vibrant après-ski, and access to year-round skiing on the Hintertux Glacier. The Penken and Ahorn areas offer a variety of runs, and the Snowbombing Festival brings a unique combination of music and snow sports. If you’re a competent skier then the Hara Kiri black run is a must – don’t be daunted - it’s wide but it is steep and sometimes icy early in the day!
Downside:
The popularity of Mayrhofen can lead to crowded lifts and slopes during peak times. The town’s party vibe might not suit those looking for a quieter ski retreat.
-
Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Hosted various events in the 1984 Winter Olympics and if you want to get a flavour of that time you can still visit the remnants of the infrastructure (e.g. ski jump and medal winners’ podiums/a?) across the area that made the games so memorable albeit some of these are derelict as a result of the 1992-95 Balkan war. I’ve skied at Bijelasnica, venue of the Men’s Downhill, many times but have chosen Jahorina because it has had significant investment resulting in improved infrastructure and modernisation.
- Altitude: 1,250m to 1,916m
- Snow Sureness: Good, with decent natural snowfall
- Slopes: Compact but varied
- Beginners: Gentle and accessible slopes
- Intermediates: Nice selection of red runs and forest skiing
- Pros: Challenging slopes, especially the Olympic courses
- Cost: Very affordable
- Accommodation: Basic but improving, with more hotels and lodges popping up
- Weather: Cold winters with snow from December to March
- Best Time to Go: January to February
Social Atmosphere: The resort has a relaxed, friendly vibe. After skiing, visitors often gather in the cozy mountain huts or "kafanas" for rakija (local brandy) and conversation.
Local Cuisine: Bosnian cuisine is hearty and perfect for refueling after a day on the slopes. Try ćevapi (grilled meat rolls) or burek (savoury pastry) at local restaurants.
Scenic Beauty: Jahorina offers panoramic views of the surrounding Dinaric Alps. The contrast between snow-capped peaks and dense forests creates a picturesque landscape.
Good Things:
Jahorina is a rising star in Eastern European skiing, offering a blend of Olympic history and modern ski infrastructure. The resort hosted the women's alpine events during the 1984 Winter Olympics and has maintained a strong reputation for good, affordable skiing. The area is less commercialized than Western European resorts, allowing for a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
Downside:
The infrastructure is still developing, with some lifts and accommodations feeling dated. Snow conditions can be variable, particularly at the beginning and end of the season.
Conclusion
From the expansive slopes of Blackcomb to the quiet charm of Monetier-les-Bains and Jahorina’s historic allure, each of these resorts offers a unique blend of social experiences, culinary delights and breathtaking scenery, catering to different preferences and ensuring memorable ski holidays for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxury or a more rustic experience, these ski areas offer unforgettable adventures on the slopes.
Happy skiing!