Skiing in Austria: St Anton
St Anton, located in one of Europe’s snowiest areas, is rated among the top five resorts in the Alps. Alongside challenging blue and red pistes, you’ll find nursery slopes and a children’s ski school, not to mention sleigh rides and tobogganing.
The idyllic town nestled at the foot of the mountain is perfect for a spot of après ski. Among chalets and hotels you’ll find restaurants and famous bars such as Mooserwirt and Krazy Kanguruh. As well as the 305km of pistes in St Anton, there are tonnes of non-ski activities for visitors looking to venture beyond the slopes. If you’re in need of some relaxation, visit one of the town’s spas or sit back and enjoy a movie at the local cinema.
Skiing in Slovakia: Jasná
Situated among the striking, forested slopes of the Low Tatras mountains, this isn’t only one of the best ski resorts in Slovakia, it is also one of the most picturesque.
The tree-lined runs cater for beginners and families with plenty of gentler slopes, while the challenging natural terrain on 12 off-piste ‘freeride zones’ is perfect for more experienced skiers and snowboarders.
Once you’re ready to take your skis off for the day, head to the nearby town of Liptovsky Mikulas. There’s everything from Slovakian museums, a zoo, cinema, bowling alley and go-karting track to keep you entertained. When it comes to food, you can take your pick from traditional European cuisine or indulge in something inspired by far off destinations, with American style diners and even sushi restaurants as part of the town’s offering.
Skiing in Georgia: Gudauri
Located among some of the highest mountains in Europe, and with more than 70km of trails, this is the largest resort in Georgia.
The resort is on a south-facing plateau of the greater Caucasus mountain range ensuring maximum exposure to the sun, making it the perfect destination all-year-round.
It is suitable for skiers of all levels and for those who really fancy an adrenaline-fuelled challenge, heli ski is available throughout the season.
Skiing in Russia: Mount Elbrus
This imposing, dormant volcano consists of two summits and is suitable for year-round skiing. Mount Elbrus is the highest mountain in Europe, standing at a staggering 5,642 metres tall, located in the Caucasus Mountains in Russia.
Beginner, intermediate and advanced runs make this mountain a versatile destination for ski fans of all abilities. For the daredevils among us, there’s also off-piste and heli skiing available to ramp up the excitement.
Skiing in Bulgaria: Bansko
Between a medieval town and the UNESCO-listed Pirin National Park lies beautiful Bankso.
As well as skiing, this all-year-round resort is also perfect for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, horse riding and rafting.
Come winter it’s also the location of Horizon Festival. This thriving electronic music festival takes place in secluded mountain hotels, among the forest and even in medieval banqueting hall.
If you want to take to the slopes on your next holiday, then book a flight with flydubai.