Top 100 – Best ski resorts in Europe
Looking to book a ski trip but don't have a resort in mind? How on earth do you begin to choose? Perhaps you want excellent slopes, and your friends want a cost-effective location. How do you make the selection to ensure the best holiday for everyone?
So, as your local Ridestore experts, we have gathered some of the best resorts in Europe, divided into countries and with a brief explanation about why they stand out and for what type of rider or occasion they are ideal for. Of course, there are many big ski resorts out there, and many of them offer pretty much great skiing for all types of riders and experience levels, but there is always something that makes them unique.
This is what we try to find, great aprés-ski activities, breathtaking scenery or the best bang for your buck! This in combination with the facts and what you can expect from the resort is our idea of a complete ski resort guide. This is the most comprehensive and unbiased guide for the upcoming snow season.
Essential ski gear: choose your perfect jacket
Preparing for a European ski trip? Your choice in attire matters! We help you gear up with both functionality and style. Check out our range of women's ski jackets that perfectly blend a flattering fit with robust warmth. For men, our selection of men's ski jackets ensures both style and practical insulation against cold weather. Browse these collections before heading off to your resort and keep comfortably trendy this ski season. Get ready to experience the slopes in style!
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Judging Panel
How we rate the best ski resorts in Europe
In order to make the rating fair, we have not made it a “competition” where the best resort is no 1 on the list. That way, it is hard to compete with the super areas in the Alps. But there is more to a resort than just the size and kilometres of slopes.
To make the most comprehensive guide, we have picked some of the top resorts from almost every country in Europe, that has something unique to bring to the table.
That way, the list is more diverse and you might even find a new favourite resort in a country where you didn’t think snow sports was possible.
Family Friendly
This badge indicates that there is something that makes this resort extra family friendly. A must is that there are slopes that are good for children and services that suit the family.
Free Riding
This badge ensures that there are free-riding capabilities offered at the resort. Either within the system or in close proximity of the lifts.
Park Riding
This badge is given to resorts who offer something special or just great parks and freestyle abilities. It is not enough to just have a park, it must also live up to a certain standard.
Skinning/Touring
This badge indicates that it is good conditions for touring, either from the system or if the resort/village is a good hub for touring.
Beginners
This badge ensures that there are wide and gentle slopes for the beginner and other features for the beginner, like practice lifts or, extensive skiing schools or beginner areas.
Bang for Buck
Pretty straightforward, this badge is given to resorts that will make your money last longer. If in a expensive area, this badge can show up if a resort is significantly lower in price than neighbour resorts with equal skiing. Or if there is something unique for a good price. Most common though is for low price areas, where everything is cheaper.
Partying
If you are on the lookout for a good party, keep your eyes open for this badge. Resorts, where you will be able to have a good party, is rewarded with this badge.
Off Ski Activity
Some resorts offer more than just skiing, some are just winter villages with loads of winter sports to be found, and some resorts offer activities like cinemas, malls, ice skating and more.
All Around
The all-around badge ensures versatile slopes and at many difficult levels. Some resorts might not be especially good in any area, but still, offer a good variety of skiing, then they can have this badge as well.
Scenery
If you want to ski in beautiful areas, look for the scenery badge. This badge is rewarded to resorts which offers something extra in terms of views or surroundings.
Austria - No. 1 (17 entries)
Austria is voted the best country for skiing in Europe with 17 entries in our top 100 best ski resorts in Europe list.
Home to some of the best resorts in the world and of course the famous Alps. Austria is indeed a real safe card for good skiing. No matter your preferences, there will be a resort here for you.
Austria is also known for the Tyrolian charm and warm hospitality, and many ski resorts have managed to keep the traditional village feeling while expanding.
So not only can you expect first class skiing, but also a vibrant beer and food culture.
Here are the featured Austrian ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Alpbach
If you want a ski vacay in Austria that lives up to the idyllic imagine image of what an Austrian ski village should look like. Look no further.
Alpbach is slightly smaller than other resorts in Austria. With the link to the neighbouring area, Auffach, you can enjoy 145 km of slopes. But what it lacks in size, Alpbach makes up in looks. It has been voted “Austria’s most beautiful” several times.
This resort is great for beginners and intermediate skiers. If you are looking for advanced challenges on the slopes, you might not find so many.
For the advanced rider or free-rider, there is excellent of piste terrain to be found though. And since the resort is smaller and less busy, there is more of that pow snow for you alone.
Ellmau
Families, look this way! Ellmau might be the number one place to go on a family skiing vacation in Austria.
In a peaceful corner of SkiWelt, this traditionally charming “low-cost” village is found. Ellmau has good child-friendly facilities and great slopes for beginners to get comfortable at.
The slopes are well linked and there is a progression route for beginners.
For more challenges, it is easy to access the SkiWelt area for endless intermediate challenges and a few expert ones.
Hintertux Glacier
The Hintertux Glacier ski resort is open for skiing all year around. Yes, you read it correctly. During the summer though, skiing is only possible on the higher glacier slopes.
But in a beautiful surrounding, imagine skiing at 3200 m above sea level and looking out over green valleys and forests.
But the skiing is of course much more interesting in wintertime when all of the 60 km slopes are open.
In winter you will also be able to find numerous off-piste runs and deep snow areas. Just be aware of glacier cracks. There is also some good freestyle parks here with something to offer from beginner to pro, in an iconic setting.
Even with the quite small size of 60 km slopes, there is still something for everyone, made complete in combination the free-ride areas and snow parks.
Innsbruck
Well, technically Innsbruck is a city. Not a resort. But it happens to be a city where you can access top-quality skiing with cable-car from downtown. One single ski pass gives you access to more than 300 km of slopes, all connected with public transport to the city.
So with top skiing and the versatility of restaurants, entertainment and more that comes from a city, Innsbruck earns a definite spot on the list.
Innsbruck is surrounded by six ski areas, and if you are an expert skier looking for a challenge. You will have access to 50 km of challenging terrain on the Stubai Glacier.
With that said, if you want all the comfiness of a dedicated ski resort. Search for accommodation in one of the close resorts instead of the actual city.
Ischgl/Samnaun
Are you looking for a resort that has it all? From partying to powder ski and everything in between. Ischgl got you covered.
It is one of the party capitals of the Alps but in combination with great and versatile skiing.
You will find 240 km of slopes here and you can actually ski into Switzerland and the Samnaun village. Which happens to be a duty-free village.
If you are looking for large freeride terrain, Piz Val Gronda, Palinkopf, Greitspitze, Höllspitze are areas here which will not disappoint.
Also, you will find numerous black slopes for advanced on piste challenges.
Of course, there is also many wide and easy slopes as well as intermediate challenges.
There are children’s areas to be found as well as other family-friendly facilities.
Kitzbühel
A big playground for boarders and free-riders, there is 200 km2 of backcountry terrain at your disposal. There is also 32 km of additional ski routes with endless powder opportunities.
For your safety, there are transceiver checkpoints at 9 mountain stations with the current avalanche updates.
But you do not need to be a free-rider to have a good time here, there is 170 km of slopes with good variation connected by 51 lifts.
There are various services to make life a bit easier for families with children.
Kitzbuhel is considered the best resort in the alps by some, due to the Tyrolean laid-backness, friendliness and hospitality. And actually also got the reward for “Best ski resort in the world” in 2013.
Kitzsteinhorn
Only 15 km away from Zell am See this “Paradise for experts” is found, this is a smaller resort with 41 km of slopes. But with a lot of possibilities still.
There is a lot of challenges for experts on or off the piste, but accessible from the lifts.
Black mamba offers a 63% gradient for a slope challenge, if you would like to head of piste there are 5 ski routes with deep snow accessible from the lift. You will also find freeride info points at the start of the runs.
For freestyle riders, there are three parks for every level of rider. The parks are taken care of and shaped daily.
Kühtai
2020 meters above sea level we find Austria’s highest ski village, Kühtai.
This is a smaller resort than many of the other huge Austrian resorts, but with everything, you could think of for a snow vacay.
Families and children are well taken care of here, there are designated children’s areas for skiing and also most of the cosy vibe huts and restaurants offer children’s meals.
If you are looking for challenging runs there is plenty of open terrain throughout the ski resort and beneath the Dreiseen lift, the steepest area is found.
With a lot of freeride terrain, beginners slopes, fun park with airbag and superpipe, most level of riders will be satisfied here.
Mayrhofen
Outstanding terrain parks, big open fields of deep snow and some of the best parks in the Alps. Mayrhofen is a big playground for snowboarders and advanced skiers.
There is a total of six snow parks here with their own chairlift, so you can get a lot of airtime in relation to time in the lift.
With a park of that level, snowboarders and freestylers are drawn to this place. And with all those snowboarders and freestylers, a lively after-ski and party scene are included.
Advanced skiers who do not wish to go off-piste can challenge themselves on the steepest slope in the Alps, Harakiri with a 78% gradient.
Of course, with 142 km of slopes, there is a lot here to be found for beginners and intermediate skiers too. And if 142 km is not enough, you can add to get Zillertaler Superskipass that covers 530 kilometres slopes.
Saalbach Hinterglemm
You are looking at a great area for pretty much everything snow related. Also with the link to Fieberbrunn, it is the 9th biggest system in the world.
If you are into freeriding, be sure to keep your eyes open if there has been fresh snowfall. Freeriders will flock from every direction to leave fresh tracks in the snow.
Beginners and families will find loads of friendly slopes and learning possibilities here.
For the freestyle rider, there are top-notch snow parks as well. As you see, there is a lot here for everyone. From expert rider to first time skier or families.
There is also a vibrant nightlife to be found here.
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental
Skiwelt is a resort with an impressive variety, which has managed to keep its Tyrolean charm despite its huge size. There is more than 280 km of slopes available connected by 90 lifts. Making it to one of Austria’s biggest resorts.
Almost needless to say is that skiing here is, well, great. But some highlights are a large area for night skiing, so if skiing all day is not enough. You can ski the night as well.
There is also a few practice areas for children and beginners which are totally free to use.
Advanced riders and freeriders will find plenty of challenges here. Likewise, the freestyle rider can enjoy plenty of snowparks. There is also contests and events going on here throughout the season.
The 8 villages of Brixen, Ellmau, Going, Hopfgarten, Itter, Scheffau, Söll and Westendorf make up the Skiwelt resort.
Söll
Söll is a village in Austria’s second biggest ski area, and offers some of the best value in the Austrian Alps.
The terrain offers endless fun for beginners and intermediate skiers looking to improve their skill set or just have a good time.
There is three black slopes here for the advanced rider, and if you run out of new challenges after a while, just venture out in the 280 km big SkiWelt system and there will be lots more to be found.
If you for some reason would feel that 280 km is not enough for you, there is the option use the link to Kitzbühel and unlock 170 extra kilometres of slopes. But that would also require a separate lift pass.
Sölden
Have you heard about the Ibiza of the Alps? Well, now you hade, Sölden is known for great after ski, parties and good skiing. You will find various apres ski location on your way down to the town of Sölden where the party goes on all night long.
Sölden offers 150 km of mixed terrain for you to enjoy, there is a lot of easy and intermediate runs. But with the two glaciers and plenty of off-piste areas, the expert level skier will have plenty of challenges as well.
The Gaislachkogl glacier is known as the free-rider mountain of Ötzdal and offers freeride checkpoints with important info.
For the family there are kindergartens, and nicely equipped children’s areas to make life a bit easier.
Zell am See - Schmittenhöhe
Enjoy great skiing while overlooking some of the best views Austria has to offer. The Schmitten is the home mountain of Zell Am See and offers 77 km of versatile skiing.
The area of Glocknerwiese if perfectly suited for the family and beginners. Ski schools and large children’s areas are also to be found throughout the resort.
For the advanced skier, there are long and difficult runs to be found and 7 ski routes to play around and explore some pow pow or deep snow.
If you are a freestyler, the long fun slope and fun park might be something for your taste buds.
And if you are in the mood to let loose and go partying after a day of riding, Zell am See will have parties going all night.
St. Anton am Arlberg
Where to start here, St Anton is one of Europe’s top resort for serious skiers and is home to some of the most challenging runs in the Alps.
305 kilometers of marked ski runs, superbly prepared slopes for all ability levels, and 200 km of off-piste with challenging slopes and deep-snow ski runs, first class snow parks, carving areas, permanent racing circuits and numerous cosy meeting places ensure variety and enjoyment.
The off-piste possibilities are enormous and for the experts there are steep ravines and cliffs to explore. St. Anton offers endless opportunities for advanced riders and strong intermediate skiers, but the ski area offers a lot for families and beginners as well.
And we can’t talk about St. Anton without mentioning the après-ski, because it is top-notch.
Obergurgl - Hochgurgl
Let’s open up with an interesting anecdote, Obergurgl’s first redeemed its fame from a hot air balloon record flight of 16,000 meters in 1931. The Swiss pilot crashed on the Gurgler-Ferner glacier. A villager came to rescue and the event got famous worldwide and put the village Obergurgl on the map.
Now it is more famous for its top skiing and short waiting times in the lifts right outside your hotel door.
More than half of the slopes here are intermediate, but the resort is actually ideal for beginners still. The slopes are structured so that the entire resort can be explored on easy slopes, and when you feel comfortable, there are a lot of slopes for your progression.
The advanced rider might feel a bit limited on the pistes, there are difficult slopes to be found, 20km of them. But the real challenge for advanced riders starts where the piste ends.
There is a lot of terrain for free-riding here and numerous ski routes. There is also a big freeride event held here annually, “Open Faces” which attracts skiers from all over the globe.
Stubai
Stubai
If you are looking for a resort with advanced challenges, freeride terrain and excellent snowparks, look this way.
Stubai Gletcher is located within an hour’s drive from Innsbruck and offers 50 km of groomed slopes with various levels of difficulty.
For advanced riders, there is a lot to be found, like the Daunhill slope with a 60% incline. You will also find a lot of off-piste runs marked on a separate map through open terrain, as well as freeride checkpoints.
There is also a first-class snowpark with offerings for every level, beginner to pro and provides everything you can think of. With the exception of a halfpipe. The park offers most features during spring and autumn, at this time a year, you can find many of the top freestyle boarders and skiers in the park.
But Stubai does also provide a lot of family fun, like the”BIG Family Ski-Camp” area. Here there are multiple magic carpets for children to learn skiing, practice lifts and easy slopes. Also a children’s restaurant.
France - No. 2 (16 entries)
No surprise maybe to see France on this list, since it might be one of the top countries in the world for skiing ( just pipped to the post for the title of best country for skiing in Europe with 16 entries in our top 100 list).
The resorts here are many and extensive, with some resorts joining together to create lift systems of monstrous proportions.
With that said, many of the resorts differ a lot, so if you like upscale dining there is a village for you, if you are keen for partying and a ski-bum lifestyle, there is a village for you as well.
Here are the French ski resorts from our list of best ski resorts in Europe in alphabetical order.
Alpe d'huez
Most sunny days in the Alps, true or just legend? Find out for yourself. Alpe d’huez has a lot for everyone. Advanced riders can enjoy the longest black piste in the world, Sarene, with an impressive length of 16 km.
If you are in the mode for deep snow, head to the Pic Blanc glacier for a free riding challenge. A lot of that snow is generally untouched due to the high altitude of the glacier, so here you might even be able to have friends on a powder day.
For the park rat, there is a huge selection of rails, boxes, kickers and more to play with. Even a halfpipe when the snow conditions are good.
Alpe d’huez offers great conditions for a family vacation as well, there are ski schools in every village and child care facilities to be found.
Avoriaz
Looking to get your tan on but without the slushy slopes the sun can bring? Avoriaz village is on the sunny side while most of the slopes are in the shade.
The village itself is also car-free and offers a lot of ski in/ski out lodges.
Freestyle riders will love the access to five parks and the superpipe that is offered here. There is off-piste and deep snow riding to be found from the side of the piste and also backcountry.
Also a part of Portes du Soleil, so if you would get bored of the Avoriaz slopes, there is more to explore.
Bareges / La Mongie
How about great skiing too a much more affordable price than the French Alps? The French Pyrenees is your friend.
Bareges and La Mongie are two connected resorts, where package prices can be up to half the price of the alps.
The slopes here are great for beginners and intermediate skiers, the entire ski resort can be explored on easy slopes connecting the two resorts.
There are a few more challenging runs here as well, above La Mongie there is open and treeless terrain considered to be amongst the toughest in the Pyrenees.
For the freerider, there is Pic du Midi which can be accessed with cable car and opens up great deep snow areas, but with no official slopes.
Chamonix / Mont-Blanc
You have probably heard of Chamonix before. It has gained world recognition for its challenging runs, off-piste powder, steepness and for surrounding scenery.
So if you are seeking some alpine thrills, Chamonix could be the place to go. With challenging terrain and great variety, advanced riders and experts will have a great time here.
If you are an intermediate rider, Chamonix will challenge you and probably improve your skill set.
In the village, there is a lively nightlife with a hint of traditional charm.
There is 140 km of piste slopes here, and also the longest off-piste run in EU with an impressive 20 km.
Les 3 Vallées
One of the main resorts in Les 3 Vallées, Courchevel, is an upscale resort with loads of alternatives if you are looking for a luxurious skiing holiday. There are 11 Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury lodges and a glamorous aprés-ski.
But with that said, it would not make the list if the skiing wasn’t good.
Here you will find 150 km of slopes with an excellent snow record and many north facing runs which will keep the snow conditions good throughout the day.
The resort is covered by a modern and fast lift system. There is also free beginner lifts for practice and a good selection of kids clubs.
And if you would get tired of the skiing system here, no worries. Courchevel is connected with Les 3 Vallées, which opens up 600 km of skiing. Head over to Méribel which is a family and beginner friendly high altitude ski resort that offers another 150km of pistes. This snow-sure resort has two snowparks and easily accessible off-piste to keep experienced skiers and snowboarders entertained.
Les Arcs
A beautiful natural terrace with 200 km of piste slopes in the Savoyer Alps. This is a great place for families, designated children areas in every village and even full day childcare if you want to explore the mountains without planning for diaper changes.
Les Arcs offers great beginner slopes, steep slopes and easy to access deep snow areas. So there is something here for every level of rider.
There are bars and restaurants in every village, if you are looking for a party, The small city of Bourg Saint Maurice offers a lively nightlife.
La Clusaz / Manigod
Take a visit to the backyard of Candide Thovex. Known as a free ride mecca and an ideal spot for backcountry skiing.
Described by some as a giant natural snow park with an endless succession of domes, step ups and hip jumps. There are even freeriding schools here.
Of course, there is more to be found then backcountry riding here. There is 120km piste with magnificent views operated by a modern lift system.
The village itself offers traditional architecture and lively apres ski. Snow parks for all levels can also be found here.
Le Grand Massif
Great choice for beginners, a huge area of 265 km slopes and over 50% of them are easy slopes. Also, all villages are connected by easy slopes. A plus is that you have a great view over Mount Blanc while riding.
But with that said, there is a lot to be offered advanced riders as well. Flaine area is filled with wide deep snow rides and mogul slopes. Also a lot of freeride areas and snow parks.
The resort offers a lot of restaurants, shops and services.
La Grave
Are you in to freeriding but have not been here yet? Maybe it is time to go before it might be too late.
La Grave is not like any other ski resort, there are no marked ski runs or slopes. Just endless routes down small valleys.
Considered by some to be the freeride mecca of Europe and with a Himalayan nature feel.
But some big resorts are interested in trying to take over La Grave and turn it into one big resort. Which concerns locals and enthusiasts who have set up a crowdfunding page to avoid this from happening.
La Plagne
A place for seekers of pow. La Plagne has a good off-piste reputation, a good portion of the large ski area is untouched by lift systems. Therefore a lot of fresh powder snow is the be found here.
There is a good variety of riding here as well, long tree lines in Montchavin or big open deep powder terrain in the Bellecôte glacier.
Not only freeriders and advanced skiers will have a good time here, but La Plagne also offers a lot for families and intermediate skiers as well.
There are a few bars here, but if partying as an important part of your snow vacay, there are better alternatives.
Montegenèvre
Are you a fan of deep pow but not a fan of sharing it? This might be the place for you! Generally underused off-piste and excellent free ride areas with a great snow record.
And if you would get bored of the riding here, the ski pass includes access to the Italian Milky Way circuit which gives you 400 km of slopes.
The village is quite traditional, but with easy access to a lot of facilities. And it is also a good choice for families.
Serre Chevalier
Have you heard about it? Maybe not, it is an underrated resort with a lot to offer.
The terrain here is good and diverse, the villages have a laid-back style with a friendly atmosphere and the prices are lower than the surrounding resorts.
The area as made up of different villages linked via a bus service, a total of 250 km piste.
The skiing area has something for everyone, excellent tree skiing and famed off-piste for the advanced riders or free-riders.
There is a freestyle zone divided into level of expertise, and great slopes for beginners.
Great for families and offers children’s activities and programs.
Accommodation here is, in general, a bit lower standard than surrounding resorts, but also with lower prices.
St Sorlin d'Arves
“A little French secret” with a ski area of 310km. Even with its impressive size, there are fewer visitors here than many other ski resorts. Which gives you snow that holds well and more space on the slopes.
Maybe there are fewer visitors here due to the slow lift system? But if that is not bothering you, come here and enjoy the spacious slopes.
This area is best for intermediate skiers and snowboarders. The slopes do not offer a lot of advanced challenges. There a few off-piste areas to be found in Les Perrons sector.
An overall good choice also for families.
Val d'Isère
This could maybe be the best overall choice for everyone. Large area with a huge variety. Beginner, pro or freerider? There is loads of easy and intermediate slopes, numerous advanced and steep runs and a lot of ski routes.
For freeriders there are more than 10,000 hectares of off-piste terrain.
A lot of the area is located on glaciers so there is even skiing available here during the summer.
Also a great family location with large children’s areas and free practice lift with designated beginner slopes in every large village.
And if that was not enough, there are two top-notch snow parks here which host numerous big events.
Valloire
A resort full of activities and great skiing with some top-notch snowparks. The Valloire ski resort is a charming village at the base of the slopes, with many different types of accommodations for every type of budget.
Even though it is a ski resort, you will find a wide range of off-ski activity, there is saunas, steam rooms and jacuzzis if you want to relax. And for the more traditional entertainment, there is cinemas, ice sculpture competitions and more.
For skiing, the snow parks here are ranked very high and there is something for every level, beginner to pro.
Also an expert level slopestyle course. The advanced rider will find a lot of challenges here, 37% of the 150km slopes are advanced slopes.
Beginners and intermediate skiers will also get their money worth, and a lot of room for progression with the advanced slopes awaiting.
Val Thorens
To start with, Val Thorens is a part of the biggest ski area in the world. Les 3 Vallèes, which can be accessed on your ski pass and opens up 600 km of piste slopes.
The area has three top-notch parks with something for riders at every level, including an airbag and fun slope.
The party lovers might appreciate the biggest nightclub of the Alps, La Malasya which is located here.
Due to the huge system, riders of every level will find challenges here. Beginners, families and expert riders.
Fun fact, Val Thorens is the highest located resort in Europe at 2300m.
Switzerland - No. 3 (13 entries)
One of the most famous destinations for skiing and also home to one of the most iconic backdrops there is. The Matterhorn, rising almost 4500 meters above sea level.
Skiing here is versatile and first class, beginner, pro or freerider, there is something for everyone here. Just be sure to bring the big wallet, Switzerland is an expensive place.
Switzerland lands the third spot for the title of best country for skiing in Europe with an impressive 13 entries on our top 100 best ski resorts in Europe list. Here are the Swiss ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Adelboden / Lenk
A smaller resort with a small village feel and skiing that will please every style of rider.
The linked areas offer 86 km of versatile slopes overlooking the scenery of Bernese Oberland.
Simmenta village is the ideal one for families and offers activities outside the slopes as well. Runs here are a bit flatter and mostly aimed towards beginners and intermediate skiers.
Then we have the Adelboden-Lenk area which is the place to be for free-riders and advanced skiers. For a steep on piste challenge, the Chuenisbärgli World Cup slope is a must for the experienced skier.
Freeriders can indulge in some of the wonderful powder slopes throughout the resort, with panoramic views.
If fat tricks, kickers, BBQ and DJ sounds appealing, check out the GMP snow park at Hahnenmoos, one of the leading snowparks in the region.
Andermatt / Sedrun
Do you want to claim an area before it was cool? Hit up Andermatt, a previously sleepy town which is on the uprise.
They have recently updated their lift system and linked up with Nätschen ski terrain.
You will find a wide range of slopes and many wide freeriding areas. Making it a great place for free-riders who want to stay away from the most crowded areas.
Intermediate and expert level riders will enjoy this resort to the fullest and find endless fun challenges.
For some airtime, there are two parks for beginner and pro level freestylers, also the biggest half pipe in central Switzerland.
Crans Montana
Crans Montana is where you find wide mountain views, pretty slopes, mountain restaurants and top snowparks.
Crans Montana has a total of 160 km slopes, and intermediate riders and freestylers might feel most at home here.
There is a first-class snowpark with every type of obstacle you can think of. And with an almost as first-class view while sending some tricks.
Half of the slopes are red ones, so for the intermediate rider, there will be almost an endless amount of challenges.
For the beginners though, there are still many easy slopes to be found. And also a large beginners area.
For the advanced rider, there is many off-piste runs and terrain to be explored, for an on-piste thrill there is also some really steep black runs and a 12 km long slope with some difficult parts.
Engelberg / Titlis
With a convenient location just an hour away from Zürich you will find Mount Titlis, one of Switzerland’s most popular attractions which offer you over 80 km slopes to ski.
The runs here are mostly beginner and intermediate. 27 km easy runs, and a whopping 47 km of intermediate runs ensures great fun and loads of possibilities to advance your skills.
But with that said, there is something here that lours in advanced skiers. And it is not the 8 km of advanced slopes, but the quality of the off-piste powder skiing up in the glacier.
The opportunities for freeriding are close to endless.
You can also send some new tricks or practice air awareness on the Airbag before taking them to the kickers in the park at Untertrübsee area.
Children’s areas are also to be found and the resort itself is a family friendly place.
Jungfrau
An idyllic setting for skiing vacay, Jungfrau area includes several high peaks and on their steep slopes and valleys, you will find a total of 260 km skiing spread out in four areas.
With four connected areas, the diversity is high and there is something here to feed the appetite of riders on every experience level.
Scheidegg/Männlichen area is where you should head for a free riding experience, this is where you will find a lot of deep snow areas.
The same area is also where you should head with the family for the most convenient experience, it is packed with facilities and slopes for the whole family.
Schilthorn is also an area to visit for the free-rider or advanced piste rider, but especially if you are keen on freestyle, then the park here is something for you.
Laax / Flims / Falera
The freestylers ideal resort, the parks here are famous around the world and some of the finest out there.
In addition to the extensive parks, you have two half pipes and one of the largest superpipe in Europe.
There is also an indoor freestyle academy with training possibilities without snow.
188 km of slopes ensures more than just a freestylers dream though, there is a lot here for the families, beginners and experienced rider.
There is, for example, plenty of freeriding areas, almost endless throughout the system with the exception of a few areas.
Families can enjoy some of the children’s areas with daycare between 9:30 and 4. Or bring the little ones to some of the wide and easy slopes.
Parsenn (Davos Klosters)
A classic resort with great elevation and versatile environment. Even though most of the runs actually are intermediate level, some very gentle well prepped easy slopes and a good offering of powder runs make Parsenn popular advanced skiers and beginners as well.
For the advanced skier, there are some difficult runs near the Weissfluh Peak, but the biggest reason for the advanced skier to visit is some of the extreme powder runs. Also reached from the Weissfluh Peak, but there are many deep snow areas throughout the area.
Boardercross parks are also available here, a 1 km long course containing jumps, waves and more obstacles.
There is a lot in terms of Après-Ski in Parsenn, and if you are in the mood to dance on some tables, the Après-Ski in Davos goes on into the night.
Rinderberg Gstaad
A mountain ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers to progress on, the entire ski resort can without exception be explored on easy slopes.
It is one of the ski resorts with most blue slopes in the region, and also offers an extensive snowpark for if you want to try some freestyle park riding.
If you progress at rapid speed, there are some more advanced challenges for you here as well. There are some difficult slopes to be found in Zweisimmen, also an interesting feature is the upper part of the resort.
There are some attractive powder areas there, good for freeriding.
There are not only snow parks for beginners here either, but The Playground Snowpark in Saanenmöser also offers obstacles for up to expert level.
Saas-Fee
“The pearl of the Alps”, Saas-Fee is with its 3600 meters one of the highest resorts in the Swizz Alps.
Here you will find wide and well-planned slopes for your carving turns, as well as expert runs, deep snow areas and flat beginner slopes. And oh yeah, an exceptional snow park.
When there has been snowfall, be quick to enjoy some of the attractive powder areas for some great free-skiing, there is plenty of terrains to explore here. You can also go touring with a guide for even more terrain.
For the family, check out the Morenia and Längfluh area, the slopes there are not steep and might be good fun for the whole family.
Fun fact is that you will also find the biggest Ice grotto in the world in this area.
If you are in party-mode after a day on the slopes, head to Gletscherstraße, the party street and enjoy the festive vibe.
St. Moritz
As almost typical with Switzerland, the views while skiing here is breathtaking. For skiing. Half of the total 155 km slopes are intermediate slopes, and St. Moritz is well known for it. You can enjoy long slopes which seems to never and other outstanding intermediate terrains.
The advanced rider will find many slopes to ensure a good time as well, there is a lot of difficult black and very steep slopes as well as many unsecured powder areas. The entire area is open for free riders, so pack your widest skies and have a blast.
Beginners and families will find a lot of slopes and good times as well, there are children’s areas with practice lifts, childcare and more.
The beginner will also find many slopes in the system as well as dedicated beginner areas.
Also home to an extensive snow park with levels from beginner to advanced freestyler.
Val d'Anniviers
Traditional villages with old charming town centres, excellent runs and to a lower price than the more famous Swizz resorts.
The resorts of Val d’Anniviers offers a total of 215 km slopes of good variation for every difficulty level, however, there are a big portion intermediate runs. So the intermediate skier will find endless runs to progress on.
Val d’Anniviers is also known for its great and easy to access off-piste skiing, as well as a dedicated freeride area with an impressive size of 100 hectares.
Verbier
An experts white powdery dream, Verbier is one of the best resorts in the world for off-piste skiing. There are looong runs that are well laid out and a backcountry terrain few can measure with.
Verbier is also home to one of the steepest descents in all of Europe, The Tortin.
All of this with a magnificent view over the Mont Blanc group and the Grand Combin.
The famous Freeride World Tour also has a stop here, there is also an annual event in the first class snow park, Verbier Ride freestyle event.
Verbier is a part of the Four Valleys area, so if you want to get access to all valleys and 410 km of slopes, there is a ski pass for that.
Like all good things, they come at a price, Verbier is a premium area with premium prices on pretty much everything.
Zermatt
The highest resort in Switzerland and with maybe the most iconic and breathtaking backdrop any ski resort has to offer.
You get skiable terrain at an impressive 3900m and a backdrop of the famous Matterhorn mountain peak.
The 210 km of slopes are very well geared towards intermediate skiers, the black and advanced rides are mostly okay for intermediate skiers as well.
For the advanced rider looking for a thrill, you should venture off-piste. You will get the most out of the big area with a guide and heading out early morning, or maybe even skin out and stay overnight in some of the mountain huts beyond the system.
Or if you got a heavy wallet, you can always just go for heliskiing instead.
The area is also linked with the Italian side which opens up 160 km more slopes, and lower prices if you bring euros.
Like all good things, they come at a price, Verbier is a premium area with premium prices on pretty much everything.
Italy - No. 4 (11 entries)
Home to proud and traditional cuisine, high-end fashion, a sinking city and the Dolomites. A breathtaking mountain range rising over 3300 meters above sea level. So unarguable, Italy is an ideal destination for skiing.
With many big resorts in the Dolomites, you will find endless terrain for every type of rider. But there is more to Italy´s skiing scene than just huge mountain scenery, you can even ski overlooking the Mediterranean sea. And indulge in some of the finest restaurants the Alps has to offer.
Italy takes the fourth spot for the title of best country for skiing in Europe with 11 entries in our 100 best ski resorts in Europe list. Here are the Italian ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Alagna
Freeriders and experts, look this way!
Alagna is a true freeriding paradise and there are few resorts that can keep up with the terrain offered here.
If you want an exceptional freeride experience, heli-skiing here can take you to some of the most breathtaking rides you can imagine.
The piste area itself is though only 15 km of slopes, so if you do not have any plans on venturing off-piste, this resort might not be for you.
You can though access 185 km more slopes with the Monterosa Ski pass. Linking up with Gressoney and Champoluc areas and will give you a lot more variety if you do not only want to ski off-piste.
Alta Badia
Alta Badia is a very family friendly resort with many wide and easy runs. You will also find multiple ski schools, kindergartens and play areas. Also, children up to 8 years old are going for free with a parent.
Out of the 130 km of slopes, there are only two really difficult runs. But they are also true black runs, including the famous Gran Risa World Cup slope in La Villa which will give even the most experienced skier a good thrill.
Good to know is that there are no designated free-ride areas, but that is easily solved with the Dolomiti Super Ski Pass which unlocks over 450 km of slopes, including a lot of free-ride terrains.
Bormio
If you are all about elevation, look no further. Bormio offers the greatest elevation in Italy, an impressive 1787 meter vertical drop.
There is 50km of slopes here and most of them are aimed at intermediate riders, with some beginner runs too.
If you are powder-lover, there is also plenty of free-ride and deep snow areas for a challenge off the slopes.
Families and children can enjoy the magic carpets, kindergartens and children lifts.
And if you for any reason would feel that you are out of challenges, just grab the bus to Santa Caterina or Valdidentro, both areas are included in your ski pass.
The town itself is also a form of attraction, charming old town and a lot of old spas fed by hot mineral springs.
Breuil - Cervinia
The Italian and less pricey side of the famous Matterhorn mountain. It is located almost directly under the south side of the Matterhorn and is easily reached from Milan.
The slopes here are mostly for intermediate skiers and beginners, but great powder and off-piste is within easy reach. Just head to the Zermatt side and hit that pow!
Zermatt, Breuil-Cervinia, and Valtournenche are all accaseble from a single skipass.
There are large children areas, playgrounds and practice areas here for children and beginners. Easy slopes are surrounding the children’s area.
Cortina d'Ampezzo
Home to the steepest black run in the Dolomites, breathtaking off-piste skiing and a brand new snowpark for freestylers.
The 120km of slopes offers a great mix of runs for all levels of riders, though if you are really into freeriding, you could consider getting the “Dolmiti Super Ski Pass” which unlocks 400km of slopes, and a whole lot more off-piste terrain accessible from the lifts.
Beginners will find plenty of great opportunities here, almost flat practice areas if it is your first time on skies or friendly wide slopes to gain confidence for the steeper runs.
Expert riders can enjoy some of the steep black slopes as well as magnificent off-piste skiing.
If you want a break from the slopes, there is plenty of activities to be found, like snow-kiting, ice-driving, heli-skiing, ice-climbing and more.
Courmayeur
An off-piste paradise that combines expert terrain challenges with a hint of the glamour of the upscale Swiss and French resorts.
Courmayeur or best suited for advanced riders keen to go freeriding. There are a total 41 km slopes, but 100 km off-piste runs.
You can ski down the Toula glacier with a mountain guide for a real Alpine classic. There is also great heliskiing to be found here if your wallet allows.
Beginners and families might be better off at another resort, but with that said. There are good slopes here for beginners as well and three skiing school, only one in English though.
The Scenery here is also outstanding, and Courmayeur is home to some of the best restaurants in the Alps.
Etna
If you are looking for a unique experience, how about a skiing vacation to an active volcano? Which also happens to be close enough to the sea and warmth for you to have a swim in the ocean after the slopes.
This is possible on Mount Etna in Sicily. Most of the runs here are intermediate runs, and there is 6.3 km of slopes in total. The scenery offers great views and volcanic feel with steam usually coming from Etna.
For a more adventurous experience, you can skin your way up to the top of Etna’s southern slope and enjoy a long off-piste ride through the northern side.
This is not your usual ski resort, but due to the uniques offered here, we wanted to give Mount Etna a spot on our list.
Livigno
A lot of bang for the buck, Livigno delivers top skiing at lower prices compared to many other resorts with equal conditions.
If you are an advanced rider or free-rider, Livigno delivers great opportunities.
There is a lot of challenging black slopes to give the experienced rider a good thrill. For an off-piste challenge, you got plenty of options to choose from, big open powder terrain on Monte Della Neve or maybe the “freeride experience” on Mottolino.
For beginners, there is a lot of easy slopes on the lower part of the mountain to get comfy on. Families are offered many convenient services such as kindergartens, easy kids slopes, kids’ fun park and more.
The snowparks here is some of the finest, you will find everything you could possibly need. From beginner to pro level.
Ponte di Legno
Here you will find a wide range of winter sports for an active holiday, except for of course skiing, there are winter hikes, dog-sledging trips and cross-country skiing.
The slopes are mainly for the intermediate rider, with a whopping 61% intermediate slopes. There is though some though challenges here, for example, the intense black run from the Passo Paradiso down to Passo Tonale, it is part of an 11km slope with a height drop of 1700 meters. You will also find some steep forest runs and extensive deep snow areas.
Families will find this resort very suitable as well, there are a play and learning area called FantaSki for the kids. Also, the slopes in the Passo Tonale area is very wide and easy, perfect for the whole family.
For the freestyler, there are parks of various levels, from beginner to expert, which is shaped and taken care of on a daily basis.
Val Gardena
Val Gardena is considered one of the best resorts and gotten multiple awards for this. There is really something for everyone here, a lot of slopes for the beginner as well as the expert rider.
One thing that is good to know is that off-piste skiing is forbidden with exception of specific free-ride areas in the company of a qualified guide.
For families and children, there is a lot of services. Even hotels specific for families with children and skiing schools for children from 2 years and up.
In terms of snowparks, there is a lot here. Many different snowparks for every level and type of rider, pretty much everything you need. With the exception of a halfpipe.
And all of this with a gigantic backdrop of the Dolomites.
Via Lattea
Via Lattea, one of the biggest connected Italian-French ski resorts with over 400 km of slopes, Montegenvre is the French connection.
The skiing here is with great variation, both in terms of difficulty level and landscape.
There are treeless areas, runs through pine forests and areas with evergreen trees. And above the treeline is where you can find plenty of good free-ride terrain.
For advanced on-piste challenges, Via Lattea is a great place. Many of the slopes here are black and two of them are Olympic slopes.
Of course, you will also find child-friendly beginner lifts, slopes and ski schools.
Germany - No. 5 (7 entries)
Germany has few resorts that can put up with the neighbouring Alps, but you will find a lot of good skiing resorts with their own charm and with many different landscapes.
Apart from skiing, you will also find an interesting beer and food culture to indulge in. With cosy family driven Gasthaus´s, you can visit for food and accommodation.
Germany is number 5 for the title of best country for skiing in Europe with 7 entries on our 100 best ski resorts in Europe list. Here are the German ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Arber
King of the Bavarian forest or more known as Große Arber is the highest mountain in the Bavarian forest and home to 11.5 km of slopes with some of Germanys most modern lift system.
Families and children will find a lot of fun and convenience here, two children’s areas with magic carpets, Family cross park and even a parallel giant slalom for kids.
Arber is also home to a black World cup course, so if you want some advanced challenges in the slopes, you got it.
If you want to start to hit some jumps, you will find the snowpark to be your second home.
It is ideal for beginners and intermediate freestylers.
Feldberg
How about a family trip to the Black forest? Feldberg is a relaxed resort in the high up forest and it is ideal for families and beginners.
Many of the slopes for beginners are wide and gentle, so you give your first curves a go. There is also multiple skiing schools and children’s areas here for the family´s convenience.
Of course with a system of 60 km, there will be more advanced challenges as well. Around the Rothaus lift, for example, there are three challenging black runs. And if you would like to leave the slopes, there are a few off-piste areas to be found in the area.
There is also a snowpark with intermediate and beginner friendly lines and obstacles.
Since it is the highest of the Black Forest mountains, there is a good panoramic view from the top. You can even spot Mount Blanc on a good day.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Three mountains joined together creates one of Germany´s biggest ski resort with a good slope variety for skiers of all experience levels. Also with one of Germany´s greatest elevation of 1350 meters.
You will find easy slopes in the middle area between Hausberg and Kreuzeck, this is a great place to get comfortable with skiing or boarding.
When you are comfy in the slopes, head to Hausberg or Alpspitz instead to challenge yourself with some longer valley runs.
For an expert level challenge, try the Kandahar slope- A 3000m long World Cup ski slope, which has a section of 92% incline.
You will also find off-piste challenges here when the snow conditions are good, free-riding checkpoints are also available for added safety.
Nebelhorn – Oberstdorf
Nebelhorn is the highest in the Allgaeu and offers an impressive elevation for you to ski, almost 1400 meters, which is comparable to many resorts in the Alps. The peak is located at 2224 meters and offers a view from which you can see over 400 peaks.
For the advanced rider, there are long black runs to enjoy. If you would like to head off-piste there is a lot of free-ride and deep snow areas to play around with.
If you are new to skiing and that sounds intimidating, a quarter of the system is made up of wide and easy slopes for beginners to get comfy in the snow.
For its relatively small size, there is a lot to found here. In total there is 12 km of slopes.
Good to know if you are a party lover is that aprés-ski here is a bit limited.
Ochsenkopf
This small resort with 10 km of slopes scores a spot on the list due to its friendliness to beginners, all slopes are suitable for beginners to get comfortable with skiing.
Even the red run is manageable for someone new to skiing.
If you want to start really small there are practice lifts with easy slopes available at the base station.
Good to know is that you will not find any difficult runs or freeride areas here.
So if you are nearby and looking for a place to get into skiing, Ochsenkopf might be just right for you.
Waidring/ Reit im Winkl
Right at the border, you will find this gem, from German Bavaria to Austrian Tyrol. This cross-border ski resort offers 42 km of slopes and a top modern lift system.
If you are new to snow-sports, check out the Winklmoosalm side of the resort. The slopes here are wide and flat and makes for a perfect introduction. There is also a cheaper ski pass for only the Winklmoosalm side.
There is also advanced rides to be found here, including black runs and some off-piste areas if you are into freeriding.
For the freestyle boarder or skier, there is a large fun park which offers lines for beginners to pros.
Zugspitze
The highest mountain in Germany and the one that can keep up with the Alps. Zugspitze rises to 2960 meters and from the top, you can witness a magnificent 360-degree panorama view of mountain peaks in various countries.
To enhance the scenery, there is a skiable glacier at 2700 meter which often is above the clouds that cover the valley.
Intermediate and semi-advanced skiers will get the most out of Zugspitze, there are some deep snow areas for the free-rider when the snow conditions allow for it. There are freeride checkpoints for you to check equipment and current avalanche situation.
There are no designated slopes for children, but many of the slopes are pretty wide and children under 6 ski for free with parents.
The resort is completed with the traditionally beautiful town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Sweden - No. 6 (6 entries)
Sweden is the first Scandinavian country to join the list with 6 entries in our top 100 Europe based ski resorts.
Skiing holidays is a big thing in Sweden and the resorts are many, you will find some bigger and famous ones and a few mountain villages you probably never heard of on this list of Sweden’s top skiing resorts.
Here are the Swedish ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Åre
If you ask any Swede, skier or not, they will most likely know about Åre. Being one of the largest resort in Scandinavia, offering great skiing, famous events and a lively party scene have put the small village of Åre on the map.
There is 91 km of slopes and you will ride with a magnificent backdrop of the Åresjön lake.
Beginners and families can enjoy the area of Åre Björnen, which is designed with children in mind with loads of friendly facilities and slopes.
The expert rider can enjoy the ride down the difficult world cup series slope, and if you are keen for freeriding, great powder areas can be found on the front and rear side when the conditions are good.
There is also a world class snow park at bräckeliften.
Borgafjäll
At the end of the road is where you find this picturesque mountain village with breathtaking scenery and top class touring with untouched powder.
For the best off-piste skiing, make sure to bring touring equipment or rent it in the ski shop, there is a lot of peaks and untouched runs to ski.
If you are less keen to reach the peaks by skinning, there are well established Cat-Ski tours with local guides. They will drive you to and show the best runs for the current conditions.
The lift system is two small connected mountains, but with a magnificent backdrop.
Most of the runs here are easy and intermediate and there is skiing schools as well as a children’s slope.
There is also some great off-piste and tree-runs within the lift system. Some marked, some you will need to explore to find.
The cosiest après ski ski and best dining is found a Borgagården, and with a breathtaking view.
Idre Fäll
Idre offers one of the longest seasons in Scandinavia and a village with loads of winter activities.
Snowmobile tours, dog-sledging, hiking, great cross-country tracks and more. The ski resort itself has a lot of services and activities to offer families.
The slopes are quite ideal for families and beginners, most of the slopes are easily skied for the whole family and there is also dedicated children’s areas with moving carpets and practice lifts.
On the north, south and east side there are some difficult runs to be found, including the Chocken run which is one of the steepest slopes in Scandinavia. It is used for FIS Speed Ski World Cup, and speeds up to 200 km/h are measured.
There is also a high standard snowpark here, with a total length of 1 kilometre, offering challenges for the expert as well as the beginner.
Kittelfjäll
By many considered as an underestimated mountain, for advanced riders, it is a hidden paradise. You will find ravines, forest runs, steep corridors, various drops and jumps with more.
The lift does not take you all the way to the calfjäll, but if you hike a little, there is a lot to experience.
Just above 60% of the slopes here are advanced, so apart from freeriding, there is a lot for the advanced rider.
For the beginner and intermediate rider, there is still a lot to be found, long both blue and red slopes. Also gentle off-piste if you would like a challenge.
There is also a dedicated children and beginners slope with its own lift in a slow tempo.
Riksgränsen
A society far up north in Sweden which was deconstructed in the early 1900s, there was just to much snow.
You might already have guessed why Riksgränsen is on this list.
It is now an off-piste paradise with skiers visiting from all over the world.
There is great off-piste and powder skiing to be found within the system and easily accessed from the lift.
If you are even more into freeriding, you might want to bring your skins and tour the unlimited terrain of runs.
For a good freeride challenge, try Nordalsfjäll, where the Nordic freeride championship are held every May.
With that said, there is not only freeriding here you will find 21 km of slopes with some good beginner and intermediate options.
There is also heliskiing available here and it is usually skiable a long way into June.
If you want a truly amazing experience, try skiing here late season under the midnight sun.
Tandådalen / Hundfjället (Sälen)
The area most Swedes have been to at least once, it is a resort very popular amongst families and beginners.
The two mountains are connected with a lift and offer a total of 45 km slopes, there are easy slopes all over the mountain for the beginner to advance on.
There is also practice lifts and moving carpets in the valley area for children and beginners.
If you are looking for more advanced slopes there is the famous slope “Väggen” and the “World Cup Slope” for an expert level challenge.
They are located by the Väggen lift at Hundfjället and this is also the place you will find some powder areas. At the Mio express lift, there is also some tree runs for the advanced rider.
This is also home to a big snowpark with high standards. There are loads of kickers, rails and boxes. Even a halfpipe.
Spain - Joint no. 7 (5 entries)
Good old spain, a heaven for sunny vacations for many nortern Europeans. But also one to consider for your skiing holiday, Spain has some impressive skiing resorts to offer.
And some located so much south that you might not even have to choose between a sunny or snowy holiday, how about both?
They take the joint 7th spot with 5 entries in our top 100 lineup. Here are the Spanish ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Baqueira Beret
Baqueira Beret, one of the largest resorts in the Pyrenees and offers you a great variety of runs between the three connected sections. Most of the slopes are located at 1800 meter or more above sea level and have snowmaking capabilities, so it is a very snow reliable resort.
Since most of the runs are located above the treeline, there is a lot of freeriding terrain for the advanced rider as well as difficult slopes.
There is also dedicated beginner areas and an extensive children’s area with playgrounds and practice areas.
If you are looking for some time in the air, head to the Beret snowpark by the Blanhiblar chairlift and let loose some of the many kickers and obstacles.
Cerler
The highest area and with the biggest elevation in the Pyrenees, the peak is at 2630 meters and offers magnificent views over the Pyrenees. The skiable drop is 1130 meters through excellent snow, the high altitude ensures high snow quality, even in springtime.
Cerler is a perfect resort for the intermediate rider with seemingly endless challenges.
There is of course also good rides for beginners and advanced riders amongst the 52km of slopes.
If you enjoy being upside-down, the snowpark might be a good place for you to huck some Dope tricks.
A fun fact is that Cerler has been awarded “Best ski resort in Spain” on two occasions.
Formigal
From super easy to extremely steep slopes and freeride areas, Formigal offer thrills for riders of every experience.
The resort is made up out of four connected valleys and is, therefore, able to offer such a great variety of runs and a total of 137 km slopes.
Families who visit Formigal will note the extensive services including childcare, supervised play area, snow garden and more.
For beginners there are also specific beginner areas to be found as well as long and wide slopes, all four valleys are also connected by easy slopes.
If you are looking for extreme rides, head to Zona Portalet and use the snowcat that pulls riders to the freeride area.
For a freestyle experience, there is a large snow park in Zona Sarrios and a long boardercross course in Valle Izas.
La Molina / Masella
The oldest ski resort in Spain offers a wide range of different landscapes, activities and maybe most important, great skiing.
And with an average of 72 sunny days per season, chances are you will be able to get your tan on as well.
La Molina is a part of the Alp 2500 ski domain, which offers 121 km of slopes with good variation for every type of rider.
For the advanced skier there are many black slopes for a good on piste challenge, meanwhile, the beginners have a wide range of easy slopes.
With the good variety of runs, there is always something a bit more challenging to keep the progress going.
For the freestyle rider, there is also a snowpark to send some tricks in.
Sierra Nevada – Pradollano
Longing for a skiing vacay with loads of sunshine and great skiing. Sierra Nevada is the most southern ski resort in Europe and also the highest in Spain.
Add those two conditions and you get a snow-secure resort with many hours of sunshine. So get ready for a nice goggle tan.
In terms of skiing, there is a 110 km combination of beginner to advanced slopes at your service.
There is also an extensive freestyle park with over 60 features and kickers, including a 165-meter long halfpipe.
There are almost no dedicated freeride or deep snow areas but on the other hand. You are no more than a one-hour car ride away from the sea, so don’t forget to pack a pair of speedos.
Norway - Joint no. 7 (5 entries)
Home to many great resorts and some of the most spectacular touring terrain you can imagine.
Norway is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts, and also for skiers looking for freeride challenges, breathtaking touring or just some great groomed slopes.
You can also find skiing late in the season in many of the northern parts, like Narvik for example.
Lofoten is also a famous area for breathtaking views in summertime, surfing and fjords.
Norway secures the joint 7th spot with 5 entries. Here are the Norwegian ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Geilo
Geilo is a small mountain town resort with a lot to offer, of course, great skiing since it is on this list.
But also a lot of facilities within easy reach and just so happens to be one of the best locations in the world to practice kite-skiing.
For skiing, there are 40 runs with a good variety so skiers of all experience level will find some delightful slopes.
Steep black runs for the advanced rider and wide, mild, runs for beginners and families skiing together.
And if you might want a pause from the little ones, there is childcare located in the village.
If you ever been interested in cross-country skiing, there are 220km of well-marked trails for you here.
Hemsedal
Hemsedal is one of the largest resorts in Norway and offers advanced skiers and freeriders some great treats.
There is a lot of freeride terrain to be found here, and steep runs descending down to the base station will offer the advanced riders a thrill.
The 45 km of slopes do of course offer more than just advanced challenges, there are gentle slopes for the beginners and red runs for the intermediate rider to advance on.
Also home to the biggest child area in Norway, you will find a minipark, magic carpets and even child care.
The park here stretches over 2km long, all the way from Hllvion Heisen mountain station down to the base station.
Kvitfjell
Great elevation, good variation of runs and almost no people. A combination rarely found, but during the weekdays you can almost have the mountain for yourself.
Kvitfjell is also home to the longest difficult run in Norway and offers some really steep parts, it is actually an Olympic run so if you are an advanced skier, you will find a good challenge here.
For more advanced challenges you also have powder skiing at the peak. Free-riding possibilities might be a bit limited in the system, but consider to try touring and a world of possibilities opens up.
To polish your Dope tricks, there is a snowpark at the middle station, also a small junior park for the next generations freestyle rider.
Lofoten Islands
A truly magical place for skiing, but not your traditional resort. Here you will find some of the most exceptional views while touring up the mountains.
And it gets better, you will need to ski back down again. Overlooking endless mountains rising up from the sea with snow and ice everywhere.
If you are an experienced skier or off-piste boarder, touring Lofoten is a must do experience.
That needs to be done with an experienced guide for your safety and to get the most out of the experience.
Narvikfjellet
Narvik might be more publicly known for the battle during WW2, but outdoors and snow interested people think of something completely different when they hear Narvik.
World class off-piste skiing and some of the most beautiful landscapes nature has to offer.
And the best thing, at Narvikfjellet, you do not need to tour for hours to experience this.
There are 6 lifts here, you can take the chairlift to the 1006m high peak, and from there it is only a 300m walk to Tredjetoppen, the start point for off-piste skiing.
From here there is a lot of runs you can choose, from casual off-piste to challenging runs.
It is not only a resort for off-piste, but you can also ski a total of 10km groomed slopes while enjoying the scenery. There is also a separate children’s area with its own lift.
Finland - Joint no. 9 (4 entries)
Finland and snowsports go hand in hand, like any of the Nordic countries. Maybe especially known for great success in Cross-country skiing, and there are endless cross-country tracks to be found here.
Of course, also with a lot more, you will find multiple fells with skiing, Sami villages, nordic lights and great snow conditions.
Finland take joint 9th spot with 4 entries in our top 100 European ski resorts. Here are the Finnish ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Levi
“Lack of snow” is a saying you probably won’t hear at one of the most northern resorts in the world, Levi. Here you can enjoy 200 ski days a year, it is also the biggest resort in Finland and has 38 km of slopes operated by 25 lifts for you to enjoy.
Levi is right out in the wilderness of Lappland, so if you are into nature, prepare for a treat.
For riding, beginners and intermediate skiers will find plenty of interesting challenges. For the advanced skier, there are three difficult slopes on the east side and also some deep snow areas on Fjell Levi for some pow fun.
If you are looking for some airtime, Levi has a large snowpark for your Dope tricks. Also a smaller park and a superpipe on the northern side.
For families, there is a lot to be found as well. There are 10 free lifts for children and the small town offers a lot of convenient services, and of course, family friendly and wide slopes.
Pyhä
A heaven for beginners and maybe the best backcountry riding in Finland. Pyhä has some interesting stuff to offer.
If the snow conditions are good, Perse is where you find some fun off-piste and knuckles to play around with, as well as Aittokuru with a 45-degree angle and some good drops between 5 and 10 meters.
And if you want to strap on your skins and head backcountry, there are seven areas within the fell which is claimed to be the finest BC in Finland.
Pyhä is known for its wide blue slopes for the beginner to gain confidence in skiing. In combination with great skiing schools, this is a great place to learn skiing.
There are not only slopes here, but you can also for example race snowmobiles over the frozen lake or get cosy in a sledge pulled by reindeers.
Ruka
A resort for the whole family and just so happens to be one of the most snow-secure resorts in Europe.
Almost all of the slopes are ideal for beginners and families, and children under 7 ride for free with a helmet. Even 4 out of the 19 lifts are reserved for children, and the runs that are extra suitable for families are marked on a map.
But of course, there is more than just children and family slopes here. Battery park for example for the snowboarder or freestyler, here you will find rails, kickers and other obstacles to play with.
Three different lines ranging from small to big, also there is a halfpipe at your disposal.
There are a not many but a few off-piste areas for some fun contrast for the intermediate rider.
Ylläs
Rest your eyes on some picturesque landscapes and traditional villages on the lakeside while riding some of the 55 km of slopes on the Ylläs fell.
The two Lappish villages of Ylläsjärvi and Äkäslompolo are located on opposing sides of the fell and make up the resort.
For the intermediate and semi-advanced skier, there are 6 black runs to have with.
Not steep by international standard but a good challenge, you will also find a few off-piste and deep snow areas for some nice contrast.
If you want to send some Dope tricks you should head to the pretty large fun park which offers many jumps and obstacles divided into beginner and pro/advanced sections.
For beginners and families, there is a lot of good slopes to be found. Also large children’s areas on both sides of the resort.
Slovenia - Joint no. 9 (4 entries)
Slovenia is a country most made out of mountians, but with a very diverse landscape scenery. But it is one of the most water dense countries in Europe with multiple river networks and lakes.
With this combination, you will find some magnificent scenery while skiing some of the mountains Slovenia has to offer.
You can also find loads of other outdoors and winter activities here for an active holiday.
Some skiing resorts are close to the capital of Ljubljuana, which has an interesting and vibrant nightlife.
Slovenia claims the joint 7th spot with 4 entries in our top 100 list. Here are the Slovenian ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Kranjska Gora
A winter village full of various activities, and of course, skiing. Kranjska Gora is a quite small but cosy village perfect for families or new skiers to build confidence and advance into the sport.
Most of the 30km slopes are good for beginners and intermediate skiers, with some more challenging runs to be found.
If you are looking to gain some air control or perfect your Dope tricks in the air, you might spend most of your days in the snowpark which offers some good fun for the new as well as the more experienced rider.
You might even want to leave the skis at home for a day and try some of the other winter activities here. There is, for example, a famous frozen waterfall “The Lucifer” which you can ice climb with a guide, great winter hiking, sledging and more.
Krvavec
Located just 25 km from the vibrant capital, Ljubljana, you find the resort of Krvavec. Like its neighbour resorts in Slovenia, you will get more for less buck here, with lots of fantastic package deals on offer.
Beginners will have a great time at some of the long and easy slopes here, and when it is time to advance. There are many intermediate slopes for a good challenge.
The 30 km of slopes are most ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers, if you are an advanced skier, you might feel a bit limited here.
If you did not get enough snow and ice during the day, you can treat yourself with some drinks at the ice bar.
Mariborsko Pohorje / Maribor
Home to a world cup alpine skiing competition and Bavarian beer culture, Mariborsko Pohorje, Slovenia’s biggest ski resort.
You will find 42 km of slopes to enjoy here, half of them are suited for beginners, apart from that there are intermediate runs and a few advanced slopes.
A fun fact is that 10km of those slopes are lit up for night skiing, making it one of Europes biggest night skiing area.
If you rather go partying at night instead, the Koca Koca Lodge offers lively après-ski where you can party on until morning time.
If you may, the city centre of Maribor is close and offers plenty of clubs as well.
Vogel
Make your € last longer and indulge in the beautiful views of lake Bohinj. At Vogel, you can get away with a top skiing holiday for the fraction of the price against a vacay in the Alps. While being able to enjoy good skiing through beautiful forest runs overlooking the lake.
The resort offers a 1200 meter elevation and 22km of slopes, most of them great for beginners and intermediate skiers. For the advanced rider or expert, really challenging runs can be hard to find.
There are a skiing school and a children’s park with two small lifts, which is totally free to use.
So if you do not need the expert level runs, and want to be able to enjoy a €1.50 pint of beer after a day in the slope, Vogel might be the place for you.
Slovakia - Joint no. 9 (4 entries)
Slovakia might surprise you with the wide range of skiing terrain available, and to great prices as well.
There is really something for every taste here, big open freeride terrain and steep slopes or super family-friendly resorts with all the conveniences you might think of.
Slovakia is made up of mostly mountains, so the scenery here is beautiful. And there is a lot of caves to be explored as well as old castles.
Slovakia with 4 entries takes the joint 9th spot in our ultimate list of snow resorts in Europe. Here are the Slovakian ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Donovaly Park Snow
Might not get more family-friendly than this, Donovaly offers Europes second largest skiing facility dedicated for children. There is also a lot of skiing schools in various languages for children to learn skiing.
While the kids are learning there is a lot of challenges for beginners and intermediate skiers to be found in the Záhradište area. There is also a skating rink and an Ice Camp for off ski activity.
For advanced challenges, check out the Nová hoľa area. There is one true black run here and some deep snow areas to explore.
For the freestyler, head to The Riders Park, one of the first park in Slovakia and improved every year and got pretty much all you can wish for.
Jasna
The biggest ski resort in Slovakia and home to advanced challenges as well as versatile beginner slopes.
There is a total of 49km of slopes in Jasna, but the fun does not end there. If you are keen for an off-piste challenge there are substantial free-ride zones and two terrain parks.
Some of the 12 freeride zones offer extremely steep chutes down the valley.
There is also some thrilling challenges on the slopes. On the southern Chopok side, there are almost only difficult slopes to be found.
For beginners and families, there is, of course, wide and easy slopes and three children’s areas. You will also find a snowpark with its own lift for the freestyle rider.
Štrbské Pleso
A small area with big views, there are nine kilometres of slopes here all overlooking a great view of mountains and valleys, all meeting around a lake at the base of the resort.
There is plenty of mountain lodges with beautiful panorama views which offer après ski ski after a day on the slopes.
The area is suitable for beginners and families with wide and easy slopes and at the lower section, the higher up area offer some more challenging runs.
There are no true black slopes here and not really any free-ride areas.
For the freestyler, though there is a snowpark with kickers, boxes and rails for you to enjoy.
Tatranská Lomnica
The highest ski resort in Slovakia and also home to a 6.5km long slope which is descending down the resorts full 1300 meter elevation.
The resort is ideal for beginners who want to get into skiing, the slopes at the lower part of the mountain ar wide an gentle. And when you get comfier on the snow, head up the mountain for more advanced challenges.
For the advanced rider, the Lomnické Sedlo slope is very steep and also the highest in Slovakia. If you are into pow, there are a few marked freeride zones where you can find powder snow.
Families might find the facilities in Maxiland to be convenient, children as of 3 years are taken care of here.
Bulgaria - Joint no. 12 (2 entries)
Sunshine, great prices and skiing with an untraditional twist. That is Bulgaria for you. You will find villages with a traditional Balkan touch, which might not be the synonym to a skiing holiday.
But with that comes also prices that are significantly lower than the Alps and more famous areas. And sunshine, Bulgaria is usually thought of as a sunny getaway. And skiing here is no exception. The Pamporovo resort, for example, has an average of 270 sunny days every year.
Bulgaria joins the list in the joint 12th position with 2 entries in our top 100 best ski resorts in Europe. Here are the Bulgarian ski resorts in alphabetical order.
Bansko
How about a great skiing holiday with accommodation and hire at half the price to the alps, and food and drinks a quarter of the price?
If that sounds like a sweet melody for your ears, check out Bansko ski resort.
Here you will find a charming old town centre with a modern lift system and 48 kilometres of groomed slopes.
The slopes are most suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers, however, there are other challenges to be found for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Except for one black piste, you will find a snow park (which is also the first one in Balkan) complete with a halfpipe.
There is also much deep snow and freeride areas for off-piste challenges.
Also with a separate area for children to advance.
Pamporovo
Pamporovo might be a perfect place for families or skiers who are still learning and do not require super steep slopes.
When it comes to skiing, Pamporovo has the best accommodation prices in all of Bulgaria, and with an impressive 270 days of sunshine a year.
Of course with snowmaking machines, so you will still have good snow conditions.
You will also find snow parks here together with a 100m long half-pipe.
For freeriding and off-piste, there is spots but limited. You will find some tight tree runs and some natural uneven terrain to play around with.
There is also a few black slopes, but they are not steep compared to other black runs found on steeper mountains.
If you did not get enough skiing during the day, you can enjoy a LED-lighted night run.
Andorra - Joint no. 12 (2 entries)
Andorra might not be top of mind when it comes to skiing, but that is also what makes it worth a visit.
You will get away from the bigger crowds, pay cheap prices and still get great snow conditions and skiing terrain.
Andorra is a top among many pro snowboarders and freestyle skiers for the good prices, snow and partying. Not to mention that pretty much wherever you go in Andorra, it will be quite da*n beautiful.
Andorra has two entries in the top 100 and takes the joint 12th spot in our top 100 list. Here are the Andorran ski resorts in alphabetical order.
PasDeLaCasa
Looking for an affordable location for good skiing and crazy partying? Pasa de la Casa might be the answer to your prayers.
The resort is located at high altitude on the duty-free side of the French/Andorran border. It is separated from the rest of the area by a wall of mountains and has missed the facelift of other Andorran resorts.
Good or bad? Well, prices here are lower because of it, and therefore draws riders who are into cheap drinks and partying.
Skiing wise, the area is will offer great challenges for intermediate skiers and beginners.
There are some possibilities for freeriding and deep snow here as well.
Pal / Arinsal – La Massana
The resort of Pal and Arinsal offers attractive variety throughout the 63 km of slopes connected by 23 lifts.
It is also very suitable for families, there are large children’s areas as well as beginners areas and even baby clubs.
The slopes here will keep beginners and intermediate skiers busy and provided with challenges.
For advanced riders or free riders, there are limited possibilities compared to bigger resorts.
Due to the high elevation, the resort is very snow reliable.
You will also be able to find kickers and obstacles here for the freestyle rider.
Czech Republic - Joint no. 14 (1 entry)
If you are looking at a skiing holiday in the Czech Republic, you might be a younger rider who wants to ski at day and party through the night and do so for less buck than in the Alps. But the areas are big enough to escape the party as well if you are not in for that.
The Czech Republic is a country rich in history and with a strong beer culture, like its neighbour, Austria.
More than that, there is also some freestyle skiing and snowboard events to check out here, like the Europa cup and SnowJam.
Czech Republic takes the joint 14th spot with 1 entry. Here is the Czech Republic resort that made the list.
Špindlerův Mlýn
Skiing holiday in the Czech Republic? Maybe not the first country that comes to mind, but Špindlerův Mlýn might change that.
Prices here a much lower than in the Alps and many other skiing destinations. Whilst the slopes still offer a good challenge for beginners and intermediate skiers.
If you are looking for a skiing holiday with friends where booze comes cheap and there is a city for partying, and you can live without the advanced challenges and longer runs found in the Alps. You might be looking at your destination.
For skiing, there is 25 km of slopes, including some red and black ones. There are wide easy slopes to be found for families and beginners, as well as skiing schools and kindergartens.
For boarders and freestylers, there is a snowpark and a halfpipe.
Good to know is that freeriding is forbidden since the resort is located in a national park.
Montenegro - Joint no. 14 (1 entry)
90% of Montenegro consists of mountain terrain and is in our opinion a bit underrated when it comes to skiing.
To start with, it is a truly beautiful country with stunning beaches and mountain lakes.
And of course, great skiing.
You can get far of a low budget here, the prices on pretty much everything a lot cheaper then what you can expect from most other skiing destinations. And there is a lot of touring possibilities and groomed slopes with free riding possibilities within the system.
Montenegro also takes the joint 14th spot with 1 entry. Here is the Montenegrin resort that made the list.
Kolašin 1450
A hidden gem with many surprises. This might be one of the most famous resorts of Montenegro, but off the path compared to most other European ski resorts.
And that shows at the resort also, prices here are hard to beat and there are some great ski touring and free-riding to be found.
Freeriding possibilities can be found pretty much from the lifts, but if you are prepared to hike a little bit, a lot of possibilities will open up. To not talk about skinning or touring, there is three peaks and endless terrains at your disposal.
90% of the country is actually mountain terrain, so you can imagine why touring here is good.
The resort itself is only 14 km of groomed slopes and just under half of them are easy runs, so beginners will find the resort good for progress.
Iceland - Joint no. 14 (1 entry)
Iceland is a truly mythical destination, which you should visit at least once. For skiing or not. This is nature in its most dramatic shape. You have an endless amount of waterfalls, natural hot springs, mountains, volcanoes and much more.
If you go here in October or later you will also have a good chance to see the northern lights.
For skiing, there are small facilities with groomed slopes.
But for touring you are looking at endless possibilities.
Iceland also takes the joint 14th spot with 1 entry in our comprehensive top 100 list. Here is the Icelandic resort that made the final cut.
Bláfjöll
Iceland might not be the first country that pops up when thinking of skiing, but due to multiple reasons, we think it is one to consider.
If you want to ski a resort, Bláfjöll is a resort with 15 km of slopes and is also a very beginner friendly place. The intermediate skier will also find some good challenges here and a few deep snow or freeride areas.
The real magic begins though, at night, there is night skiing available and you are then able to ski under the northern lights, a truly magical experience.
To give yourself the best odds for northern lights and the best Icelandic experience. We recommend at least 7 days stay, preferably more. The northern lights are active in cycles of two or three nights and then low for five nights.
You should also experience some more of Iceland than just the skiing. If you are just looking a comfy resort with all the ski facilities, look elsewhere, there is not even a hotel at this resort.
For the adventures or advanced rider, skip the resort and go straight for the touring. Skiing slopes are limited on Iceland, touring is the opposite.
It is less accessible than touring in the Alps, but the reward is high. If skiing amongst volcanoes and mountains sounds interesting, you should contact some of the local guides (for example, Arctic Freeride).
Cyprus - Joint no. 14 (1 entry)
Yes, we are talking about the small island of Cyprus in the Mediterranean sea. And yes, skiing here is actually possible.
It can not be compared to the Alps or any northern mountains, but the sunny island has a mountain that reaches almost 2000 meters above sea level and can, therefore, offer skiing.
So if you are having a hard time to decide between a sunny holiday or a snowy one, Cyprus might be a compromise for you.
Here is the Cypriot resort that made the list.
Troodos
Having a hard time to choose between a sunny vacay with umbrella drinks and sandy toes, or to squeeze on a pair of boots and warm clothes to hit the slopes?
Well, it does not have to be that way. In Cyprus, you can have both.
At the Troodos resort, skiing is available from January to March.
It is not by any measures a big or comprehensive resort, but with the unique location, the 4 km of slopes still goes a long way. There are blue, red and black slopes represented here and a few off-piste areas within the system.
You can play around in some pow if the conditions are good ore enjoy some forest runs by the side of the slopes.
And after a day on the slopes, you can take the car back down to the beach for a sunset dinner overlooking the sea.
In order to get this unique combination, some sacrifices have to be done, the weather in Cyprus is not super warm at this time a year and the skiing is obviously not close to anything found in the Alps or bigger mountains.
But, the combo still gives Troodos a spot on our list.
Wrapping up
We hope that you found this list helpful and that you now feel more confident in which resorts are out there and how to choose your next destination.
It is always hard and in the end, it is your own preferences and likings that will decide the ideal resort for just you. But if this list made that easier, we are satisfied.
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