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Whether you aim for Olympic speed or gentle slopes, here is a list of the coolest and lesser-ridden ski resorts in Europe, which are waiting for you.
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© Michal K
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Kitzbühel in Tyrol, Austria
If adventure is what you’re looking for, kitzbühel, in the region of Tyrol, hosts one of the most thrilling races on the International Ski Federation (FIS) Alpine Ski World Cup circuit! It is also known for its extensive and varied slopes, a vibrant night life and a beautiful medieval town.
© Mikhail Varentsov
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Levi in Finnish Lapland, Finland
Located in the Finnish Lapland, Levi is the largest ski resort in Finland. Make sure to pack your warmest clothes, as temperatures can go down to -30 degrees Celsius. It hosts a slalom on the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit every year, and if you’re lucky you can even catch the famous Northern Lights!
© ventdusud
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Val d’Isère, Savoie, France
Val d’isère is one of the top celebrity haunts in the world of skiing. Located in the Savoie region, it’s linked to tignes, another trendy resort that has the most extensive glacier skiing in France.
© Roberto Caucino
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Cervinia in Valle D’Aosta, Switzerland
To find some of the biggest and highest well-groomed ski pistes, head for Cervinia in the Valle d’Aosta region. It has some of the longest runs stretching through three valleys and comprising two countries: Italy and Switzerland.
© Tipwam
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Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria, Germany
In the Southern region of Bavaria lies Garmisch-Partenkirchen, former venue for the Winter Olympics. It is famous for its downhill ski runs, amazing hiking trails, death-defying ski jumping and perfect conditions for whitewater kayaking.
© Bimserd
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Formigal in Aragon, Spain
With almost 140 km of skiing area, Formigal is popular among families and beginner-intermediate skiers. But the resort, located in the Aragon Pyrenees, can also please advanced skiers who are looking for new off-piste challenges.
© Lucky Business
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Bansko in Pirin Mountains, Bulgaria
Bansko, in the Pirin Mountains, offers the longest ski runs in Bulgaria. It’s cheap, has a great snow record and a long ski season (from December to May). It is also home to cozy traditional taverns called ‘mehanas,’ where you can eat, hear folk music and sit by the fire.
© Roman Babakin
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Zakopane in Tatra Mountains, Poland
Zakopane is perfect for beginners. If you look forward to skiing or snowboarding, this ski resort, located in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, offers you lower prices than the Alps, wonderful landscapes and authentic Polish cuisine.
© Mpaniti
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Jasna-Chopok in Tatra Mountains, Slovakia
Jasná-chopok is the main resort in Slovakia, with 45 km of well-groomed, tree-lined ski runs. Located in the Tatra Mountains, it is suitable for beginners, intermediates or advanced skiers.
© Ramona Georgescu
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Poiana Braşov in Carpathian mountains, Romania
Located in the Carpathian Mountains, in the region of Transylvania, Poiana Braşov has gentle slopes perfect for beginners and a lively nightlife. Not far away, in Bran, you can even visit Dracula’s castle, which owes its fame to its imposing towers and turrets as well as to the myth created around Bram Stocker’s famous character, Dracula.
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Some of Europe’s most historic sites are sports stadiums. From gladiators battling in the Colosseum to the world’s best footballers competing in Camp Nou, stadiums have long had their place of prominence in European lifestyle. Explore 10 of the most historic sporting sites throughout the years with this photo gallery.
The Best Rural Getaways in Europe
Sometimes the best way to experience Europe is by taking the road less traveled. Or in some cases, not taking a road at all. The natural side of Europe consists of vast countrysides, towering mountains, calm waterways and more. Browse this gallery of some of Europe’s best adventures that are off the beaten trail. Then, load up your backpack and be on your way.
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