DRYSURE

Planning your next ski season? Not sure which resort to go for?

The planning process can be a confusing time with seemingly endless possibilities of resorts to choose from.

We’re sure you want to make the most of your precious time-off at a ski destination with top quality runs, guaranteed snow and a pumping aprés ski scene.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top five resorts to ski in Europe this Winter.

Top Ski Resort for: Beginners and Intermediates

In our humble opinion, Avoriaz ski resort in France makes a great starting point for fledgling skiers to try out the slopes.

Avoriaz is part of the Portes Du Soleil ski area, known for it’s fantastic skiing opportunities and stunning alpine views.

For beginners, the nursery slope practically runs through the village and the blue pistes around the resort are gentle. We recommend the wide, pleasant Proclou run for those still finding their feet.

There is even a beginner snow park,’ Lil Stash’ designed for young people if you fancy trying out some jumps.

There are plenty more reasons that make Avoriaz one of the top resorts in Europe, such as dependable snow from December through to April and a wealth of activities for non-skiers.

Avoriaz is a fully pedestrianised town which gives it a traditional, alpine feel allowing you to fully switch off from the outside world.

Top Ski Resort for: Advanced Skiers

If you’re really serious about skiing, then nowhere else in the world offers as challenging slopes as Verbier in Switzerland.

Expert skiers will pay the higher prices to experience Verbier’s notoriously steep runs. The Tortin run has a 700-metre vertical descent while the Gentianes is a dizzying 900 metre vertical drop.

Verbier’s steepest black run is from Mont Fort. Climb via cable car up to 3,330 metres then fly down the mountain at break-neck speed!

As well as top class skiing, Verbier offers a vibrant nightlife, an eclectic cultural calendar and luxurious accommodation.

Rub shoulders with the rich and famous while perfecting your technique at this sunny resort.

Top Ski Resort for: Families

The picturesque village of Alpbach in Austria makes a wonderful ski destination for families looking for a laid-back break.

It’s compact size, traditional wooden chalets and friendly locals are appealing for those with young children.

Little ones can practice on the nursery slopes without having to trek outside of the village and the main slopes are a simple, five-minute bus ride away.

There are also reliable kindergartens and children’s ski schools for parents who want to escape into the mountains for an afternoon.

Alpbach has long been popular with British travellers who come for the idyllic atmosphere and cheap prices.

Top Ski Resort for: A Wild Aprés Ski Scene

If it’s all night partying you’re after, look no further than St. Anton in Austria.

St. Anton is often described as the ‘cradle of Austrian skiing’ due to its steep slopes and off-piste adventures.

It’s also home to the liveliest après ski scene in Europe.

For a proper party on the piste, head to Mooserwirt for an afternoon of loud Euro pop and drinking. Or alternatively, try the famous Krazy Kanguruh where they’ve been partying since 1965.

Once it hits 8 o’clock the party on the piste shuts down. After a nap and some warming Raclette, you’ll be ready to start all over again.

Start at Piccadilly for live music and beers or Bar Cuba for happy hour drink deals and a lively atmosphere.

If you are still keen to carry on the night, Postkeller is open late into the night for dancing and shots.

Top Ski Resort for: Avoiding the Crowds

If rubbing up against hordes of revellers in bars and fighting for space on the slopes isn’t your cup of tea, Champoluc in Italy offers a tranquil haven for skiers looking for postcard perfect scenery.

The Monterosa ski area in Italy remains relatively undiscovered considering the variety of quality pistes it offers.

Champoluc is a delightful little resort which is practically deserted during the week, making it great for those looking for a peaceful ride.

Champoluc’s proximity to Turin airport is also handy as you can arrive at your resort in under two hours.

Once you’ve decided on your perfect European ski resort, it’s time to start planning. Don’t forget to pack a pair of Drysure Extreme boot dryers to help dry your ski boots after a long day on the slopes. Our Drysure Active shoe dryers are great for drying out shoes wet from walking in snow too.

With thanks to Alps2Alps - offering reliable, affordable ski transfers from the airport so you can focus on making your way to the slopes.