Skiing holidays - Holiday Activity Guide
PureTravel says:
"Downhill skiing is one of the most exciting activity holidays. Whether you are a beginner in need of lessons, or an experienced skiier looking for pristine powder, many countries offer superb skiing experiences that can be tailored to your exact requirements.
All ski repsots offer ski school, graded according to your ability. From total beginners to those just requiring a refresher course, make sure you are confident in your own ability before taking to the slopes alone. If you are an experienced skier at a new resort, take a local guide with you to show you the best and safest routes - nothing compares with good local knowledge, especially off-piste"
-----------------------------------------------------------
Suggested Skiing holidays:
Aspen, Colorado, USA.
Aspen has become one of the premier ski destinations for the rich and famous not only for its classy small-town charm, but for its world-class ski resorts. In Aspen you'll find skiing for all experience levels; whether you're still on the bunny slopes, or you're looking to really challenge yourself with a back country skiing experience, you'll find it right there in Aspen. Be forewarned: Because this is a popular destination for people in the higher tax brackets, it can get expensive in a hurry.
Zermatt, Switzerland.
You'll find the numerous ski resorts in Zermatt high up in the Swiss Alps, nestled away in a pristine "no cars allowed" environment. If you're looking to ski, or simply wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city life, you'll find what you're looking for. Zermatt boasts one of the highest vertical drops in the world, and has almost year-round snow thanks to its location. It's an experience not to be missed.
Killington, Vermont, USA.
Skiers from around the world descend on Killington's only resort, tucked high up in the Green Mountains of Vermont. Just like Aspen, there are a number of runs that will challenge any experience level of skier. The Killington Resort is also considerably cheaper than most resorts found out west, and is typically less crowded. You can also find a number of low-cost seasonal condos to extend your ski vacation all the way through the winter months if you so desire.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France.
This has been called the most famous ski resort in the world, and there is a good reason for that honor. Found high in the Alps, its resorts sit next to a towering 16,000 foot mountain with slopes that will make even the most experienced skiers think twice about challenging mother nature. The vertical drops are jaw-dropping (9,209 feet is the highest it has), and when combined with the staggering 14 mile Vallée Blanche run, you may never want to go home again.
Cortina, Italy.
Have you ever wanted to ski an area that once hosted the Olympics? Here is your chance, if you can find your way to the resorts in Cortina, Italy. Located about 50 miles south of Innsbruck, Austria, this is yet another resort in the Alps that should not be passed by. Like Aspen, this area is one of the hippest places to be during the winter time. The skiing is absolutely world-class, with vertical drops and runs that will make you glad you made the trip.
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada.
Where would a "best ski areas in the world" article be without Whistler? Whistler is one of the premier ski areas in North America, and probably the best known. It boasts the highest vertical drop in North America, with a quaint village that offers a multitude of things to do for the weary skier. Keep in mind however, that with great popularity comes great crowds. Try to find your way to Whistler early or late in the season for the most peaceful stay.
Vail, Colorado, USA.
Forbes Magazine has consistently rated Vail one of the top places to ski in North America, perhaps just behind Whistler. If you can't find your way to Europe this season, this may be the second-best alternative. A cute and quaint area, the Vail resorts boast 5,300 acres of available ski area, making it one of the largest areas in the nation.
Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada
With a European charm unmatched by other resorts in the region, Mont-Tremblant is a close second to going to Europe this season. An hour and a half drive up the QC-15 out of Montreal, this easily-accessible resort was the first one built in Canada. If you want to experience beauty and charm unlike that which you've ever seen before, visit eastern Canada's most popular ski area.
Gstaad, Switzerland.
Sitting about 50 miles directly north of Zermatt, Gstaad has become a haven for the rich and famous in central Europe. Just like Zermatt, the resorts at Gstaad have banned automobiles, giving you the peaceful ski vacation you've been dreaming of. You can purchase day-passes on the slope for approximately $24 USD (just under CHF 25), making it one of the most affordable in the region.
