- Experiences & Adventure
Last Off The Slopes - 5 European destinations for late season skiing
Heading for an end of ski season escape? Discover our top five snow-sure European destinations.
Stories for...
The Head
1. Zermatt, Switzerland
The sheer amount of high altitude slopes ensures Zermatt is one of the most reliable European resorts, with snow cover through to the end of winter. This enchanting “must-do” resort at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn with its pedestrian friendly streets are lined with designer boutiques and buzzing après-ski venues alongside ancient wooden barns steeped in Alpine charm. Mountain lifts access world-class mountain restaurants, spectacular winter walking and 200km of magnificently scenic skiing to delight all abilities, but particularly intermediates. Yellow itinerary runs are superb for experts as is the off-piste with a guide.
2. Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Affectionately known as ‘the Pearl of the Alps’ and widely recognised as one of the most family friendly resorts in Switzerland, this miniature traffic free Swiss village provides the perfect base for a late snow-sure ski getaway. Likened to the much-loved resort of Zermatt, Saas-Fee’s charm lies in its ability to cater for everyone; with a remote feel, upbeat yet relaxed atmosphere, and array of activities for both ski-lovers and non-skiers alike. Its north facing slopes and high altitude pistes of 1,800 – 3,500m are perfect for intermediate skiers and snowboarders and, with excellent nursery slopes, beginners too.
3. Val Thorens, France
Three Valleys, one comparable skiing experience; the allure and exhilaration of the world’s largest interlinked ski network awaits with access to over 600 kilometres of snow-laden slopes from Val Thorens and Méribel to Courchevel. Exuding a spirited vibe and an impressive terrain, Europe’s highest ski resort, Val Thorens is hard to beat for late season skiing with impressive lofty altitudes of 2,300 – 3,200m. Proficient skiers can ride the seamless lift system and head for a different area each day, while beginners and cruising intermediates are extremely well catered for with a vast choice of well-groomed blue runs, dedicated nursey slopes and excellent ski schools.
4. Cervinia, Aosta Valley, Italy
Linked to Zermatt for extensive skiing opportunities, high altitude Cervinia boasts impressive scenery with spectacular views from the endless snow-sure pistes, ideal for cruising beneath the crisp skies late into the season. Located in the Aosta Valley on the Italian side of the Matterhorn, beginners can enjoy the excellent village nursery slope which graduates to fine blue runs around Plan Maison, while sweeping intermediate runs extend towards Valtournenche culminating in a spectacular 13 kilometre run. Amongst some of Italy’s highest ski slopes, experts will find some good off-piste opportunities and a superb terrain park with the option to head over to Zermatt for exhilarating on-piste challenges.
5. Zürs Arlberg Region, Austria
With extensive slopes and varied terrain, the snow-sure Arlberg boasts consistently high snowfall, 340 kilometres of groomed runs and 200 kilometres of off-piste, a mecca for powder skiers and boarders at an altitude that always ensures a thick blanket of snow. With its linked neighbour, Lech, just 5 kilometres away the quiet, ultra-chic enclave of Zürs in Austria’s magnificent Voralberg is regarded as one of the most exclusive resorts in the Alps; perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers, Zürs is also family friendly with a natural open-air ice rink, winter walking trails and some of the best ski schools in the world.
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