While skiing is generally accepted to have originated in Norway, the sport – like many of its participants – has travelled across the globe and set up camp in hundreds of new and exciting locations. With many holidaymakers preferring the snowy terrain of the Alps or the Rocky Mountains, to the oven-hot, sweltering climes of the Caribbean, we’ve decided to take a look at the ‘coolest’ places to ski in 2018.
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Offering some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the world, Whistler Blackcomb has cemented itself as one of North America’s finest resorts. Home to over 8,000 acres of terrain and average snowfall of 38.4 feet, it’s no wonder this stunning resort in British Colombia was awarded host of the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in 2010.
With its season running from November to May, the resort has a wide variety of shops, restaurants and spas, and if you plan your trip carefully you could even catch one of its many live music events.
A hugely popular destination with over two million visitors annually, Whistler Blackcomb’s centre is pedestrianised – allowing for a pleasant and peaceful ski holiday.
Verbier, Switzerland
Situated in Switzerland’s largest ski area, Les Quatre-Vallées, Verbier has become famous for its challenging terrain, equally thrilling nightlife, and beautiful location.
Based in the Swiss Alps, Verbier has welcomed a large number of more youthful skiers and partygoers looking for a combination of steep slopes and late nights.
Many visitors to the Canton of Valais time their ski holidays with the numerous spectator events connected to the resort, including Verbier High Five and Xtreme Verbier.
Courchevel, France
Another of Europe’s top skiing destinations, Courchevel is part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski areas in the world. Courchevel, based in the French Alps, comprises of Courchevel 1300 (Les Praz), Courchevel 1550, Courchevel 1650 (Moriond) and Courchevel 1850 – each location named for its altitude in metres. With all four villages offering their very own distinct skiing experience, you’re sure to find something for you.
With the total combined pistes tallying over 600km, visitors to Courchevel won’t be short of terrain to explore, with it’s varied pistes making it accessible to all ages and abilities, from expert to beginner.
Particular highlights of the year include the Ladies Alpine World Cup, the International Fireworks Festival and the Dynastar X3 Mountain Triathlon – all of which are not to be missed.
Should I take my own skis, or am I best off renting?
As with all skiing locations, you can rent your equipment when you get there. But does this work out cheaper and easier in the long run? Here’s a few reasons why we prefer to buy and use our own skis!
- Familiarity – If you’re a regular skier, owning your own skis can be like wearing your favourite trainers; comfortable and they fit like a glove. Even the best of skiers will find new skis take some getting used to.
- No waiting – Don’t want to queue? Bringing your own skis is a sure fire way to save time. There’s no need to wait whilst the person in front of you tries on a dozen pairs hoping for the right one – simply clip on your skis and you’re good to go.
- Spending money – Ski holidays can be expensive to begin with, so you can probably do without the ski hire costs. Buying your own skis might set you back in the short term, but after a few visits to your favourite ski locations you’ll have saved some valuable euros. This should allow for a little extra spending money whilst you’re away… so there are no excuses for forgetting to bring back a souvenir!
Fortunately with Tudor Rose, taking your own skis abroad has never been easier! With our award-winning meet and greet valet parking service, we’ll drop you, your family AND your skis right at the Gatwick terminal door.
To find out more about our offering, to view our pricing or to book with us, please click here.
