Why You Absolutely Must Go Skiing in Spring & Which Ski Resorts

You may be thinking a ski holiday in March is absolutely absurd, as it’s well-known that folk enjoy this outdoor sport when the snow is in full swing.

In actuality however, opting for skiing in March is one the best times to hit the slopes! And allow us to give you reasons why.

Family Vacations

March is the perfect month to enjoy a ski holiday for families with small children. This is because the weather is starting to warm up, reducing the chance of your little ones complaining of frozen hands and feet.

It’s also a much more relaxed atmosphere, meaning that you won’t have to wake up with the sunrise to get the best spots or to beat the lines. You can simply enjoy a leisurely vacation with the ones you love.

Additionally, it’s a great time to enjoy the last bit of sunshine whilst on a family picnic for lunch, or to enjoy the view of a gorgeous sunset without feeling exceptionally cold. Who knows, you may just come back with a bit of a tan!

Packing Light

In addition to the warmer weather when you’re skiing in March, you won’t need to pack several different layers of clothing, creating a heavy and inconvenient suitcase.

It also means that you won’t have to wear said-layers during your ski holiday, which can be a real drag to put on and take off.

Less Crowded

By going on that ski holiday in March, you’ll be able to enjoy prime time without the crowds. While many spend their time waiting in line to enjoy the slopes during peak season, you’ll be able to enjoy the luxury of more space, more snow, and more time outside to enjoy the spring vibe.

People are also more friendly while on ski holidays in March, as they too don’t need to deal with lots of people, and can bask in the fact that March holds longer days and fresher snow.

Better Deals

It’s no lie that tourism “coins in” during peak season – and when it comes to skiing, that season is winter. But for those who think smart, going skiing in March is actually the best time to get cheaper deals, making it a perfect excuse to enjoy the slopes. Sure, it’s not the February half term for school break for many European customers, but it’s worth booking the timeaway if even for the (slightly) quieter slopes.

Along with cheaper deals, you’ll save on rental equipment, lessons, and lift tickets.

Not only that, but many ski resorts offer discounts on accommodation during this time, as it is approaching the end of the season. You’ll probably also find a ton of activity packages and deals at a lower cost too.

More Snow
After peak snow season has ended, the pistes are left in great condition having had the entire winter to create a solid base. That means that skiing for both newbies and pros is a real treat.

Additionally, those adventurous skiers have the best of both worlds – powder snow on north facing slopes, and spring snow on the east, south, and west-facing slopes.

With that, here are our top picks when it comes to ski resorts:

Alpe D’huez

A ski resort in France, Alpe D’huez can be found in the Central French Western Alps. It opened its doors in 1936 and boasts 300 days of sunshine with a south-facing plateau at 1860 m above sea level.

Visitors have dubbed it a “great place to ski and snowboard,” and agree that the pistes are perfect for beginners, professionals, and everyone in between.

What’s also great about Alpe D’huez is that they offer free ski airport transfer via shuttle bus that runs day and night.

Added bonus: this ski resort transfer option is available during the summer and off-peak seasons too, with the extra snow lasting out for skiing in March.

La Plagne

Another French ski resort in the alpine valley of Tarentaise, La Plagne sees the likes of over 2.5 million visitors per season. It’s a resort that is great for kids and families, friends, couples and lovers, and has a number of pristine accommodation options.

Guests have given this ski resort five stars for its beautiful ski area, quality accommodation, and value for money. It’s also well-known for having excellent links to surrounding villages and areas.

Chamonix

A ski resort but also a proper town, reflect on the day over a cocktail at Moo Bar or locally brewed ale at the Micro Brasserie de Chamonix – both often have live music to add to the scene.

Chambre 9 gets the crowds dancing on tables to everyone’s favourite tunes, while Les Caves is the pick for a posh party scene.

Not only that, but fun and exciting events are held year-round, giving you even more reason to go on that ski trip in March.

Ready to hit the slopes this March, beating the winter madness that is peak ski season? It is undoubtedly the perfect.

Top 15 Absolute Best Romantic Ski Resorts in The World

So, you’re looking to surprise your significant other with a romantic getaway in a high mountain ski resort?

Or maybe you two are avid skiers and are planning your next vacation?

Whichever it is, what you’re looking for is the Top 15 Absolute Best Romantic Ski Resorts in The World, and that’s exactly what you’re going to find in this article.

You’ll learn about incredible ski resorts and what makes them stand apart from the rest. What makes them the best places for a romantic retreat with your lover. And most importantly, which one suits your couple the best (yes, not all resorts are made equal and not all have only a mountain to offer… Don’t worry, they all offer at least a mountain you can go skiing on!).

 

By the way, this list is NOT in an order from best to worst. These different ski resorts offer something unique to the table and they’re all equally amazing. It depends entirely on you and your significant other’s preferences. So don’t be discouraged when the first few entries aren’t to your liking, we guarantee that you’ll find at least one place that you’ll fall in love with!

Anyway, we wouldn’t want to bore you to death with this intro, so how about we jump straight to the action and into the list of the Top 15 Absolute Best Romantic Ski Resorts in The World. Starting off with:

1. Zermatt – Switzerland

Zermatt is a wondrous little village at the foot of the Matterhorn. A perfect retreat that offers both lively streets as well as quiet, romantic corners. The village hosts a modern look while still managing to keep the history with buildings dating from over 500 years ago.

It’s truly a place of past and present, pushing you to live through an experience that connects people in the most meaningful of ways.

If you’re looking for a cozy vacation on a world-renowned ski resort, you ought to give Zermatt a chance.

2. Alpbach – Austria

The Alps don’t only offer a superb skiing experience for veteran skiers. They host lovely romantic retreats like Alpbach. Experience unique closeness with your partner at 1,000m above sea level.

There’s nothing that can compare to the gorgeous scenery and elegant architecture of Alpbach. All buildings are made of wood, taking you away from the busy city life, and transferring you to a serene place.

If you’re searching for an authentic experience in The Alps that you can share with your lover, Alpbach, Austria is waiting for you with open arms.

3. Serre Chevalier – France

As the largest ski resort in the Southern Alps, Serre Chevalier (or Serre Che, as the locals call it) offers a vast collection of romantic experiences. Apart from skiing, enjoy relaxation with your significant other in the spa. Or perhaps sightseeing the stunning scenery is more up your alley?

Whatever the case, you’ll find yourself deeply in love not only with your partner but with the French atmosphere in Serre Chevalier. And if you’re a fan of the French cuisine, you and your significant other will find exquisite and romantic restaurants in plenty.

All in all, Serre Chevalier rightfully earns its spot on a top list of romantic ski resorts… Maybe it’s just the French? Bienvenue! (It means ‘Welcome’).

4. Ortisei – Italy

Located in Dolomites Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Ortisei offers a wonderful retreat for lovers. You’ll immediately notice the effects of superior woodcarving, done by the masterful craftsmanship of the Dolomites Val Gardena residents. With carved wooden sculptures, the scenery both in town and outside in nature is hard to rival.

Speaking of the scenery, the retreat is surrounded by mountains, making it the perfect location for skiing. That, combined with the centuries old culture and traditions, makes for an exquisite experience for you and your soulmate.

Treat yourself and your loved one to a wondrous vacation in the stunning Ortisei.

5. Adelboden – Switzerland

If you’re looking for a more family-oriented skiing vacation, Adelboden, Switzerland might be the place for you. The smaller village type of retreat that Switzerland offers perfectly fits Adelboden’s description. You’ll find yourself in a cozy place that enhances bonding with close ones.

And if you’re looking for a more romantic, one-on-one, type of vacation, Adelboden offers that as well. The gorgeous mountain scenery, combined with the coziness of a small village, perfectly fit the fantasy of taking some time off with your significant other in an isolated place.

Truly a place of closeness, Adelboden earns a spot on the best romantic ski resorts list and our recommendation to you.

6. Cortina d’Ampezzo – Italy

Commonly referred to as just ‘Cortina’, this small commune in the hearth of the Southern Alps is a perfect retreat for all lovers. With an enormous amount of history and a strong culture, Cortina offers a unique experience for you and your significant other.

Cortina is mostly well known for being a place that hosts renowned intellectuals, writers, poets and editors like Ernest Hemingway and Vittorio Glassman. The exceptional culture will definitely reinvigorate and reinforce the deep bond shared with your partner.

If you’re looking for a place of history and culture, as well as an amazing ski resort, for yourself and your lover, look no further than Cortina d’Ampezzo.

7. Zell Am See – Austria

Located on the shore of Lake Zell, this wondrous retreat offers a unifying vocational experience. The mountain above, Schmittenhöhe Mountain, provides you with the skiing experience you’ve been looking for. This mountain-heavy landscape, combined with the beauty of Lake Zell, creates a truly wonderful scenery.

Gift your significant other an unforgettable experience with a superb winter vacation in Zell Am See, a place that ignites true romance and love.

8. Lech – Austria

If you and your lover are avid skiing fans, you’ll fall in love with Lech. As one of the world’s premier ski destination, Lech offers superb skiing experience for couples.

Couple that with the small population and it really begins to feel like your own isolated part of the world, where you can enjoy your skiing hobby with your significant other.

Truly a great place for skiing and romance, Lech earns a top spot on any list for romantic ski resorts. In that light, we can’t recommend it enough. Definitely check it out if you’re looking for a sweet package of skiing and romance.

9. Kitzbuhel – Austria

Being one of the largest ski resorts in Austria, Kitzbuhel offers you and your partner an alternative, world-class skiing resort, version of a medieval town.

With immense, cross-country skiing areas, you’ll find yourself in a dreamlike place which nothing can compare to. Apart from the amazing skiing resort it is, Kitzbuhel’s unique architecture offers a wonderful and romantic retreat for you and your significant other.

If you’re looking for a combination of unique romantic sights and great skiing options, you should definitely check Kitzbuhel out.

10. Aspen – USA

Aspen is located in Colorado, USA and its name comes from the neighboring Aspen Mountain. What’s interesting and different about it is that it’s not a typical ski resort (meaning that skiing is not the reason why it exists). Aspen has its normal, city-like community and you’ll find yourself pretty much at home there.

If you and your lover are not looking for a dedicated ski place and would instead prefer a resort that’s more like back home, Aspen is the place for you. But don’t let that fool you that the ski experience is any less from amazing.

For couples looking for a similar to home skiing experience, we recommend Aspen, Colorado.

11. Samoens – France

France seems to absolutely adore Samoens. The reason I’m saying that is because Samoens is a winter sports resort that’s been awarded the ‘Famille Plus Montagne’ label (meaning it’s exceptional for family ski vacations), is classified by the Caisse Nationale des Monuments Historiques (given because its national heritage), and is considered to be one of the most beautiful towns if France.

Its heritage is that of the stonemasons, you’ll find that stonecutting is incredibly prominent there.

All these things combined (the awards and it’s strong heritage) make for the perfect romantic ski vacation for you and your significant other

12. Banff – Canada

Surrounded by several mountains, hidden in vast forests, Banff is simply put – Gorgeous. No wonder the place is Canada’s oldest national resort. If you’re looking for a vacation that’ll transcend you and your lover from your everyday lives to a serene place of absolute beauty, you should definitely check Banff out.

The most notable mountains (Mount Rundle, Sulphur Mountain, Mount Norquay, and Cascade Mountain make) make for one of the best skiing experiences. We cannot recommend Banff enough and it without a doubt finds its place on the list of best romantic ski resorts in the world.

13. Geilo – Norway

The first and one of the largest skiing resorts in Norway, Geilo, offers insanely beautiful scenery, superb skiing experiences, and most importantly, the perfect place for a romantic getaway for you and your significant other.

Being a small town offers a cozy retreat for any couple, looking for a bit of isolation in their ski vacation. Whether you and your lover are avid skiers or just looking for a lovely winter vacation, Geilo will not disappoint you.

14. Morzine – France

Just below Mount Blanc (which means “White Mountain”), which is the highest mountain in the Alps, you’ll find Morzine, an equally impressive ski resort perfect for couples.

Apart from having stunning scenery, Morzine’s architecture is dominated by chalets, which are houses made of wood. This makes for an extremely beautiful and thus romantic retreat in the mountains.

If you and your lover enjoy this type of architecture, then Morzine is one of the best romantic ski resorts you can choose.

14. Wengen – Switzerland

Last but in no way least, is Wengen. An extraordinary resort that hosts insanely gorgeous scenery at an elevation of 1,274m above sea level. Apart from being way up high and extremely beautiful, Wengen offers an amazing skiing experience.

This combination definitely puts it in the list of the best romantic ski resorts in the world.

So, if you’re looking to surprise your significant other with a gorgeous ski vacation, we suggest that you check Wengen out right now.

And that does it for our list of the Top 15 Absolute Best Romantic Ski Resorts in The World. Now you know the absolute best places to take your significant other on your next vacation. And the one after that… And so on.

This means that you’re well prepared to surprise and take your lover to an amazing ski holiday.

If you still can’t make a decision, just check out our website and you’ll find all the travel and tourism information you need in order to make your next romantic retreat unforgettable.

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Everything You Need to Know About Taking Your Skis Abroad

You’ve just booked your ski holiday and the excitement is already kicking in. Feeling prepared you’ve pre-booked your lift pass, all that’s left to do is grab your suitcase and head for the airport, right? But, what about your skis? The big decision is whether you wax your skis and go with the confidence you have your own with you or is it easier to hire your equipment when you get there?

We’ve put together a guide for you to help with your decision from checking in your skis to hiring them when you arrive and making sure you have everything you need for a successful time on the slopes…

Taking your skis abroad or hiring them when you arrive

This isn’t as clear-cut as you may think. It definitely depends on your preference, some people love taking their own skis, while others swear by the convenience of hiring skis abroad.

It is certainly nicer to have your own equipment with you to match your precise needs. Buying a pair of skis lets you practice before you go abroad, removes the hassle of collecting equipment from a rental shop and saves you money if you’re planning on going on multiple ski holidays.

However, some prefer to not have the hassle of transporting their skis. Especially, if this is your first ski tip then it makes more sense to hire your equipment. Hired skis are generally very well maintained and you can always upgrade day to day depending on the conditions on the slopes.

The benefits of hiring skis abroad…

For a first-time skier or a one-off ski trip, people are more likely to rent skis, boards, poles and helmets. Skiers and snowboarders can rent their skis or snowboards in a resort which can beat bringing their own to the slopes and can also save money.

On average it is more expensive to add the ski carriage to a flight than to rent skis for a week. Obviously, this all depends on the level of rental skis which can range from fat-waist twin-tipped ski to a standard piste ski. This is where the skier needs to be realistic and only hire the type of ski necessary for what they will be doing.

If you do rent skis you should unquestionably book them before you travel rather than walking into the shop and booking on the day. Many are tempted to wait until they get to the resort to hire their gear however this can actually drive up the price significantly. The best way to cut down costs and budget correctly is to book hire before you arrive. This will also ensure you get the best models!

You can book your ski hire online here!

The piece of equipment we recommend you invest in is ski boots. Make sure you have a proper fitting consultation, custom moulding and the correct footbeds to ensure your feet don’t end up hurting.

Now we’ve been through the benefits, you can make your own choice whether you would prefer to hire skis abroad. 

Airline charges for taking your skis abroad

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion color=”peacoc” active_section=”1″ no_fill=”true”][vc_tta_section title=”British Airways” tab_id=”british-airways”][vc_column_text]If you are thinking about flying with British Airways and taking your skis/snowboards you will be allowed to do so as part of your checked baggage allowance. You can also appreciate a hassle-free start to your holiday by using the Bag Check-In service and checking in from home. You don’t need to think about it again until you get to your destination airport. Here’s a quick overview of British Airway’s ski and snowboard policy:

Use a recognisable ski or snowboard bag up to 190cm in length

Pack your ski poles and skis in the same bag for only one item of luggage

Skis or snowboard boots will need to be packed separately from your skis or snowboard and will count as a separate item of baggage.

You will not be allowed to board the aircraft wearing your ski or snowboard boots for safety purposes[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Virgin Atlantic” tab_id=”virgin”][vc_column_text]Virgin Atlantic allows you to fly your ski gear as part of your baggage allowance as long as it weighs 23kg or less. Ski equipment contains one pair of skis, ski boots and a mask or helmet. Snowboard contains a snowboard, boots and bindings and a helmet. [/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Emirates” tab_id=”emirates”][vc_column_text]Emirates consider your ski equipment as standard checked baggage allowance. Your ski gear may contain: one pair of skis, one pair of ski poles and ski boots, or one snowboard and a pair of boots.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Air France” tab_id=”air-france”][vc_column_text]Air France will accept your ski equipment as a standard baggage and checked allowance. No extra charge is included, but all items must be packed in a travel bag that does not exceed 300 cm in length. Ski equipment may include the following items: Alpine and cross-country skis: one pair of skis, one pair of poles, a pair of boots or Snowboard: one board, a pair of boots. Boots must be packed in a separate bag. [/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”EasyJet” tab_id=”easyjet”][vc_column_text]EasyJet allows up to 20kg of equipment for boots, skis or snowboards. Charges are £37 online and £47 at the airport.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Ryanair” tab_id=”ryanair”][vc_column_text]Ryanair ski equipment (up to 20kg) fee is £45 online and £50 at the airport. [/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][/vc_tta_accordion][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Insurance

Unfortunately, there are additional costs other than the airline costs when you take your skis abroad with you. I say, unfortunately, but this one is a necessity.

Remember when I said some people opt for hiring skis rather than taking their own as they would not want to risk losing their prized possessions. There is always a chance this could happen, albeit a very low chance, however, there’s still that slim chance. If the worst were to happen, you would like the piece of mind that you wouldn’t be out of pocket, wouldn’t you?

That’s why we would always recommend insurance!

Packing your skis and taking the right luggage

Imagine sitting on a plane and looking out of the window to see your ski/snowboard equipment being thrown around. Making sure you have the best bag to protect your skis or snowboard is essential to minimise the risk of damage. For a short trip to the slopes, think about a basic bag with a shoulder strap, however, if you are travelling further afield you may want something sturdier, especially if there is a connecting flight you need to take. If your trip is over a week you may wish to opt for a ‘coffin’ style bag which will give extra padding and more room to pack items in comparison to a standard suitcase. Taking a case on wheels means you won’t pull a muscle before you’ve even hit the slopes.

STEP 1

Check your baggage fees and terms before travelling. Additional bags or if over a certain weight will require extra fees for air travel.

STEP 2

Protect the tips of your ski poles with tip covers or wrap foam insulation around the tips and use a rubber band to secure it. This will prevent them from ripping your ski bag or injuring a baggage inspector.

STEP 3

Don’t travel with skis on the outside of a bag as this will become caught in the baggage conveyor, instead use a padded ski bag to pack skis and poles.

STEP 4

To save on space pack folded/rolled clothing in the bag with the skis. Clothing provides additional padding and means you won’t need to carry as many bags, which will also reduce baggage fees.

STEP 5

Include a luggage tag with your contact information to the outside and inside of your bag, that way if the outer tag becomes lost, the tag on the inside will guarantee you are reunited with your skis at your destination.

There are many benefits to taking your skis or hiring them when you get there. It is all down to personal preference whether you decide to go with the convenience of hiring or the comfort of taking your skis with you. Either way, we are sure you will have a great ski holiday![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Skiing vs Snowboarding – Which Is Easier to Learn?

Have you decided to head to the likes or Morzine, St Anton, Val Thorens or elsewhere, but can’t make your mind up whether you are a skier or a snowboarder? Perhaps you want to know which is easier to learn – skiing or snowboarding?

It is a classic debate and the response is usually predictable, ask a skier they’ll tell you it’s the best, ask a boarder and you can imagine what they will say. A common opinion is that skiing is arguably easier to pick up but more difficult to master, snowboarding might not be as easy to learn but considered easier to master.

It is sometimes difficult to get a neutral and well-informed answer to which is better.  That is why we have come up with the pros and cons of both.

The main pros and cons to bear in mind:

Snowboarding Pros

– Walking in snowboarding boots is much easier than walking in ski boots and you won’t walk like a baby giraffe! They aren’t the most comfortable boots to walk in, but it’s much easier to get around.

– There’s no way to can fly down a slope while getting further into doing the splits.

– Boots, boards and bindings are more often than not cheaper than the equivalents for skiing.

Snowboarding Cons

– There’s potential you can get stuck on flat sections or when going uphill.

– Lifts are unfortunately designed for skiers, so this means that getting off the lift is more difficult for snowboarders in the beginning.

Skiing Pros

– Lifts are designed for skiers, so it is much easier to exit the lift with your skis on.

– Flat and uphill sections are easier to manoeuvre with your skis on.

Skiing Cons

– Walking in ski boots isn’t the easiest and it’s rather inelegant. Particularly when they have a layer of ice on the bottom!

– Ski gear can often cost more than snowboarding gear, so don’t forget to bear that in mind.

If you’re looking for more information on the pros and cons, take a look at this article.

Your first week on the snow

For the first few days, skiing will seem easier to learn than snowboarding, this is mainly because skiing is more instinctive for beginners than snowboarding. There is no specific amount of time it takes to learn to snowboard or ski but there are some common considerations when learning…

Your first week skiing

During the first-week skiing is a lot of fun, many people take to it quickly. The first few days you’ll take your first turns on the beginner slopes and by the end of the week, you may even progress to a blue piste.

When you are skiing your legs remain separated at low speeds and you can regain balance by moving one leg out if you begin to fall. It is a straightforward, straight-on stance so as a beginner you have total peripheral vision and can see exactly where you are going.

Your first week snowboarding

The first week of snowboarding is a bit different. During the first couple of days, you will fall a lot, for most people, it takes a couple of days before they quickly start to progress at snowboarding.

It can feel awkward at first, your feet are attached to a board which is restrictive. Unfortunately, when you start to fall there is very little you can do to prevent it. The stance is side on which means less peripheral vision, travelling down slopes with only around 50% vision can take some getting used to.

We recommend you get some padding for your first week of snowboarding. Protective shorts with pads across the back and sides as well as kneepads will cushion any falls you take.

Speed of learning and becoming a master

Fitness Factor

A key part of being a good skier and snowboarder is being fit. Skiing can be more demanding on the legs/thighs to start with, however, snowboarding involves a lot of core strength especially when it comes to turning and balancing as the upper body is needed more. Developing your overall fitness is beneficial to be good at the sports but there are also some other exercises you can do to get in shape.

Skiing fitness

Before you begin skiing it is recommended for you to develop the strength in your legs by taking up cycling or any other general leg strengthening exercises. Cycling is a lower impact sport in comparison to running so will put less pressure on knees and joints. Even though you will feel stiff and suffer from aching legs when you start skiing overall it is a good choice if you are worried about fitness.

Snowboarding fitness

Progress your core strength by doing Pilates or simple crunches, focus on your abdominal muscles and lower back will develop your balance and prevent injury. Out of season why not try paddle boarding which offers a great core workout.

Keep in mind that it is typical to fall quite hard when snowboarding, so being in good physical shape is beneficial when learning. Complete beginners will find it tough but make sure you keep trying, once you are up and going the fitness level required is similar.

Comfort

If you’re looking for comfort, then snowboarding is the winner!!! Anyone who has tried Ski boots will know they aren’t the most comfortable footwear especially when walking around the town in them. On the other hand, snowboard boots are softer making them easier to walk in. Another bonus to snowboarding is you only need to carry the board with you.

Has this helped you decide whether you want to give skiing or snowboarding a go? If so, don’t forget you can book your ski/snowboarding lessons online!