With summer a distant memory, now is the time to turn your attention to planning your next ski break from Birmingham Airport. With breaks available in France, Austria and Slovenia to name just a few, pick your favourite resort and fly from your local airport this winter.
Ski getaways can be enjoyed by all, so whether you’re going away with friends, family or just the two of you, there’s a holiday for everyone. Feel invigorated by the fresh mountain air as you sail down the side of beautiful mountains. Relax, let your hair down and get your body moving, it’s what skiing is all about.
For the groups of friend
The best times are often spent with friends, so why not arrange a group ski holiday for 2018? Enjoy the crisp mountain air and make memories that last a lifetime. Dine on the side of the mountain between runs, sharing cheese fondue and bottles of wine; and let your hair down in the evenings at the best après-ski parties. The resorts of Mayrhofen and Saalbach in Austria are renowned for not only their nightlife but also their incredible off-piste through the trees, so perfect for intermediate skiers. Saalbach also boasts a new lift and gondola system making it super easy to get up the mountain and between the areas of Leogang and Hinterglemm.
The biggest challenge when booking a group holiday is accommodating friends who all have different skiing abilities. Luckily the larger resorts, like Morzine in France, have terrain to cater for every level of skier alongside a buzzing social scene and a variety of different activities on offer. Morzine has nursery slopes and beginner areas, but also off-piste black runs and ski cross areas. Spice up your holiday with a bit of tobogganing, snowmobiling or ice skating. Just be conscious that due to the low altitude here, it’s best to avoid the fringes of the season when booking a trip.
For the couples
If your other half is looking for more of an active holiday rather than a bit of winter sun, book into a boutique, chalet-style hotel and spend your evenings snuggled around an open fire. Pick one with spa and wellness facilities so you can book in for a couples massage after a long day out on the slopes. Zermatt is regarded as one of the most romantic and picturesque ski resorts. The chalets are full of character, dotted along narrow streets; and if you’re into music, we recommend visiting during April to enjoy the resort’s annual music festival – Zermatt Unplugged.
To really impress your other half make it a romantic getaway by booking a hotel with a ski in, ski out location and a private balcony with a hot tub and breath-taking views. Hotel Julen in Zermatt has been open since 1937 and offers a cosy setting for a special romantic break. If you’re willing to splash out a little, the five-star Riffelalp Resort comes very highly recommended and offers the ultimate relaxing break to unwind and relax with panoramic views of the mountains.
For the families
You can’t beat a family skiing holiday over the festive period, enjoying hearty meals and hot chocolate in a cosy chalet. Even if the kids aren’t yet into skiing, family friendly resorts have a range of childcare options available so you don’t have to miss out on your time on the mountain. There are also ski classes available, divided by ability and age, and delivered by English speaking instructors. You’ll be going on family runs down the slopes before you know it. Meribel is the perfect resort for your first family ski holiday, located in the world’s biggest interlinked ski area, Three Valleys. The resort has a friendly, village atmosphere and Glaciers comes highly recommended as the best bakery to take the kids for some sweet treats.
If you want to spend an evening out away from the kids, try the Meribel Nanny Service to give you a bit of respite. Taste some traditional, local cuisine at La Briz Olee, rated as one of the top five restaurants in Meribel on TripAdvisor. If you’re looking for non-ski activities suitable for children, how do bubble car rides, a cinema and a bowling alley sound? There are even hot air balloon rides on offer – the best way to see the spectacular views without too much effort!
For the non-skiers
If you like the idea of skiing more than the reality, then enjoy a white winter without having to hit the slopes in Arctic Lapland. The landscape is blanketed by snow from November and the Northern Lights can be seen dancing overhead. With unspoiled landscapes as far as the eye can see, explore the twinkling, snow tipped forests in a snowmobile or aboard a husky sled. There is still the option of trying some cross country skiing, but you can equally spend your afternoons in a hot tub beside your igloo or traditional log cabin if you want the ultimate relax.
If you’re an animal lover, the chance to discover Lapland by husky is an incredible experience. You’ll be based in the beautiful village of Karesuando during your stay, but the journey itself to get there is just as breath-taking. Pass through forests and frozen lakes and whilst you’re there, even partake in some ice fishing or snowshoeing. To make your stay even more magical, spend a night in an igloo or at the Icehotel – both amazing memories that will last a lifetime. If you’ve got kids, excursions can be arranged to visit the reindeers, or even to see the man himself, Old St. Nick!
Getting there
With Inghams, Crystal Ski, Esprit, Transun and Neilson all offering great ski holidays from Birmingham Airport, there is so much choice available. Book your winter getaway now to avoid disappointment and take advantage of the best breaks.
