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Skiing in March: What to expect and the 12 best resorts

Group on March ski trip

Is it worth skiing in March? It’s a question you might be asking yourself if you’re planning a late season trip, or if circumstances will only allow you to hit the slopes in early spring.

If you’re used to skiing in the depths of winter or have never skied before, you might think that the snow will be melting away and that you’re unlikely to see a fresh fall before you go.

However, nothing could be further from the truth. As a team of ski experts, we’ve ventured to the Alps and beyond, from the season’s start to its end, and we can tell you that snow and weather conditions in March are as good as (and sometimes better) than the peak winter months.

Don’t just take our word for it: we’ve used real historical data on snow and weather conditions to come up with the definitive list of the best resorts for skiing in March across France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Canada.

Jump to:

 


 

What’s it like skiing in March? 

 

The big advantage of skiing in March is that you’re guaranteed longer days on the mountain. For example, in Zermatt, the lifts close at 16.20pm between December and February, but stay open until 17.30pm from March 9th - that's another hour of skiing! Likewise, in Val Thorens, the lifts close on average at 16.20pm until February, after which they stay open an additional half an hour. 

What about the snow? Well, historical data shows that there should still be plenty of snow on the ground throughout March, especially if you stick to a resort above 1,500m. And even if snowfall has been below average, the resorts are well equipped to compensate with snow cannons, snow stashes from large dumps, and expert resort staff there to groom and manage the pistes so they stay open as long as possible.

 

Read more:

You can read more on spring skiing conditions in general in our dedicated guide.

 

What is the weather like in March for skiing?

 

The weather in the mountains in March is generally warmer than in January and February, but you can still get bitingly cold temperatures if it's cloudy, snowy, and the wind chill picks up. You’re also likely to have more of those ideal bluebird (sunny) days in March. For example, Val Thorens enjoys almost 4 days of sun per week in March, as well as 27 cm of snowfall. Zermatt (officially the sunniest corner of Switzerland) gets around 3 weekly sunny days and a powdery 63 cm of snow. 

 



 

The 12 best ski resorts for skiing in March: A roundup

 

Using our own scoring system, we’ve used historical weather data from snow-forecast.com to identify the 12 ski resorts for March skiing in Europe and beyond. These resorts offer fantastic March snowfall and high elevation, as well as plenty of sunshine under which to enjoy those longer days on the slopes and even longer lunches.

The best resorts for skiing in March are:

  1. Zermatt, Switzerland

  2. Cervinia, Italy

  3. Val d’Isere, France

  4. Val Thorens, France

  5. Tignes, France

  6. Obergurgl, Austria

  7. Whistler, Canada

  8. Passo Tonale, Italy

  9. Solden, Austria

  10. Verbier, Switzerland

  11. Livigno, Italy

  12. Ischgl, Austria

 

March snowfall and sunny day information for each of the ski resorts

 

Resort Snow range March snowfall Av. weekly sunny days
Zermatt 1,620 - 3,883m 63cm 3
Cervinia 1,524 - 3,883m 46cm 2.8
Val d’Isere 1,550 - 3,456m 38cm 3.3
Val Thorens 2,300 - 3,230m 27cm 3.8
Tignes 1,550 - 3,456m 35cm 2.9
Obergurgl 1,800 - 3,082m 32cm 2.9
Whistler 653 - 2,284m 58cm 1.6
Passo Tonale 1,121 - 3,016m 29cm 3.1
Solden 1,350 - 3,340m 37cm 2.2
Verbier 1,500 - 3,330m 25cm 3
Livigno 1,816 - 2,797m 23cm 2.9
Ischgl 1,400 - 2,864m 32cm 2

 


 

The best resorts in France for March skiing

Thanks to the high altitude of some of France's finest resorts, March is still a great time to go skiing in France, and there’s sure to be plenty of snow. Our top picks for March skiing in France are:

  • Val d’Isere
  • Val Thorens
  • Tignes

 

Val d’Isere

  • Resort snow range - 1,550 - 3,456m
  • March snowfall - 38cm
  • Sunny days - 3.3

Located at 1,850m, and enjoying an average March monthly snowfall of 38cm, Val d’Isere is an excellent March destination for skiers. While it has a reputation for being geared more towards intermediate and advanced snow sports enthusiasts, in recent years, it has expanded its range of beginner and family friendly slopes.

Making up the Espace Killy ski area with Tignes, Val d'Isere incorporates 300km of pistes and 90 lifts, in addition to a wealth of après bars and restaurants, making it a fantastic destination if you like to ski and party.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Club Med Val d’Isere

This ski-in-ski-out hotel is all-inclusive, with ski lessons, kids reps, and events put on for guests, it’s ideal for families and beginners.

Chalet: Chalet Quebec

A chalet for 8 people right in the centre of the resort, a short walk from the Olympique or Solaise lifts, and with a hot tub shared with one other chalet.

Self catering: La Daille Apartments

These great value apartments are in the satellite village of La Daille, 10 minutes from Val d'Isère (on the free bus that runs until 2.30am) and just 150m from a lift that takes you to Bellevarde in just 4 minutes.

 

Val Thorens

  • Resort snow range - 2,300 - 3,230m
  • March snowfall - 27cm
  • Sunny days - 3.8

Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe (2300m), making it very snow-sure throughout March and beyond. With 3.8 sunny days a week on average, it’s also the sunniest of our top March resorts. It offers a fantastic variety of runs for skiers of all abilities, as well as access to Meribel and Courchevel, totalling 600km of pistes across the Three Valleys.

The resort itself is compact but has a vibrant centre and a lively après scene, with 40 bars and 60 restaurants to choose from.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Club Med Val Thorens Sensations

In the heart of Val Thorens, this ski-in-ski-out hotel has great access to the lifts, activities and other amenities in the resort, and offers panoramic views, gourmet eating at all hours, and a restaurant run by a Michelin star chef.

Chalet: Chalet Chloe

With capacity for 10, this comfortable and stylish chalet has a wellness area, easy access to the slopes, and hosts on hand to prepare a cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, and a three-course dinner.

Self catering: Residence Le Cheval Blanc

This apartment is self-catered and basic, but it’s in an excellent location right on the slopes and a short walk from the resort centre.

 

Val Thorens in the sun

 Val Thorens in the sunshine

 

Tignes

  • Resort snow range - 1,550 - 3,456m
  • March snowfall - 35cm
  • Sunny days - 2.9

At 2100m, Tignes has an excellent snow record (35cm on average in March), guaranteeing late season skiing. This world famous resort, which also gives you access to Val d'Isere, is best for intermediate and advanced skiers but has plenty to offer beginners across its vast ski area.

There’s also a bunch of late night bars and a club for the après crowd, as well as decent restaurants, a cinema, bowling alley and a modern sports centre.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Tignes 2100

Just 150m from the lifts and offering easy access to both the Tignes and Val d’Isere ski areas, this hotel is a great value base for your ski holiday. It also has shops, cafes, and bases on site.

Chalet: Chalet Alaska

Just a few minutes walk from both the resort centre and the nearest chairlift, this large (sleeps 20) traditional catered chalet is conveniently located and has a sauna and hot tub for your post-ski enjoyment.

Self catering: La Kalinda

These spacious, self-catered apartments are a short green ski run from the nearest lift, with restaurants and bars nearby, as well as a spa with an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and whirlpool.

 



 

The best resorts in Austria for March skiing

With excellent snow coverage, high altitude runs, and sophisticated lift infrastructure to get you up there, Austria is a great destination for a March ski trip.

Our top Austria resorts for march skiing are:

  • Obergurgl
  • Solden
  • Ischgl

 

Obergurgl

  • Resort snow range - 1,800 - 3,082m
  • March snowfall - 32cm
  • Sunny days - 2.9

With a wealth of runs located at high altitude, one of the longest ski seasons in the Alps (November to May), and a balmy almost 3 days of sun on average a week, Obergurgl is excellent for skiing in March.

The resort itself is charming and traditional, and with everything from a lively après scene to a kindergarten ski area, it’s great for families and groups of friends alike.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Alpina

A luxurious 160 room hotel, Alpina offers first class service, excellent facilities for adults (spa, gym, bar) and kids (childrens’ games room and creche), and is just a few metres from the slopes.

Hotel: Hotel Lohmann

With child-friendly facilities, in-house ski hire, and a wellness area, this good value hotel is perfect for all the family (there’s unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks with the evening meal), and is just 100m from the nearest lift.

Self catering: Chalet Obergurgl Apartments

This exclusive retreat offers spacious stylishly-furnished apartments, a luxurious spa, glorious views, a full range of facilities, and is a short walk from both the town centre and the nearest lift.

 

Solden

  • Resort snow range - 1,350 - 3,340m
  • March snowfall - 37cm
  • Sunny days - 2.2

While the resort centre itself isn’t especially high (1,350), Solden enjoys healthy snowfall (37cm on average in March) and one of Europe’s best lift systems, which takes you all the way up to pistes at 3,340m. As well as a decent stock of challenging blues, reds and blacks for intermediates and advanced, Solden is well supplied with wide easy slopes for beginners.

The resort itself is picturesque and has a great selection of shops, bars, restaurants, and other amenities.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Bergland

Conveniently located for both skiing and après, the Bergland has beautiful rooms, a brilliant wellness and spa area, and a weekly entertainment programme that will keep both skiers and non-skiers occupied.

Hotel: Hotel Erhart

A four star hotel that’s just a short walk from the centre and the ski lifts, Hotel Erhart has a wellness area and lounge with a lovely open fire, making it the perfect place for a relaxing ski getaway.

Chalet: Chalet Ruth

This enormous hosted chalet has space for 35 guests, a spacious living area and dining room, and provides a cooked breakfast and dinner during your stay. It’s located nearby to the lifts, restaurants, ski schools, shops and apres bars.

People on walkway in Solden

Solden on a bluebird day

 

Ischgl

  • Resort snow range - 1,400 - 2,864m
  • March snowfall - 32cm
  • Sunny days - 2

High in the Paznaun valley, Ischgl is a wonderful March ski destination, with an efficient high altitude lift system, 230km of pistes, and reliable snow coverage.

Known for the quality of its après ski bars, (The Trofan Alms has been named the world’s #1 aprés bar several times), Ischgl also has excellent restaurants across its compact and pretty, but lively, village.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Piz Buin

Right next to the Fimba and Pardatschgrat lifts, Sporthotel Piz Buin is a family-run four-star hotel with comfortable, well-equipped rooms, an excellent spa, on-site parking, and dining facilities.

Hotel: Hotel Ischgl

The family-run Ischgl is a friendly and vibrant hotel, with spa and wellness facilities, a bar and lounge, a great breakfast and dinner spread, and attentive staff. It’s close to the Pardatschgrat gondola.

Chalet: Chalet Zita

A short walk from the resort centre and the Fimbabahn lift, this ski-in-ski-out chalet sleeps 22 and offers 12 rooms, most with balconies and bathrooms, and cooked dinner and breakfast, making it the perfect place for big families or groups.

 

Read more:

Discover all of Austria's most snow sure ski resorts in our dedicated guide.

 



 

The best resorts in Italy for March skiing

Home to some of Europe’s highest resorts that offer near guaranteed snow and frequent bluebird days, Italy should definitely be one of your go-to countries for a March ski holiday.

Our top Italy ski destinations for March are:

  • Cervinia
  • Passo Tonale
  • Livigno

 

Cervinia

  • Resort snow range - 1,524 - 3,883m
  • March snowfall - 46cm
  • Sunny days - 2.8

A high-altitude resort (2050m) that’s linked to Switzerland’s Zermatt (making up one of the world’s highest ski areas), Cervinia’s 200km of pistes peak at a dizzying 3,883m, making it one of Europe’s most snow-sure resorts. 26.5km of piste are even open in summer, so you can rest assured you’ll be fine in March.

Cervinia is mostly pitched towards beginners and intermediates, though advanced skiers can venture into Zermatt for more challenging terrain.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Valtur Cervinia Cristallo Ski Resort

Part of the Cervinia Cristallo Ski Resort 5-star, this hotel has a mix of classic Alpine and modern rooms, as well as a large pool, a spa, a kids’ play area, and a four course buffet for dinner.

Hotel: Hotel Petit Palais

Offering stunning views of the Matterhorn, the affordable Hotel Petit Palais is conveniently located for keen skiers at the end of the 8km-long Ventina, and even has a ski hire shop on site.

Self catering: Basecamp Apartments

These stylish self-catered apartments offer modern decor, an on-site restaurant and kitchen facilities, and are just 10 metres from the hire shop and ski school.

 

Passo Tonale

  • Resort snow range - 1,121 - 3,016m
  • March snowfall - 29cm
  • Sunny days - 3.1

Situated between Trentino and Lombardy, Passo Tonale is one of Europe’s highest ski resorts. It’s a great option for March, with plenty of high-altitude runs, mostly above the tree line, allowing you to make the most of those longer, sunnier days.

The village is compact, but has a number of lively bars, decent restaurants and amenities.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Paradiso

Befitting the name, Paradiso is a beautiful hotel that’s located a stone’s throw from the Serodine chairlift and Paradiso gondola. It’s modern and stylish, with great views and a fantastic restaurant.

Hotel: Hotel Gardenia

This traditional hotel is a few minutes walk from the centre and the ski lifts, with comfortable rooms and a lovely wood-panelled dining room that serves Italian and international dishes.

Hotel: Hotel Mirandola

Small and cosy, Mirandolo is based in a beautifully renovated 12th Century fort. It gives guests direct access to the slopes, and offers excellent customer service and exquisite food.

Passo Tonale lift in the sun

Passo Tonale in the sunshine

 

Livigno

  • Resort snow range - 1,816 - 2,797m
  • March snowfall - 23cm
  • Sunny days - 2.9

Livigno is a great all-rounder of a resort that combines a rustic charm with modern and efficient ski lifts and amenities. With a snow range of 1,816 - 2,797m, and 115km of pistes for all abilities, there should be plenty of snow for your March trip.

And with a pedestrianised centre, numerous duty free shops, and loads of non-skiing activities on offer, Livigno has something for everyone.

Top March accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Intermonte

Superb views of the valley and near to the lifts, this four-star hotel has great facilities and, while being one of Livigno’s largest, maintains a relaxed atmosphere.

Hotel: Amerikan Hotel

Just 20m from the nearest lift, the Amerikan is perfect for those keen to get on the slopes first thing, and also boasts great leisure facilities and a bar with a wonderful sun terrace.

Self catering: Mountain Chalet Remi

While it’s a bit of a distance from the slopes (1km), these self-catered apartments are super affordable and are well-equipped with all the features and facilities you could need for your stay.

 



 

The best ski resorts in Switzerland for March skiing

Beautiful, high up resorts, reliable snowfall, and incredible skiing makes Switzerland a March ski destination that won’t disappoint.

Our top ski resorts for Switzerland in march are:

  • Zermatt
  • Verbier

Zermatt

  • Resort snow range - 1,620 - 3,883m
  • March snowfall - 63cm
  • Sunny days - 3

With high altitude pistes of up to 3,883m, quality skiing, and a standout average snowfall of 63m, Zermatt is our best overall ski resort for March.

As stated earlier, Zermatt is linked to Cervinia, and offers over 300km of varied runs for skiers of all abilities. It’s also just a very attractive town to hang out in, has world-class restaurants and après, and provides loads of non-skiing activities - great for all holidaymakers.

Accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Alpen Resort

A modern but homely hotel that’s a short walk to the nearest lifts, Hotel Alpen Resort has spa facilities, an adventure pool, a games room, and a dining room.

Hotel: Hotel National

Located in a quiet corner of Zermatt, this tranquil hotel has wonderfully attentive staff, a woodfire heated bar, and a wellness centre - perfect for unwinding from a long day on the slopes.

Self catering: Apartment Zur Matte

These affordable but luxurious and modern apartments are right in the town centre, giving you good access to the resort’s amenities and ski lifts.

 

Verbier

  • Resort snow range - 1,500 - 3,330m
  • March snowfall - 25cm
  • Sunny days - 3

Verbier is one of Switzerland’s most famous resorts for good reason. Set in magnificent surroundings, snow-sure thanks to its high altitude, and with a vast ski area to explore, an ideal March ski trip is virtually guaranteed.

On top of that, Verbier marries traditional charm with premium accommodation and a vibrant après scene. An Alpine ski dream.

Accommodation options

Hotel: Hotel Vanessa

Comfortable, spacious rooms, a stone’s throw from the resort’s centre and a short walk from the lifts, Hotel Vanessa is a popular choice for visitors to Verbier.

Hotel: Hotel Montpelier

This traditional, chalet-style, 3-star hotel has fantastic facilities - including a ski shop, pool, and late night bar - and offers wonderful views over Verbier.

Self catering: Chalet Chateau Lapin

A small and cosy chalet in a quiet part of Verbier, with a private South-facing terrace, space for six guests, and a free bus service to the ski area.

Verbier resort in valley

 Verbier is a large resort town with plenty of amenities

 


 

Where’s best in Canada for March skiing?

If you’re heading for Canada for a March ski trip, there’s really only one place that should be on your list:

Whistler

  • Resort snow range - 653 - 2,284m
  • March snowfall - 58cm
  • Sunny days - 1.6

Sitting at just 675m above sea level, Whistler might lie low compared to our other resorts, but thanks to its unique geography it gets loads of snow (58cm on average in March) and has high enough pistes (2,284m) to make it a great place to go skiing in March.

Speedy gondolas fly you up over 1,000m to the high altitude pistes, where there are runs for all abilities and very reliable snowfall throughout the season.

Accommodation options

Hotel: Crystal Lodge and Suites

Among Whistler’s most popular hotels, Crystal Lodge Suites is right in the heart of Whistler village, with easy access to the gondolas and modern, well-equipped rooms.

Hotel: Fairmont Chateau Whistler Hotel

The Fairmont is a palatial hotel in the heart of Whistler, with four restaurants, six shops, a health club, and regular entertainment, your trip is sure to be full of splendour.

Self catering: Legends

Offering ski-in-ski-out access and a shuttle to the amenities in Whistler village, the self-catered Legends condominiums are a great value accommodation option in Whistler.

 


 

In summary: March is a great time to go skiing

As you can see, whichever country you choose, you can find excellent conditions for skiing in March at one of our top 12 resorts.

If you had to pick just one, Zermatt offers great weather, high-altitude runs, regular snowfall, and beautiful surroundings. But every resort has plenty to offer springtime skiers.

Check out all our March ski holiday deals to find your perfect trip.