Ski holidays aren’t always about the skiing. For many, the mountains are the perfect retreat for some relaxation or to spend time with friends and family. There is just as much to do off the slopes as there is on them so everyone in your family or group will have something to do. Have a read about our top resorts for non skiers and what activities they have to offer.
Avoriaz, France
Avoriaz is an ideal resort for families who want to have a balance of skiing and non skiing activities. For family fun, the Aquariaz water park has a waterfall, series of pools, slides and water gym sessions three days a week as well as an open air hot tub. Also for families, the Village des Enfants in the resort centre is an ideal space for children to play whilst parents can easily keep a close eye on them. For a traditional experience, why not go on a horse and cart ride or go ice skating at the resort rink opposite the Carrefour supermarket. For an apres drink, the Igloo Village is a great meeting point located on the plateau above the Prodains gondola. It features elaborately designed igloos as well as an ice bar that not only serves drinks but an array of charcuterie and cheese - yum!
St Moritz, Switzerland
The historic resort of St Moritz has 150km of walking and 180km of cross country trails to explore the area. No need to worry if that’s not your thing as the resort hosts many sporting events such as the famous ‘White Turf’ horse races at the lake which has taken place since 1907! Explore the history of the resort at the Segantini Museum which holds around 50 works of the late nineteenth century painter Giovanni Segantini. The twelfth century leaning tower situated opposite the Kulm Hotel is also worth a visit. For adrenaline seekers, the resort also has the world’s oldest Bobsleigh track, the Olympic Bobrun which is over 1.7km long. Book in advance and experience high speeds and g-force with 2 pros. You see exactly what they do in an Olympic race.
Breckenridge, USA
Breckenridge has more than enough to offer in order to keep you entertained with having the facilities of a medium sized town - a cinema, swimming pool, shops and its own art gallery. Winter activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling and husky sleigh rides. It also has unique gold mine visits as Breckenridge is an old gold mining village, dating back to 1859 when miners came during the gold rush. Or visit the Breckenridge Distillery and take a tour and taster of its Bourbon, Gin and Vodka. If getting creative is more for you, Ready, Paint, Fire will be right up your street. It is a paint your own ceramics, canvas and mosaic studio and is a lot of fun for all ages, for families and also groups of friends.
Cortina, Italy
Experience Cortina’s cultural, artistic and sporting heritage in this Olympic town. If you love shopping, the Corso Italia is one of the most famous shopping streets which has a unique atmosphere. The Fiames Nordic Ski Centre is a focal point for cross country skiing, offering varying lengths of tails for a range of abilities. For something a bit different, you can try snowkiting where you are pulled along by a wind powered kit on skis or a board or check try some curling! The Cortina Curling Centre is open from December to mid April and has instructors with national team athletes available to give individual or group lessons. Its Olympic Ice Stadium is also open to the public for ice skating and has instructors available if needed.
Seefeld, Austria
Seefeld is particularly good for non skiers as is it not a particularly challenging resort for skiers. The resort is very popular for leisurely skiers as well as non-skiers and its array of activities, its quiet atmosphere and easy slopes makes for a more relaxing ski holiday. It is perfect for those looking to experience the mountains. It has 142km of walking paths as well as cross country trails, snowshoeing, tobogganing, sleigh rides and ice skating. Its Olympic Sport Centre also provides a great number of activities such as swimming in its indoor and outdoor pools, sauna and family slides.
