Planning your next ski holiday? Fancy mixing things up a bit? Europe’s best-known resorts are rightly popular, but sometimes it pays to head off the beaten track and find a new favourite.
From uncrowded pistes to picture-perfect mountain views, small and quiet ski resorts can be full of charm - and give you the chance to really kick back and relax.
Some of our hotels are in gorgeous resorts that you may not have heard of. Here we explore our favourite small ski resorts to escape to..
If a ski holiday in a pretty resort in the heart of the spectacular Italian Dolomites appeals (and why wouldn’t it?)Val di Fassa is for you. Think easy access to one of the largest ski areas in the world, incredible scenery and a quaint traditional look. It’s a feast for both the skis and the eyes.
The skiing and boarding options here are almost limitless. The vast Dolomiti Superski area has a staggering 1,200km of piste to tear up. Head to the epic Marmolada Glacier or explore the Sella Ronda loopbeneath the imposing rocky peaks of the UNESCO-protected Sella Massif.
Val di Fassa is made up of seven small villages scattered throughout the valley, each with their own unique atmosphere. Penia is one of the most tranquil, while nearby Canazei, with its welcoming bars and restaurants, is the place to go for livelier après-ski.
These friendly neighbours can be found nestled in the Andorran Pyrénées. With the chance to ski at altitudes of up to 2,590m, Soldeu and El Tarter boast some excellent conditions all season.
As part of the 210km Grandvalira ski area, the pistes cater to all ages and abilities but are particularly suited to beginners and intermediates. You’ll find a lovely choice of wide tree-lined blues and reds to practice your skills on, as well as some top-class ski schools and kindergartens.
Both resorts are small with a low-key feel, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find some après-ski buzz if you want it. From live DJs to cocktails, Soldeu and El Tarter have a handful of night-time hotspots. On the other hand, if your idea of après-ski heaven is a quiet evening in front of a roaring log fire, this is the ideal place to indulge that fantasy.
This lesser-known resort lies in one of the most famous ski areas around; The Three Valleys. Compact Les Menuires is the easy-going cousin of big-hitting resorts like Méribel and Courchevel. It’s a little more forgiving on the wallet too.
The local Les Menuires ski area has 160km of beginner-friendly runs, while experienced skiers and boarders can head out into the wider Three Valleys area to sample a whopping 600km of piste.
The resort itself is a cluster of ‘60s hotels and attractive modern chalets. There’s fairly limited choice when it comes to nightlife but with such a huge ski area to take on, sometimes it’s nice to soak your aching legs in a hot tub and take the opportunity for an early night - ready for plenty more snow action in the morning.
Not sure where to go on your next ski holiday? Take a browse through our deals and get booking!
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