Top 7 ski resorts for spring skiing
Skiing in the colder conditions of December and January is not everyone’s idea of fun, especially if you are just starting out. A spring ski break in March or April could offer some amazing benefits for both experienced and novice skiers.
Longer sunny days allow you to maximise your time; extra hours skiing your favourite runs or just more time spent soaking up the sunshine on the après terraces. Not to mention, all the best parties are hosted in March and April. The Freeride World Tour takes over Verbier for the week in the run-up to the event. Epic end of season parties and freestyle competitions takes centre stage in Les Arcs’ snow park. Plus, slushy snow offers far kinder conditions for anyone putting on skis or snowboard for the first time.
Many of our resorts are operating deep into April, and some even spill into May. We have plenty of wonderful options when picking your perfect Spring ski trip. Before you decide on your ski destination, it is important to consider a few elements:
- Altitude – aim to ski higher altitude slopes that increase your chances of better snow conditions.
- Slope aspect – North facing slopes typically preserve the snow better than south-facing slopes.
- Glacier skiing- Glacier’s provide snow-sure conditions all year round!
St Anton, Austria
St Anton boasts some of the best snow records for spring skiing. It is perfect for powder hungry skiers looking for that late-season snowfall. North facing slopes are in abundance in this ski region, and any south-facing slopes are heavily assisted with high tech snow canons to ensure top snow conditions.
After a long day on the mountain, be sure to head down the Galzig piste to enjoy the world-famous après scene that St Anton has to offer. Krazy Kanguruh and Mooserwirt’s giant sun terraces, with spectacular views overlooking St Anton, is the perfect way to finish off a great day.
Les Arcs, France
Les Arcs, set in the Paradiski region, offers quick links into La Plagne – ideal for those long ski days in the spring sunshine. This extensive ski area provides swift access to the Aiguille Rouge, a glacier peaking at over 3226m, revealing its incredible panoramic views.
The end of season sunshine offers far more than just skiing in Les Arcs. There’s a variety of staged events such as piste-side concerts, waterslide skiing, yoga and freestyling demonstrations, just to name a few! This perfect family-friendly resort has plenty to keep the children thoroughly entertained both on and off the slopes.
Val Thorens, France
The highest resort in the Alps situated at 2300m, Val Thorens offers quick links into the Three Valleys. It has 5 different lift systems rising above 3000m to virtually guarantee the best late-season skiing available in Europe. The high altitude allows you to ski right through until mid-May – it is one of the last resorts to shut and close off the winter season.
The après in Val Thorens also does not disappoint. The energetic atmosphere offers something for everyone, especially in spring. The legendary closing down parties for some of the local bars showcase big name DJ’s to bid farewell to the season in style.
Zermatt, Switzerland
The legendary Swiss resort, Zermatt is home to the largest glacier ski area. The Theodul Glacier has 21km of blue and red piste offering perfectly preserved snow conditions at a staggering 3899m. Cervinia neighbours Zermatt within the Matterhorn ski paradise area and the super-fast lift systems give you easy access to some of Italy’s best skiing.
The idyllic chocolate box resort of Zermatt is home to the most efficient snowmaking cannons in the Alps. Benefitting over 140km of piste and ensuring the snow remains in immaculate conditions well into the spring.
Obergurgl, Austria
Obergurgl’s traditional village charm is exceedingly rare to find at such a high altitude. Situated at 1930m, makes this resort a highly sought-after spot in Austria for a late-season getaway. Powder in abundance, the Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski area, has over 90% of all pistes covered by snowmaking facilities.
A bonus is that this resort does not attract the mass crowds that others might, making this perfect for families and beginners.
Tignes & Val D’Isere, France
These 2 resorts go arm in arm, combined, the Espace Killy ski area offers an incredible 300km of piste. Including 2 glaciers and over 60% of slopes at 2500m plus, Tignes and Val d’Isere make one of the most snow-sure ski areas in France.
Both resorts are notorious for their party atmosphere. Sat up towards the La Daile lifts is the world-famous La Folie Douce, a pulsating apres-ski venue that is the first port of call when heading down the mountain at the end of the day. Alternatively, head to Cocoricos in Tignes or Val D’Isere. Live bands taking centre stage keeping crowds of revellers entertained as the sun goes down.
Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier specialises in the exhilarating off-piste riding. Backcountry enthusiasts can take the Mont Gele cable up to 3055m and then choose from a multitude of different lines down the front face or venture down the marked itinerary run around the back.
In Late spring, Verbier plays host to the Freeride World Tour final, which takes place on the sheer face of the Bec des Rosses. Hordes of skiers gather in the sunshine at the viewing spot at Gentianes to watch the World’s elite compete for that World title.
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