Ski holidays

Ski holidays
As one relaxes during a week of effort, another enjoys some sport, some sun and then some après-ski. Ski holidays are diverse and flexible to be completed as one pleases. Whether you wish to take up cross country-skiing are ski down slopes at top speed.

Destination reached
When it comes to skiing holidays you instantly are reminded to countries as Austria, Switzerland or France, but there are more countries that offer mountains suited for skiing and snowboarding. As close as Belgium you can find ski lopes in the Ardennes and also Germany is very appropriate to have a proper skiing experience. On average there are more people from England on skiing holiday in Germany than in Switzerland and Italy combined! France is known for its large contiguous ski areas that stretch out at higher average altitude than Austria. If you are fond of the cosy villages and après-ski you will be more at home in Austria. Less well-known, but more than worth considering are the skiing areas in Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia. And even though Turkey and Spain are treasured for their sunshine and beaches, in the winter you can ski in these countries as well. If you don’t mind the long flight you will find wide spread skiing areas all over Canada and the US.

How to get down there
Winter holidays includes many different sports that can be practiced in the snow. The most obvious are skiing and snowboarding. Cross country-skiing can be described as a ’walk-and-glide’ motion on skis. You will make hardly any speed, but you are without a doubt exercising. Special cross country-routes are called ‘loipe’. It is important that the materials you use are fitted for the intended purpose, your skills, experience and personal wishes. Are you willing to trade the neatly prepared ski slopes for the rugged off-piste snow? Or maybe you like to show off your moves at the fun park? It will make a difference whether you are a first timer or have been skiing as a toddler. You can bring your own gear purchased at home or simply rent it all at your destination.

Personal combinations
As some you are eager to take the first lift up that mountain and the last run down, others take a slightly different approach. Sport and recreation are a great combination. Enjoying a nice meal in a traditional ‘Stube’ right next to ski slope and relaxing in the sun. In the late afternoon the après-ski will start. This is the moment to enjoy a nice drink and music with the ski shoes still at your feet.

Snow certain holiday
Well what if the weather gods are not favourably tempered and the snow just won’t fall? Do not despair; most skiing areas are equipped with snow canons. This allows you to still go down the slopes on layer of snow. Remember that the higher the skiing areas are, the more change you will have to enjoy a natural pack of snow on your holiday.