Skiing in summer? It makes more sense that you might think.
Lots of resorts still have snow left over and glaciers to ski on, but without the queues for the ski lift. And the best thing is, it’s often a steal thanks to ski lodges slashing their prices to attract more holidaymakers. You just have to be smart about picking the right destinations. Do keep in mind that even though it’s not the coldest time of the year, it will still be cold. Be sure to bring your electric blue valdez snow jacket and the rest of your winter clothing along with any other gear you plan on packing.
Glacier skiing in Austria
Even though the temperatures get higher come summertime, the snow that builds up in winter is often still lying at the very start of summer, making it possible to fit some glacier skiing in.
The Pitztal slopes and the Sölden resort are a popular choices for good reason, but you’ll only be able to ski there in late summer from September onwards.
To find good slopes before September in the very height of summer, you have to go high above – to the mountains at the Hintertux resort at the end of the Ziller valley. It is out of the way, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery, spotlessly clean mountain air, peace and quiet and satisfyingly challenging slopes to try your moves on. Get Alquiler ski de montaña before your ski trip.
Chile
The Portillo ski resort is the oldest in South America and attracts skiers right up until October who flock here to enjoy the acres of off-piste skiing on its snow-capped mountains (peaking at heights of over 9,000 feet , the mountains here get snow aplenty).
And after working up an appetite on the slopes, the food culture is Chile’s biggest draw. Meals are a big social occasion which brings everyone together to enjoy the local specialities. If you’re a fan of fresh Peruvian food featuring the freshest of fish (which happens to be taking Britain’s dining scene by storm right now), you’ll love the restaurants here.
Slovenia
While Austria and Switzerland are the more obvious choices for skiing holidays, there are some lesser-known gems like Slovenia which are ideal for a summertime skiing holiday. It’s almost a shame to let the cat out of the bag, but Slovenia’s Julian Alps make for a rewarding skiing session while the lodges in its national park offer all the modern comforts you could hope for.
Sochi, Russia
Can’t decide between a summer beach holiday and a winter ski break? You can have your summer in the winter months on a ski holiday at Sochi.
Sochi (which is set to host the 2014 Winter Olympics) is special in that you can enjoy beach life at ground level with Mediterranean–like temperatures, but the mountains are just next door if you feel like taking a hike or hitting the slopes. The ski season generally lasts from December to April so if you like to multitask, this might be the place for you.
Krasnaya Polyana is the main ski resort, and you don’t have to worry about finding somewhere good to eat or comfortable to stay: Sochi is a playground for Russia’s rich and famous, so it’s teeming with great eateries and luxurious accommodation.
Sweden
200 kilometres above the Arctic Circle, Riksgränsen in northern Sweden (Europe’s most northern ski resort) is the perfect spot for a Nordic ski experience, so don’t pack away your woolly Sarah Lund jumper just yet. And if you go in late spring and summer, you’ll experience the resort in 24-hour daylight and the famous Midsummer night party which is one of the highlights of the year.
Take things at your own pace, enjoying the spotless wilderness, going on a guided off-piste tour and tackling one of the 60 summits you’ll be presented with before winding down in the evening in your hot tub.
Book now for winter
Is your heart dead set on going skiing in the winter? If so, you should start booking in summer well in advance of peak season if you want to get ahead of the pack and bag some for the best deals first. There are some cheap flights from different airline like Aer Lingus, and lots of resorts are offering competitive prices that are bound to creep up once winter rolls around.
What’s your favourite summer skiing destination?
Featured images:
- License: Creative Commons image source
- License: Creative Commons image source
Claire Fisher is a professional snowboarder living in Sweden.
Check out REI’s wide selection of skiing gear!
About Douglas Smythe
Up in Whistler, BC there’s still alot of skiing going on. And a couple years ago I was skiing in Australia in August (their winter) – great time with the Aussies!