When you think of a skiing holiday and what it entails, energetic sportsmen and women rushing down mountainsides might spring to mind, but there’s no reason a winter sports break need be so exerting. If, like me, you prefer your holidays to have a slower pace, read on to discover my top three destinations for a relaxed skiing getaway.
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Saas Fee, Switzerland
The main village in Switzerland’s Saas Valley, Saas Fee is a pretty resort within the Swiss Alps, located close to a couple of glaciers. The tranquil spot – known as the Pearl of the Alps – is where Wham!’s hit Last Christmas was filmed, and the area remains as untouched by modernity now as it was decades ago when the video was shot.
Boasting a charming olde-worlde ambience, the resort has a long ski season, and it’s also possible to ski on the glaciers here during the summer months. There are 145 km of skiable terrain, and all ability levels are well catered for, with 39 km of pistes for beginners and the same amount for advanced skiers. The figure nearly doubles for those with intermediate abilities, who will find 75 km of slopes waiting for them.
The family-friendly resort offers plenty of supervised activities to keep children busy, and also provides unrivalled off-piste conditions. When you want a break from your skis, have a go at sledging on the Hannig mountain, which is dedicated to the pastime.
Madonna di Campiglio, Italy
The exclusive resort of Madonna di Campiglio has been a popular skiing destination for decades, especially among the nobility, with princesses and emperors frequenting the destination to admire its stunning scenery and enjoy the laidback, luxurious atmosphere.
Madonna di Campiglio is the main access point to the Brenta Dolomite Mountains and, as such, offers breathtaking views that encompass rugged peaks, valleys and streams. The main skiing area spans 50,000 sq m, of which 150 km are covered by ski runs and 40 km caters for those with a penchant for Nordic skiing.
There are numerous health spas and wellness centres to visit if you’re in need of some pampering after a long day on the slopes, as well as a good selection of cafes, bars, discos and games room should you want to experience the local apres-ski scene.
For an extra relaxing experience, an all inclusive ski deal will see your ski and boot hire arranged in advance, and mean you won’t have to do any of the legwork as far as organising your flights and accommodation are concerned.
Montgenevre, France
The quiet resort of Montgenevre is located in the French Cottian Alps on the border between France and Italy. The ski resort is one of the country’s oldest and is linked to the popular Via Lattea (Milky Way) ski area, but is a much more relaxed spot as a result of its much smaller amount of skiable terrain.
With only 65 km of skiing space, the resort doesn’t attract nearly as many holidaymakers as its larger counterpart, which offers more than 400 km. Despite its small size, Montgenevre has a good snow record and offers ski in ski out facilities.
There are around 60 pistes here – the majority of which cater for intermediate ability skiers – and 25 km of terrain suitable for cross country skiing. You’ll also find an ice rink, while a snowboard park and half pipe aren’t too far away in nearby Claviere. There is but little in the way of evening entertainment, which makes it great for families or travellers who like to relax in peace and quiet when night falls.
