Snowboarding holidays are fantastic for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike! Picture yourself carving through powdery slopes, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Snowboarding holidays
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie eager to learn, there’s something for everyone on a snowboarding holiday. When planning your trip, consider the location, amenities and the level of difficulty of the slopes.
Planning your trip
Choose a location that suits your preferences and skill level. Some cater more to beginners with gentle slopes and ski schools, while others offer challenging terrain parks and off-piste opportunities. Look for ski resorts or chalets that offer convenient access to the slopes. Many resorts provide ski-in, ski-out accommodation, allowing you to hit the slopes right from your doorstep. Be mindful of the timing of your trip. Peak season typically means crowded slopes and higher prices, while shoulder seasons might offer better deals and fewer crowds.
Five of the best resorts for snowboarding holidays
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Vast terrain and abundance snowfall
Whistler boasts vast terrain and reliable snowfall. With more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, it is the largest ski resort in North America. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or expert rider, there are runs and features to suit every skill level. Whistler’s high altitude means abundant snowfall throughout the winter season, providing excellent conditions for snowboarding. The resort features multiple terrain parks catering to freestyle riders of all abilities. From beginner-friendly features to advanced jumps and rails, the terrain parks offer a playground for riders looking to hone their skills. Beyond the slopes, Whistler Village offers a vibrant apres-ski scene with a wide array of restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment options.
Chamonix, France
Steep, rugged terrain perfect for adrenaline seekers
Chamonix is known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. The resort is a favorite with experienced snowboarders seeking an adrenaline rush, known for it famous for its steep and varied terrain. Advanced riders will find plenty of challenges in Chamonix’s off-piste terrain, including iconic routes like the Vallée Blanche and the Couloir des Cosmiques. However, venturing off-piste requires proper avalanche safety equipment and knowledge of backcountry protocols. While Chamonix is known for its steep and rugged terrain, it also offers terrain parks catering to freestyle riders. Beyond the slopes, Chamonix’s picturesque streets are is home to a wide array of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
Niseko, Japan
Sample the Japow and natural hot springs
With its abundance of light, fluffy snow, Niseko is a paradise for powder hounds. Plus, you can indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine and relax in natural hot springs after a day on the slopes. Niseko, located on the northern island of Hokkaido in Japan, has gained international acclaim as one of the premier destinations for snowboarding enthusiasts. The resort is famous for its consistently deep powder snow, often referred to as “Japow.” Niseko is made up of four interconnected resorts—Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, Annupuri, and Hanazono—offering a combined area of diverse terrain suitable for riders of all levels. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging tree runs and backcountry terrain, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Snowboarders can exlore nearby towns, take a soak in natural hot springs (onsen), and indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine, including fresh seafood and hearty noodle dishes.
Aspen Snowmass, USA
Four mountains and upscale amenities
Located in the picturesque Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Aspen is renowned for its diverse terrain and upscale amenities. The resort stretches across four distinct mountains—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—each offering its own unique terrain and atmosphere. From groomed cruisers to challenging steeps and expansive terrain parks, there’s something for every rider to enjoy. Aspen Snowmass boasts over 5,500 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski areas in North America. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or expert rider, you’ll find a wide variety of runs and features to suit your skill level and preferences. Buttermilk Mountain is renowned for its world-class terrain parks. Aspen’s apres-ski features everything from cosy mountain lodges and trendy bars to gourmet restaurants and live music venues.
Verbier, Switzerland
Steep couloirs and powder-filled bowls
A playground for freeriders, Verbier boasts extensive off-piste and is one of the premier destinations for snowboarding in Europe. The resort makes up part of the extensive Four Valleys ski area, one of the largest linked ski areas in the world. With over 400 kilometers of marked runs and endless off-piste opportunities, Verbier offers diverse terrain for snowboarders of all abilities. Advanced riders will find plenty of challenges in Verbier’s legendary off-piste terrain. The resort is renowned for its steep couloirs, powder-filled bowls, and thrilling descents. It attracts freeriders from around the globe seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures. Verbier’s terrain parks catering to freestyle riders of all levels, from beginner-friendly features to advanced jumps, rails, and halfpipes. After a day on the slopes, the vibrant resort boasts cosy mountain bars and traditional Swiss fondue restaurants to lively clubs and live music venues.
November 10, 2024
