Ski Novice or Ski Expert?

With the ski season fast approaching, we’re looking at the top resorts in France and Austria for skiing, whether you’re keen to get your skis on for the first time or a seasoned professional.

New to the slopes?

Then try Avoriaz in France. It’s 162 easy runs and 106 intermediates are perfect to start you off with help from a good choice of ski schools. The beginner slopes are wide, sunny and guarantee snow for most of the season.

Nearby non-ski activities include Aquariaz, a swimming complex, helicopter sightseeing tours, water sports, snow biking or dog sledding adventures.

An experienced skier?

Val d’Isere and La Plagne are popular with accomplished skiers everywhere. Val d’Isere has many challenging pistes and is one of the most varied ski areas in Europe. In December 2016, a new Solaise gondola was opened which races you to the top of the mountain in just 7 minutes!

La Plagne is part of the Paradiski ski area, which is the second largest skiable area in the world. With 134 runs, 19 of them black you can really test your skiing ability.

Looking for family friendly slopes?

Obergurgl in the Austrian Tirol has traffic free roads, a traditional atmosphere and easy slopes. With a selection of ski schools to choose from, children from the age of 3 can also join in the outdoor activities.

Or how about Niederau also in Austria? With short flight and transfer times you and your family can be on the nursery slopes in no time. There are also excellent ski schools where you can watch your little ones gain confidence.

Enjoy your après-ski?

St Anton in Austria is considered to be one of the best with many venues staying open until the early hours. Popular bars at the resort include Moosewirt and the Krazy Kangaruh, but be careful of the ski jump from the deck at the end of the night!

Meribel in France has a long-standing reputation for a lively nightlife. Start your afternoon at the Rondpoint, where you can enjoy drinks on a sunny terrace. Then head to La Folie Douce where crowds are entertained by DJ’s, singers and dancers while at Jack’s Bar you can watch stand-up comedy.

Whatever your skiing ability, make sure you are fully prepared by organising your travel insurance with Direct Travel and enjoy the glistening, powdery soft snow this coming ski season.

For further information on a selection of these resorts, please see our ski guides on the Direct Travel website.