For those skiing enthusiasts who just can’t get enough of the white stuff, the end of the ski season in large parts of Europe doesn’t necessarily have to mean the end of opportunities for getting out on the slopes. For those who are looking to do a bit of skiing in summer, below are some of the top ski resorts for the season, many of which have year round snow.
Kaprun Glacier, Austria
This was one of the first glacier sites to be used for skiing and remains open 365 days a year, making it a beacon for ski lovers who just can’t wait for the winter months. The glacier is more than 3,000 meters above sea level and surrounded by some of the highest mountains in Austria, all of which are continuously covered in more than a meter of natural snow. There’s a wide variety of different runs in Kaprun to suit skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, from white-knuckle steep slopes, to gentle easy routes. Cross-country skiing is on offer, as well as other activities like hiking. http://en.kitzsteinhorn.at
Zermatt, Switzerland
This is another destination where, thanks to the glaciers, there are year round options for keen skiers. Here, the Theodul glacier provides 20km of great slopes right through the summer months and you can ski here 365 days a year. There are options for all levels of skiers here, from challenging pistes, to easygoing nursery slopes, as well as plenty of après ski fun. http://www.zermatt.ch/en
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Around 125km north of Vancouver this is considered one of the top ski destinations in the world. With one of the longest ski seasons in North America (roughly May – November), Whistler is a great option for Europeans looking for some summertime skiing and the resort attracts more than two million visitors a year. There are over 8,000 acres of slopes to hurl yourself down at Whistler, 3 glaciers, 16 alpine bowls and more than 200 marked trails, as well as a world-class selection of accommodation and entertainment. http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com
Coronet Peak, New Zealand
A 20 minute drive from Queenstown a destination that has a great selection of skiing and snowboarding sites for those willing to make the journey down under. The resort has recently undergone a fantastic million-dollar renovation that has seen it equipped with some of the best facilities around and Coronet’s prime ski season is conveniently timed to last right through the European summer. The 280 hectare ski area offers a variety of different terrains, from simple nursery slopes to challenging Black Bowls, and has the most extensive snow making system in the country for days when the powder needs a bit of a boost. http://www.nzski.com/mountain.jsp?site=coronetpeak
Tignes, France
A truly year round resort, providing ski covered slopes for avid skiers throughout both the winter and summer months. During the summer season there is 130 hectares of skiing to get stuck into, as well as incredible challenges, such as a vertical drop of more than 750 meters, which is not for the faint-hearted. Summer skiing in Tignes means there’s more than just the usual après ski options on offer and other outdoor sports like tennis and basketball, as well as BBQs and pool parties can make for a unique ski experience. http://www.tignes.co.uk
For those keen on skiing in summer, these resorts are a great option. Whether you go for the year round snow of Zermatt or Kaprun, or the slightly longer haul summertime skiing in Whistler or Coronet Peak, the options for getting some serious piste time in once summer has arrived are pretty awesome.
Amy is a guest blogger on behalf of Alpine Action. For great deals on Meribel ski chalets and for an informative Meribel piste map, contact Alpine Action today.
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