The Alps and beyond – great ideas for ski holidays in Europe

With slopes and settings for every skill level – and budget – Europe’s home to some of the world’s finest skiing destinations. Whether you’re looking to rub elbows with A-listers in St. Moritz or escape to Kanin-Sella Nevea on the Italy–Slovenia border, these snowy retreats have everything you need for the perfect winter getaway.

Excellent ski holidays in the Alps

Enjoy the slopes and panoramic views in the Swiss Alps

Whether you’re planning a ski holiday in Italy, Switzerland or France, the Alps boast some of the most iconic skiing on the continent. Choose from a range of chalet-style villa rentals and cosy holiday homes in this scenic, mountainous region for a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland.

Holiday lettings in St. Moritz Switzerland

Ski holidays in Switzerland start and end with St. Moritz. Among the world’s oldest ski resorts, this luxurious Engadin valley destination has twice hosted the Winter Olympics, in 1928 and 1948. The resort has attracted an A-list clientele since the late 19th century, and holiday rentals here range from cosy chalets to elegant, modern options. You’ll also find a wide array of high-end bars, restaurants and shops for all your apres-ski needs.

Ski the slopes of the French Alps

On the other side of the border, the French Alps offer even more options for exceptional ski spots. Les Arcs and La Plagne, 2 popular ski towns with a base elevation of over 4,000 feet, boast holiday lettings with easy access to hundreds of ski runs. The resorts are connected by cable car, and holiday lettings in the area are a quick trip from high-speed railway trains at Bourg St. Maurice.

Fetching trips in far-flung destinations

The Alps may run Europe’s skiing game, but they’re certainly not the only player on the continent. From Sweden to Slovakia, Europe’s got plenty of other options for snowy getaways of all types, whether you’re looking for high-altitude thrills or secluded wintertime retreats.

Stellar ski holidays in Sweden

About an hour’s drive from Åre Östersund Airport, the ski area in Åre is one of Sweden’s most popular winter sports destinations. The remote town along Route E14 boasts 30 ski lifts and loads of runs on Åreskutan fell, a 4,660-foot-high mountain that’s home to the country’s largest ski resort. If you book a holiday rental in town, you can stroll the waterfront streets lined with shops, bars and cafes.

Spectacular views in scenic Slovakia

Another great winter holiday destination that’s off the beaten path, Slovakia’s High Tatras Mountains shelter a vast number of scenic, secluded ski areas. Ždiar, 40 minutes’ drive from Poprad along Route 66, features 10 ski lifts and more than 3 miles of slopes. While the destination may be a bit smaller than some, a cosy Ždiar holiday cottage more than makes up for it with striking views of unspoiled wilderness in the surrounding mountains.

Low-cost ski holidays in Europe

From the remote corners of the Alps to the peaks of the Pyrenees, you can still find great deals on European ski holidays that won’t put a dent in your budget. Check out these great spots and get inspired for your next wintertime escape.

Skiing, Italian-Slovenian style

Located near the border between Italy and Slovenia, Kanin-Sella Nevea is a remote ski destination that boasts 19 miles of ski slopes, and elevations as high as 7,500 feet. Located near the Isonzo river in the town of Bovec, the ski slopes lie about an hour’s drive from Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital. Book a holiday home here for a truly remote retreat that’s still easy on the wallet, and make sure to check out the scenic Boka Waterfall, just a short drive from town.

Picture-perfect pistes in the Pyrenees

Saint Lary – a small French village in the mountains near the Spanish border – is known for its excellent slopes and charming town centre; it’s also a popular choice for skiers looking to hit the slopes without breaking the bank. If you book a holiday rental close to Saint Lary’s main street, Rue Vincent Mir, you can find cafes, bars and restaurants for avant- and apres-ski refreshments. The nearby Néouvielle National Nature Reserve features lakes, forest and plenty of space for snowshoeing and other winter treks.