Hurray, a new year is here – which means getting organised and planning your next adventures for 2017. If like us, you can’t go 12 months without hitting the slopes, then you’ll want to know about the best locations to take your skis this year. It’s very much still ski season, so why not jump on the next flight to one of these destinations, or book a ski holiday for later on in the year to one of the best slopes for 2017.
La Plagne, Paradiski, France
This huge mountain resort links ten ski villages so doesn’t have a busy, resort feel. This makes it a great destination for families and skiers who would rather overlook the nightlife scene. Glacier de Bellecôte is the star of the show here, and definitely one of the best ski slopes to take on in 2017 – thanks to two brand new ski lifts. A new 10 person gondola lift is launching this year, set to increase the capacity from 925 people per hour to 2,400. There is also another brand new state-of-the-art high speed chair lift which was new for 16/17 season, which replaces the Coq ski lift.
Lech, Austria
Lech has long been known as one of the best resorts in the Alps, so if you haven’t tried the powder here yet then 2017 is the year to do it. The rich and famous have been skiing here for decades, and it’s even the famous setting for the ski scene in Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason. The high class status resort is matched with some of the best skiing opportunities for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Take on challenging off-piste, the Weisser Ring or even get heli-dropped on the highest slopes for incredible descents.
Chamonix, France
If you’re planning a ski trip a little later in the year, then you want to choose a resort which is almost guaranteed snow. 90% of Chamonix’s terrain is over 2000 metres, making it one of the most snow sure resorts in Europe. If you haven’t yet visited the oldest winter sports resort in France, now is the time! The valley is open until May so you can choose a luxury ski break in half term or the Easter holidays.
Zermatt, Switzerland
There is so much high altitude terrain to explore in Zermatt for beginners and experts alike. In addition to a huge ski area, efficient lifts and world renowned après-ski, it really does have it all. On the other side of the Matterhorn lies the Italian alps, so you can head out for a day and try those slopes too – as if Zermatt doesn’t have enough in the piste department!
Are you ready to take on these slopes this year? Let us know which resorts are on your bucket list.