When it comes to hitting the mountain, all skiiers and snowboarders know the place that gives them their best runs and the best snow. So, if the white-covered mountains tops are calling your name, check out our favourite locations for hitting slopes...
Top 5 locations for skiing and snowboarding
#1. Wanaka, New Zealand
Surrounded by the Southern Alps, Wanaka is located close to Queenstown and surrounded by four world-renowned ski resorts. With so many options for skiers to choose from, and so many fun activities to try when you aren’t on the slopes, it’s no surprise this winter wonderland makes the list. If you’ve been itching to get your feet in some fresh powder, and if you haven’t made the trip to Wanaka yet, it’s time to book your winter holiday and start the countdown clock till you get to experience this amazing ski town.
Best Ski Run
Arcadia Chutes at Cardrona Alpine Resort
Best Eats
Redstar, Botswana Butchery
Best Rest-Day Activity
Solve the giant mazes at Puzzling World.
#2. Jackson, Wyoming, USA
This classic American ski destination is the birthplace of extreme skiing in the US Although Jackson Hole Resort offers activities for beginner and intermediate skiers, slopes here are designed for advanced snow sporters. There are few bunny hills and the quality of the slopes continually draws the best of the best to their hills. Get experience and ski some of the best powder in the United States when you holiday in Jackson Hole.
Best Ski Run
Rendezvous Bowl at Jackson Hole Resort
Best Eats
Village Café in Teton Village, Couloir
Best Rest-Day Activity
Take a sleigh ride at Elk Refuge.
#3. Fernie, British Columbia, Canada
A varied terrain—with wide-open alpine bowls, slick chutes and sharp ridges—provides consistent snow conditions and relatively warm weather. This is the perfect place for a skier who has a little experience and wants to step up their skiing game a little, but not too much. With beautiful views in every direction and fellow skiers and snowboarders looking to enjoy the unusual and diverse terrain, Fernie is the best place to experiment and try something new. Who knows, maybe you’ll come away from the holiday with a new trick or two up your winter-sports-sleeve.
Best Ski Run
Skydive, Fernie Ski Resort
Best Eats
Big Bang Bagels, Picnic Restaurant + Social
Best Rest-Day Activity
Sip on coffee and hot chocolate at Beanpod Chocolate.
#4. Zermatt, Switzerland
You know you’ve made it in the skiing world when you book a holiday in Zermatt. Many consider this town the world’s ultimate ski resort. With three interconnected Swiss skiing zones and vertical drops up to 2,180 metres, Zermatt is perfect for skiers looking for old-world charm.
Best Ski Run
National at Rothorn
Best Eats
Walliserkanne, Chez Heini
Best Rest-Day Activity
Learn mountain history at the Matterhorn Museum.
#5. Niseko, Japan
If you like sushi and consistent powder conditions, you can thank Siberian storms for this Japanese ski destination. Known for some of the lightest powder on earth, Niseko is the perfect spot for night skiing—and some incredible cuisine.
Best Ski Run
Hanazono at Niseko Ski Resort
Best Eats
Seico Mart, A-Bu-Cha
Best Rest-Day Activity
Visit the city of Sapporo.
No matter where you ski, though, it is important to protect yourself. Whether you need medical cover or cancellation insurance, Cover-More Travel Insurance has ski cover options to help.