MAYRHOFEN (AUSTRIA)
Austrian ski resorts are among the most expensive. Europeans love them and have been going there for generations. The resort of Mayrhofen is perhaps the most popular. It is located in the Zillertal valley, where over 650 km of slopes and more than 150 ski lifts are in operation. In total, there are 11 skiing areas in the valley, and they are united by a single "Superskipass." Moreover, the price includes not only ski lifts but also ski buses and even train rides.
By local standards, Mayrhofen is considered a relatively inexpensive resort – it is mainly aimed at those who, after a full day of skiing, plan to have an equally lively night. The crowd here is young and does not like to sleep.
So it is not surprising that this resort is very popular with our compatriots; as a result, the staff here speaks Russian well. In case your German is a bit rusty – this is the place for you. You will feel at home, but better.
If you have children, do not despair. Focus on the Ahorn area – here there are parties and a gentle mountain plateau, so both you and your child can have fun; children can start skiing from the age of four.
BANSKO (BULGARIA)
Bulgaria is good because its resorts have absolutely no, excuse me, pretentiousness. There is no need to overpay for anything or show off. People come here who love to ski, not those who like people watching them ski.
The resort of Bansko is located at the foot of the Pirin mountain range, 160 km south of Sofia, at an altitude of 936 m. The Pirin National Park is included in the UNESCO Natural Heritage list. In its vicinity, there are 87 mountain peaks and 150 lakes. The highest mountain is Vihren Peak, which reaches almost 3,000 m.
Bansko is an excellent resort for a large group. There are slopes for beginners and professionals. You can ski not only during the day but also at night – those who have tried it know what a special pleasure it is. Moreover, the weather here is ideal and the snow is always very good and dense. And let’s not forget about the museums – there are many here, and they are all worthwhile.
ENCAMP (ANDORRA)
Andorra is a country that skiers keep secret so that no one else goes there. The service here is better than in the Alps, skiing is excellent, and prices are relatively low. Encamp is one of the most comfortable resorts in the Principality of Andorra. It is located at an altitude of 1,238 m. Surrounding it are snow-covered mountains of indescribable beauty.
The main local ski attraction is the "Funicamp" lift with 32 cabins, which move at a speed of 7 m/s. It takes only 15 minutes to get to the top. There are excellent gentle slopes for beginners.
If you are more experienced, the real fun begins at an altitude of 2,500 m. The resort also has several relatively short runs for extreme high-speed skiing.
At the local sports complex, you can play mini-football, volleyball, billiards, table tennis, and squash, as well as swim in the pool, relax in the sauna, or get a massage. Nearby there is a wonderful car museum, and the vibrant nightlife of the capital is just a 10-minute drive away. And the resort itself has all the discos and bars that people who think it is improper to sleep at night need.
DOLOMITES (ITALY)
The Dolomites are the eastern part of the Italian Alps. They are located in the provinces of Trentino, Alto Adige, and Veneto. The highest peak is Mount Marmolada, 3,342 m.
The Dolomites have 40 skiing areas, which include 900 km of ski slopes and 500 km of cross-country ski trails. There are 300 ski lifts, 11 snowboard parks, and outdoor and indoor ice rinks.
Each resort has its own features. Some are oriented towards young people – there is a bustling nightlife, others are frequented by families with children, and still others are specially equipped for international competitions and attract professional athletes. It is in the Dolomites that the oldest ski resort in Europe, Monte Bondone in the Valle dell'Adige valley, is located, where the first ski lift appeared back in 1934.
The European establishment prefers skiing in Cortina d'Ampezzo, where there are hotels and restaurants of the highest level, boutiques of prestigious brands, as well as art and antique galleries.
Beginners go to Alta Badia – there are easy slopes. The place is absolutely magical. Most of the skiers are Italians. And they know their resorts.