As daffodils bloom, chocolate eggs fill supermarket shelves and the long bank holiday beckons, Easter skiing might seem a somewhat leftfield choice. However, if you’re dreaming of hitting the slopes and spending your break carving through fresh powder, it is absolutely possible. You just have to know where to look.
Whether you’re chasing snow-filled thrills at one of the best Easter ski resorts or hunting for a budget-friendly escape, you can choose from destinations across Europe and beyond.
We’ve compiled a guide to some of the best Easter ski resorts in Europe and the rest of the world.
Where in Europe does it snow in April?
If you don’t want to travel further afield to areas such as the US or Canada, Easter skiing in Europe can be a great choice. Remember that the weather can vary and snowfall on this continent can be less predictable in April, especially in lower-altitude regions and areas closer to the coast. However, plenty of locations will see snow around this time, so just be sure to do your research.
Before settling on the best ski resort for Easter, it’s advisable to check the conditions and open slopes specific to that area. To help you narrow down your list, here are some of the countries in Europe where you’re most likely to find snow in April.
Switzerland
If you fancy following up your sessions on the slopes with Gruyère and some of the best hot chocolate known to man, Switzerland offers all of that and much more. For the postcard-perfect traditional European skiing experience punctuated by snow-capped mountains, Eastern Switzerland is your best bet. In particular, the Swiss Alps provide an undeniably picturesque backdrop for late-season skiing.
Austria
Austrian ski resorts are situated at elevations that allow for late-season skiing, with long snow seasons. Glacier resorts, in particular, can provide reliable snow conditions. You’ll also get to partake in the country’s cosy Gemütlichkeit ritual, while nursing a tasty Glühwein.
Italy
Head to The Beautiful Country if you fancy living ‘la dolce vita’ as you traverse extraordinary jagged mountain landscapes. After all, where better to re-energise on slow-releasing carbs than the land of pasta itself? Resorts in the highly Instagrammable Italian Dolomites may still have snow in April. Other areas near the border with Switzerland and France, such as the Italian Alps, also offer good late-season skiing.
Norway
Home of the apres ski tradition, Norway can experience snowfall in April, especially in the northern regions. Destinations like Tromsø and the surrounding areas may still have winter conditions, so your winter fantasies can live on among incredible scenery, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and jaw-dropping fjords.
France
Looking for gastronomy, chic resorts and infrastructure that’s always moving with the times? The French Alps, which can offer snow cover in April, could be your best bet. This extensive area, in the country that gave après ski its official name, is known for its variety of terrain and vibrant alpine atmosphere.
Scotland
The dramatic natural beauty of Scotland is pretty unbeatable for some of the most magical vistas you could hope to see on the slopes. Luckily, many areas in the Scottish Highlands can still have skiable terrain around April, with a heartfelt welcome always guaranteed in this famously friendly country. If you time it right, you might even spot the Northern Lights.
Spain
Spain isn’t just about sun-soaked beaches and taking things at a slower pace; it’s also a fantastic destination for Easter skiing. If you head to areas such as the Pyrenees, Cantabrian Mountains or Iberian System, you get to enjoy a delightful combination of winter sports and vibrant Mediterranean culture, with all the warmth of Spanish hospitality.
The best resorts for Easter skiing
To help you shortlist the best ski resorts for Easter snow, here are some notable recommendations across the world.
Verbier, Switzerland
Known for its sunny weather and varied terrain, Verbier offers the ideal mix of springtime warmth and lingering snow. The resort’s après-ski scene is a bonus for those looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Arapahoe Basin, USA
Colorado’s Arapahoe Basin is worth mentioning for its typically extensive ski season, with late-season snow and challenging terrain. It’s famed for its steep terrain, the East Wall, and the notorious Pallavicini run.
Cervinia, Italy
Connected to Zermatt in Switzerland, Cervinia is an Italian resort with a high-altitude setting. The Matterhorn Glacier provides excellent skiing conditions even in the late season.
Engelberg, Switzerland
Engelberg is a classic Swiss ski resort, with a top elevation that ensures good snow conditions through April. The challenging off-piste terrain and stunning alpine scenery add to its popularity.
Les Deux Alpes, France
Les Deux Alpes is renowned for its high-altitude skiing and extensive glacier area. The resort offers a variety of slopes, and the ability to ski at elevations above 3,500 metres contributes to its late-season appeal.
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl, Austria
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl is one of Austria’s highest ski resorts, which is why you can count on its reliable snow conditions. The wide-open slopes and breathtaking mountain views make it an attractive choice for Easter skiing.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
A playground for the rich and famous, St. Moritz not only offers glamour and luxury amenities, it’s also a high-altitude resort with world-class skiing. The Engadin Valley provides pristine slopes among majestic peaks, with late-season snow reliability.
La Grave, France
La Grave is renowned for its off-piste and backcountry skiing, for those who like a challenge and to make their mark on fresh snow. This haven in the French Alps combines raw beauty with wild, ungroomed terrain, against a charming mountain village.
Andermatt, Switzerland
A national gem located in the Urseren Valley, Andermatt is a top pick for an alpine adventure and upscale amenities. The steep Gemsstock slopes challenge experts, while interconnected ski areas offer varied terrain.
Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Cairngorms National Park gives you a distinctive Scottish skiing experience with stunning vistas and crisp mountain air, where the winter landscape transforms into a serene wonderland that can last well into April. In fact, this particular area is the snowiest part of the UK.
Val Thorens, France
As Europe’s highest ski resort, the French Alps’ Val Thorens sits pretty at 2,300 metres, promising excellent snow conditions and panoramic views. It’s part of the expansive Three Valleys ski area, so skiers of all abilities can find their groove here.
Best value Easter ski resorts
Skiing at Easter doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some wallet-friendly options that don’t compromise on the thrill of the slopes.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Tucked away in the Pirin Mountains, Bansko seamlessly blends traditional Bulgarian charm with modern amenities. The cobbled streets and traditional architecture of the town provide a cultural backdrop to your adventures on the slopes.
Sierra Nevada, Spain
If you want to absorb Spanish culture from a different perspective of the Costa del Sol, this resort in the historic city of Granada won’t disappoint. It’s not uncommon to find snow on the slopes here in April, with a longer ski season due to its high elevation.
Jasna, Slovakia
Nestled in the Low Tatras, Jasna is the largest ski resort in Slovakia. It offers a variety of slopes for all levels and modern facilities. The proximity to the picturesque Demanovska Valley enhances the resort’s allure.
Poiana Brasov, Romania
Poiana Brasov is acknowledged as a skiing jewel in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains. This resort has well-groomed runs for novices and confident skiers alike, with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Bormio, Italy
Bormio, situated in the Italian Alps, provides a good balance between quality skiing and budget-friendly options. The town has a thermal spa, adding an extra layer of relaxation to your ski trip.
Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Kranjska Gora is an idyllic resort in Slovenia’s Julian Alps. Known for its affordability, it’s an excellent choice for families and those looking for a more mellow skiing experience.
Gudauri, Georgia
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, Gudauri in Georgia offers affordable skiing with a unique cultural twist. The resort sits in the strikingly beautiful Caucasus Mountains.
Get skiing insurance with SportsCover Direct
If you’re looking to book the picture-perfect skiing break, you’ll want to do as much as possible to ensure that your plans go off without a hitch and that you stay safe on the slopes. While it can’t ever be guaranteed that the unexpected won’t occur, one thing you can control is the financial impact, by getting the right insurance.
SportsCover Direct’s skiing insurance offers three different policy options, with travel insurance, a bolt-on style of protection, or sports accident insurance. It offers cover for incidents such as cancellations, personal accidents, lost or stolen baggage and more.
Read more and get a Skiing Insurance quote online. If you’re not going skiing, but partaking in other winter activities, get a Winter Sports Insurance or Snowboarding Insurance quote here.
This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.
