Aspen, Vale, St Moritz, and Whistler all trip lightly off the tongue when you think about places to go skiing, but what about some of the lesser known destinations for winter sports? There are some fantastic places for winter sports you may never have considered or even heard of, and they might offer as many facilities as some of the bigger well known places, or they might offer the perfectly charming, intimate experience. Check out these lesser known destinations for winter sports and you might just be booking your next ski trip sooner than you imagined.
So you want to go skiing when all your friends are booking summer vacations to tropical islands and paradise beaches? That means heading to the other side of the world! I don’t think anyone needs an excuse to visit New Zealand any time but fabulous skiing calls to any fan of the white stuff. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand whatever the season and there are two (Northern Hemisphere) summer ski resorts within easy reach. Granted, you won’t get as much snow coverage as the Alps of Europe and US, but the slopes are well more than adequate, the scenery is amazing and you also get tons of sunshine. So you may go skiing but your tan will be just as good as your bestie’s who went to Palm Beach.
Queenstown, New Zealand is a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts looking for something a bit different than the usual ski resorts in Europe and the United States. Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand and offers two summer ski resorts for those looking to hit the slopes during the summer months. Although the snow coverage is not as extensive as what you'd find in the Alps, the slopes are still more than adequate and the scenery is breathtaking. Plus, you get the added bonus of sunshine while you ski.
Queenstown is a great destination for those looking for a unique skiing experience. The town itself is full of adventure activities such as bungee jumping, canyon swinging, jet boating, and more. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore when you're not on the slopes.
Oukaimeden is a small resort village located in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. It is the highest ski resort in Africa, boasting ski lifts that take visitors up to 3,200 meters in elevation. The resort is ungroomed and unkempt, making it an ideal destination for experienced skiers and boarders who are looking for a challenge. Despite its rugged terrain, the resort offers a variety of facilities, including ski lifts, restaurants, and even donkeys to help transport people up the mountain if the lifts break down.
The village of Oukaimeden is also a great place to explore Moroccan culture. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, explore the small villages, and sample traditional Moroccan cuisine. The resort is also home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, mountain goats, and eagles.
Oukaimeden is a great destination for those looking for a unique winter sports experience. With its rugged terrain, stunning views, and traditional culture, it is a great destination for those looking for an adventure. Whether you're a skier or snowboarder, Oukaimeden is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Cerro Castor, located in Ushuaia, Argentina, is the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts looking for a unique experience. This is the closest you can get to skiing in Antarctica without actually setting foot on the frozen continent.
Cerro Castor is renowned for having the longest winter sports season in the world. Skiers and snowboarders of all abilities are welcome, with both marked runs and 30 kilometers of off-piste terrain available. The surrounding landscape is stunning, making Cerro Castor a great choice for those looking for a wilderness skiing adventure.
The ski resort is located at an altitude of 1,050 meters, with the highest point at 1,550 meters. The snowfall averages between one and two meters per year, making for some excellent skiing conditions. The season usually runs from late June to early October, with the peak season being in August.
The resort offers a variety of amenities, including ski and snowboard rentals, ski schools, and a ski shop. There is also a cafeteria and a restaurant with a panoramic view of the mountains.
Do any of these lesser known destinations for winter sports take your fancy? Are you heading off to the slopes this year?