Once a skier, always a skier!

Yes, ski addicts are an enthusiastic bunch and although the snowfall in Europe was patchy last year and the cost of living continues to go up, thousands of Brits are still heading for the slopes.  With the busiest time in the ski calendar fast approaching and the snow now starting to fall – so are the prices!

With many low cost carriers now flying to Europe, a new charter flight operating from both Manchester and Gatwick to Calgary and the Eurostar, skiers now have an array of cheaper travel options at their fingertips. And with a mix of accommodation options, ranging from catered for chalets and hotels to lodges and self catering apartments, they can choose the one to suit their budget. 

Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced skier and whether you are travelling as a family or as part of a group, I can recommend the best resort for you.  Traditional or purpose built, family friendly, with additional children's activities and childcare options or lively with great Apres Ski - there are so many resorts to choose from and each has its own particular style and personality.

The discounts from the operators are now coming through, not only for travel over Christmas and the New Year but right through to the end of the season and they are adding in some excellent value added benefits, such as double discounts, free child places, free first class rail travel and 2 for 1 lift passes to name just a few.  There is still even availability for February half term, the main week for families.

I have put together 3 top ski holiday suggestions for you:-

1. Are/Sweden – Slopes to suit the absolute beginner to the expert jibber! A ski holiday in Are delivers a relaxed yet stylish experience for the skier whether they be part of a family or single. With a 10km frozen lake surrounding by sweeping mountains you can also enjoy many other winter activities such as dog sledding and zip lining across frozen waterfalls.
2. Sestriere/Italy – for a high altitude, super snowy break, ski-until-your legs-give-out cosmopolitan break. With Olympic runs, night skiing and incredible restaurants this is the place for a truly relaxing ski break.
3. Les Menuires/France – Access to the largest ski area in the world. Endless miles of piste and 275 runs - it has something for everyone. Les Munieres has its own nursery slopes for beginners and families, whilst the more experienced will enjoy the fast runs up the mountain at Val Thorens.

So why not take to the slopes – early December in Austria for just £379 and be back in time for Santa, or let someone else do the Christmas dinner this year and enjoy Andorra for just £389 or even party in the New Year in Italy from just £569.

Contact me, Jill Wilson, your local Co-operative Personal Travel Advisor, to find out more.