Picking a ski holiday destination to suit your aspirations is not always the easiest thing to do. If you are prioritising off-piste skiing, there are a few excellent countries in Europe for this. Off-piste skiing allows you to escape the crowds and explore stunning areas, so you always want to make sure that you choose somewhere with great skiing and natural beauty, as well as strong infrastructure for off-piste skiing.
Off-piste skiing can take different forms. You can utilise the lift system and ski off-piste close to the groomed slopes, or you can discover the best powder by ski touring. If you are not experienced at off-piste skiing it’s a good idea to join on to a course to learn more, or book a guide. There are obvious dangers of off-piste skiing, compared to skiing on the pistes, so it pays to be cautious.
Here are some of the best countries in Europe for off-piste skiing.
France: The Mecca of Off-Piste Skiing
France is considered to be the Mecca of off-piste skiing, with many excellent places offering a variety of terrain and easily accessible areas. The most popular off-piste areas include Chamonix and La Grave, which provide off-piste terrain suitable for all abilities. You can also benefit from skilled guides and instructors who can help you make the most of your off-piste experience and discover the best areas.
Switzerland: High Altitude & Deep Snow
Switzerland is world-famous for its skiing and is considered one of the best places for off-piste skiing, thanks to the high altitude of the resorts and reliable snowfall. Verbier and Andermatt are excellent destinations for off-piste skiing – and they attract powder hounds from all over the world each year due to the excellent conditions, well-developed infrastructure and breathtaking views.
Austria: Hidden Gems & Powder Heaven
Austria is another premier ski spot with many excellent places to choose from. St Anton is one of the most popular skiing spots in Europe, but the off-piste areas are generally quiet, allowing for a more peaceful experience than on the slopes.
Lech Zurs is another hidden gem with great powder and well-developed infrastructure. Austria is also regarded for its apres-ski, so after a fun day of off-piste adventures, you can let your hair down with a few drinks and a nice meal.
Bulgaria: Affordable & Adventurous Ski Holidays
Bulgaria might not be the first place that springs to mind for a ski holiday, but it is rapidly emerging as one of the best places for skiing in Europe. For those seeking both adventure and value, Bulgaria ski holidays offer an enticing blend of affordability and off-piste excitement thanks to its affordable resorts, such as Bansko and Borovets.
Additionally, these resorts are excellent for off-piste skiing, with varied terrain, including deep powder fields and tree runs. Local guides can also provide off-piste tours, which are a great way to find the best spots. Borovets is the oldest ski resort in Bulgaria. It has good snow retention and breathtaking views of the Rila Mountains. The resort also has extended hours, allowing for night skiing, which can be a unique and thrilling experience under the stars.
If you are seeking an unforgettable off-piste adventure, these are the countries that should be on your shortlist. Off-piste skiing can give you a completely different experience to hitting the slopes and allows you to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. These are all places renowned for their off-piste skiing, each with its own distinct characteristics and other activities to enjoy on your next skiing holiday.
