There are more affordable options out there (Picture: Getty Images)
With ski hire, a slope pass, accommodation and flights – not to mention all the après – skiing can add up to a rather expensive holiday.
But in a bid to help bank balances everywhere, Skyscanner has unveiled a list of some of the best budget ski destinations, for those wanting to experience the slopes – but are cautious of the costs.
Lots of the named locations are under-the-radar spots – so are more affordable than the in-demand star players of the ski world.
And with early snowfall in the Alps this week, it’s clear that ski season is fast-approaching, so there’s never been a better time to get planning.
Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s destinations and trends expert, says: ‘The words “ski trip” can make any bank balance break out in a cold sweat. But having an amazing time on the slopes doesn’t have to cost a small fortune.
‘These less popular ski resorts in Europe offer plenty of fun in exchange for your precious pounds.’
These are the eight best budget ski destinations for 2023, along with the cheapest Skyscanner prices…
Les Houches, France
Looks pretty idyllic (Picture: Getty Images)
Laura says: ‘Les Houches in France is perfect for leisure skiers with its stunning view of the Mont Blanc Valley – plus if you’re after something a bit more fast paced both in terms of après and the slopes, Chamonix is only 8km away. ‘
However, with a week’s ski pass in Chamonix costing around €300 (£262) during peak season, you’ll make a hefty saving by skiing a little way down the valley at this spot.
Return flights from London to Geneva from £47
Vogel, Slovenia
Stunning (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
This is a more family-friendly option, offering more peaceful slopes and stunning surroundings.
Laura says: ‘Overlooking Lake Bohinj, this Slovenia spot is part of the Triglav national park offering a beautiful and peaceful trip.’
Return flights from London to Ljubljana from £51
Jasná Nízke Tatry, Slovakia
Jasna could be your next destination (Picture: Getty Images)
For a wider range of runs, Slovakia’s Jasná Nízke Tatry boasts world-class skiing facilities without the crowds.
It’s also Slovakia’s biggest ski resort – home to more than 1,000m of runs and pistes.
Return flights from London to Poprad for £28
Livigno, Italy
The small town of Livigno – a jewel of the Lombard Alps (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Laura explains that duty-free zone Livigno offers excellent slopes for intermediate skiers.
She says: ‘For off-piste adventures look no further than Livigno, Italy. It has an excellent terrain park with pro-sized jumps as well as rails and kickers for mere mortals.’
Return flights from London to Milan Bergamo for £26
Söll, Austria
Snowy hill in Söll overlooking the town(Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
‘On the other end of the spectrum, Söll in Austria is relatively quiet and affordable, so ideal for families and new skiers,’ adds Laura.
For those not clued-up, Söll is a small village in Tirol, often overshadowed by Kitzbuhel – which means it’s still relatively quiet and affordable.
Music to a money-saver’s ears.
Return flights from London to Munich for £84
Grandvalira, Andorra
(Picture: Getty Images)
While most head to the Alps to ski, some locals within France and Spain prefer to stay within the southwest, explains Laura.
This mountain paradise is the largest in Andorra with more than 210km of runs. But there’s fun away from the pistes too, with a zip line, alpine coaster and freeride area to enjoy.
Borovets, Bulgaria
One for the youngsters (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Along with its cousins, Bansko and Pamporovo, the ski resort of Borovets is ideal for a bargain hunter.
It’s also a spot for those of enjoy the après, just as much as the skiing.
Laura continues: ‘The price of food and drink in-and-around the slopes is reasonable and it’s popular with the younger ski crowd who come to party. Borovets in Bulgaria is also known for its lively après-ski if that’s what you’re after.’
Return flights from London to Sofia for £26
Poiana-Brasov, Romania
You can’t argue with this winter landscape (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Poiana Brasov is Romania’s biggest mountain resort and is also one of the nicest – with glistening slopes and pine trees for your backdrop.
Plus, with 24km of ski runs, there’s lots to get stuck into.
Laura says: ‘The nearby village has plenty of accommodation options and restaurants, with traditional Romanian fare and mulled wine keeping you warm at night. If you’re looking for day trips away from the slope, you’re only 14km from the medieval city of Brasov and 23km from Dracula’s Castle.’
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