If you can’t wait until the next ski season starts to get back on the slopes, then why not give summer skiing a go? You heard that right, you can ski in summer in Europe – but to find snow in summer you need to know where to go. Despite many ski resorts in Europe closing for the winter season by May, several resorts offer glacier skiing in summer, meaning ski enthusiasts can get their ski fix all year round!
A little closer to home and a lot cheaper than a summer ski trip to the Southern Hemisphere, Europe offers several excellent ski resorts for summer skiing. We have rounded up some of the best summer skiing destinations in Europe for sunshine, glacier skiing and good times!
Les 2 Alpes, France
With a summit reaching an altitude of 3,600 metres, Les 2 Alpes is home to the largest skiable glacier in Europe! The ski area is open every morning from 07.00-12.30 from late April to early July giving you plenty of time to get some good runs in before lunch. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or expert, the 120-hectare glacier offers several mixed-ability marked runs as well as a snow park for freestyle skiing or boarding.
For your free afternoons, there are countless activities to enjoy in Les 2 Alpes. You can go for a round of golf at the scenic 9-hole golf course or participate in a range of other outdoor activities from tennis and horse riding to mountain biking. Les 2 Alpes is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and has a lively atmosphere year-round, making for an excellent summer skiing destination.
Summer skiing opening dates: Late April – Early July*
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is not only one of the top destinations for winter skiing, but it’s also extremely popular for summer skiing. Zermatt boasts the highest ski area in Europe and offers 21km of summer skiing pistes and a snowpark. A 40-minute gondola ride will take you to the top of Klein Matterhorn at an altitude of 3,883 metres where you can ski on the Theodul Glacier. It is recommended to ski early in the morning before the sun is at its strongest for the best conditions.
When you’re done with your early morning ski in the mountains, there is much to keep you occupied in Zermatt, including a 400km hiking trail network for you to explore, with trails for all fitness levels. You can also visit the neighbouring resort of Cervinia or spend an afternoon at the Forest Fun Park and challenge yourself on an obstacle course featuring 31 ziplines.
Summer skiing opening dates: May – November*
Hintertux, Austria
With easy access from Mayrhofen and the rest of the Zillertal Valley, the Hintertux Glacier is Austria’s only year-round ski area. Reaching an altitude of 3,250 metres, the ski area offers runs for skiers and snowboarders of any level but is especially known for its steep and challenging terrain. There are 22km of slopes available for summer skiing which you can access from 9 different lifts.
Once you’re done skiing, you won’t want to miss a visit to Nature’s Ice Palace. This spectacular glacial cave system has a constant temperature of 0ºc and features glacial stalactites, sparkling ice crystals, frozen waterfalls and a glacial lake. Inside the cave, there are several activities that you can try including paddleboarding, kayaking, boating and even ice swimming if you can handle the freezing cold water!
Summer skiing opening dates: Year-round skiing*
Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Saas-Fee is another popular destination for anybody looking to get some skiing in during summer. The Allalin Glacier sits at an altitude of 3,600m and offers year-round snow. During summer, Saas-Fee has a ski area of 20km as well as a snow park and a tubing slope. The area is especially suited to intermediate skiers and is extremely popular with freestylers.
When it comes to afternoon activities there are plenty to choose from in Saas-Fee. If you want an action-packed afternoon, you can go biking or hiking. Or if you’re looking for something a little more cultural, you can visit one of Switzerland’s smallest breweries and learn how to brew your own Gletscher Bräu (Glacier Beer).
Summer skiing opening dates: Mid-July – November*
Passo Stelvio, Italy
The Stelvio Pass, just a 30-minute drive from Bormio, is a historical destination for summer skiing in Italy. In the summer season, there is access to 20km of slopes between the Stelvio Pass at 2,758m and Monte Cristallo at 3,450m served by 6 ski lifts. There is also a cross-country skiing piste on the glacier and several routes for ski touring.
Once the skiing day is over, there is a lot you can do around the Stelvio Pass area. Stelvio National Park is one of the largest national parks in Italy with an impressive area of 321,236 acres. This national park spans over three Italian regions and is home to all kinds of wildlife and landscapes. In Bormio, you will find a variety of activities to keep you entertained on summer nights. Visit one of the wine cellars in the area, attend one of the evening concerts hosted in the historical centre or explore the art exhibitions happening throughout the summer.
Summer skiing opening dates: Late May – November*
Now You Know Where to Go for the Best Summer Skiing in Europe!
With fewer runs to explore and less time spent on the slopes, summer skiing in Europe takes a more relaxed approach than a winter ski trip, allowing you to combine skiing with various other mountain activities and plenty of rest and relaxation. A summer ski trip offers the best of both worlds, combining sun and snow, and makes for an active holiday to remember!
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*Opening dates are subject to change. Please check the official resort website for exact dates.
