The Top 5 Affordable European Ski Resorts

Have you been dreaming of a dream ski holiday on the European slopes but do not want to break the bank? You will be surprised to find cheap catered ski holidays in Austria, Italy, and France. From the small village that will take your breath away to resorts preparing to host the elite in sport and a world of spectators you will find your dream vacation among these European getaways.

Söll, Austria

In the mountains of Austria you will find the bucolic village of Söll where there is a bit of everything for visitors. Boating a traditional village atmosphere Söll attracts first timers, families, and regular visitors seeking a good deal and a homey atmosphere for their ski holiday. After you spend the day on the more than 125 miles (200 kilometres) of ski runs that include beginner, intermediate, and advance pistes and 94 lifts, you will find authentic Tyrolean entertainment, disco bars, tobogganing, night skiing, guided hikes, snowshoe walks and even swimming.  The resort is available through easy access from Innsbruck, Munich and Salzburg.

Schladming, Austria

Once upon a time, Schladming was a modest mining town, entrenched in silver and iron. The village grew into a centre for tourism and sport after the foundation of the Schladming Winter Sports Club in 1908. Now the resort town hosts events such as the Special Olympics, Alpine World Cup amid its 25 lifts (8 chair lifts, 15 surface lifts) that offers skiers an incredible 3802 feet (1159 meters) of vertical descent. Best suited for intermediate skiers and snowboards, the resort has some terrain for beginners but not much for advance skiers.  There are 156 miles (250 kilometres) of cross country ski trails as well as a terrain park and 3 half pipes. Excitement and anticipation fill the air at Schladming as they grow, upgrade and prepare for the 2013 World Championship. Grab your ski and parka, buckle in your bindings, and get lost in the bliss of this little hamlet.

Sestriere, Italy

There are few places you can travel on an affordable budget and experience the magical surroundings an alpine community, an Olympic village, and playground to all who venture through its milky way. Once owned by Giovanni Agnelli (owner of Fiat), Sestriere was developed in 1930 specifically for the use as a ski resort. There are 249 miles of runs located on northwest facing slopes as well as fine dining and cuisine, piano bars, and other varied nightclubs. Host to the Olympics, World Cup, Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, Sestriere is in love with sports and the elite competitor. Your visit here will be a premiere skiing retreat with bits and pieces of so much more.

Selva, Italy

In northern Italy with in the province of South Tyrol is the idyllic resort town of Selva, Escape to the Alps with a luxurious ski vacation in Selva di Val Gardena. Gorgeous mountains loom over world-class hotels and quaint bed & breakfasts, all dedicated to giving you the most indulgent stay imaginable. Accommodations consist of   4 or 5 star hotels, a small family run hotel, from the bed & breakfast to the cosy private apartment. Local craftsmen pore over intricate woodcarvings that have come to epitomize the artistry of Selva. Activities at Selva include hiking, heli-skiing, mountain biking, paragliding, billiards, bowling, fun court, golf, horseback riding, ice hall, indoor football, indoor tennis, squash, and shooting. The resort enjoys a spectacular combination of all that is best of both Italian and Austrian traditions, while proudly retaining its local Ladino culture. The local cuisine is a wonderful blend of Austrian and Italian specialties and there is a range of restaurants. A brilliant mix of Italian old country and Bavarian village, Selva will capture your heart on a budget.

Les Deux Alpes, France

In France, visitors can ski the largest glacier in Europe at France’s second oldest ski resort 44 miles (71 kilometres) southeast of Grenoble.Les Deux Alpes offers approximately 137 miles (220 kilometres) of groomed runs and a 7546 feet (2,300 meter) vertical drop. The resort is a snowboarder’s fantasy come true with a half pipe, multiple kickers, two boarder cross courses, and many grinding rails. The resort is in a state of growth and remodels each season, adding new features for both skiers and snowboarders alike.