You may think ski resorts pack up for the summer months given the snow has all melted. However, a majority of resorts are open for business throughout the summer, offering amazing deals where you’ll practically have the place to yourself! So, if you’re prepared for an alternative summer holiday, then check out the best ski resorts to visit in 2019:
Davos, Switzerland
Davos is a woodland area in the Swiss Alps, making it an excellent spot for walking, fishing, paragliding, horse riding and rock climbing to name a few. It’s also ideal for water sports lovers who can engage in a number of activities on the lake.
Prices can be steep, but if you’re visiting in the summer then you should be able to snap up a deal or two. There’s a great selection of modern chalets and apartments which are ideal for families. The area itself includes a supermarket, train station, cinema and even a few bars and clubs.
Gressoney Valley, Italy
Gressoney Valley is known as one of Italy’s hidden pleasures. With beautiful pine trees, mountain peaks and the blue Alpine lakes, there’s everything you’d need for a relaxing summer break. If you head outside the resort, you’ll also find lots of pizzerias serving up delicious Italian cuisine as well as ancient villages and towns. Because this place is regarded as one of Italy’s hidden pleasures, it’s relatively tricky to get to, so you’ll need to hire a car and bring a travel pillow with you for the winding journey.
Luz Saint Sauveur, Midi Pyrenees, France
This enormous dip of the glacial valley is surrounded by striking, Tolkienesque peaks. It’s just as popular with walkers in the summer as it is with skiers in the winter. You can pay a visit to some famous sites around the area including the cirque and the Romanesque churches. Just uphill, there’s a new town which features shops, a cinema, cafes, bars and clubs.
Collalbo, Italian Tyrol
Collalbo features stunning farms, woodlands and an unpolluted atmosphere so you can really breathe in the fresh air. This region of Italy has endless coffee shops, bars and even a bus service (though it can be a little unreliable). If you love walking, try to 3,000 metre Rittnerhorn peak. Collalbo is an amazing place for avid mountain lovers to enjoy some downtime.
Obertauern, Austria
When the slopes aren’t covered in powder snow, Obertauern is a wonderful place for couples and families to visit in the summertime. The sunshine turns this resort into an adventure playground. With its miraculous mountain setting, there’s plenty to do here if you’re a lover of outdoor activities. From mountain biking to fishing, you’ll never be bored.
Meribel, France
Perhaps one of the most popular skiing resorts in France, Meribel is a hub for skiing fanatics and mountaineers alike. Come summer, the region comes alive with wildflower meadows and tourists looking for an alternative summer break. There are paragliding, white water rafting and lots of other adrenaline-filled activities available. You’ll also be able to make the most of the sports centre from the 1992 Winter Olympics.