Bored with Aspen and Courchevel? Do Chamonix and Zermatt seem rather passé?
While we’re all about appreciating those old-time favourites, we equally believe in thinking outside of the square (or the ski resort as the case may be).
And so, while Morocco and Japan may be more renowned for beaches and blossoms than white slopes and ski lifts, they’ve both made our Top 5 list of alternative ski holidays. Charmingly quirky and relatively unknown, these pristine alpine destinations are perfect for those on a budget. True, you may not be sharing a cabin with Posh and Becks. But sometimes these are the sacrifices we backpackers must make…
(And, just quietly, we love the idea of ‘going skiing in Marrakech’…it just screams ‘we know something you don’t’…)
Despite being better known for its summer cherry blossoms than winter snow storms, Japan plays home to some breathtaking winter scenery and unique ski destinations. Located in the heart of the Northern Alps, Hakuba is arguably the most popular of these areas, offering good snow and a range of large ski resorts to choose from.
When? Mid-December to March
Skiing: Hakuba was launched into the public eye after hosting several events at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. Today, you will find a number of these Olympic facilities still in use – most notably the Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium. With an annual snowfall of over 10m, the Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park offers 23 name runs, from beginner to advanced, as well as snowshoe and snowmobile tours.
Aprés ski: There has been a thriving après ski scene in Hakuba ever since the Olympics took place in 1998. Don’t miss a dip in one of the many onsen (hot spring baths) – they’re perfect for washing away those daily aches and pains! Our top pick is Juro No-Yu, open 24 hours a day and located just ten minutes walk from Kamishiro station.
Where to stay: Check out the popular Mt Hakuba Backpackers Hostel, offering budget private and dorm rooms from just €22.55 per night. Free shuttle buses run from the hostel to all 10 ski areas in Hakuba.
Despite being only a two-hour flight from London, Slovenia remains one of the ski world’s best kept secrets. Located on the very north-western point of the country, Kranjska Gora is a popular Alpine destination in the midst of the beautiful Julien Alps.
When? December to February
Skiing: An ideal locale for beginner skiers, Kranjska Gora offers more than 40km of varied runs and cross country tracks. While the most gentle nursery slopes are conveniently located close to the village, more advanced skiers should head for the challenging black pistes of the Podkoren Mountain for their chance to tackle the World Cup slalom run.
Aprés ski: Kranjska Gora offers up a variety of Austrian-style après ski locales perfect for some post-slope wining and dining. Make sure you check out the popular Papa Joe’s restaurant and bar for some great comfort food and live music on the weekend.
Where to stay: Located in the vey heart of Kranjska Gora, Hostel Kekec offers a range of outdoor activities, from ski schools to snow tours, cross country and night skiing. Rooms are available from €15 a night.
Typically associated with such adjectives as ‘balmy’ and ‘humid’, Morocco is rarely credited for its skiing potential. And yet, look out from a balcony in Marrakech and you’ll be greeted by a sight of the beautiful Atlas Mountains looming on the horizon. While it may not be Aspen, it’s sure a great cheap ski holiday alternative.
When? February to April
Skiing: Alright, so it’s certainly not your typical ski destination. There’s no snow-making equipment, no gondolas and no swanky ski shops. And yet, there really is a charm about skiing in Oukaimeden, from the guides selling walnuts and honey to the donkeys that transport you to the slopes. Advanced skiers will be particularly allured by the 3,200m chairlift rising to the peak of Jebel Attar and spurning a range of steep and uncrowded icy slopes.
Aprés ski: While bars and restaurant may be limited, Oukaimedan offers a range of great mountain hikes perfect for some daytime off-piste activity. Look out for ancient etchings in the red sandstone trails (some stem from as far back as 1500BC!)
Where to stay: Why not book a hostel in Marrakech and head out on a daytrip to Oukaimedan? The resort is located only one hour’s drive away from the city centre.
For those travelling on a budget, Borovets in Bulgaria is the perfect cheap ski holiday alternative. Charmingly historic, this winter resort dates back to 1896, yet maintains its place as the biggest and most modern resort in Bulgaria. A great option for beginner skiers.
When? Mid-December – March
Skiing: Borovets offers up a total 35km of skiing pistes perfectly suited to all abilities. For beginners, Borovets Ski School has earned itself a great reputation, with more than 200 instructors available, each one fluent in a variety of different languages. Check out the 5800m Sitnyakovo 1 track for the easiest powder-snow option. At the other end of the spectrum, advanced skiers can enjoy the black runs of Markujik 2 and 3, or even try out a testing World Cup run in the Yastrebets area.
Aprés ski: Choc-a-bloc with bars, cafes, nightclubs and discos, Borovets is the ultimate après ski destination. Recommended party places include Buzz Bar (a British favourite), Black Tiger Bar and Club Slide in the Hotel Mura. Don’t forget to sample the national drink ‘rakia’ (a strong plum brandy) – it’s certainly not for the faint of heart!
Where to stay: Check out the Villapark Apartments for a great budget option, with private rooms available from only €12 per person per night. Situated only 300m from Borovets town centre, the resort comes complete with ski school, indoor swimming pool, steam bath and sauna.
Thanks to Shay Haas, t i g
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