Six Offbeat Ski Destinations Around the World

There is nothing quite like the thrill of the slopes. One of the great unifying sports of the world, skiing crosses cultures and borders in a blaze of brilliant white adrenalin. Join us on a whirlwind journey through some of our insider destinations to experience snow sports in a new exciting location. As the ski season begins in earnest consider a true sporting adventure across the globe.  This is life beyond Verbier!

1). Aviemore, Scotland

Aviemore near Inverness is a budget (and Brexit) friendly and stunning option for skiing - Aviemore is the new Alps! Snow is guaranteed from November to April. We love the hygge charm of the Killiehuntly Hotel, restored by a Danish couple and a haven of Scandi warmth - the farm to fork dishes, many of which come from the 4,000 acre estate are the perfect post-slopes feast.

2). Niseko, Japan

Niseko is a pride of Japan. Set like an oriental snow globe on the pristine northern island of Hokkaido, this resort is consistently voted the best in the country. The celebrated powder fine snow falls on average 15-18 metres per season. While now frequated by an international crowd, Niseko still retains the thrill of skiing in an out-of-the-box location. A great pro is that the resort caters extremely well to families with abundant English-speaking childcare available. Sapporo Airport is a short 1 hour 45 minute flight from Tokyo but another world. The wild horses of the area are not to be missed.

3). Antarctica

For those with the deepest pockets and wanderlust, there can be no greater frontier than skiing in the throes of Antarctica. If you have mastered blue or black runs and willing to undertake ‘training in roped glacier travel and crevasse rescue’ then this could be the ultimate thrill seek. Take on virgin ski slopes alongside watching humpback whales, penguins and leopard seals. The 28-day experience includes a three day yacht charter from Argentina (and the flight from London to Buenos Aires)

4). Tiffindell, South Africa

Did you know that you can ski in South Africa? Tiffindell is an insider gem - a year-round Alpine resort is the only one in the country and faces its highest mountain, Ben Mcdhui. For the novelty of skiing in the British summer, the best season is June-August. Apres-ski is Ice Station 2720, the most elevated pub in South Africa.

5). Narkanda, India

While Kashmir’s Gulmarg is India’s best known ski resort, the state of Himachal Pradesh boasts a jewel of a snow sports destination in Narkanda. Hatu Peak, an amazing 12,000 feet above sea level is called paradise on earth and the nearby slopes are suitable for all levels. Gorgeous fir forests and orchards line the runs of this resort on the old Hindustan-Tibet road with panoramic views of the snow ranges. Stay at Oberoi Wildflower Hall, a two hour scenic drive away for a flavour of Alpine bliss on the subcontinent.

6). Changbaishan Mountains, China

China offers a fabulous ski experience at the Hyatt Regency, near Changbaishan Mountains, not far from the North Korean border. Called the best ski resort in China by its many devotees, this is a gloriously offbeat location to hit the slopes. Only 30 minutes from the airport, this is deeply rustic country with a strong Korean influence found in the food. Dive into the hot spring mineral pool after treatments at the wonderful Shui Liao Spa. The nearby Tianchi (meaning heavenly) Lake has to be one of the most spectacular on the planet.

For more information, or to start planning your winter adventure, please contact us:

info@ampersandtravel.com // +44 (0) 207 819 9770