Great Summer Ski in Courchevel Ski Resort

Les Trois Vallees (literally: The Three Valleys) is the most famous and largest ski area in the world. Knowing that, one would expect to find commodities for every type of skier and snowboarder, and noone will be disappointed. The experienced skiers choose the areas that have been labeled as “red runs” and “black runs.” There are 43 red runs, totalizing 35km of fun, and 11 black runs for 9km of challenge. The novices who are still learning about skiing can go to one of the 16 “green runs” or the 34 “blue runs.” There are also themed areas where parents accompany their children, such as the ZEN (zones exclusively for beginners) and the Indians piste, where there is a chief of a tribe leading new skiers around the tepee village in a hunt for a treasure. In addition to their own slopes, children have their own lifts, and child care is also readily available. Courchevel is certainly a resort where families are warmly welcomed and well catered for, since a special attention is put on the security of all. Beginners, kids as well as adults, can get lessons in their own language from one of the 700 ski instructors. Also, it is well understood that snowboarding and skiing are different sports and therefore, each gets its distinct space. The snowpark is equipped with a myriad of jumps and rails that will keep even the most experienced boarder busily happy. Of course, cross-country skiers also have their own space, and a large one that is! More than 60km of trails have been laid out for them across the resort. Summer skiing is however slightly different from winter skiing, and will be found as a bit of a challenge for newcomers. Serious skiers have to go to the Glacier de Peclet for exciting slopes and the new skiers have to visit the Bellecote glacier at La Plagne (which can be reached from Courchevel through the Champagny en Vanoise). The left part of the Grande Motte is also, among the regulars, a favorite area for summer skiing. The town of Courchevel is suited for all kinds of travelers and sportsmen/women. Romantic couples, families, extreme adventurers, and nature lovers will all be equally satisfied. The locals are welcoming and offer plenty of services and activities. All kinds of mountain sport equipment can be rented and visitors can indulge themselves in a spa or wellness center. It is a full ski vacation experience that is offered in Courchevel, in summer as much as in winter. Therefore, visitors count on tasting the real French life and take part to the famous apres ski activities, or dine in one of the many restaurants of the resort serving genuine French cuisine. There is much more than summer skiing in Courchevel during the warmer months! The Vanoise National Park is right by, where tons of hiking, bird watching and other activities are possible. Fishing is permitted in the Lac du Praz where, with a bit of luck, salmon and rainbow trout can be caught. The lake is close to the famous Olympic ski jump and it is the most accessible lake in Courchevel. Add to those activities golf, mountaineering, paragliding, horseback riding and skiing, and you get a more than full summer mountain vacation. Courchevel has many accommodation options to offer. There are numerous four-star hotels, which all offer excellent amenities and have high standards of service quality. Often, the same impeccable service can also be obtained in other types of Courchevel’s accommodations. Solo travelers usually go to the residences and hostels to meet new friends. But whether you are traveling with your friends or your family, if comfort is the most important aspect in choosing accommodations, you must take a serious look to the “Chalets Grand Confort”. It means, translated literally, all-comfort cottage, a comfortable country cottage, with extra space, privacy and autonomy. One very interesting up-side of choosing such type of lodging is that, like all Courchevel hotels, chalets have a swimming pool and a close by Fun Park. Whether you choose to visit Courchevel during summer or winter, whether you ski or snowboard, whether you stay in a hotel or an apartment, you will certainly have a blast with your friends or family because Courchevel is really a year-round multi-purpose resort!

Escape the Crowds in Western Canadaâ??s Local Ski Resorts

Make this year’s winter ski vacation one to remember by getting away to a hidden gem of Western Canada. While the crowds flock to big-brand resorts, you’ll be waist-deep in North America’s best powder with no lines to get in your way of making fresh tracks.

Canada ski vacations have it all: snowy landscapes of mountains, valleys, and glacial lakes; deepest and most consistent snow; internationally known parties and resortsâ?¦ and the crowds who love them.

So, for a line-free ski vacation this winter, consider one of Western Canadaâ??s lesser known gems. They may not have Whistlerâ??s glitz and glamour, but locals in the know find the best powder here. FernieWhere is it? In the Canadian Rockies, a 3.5 hour drive from Calgary International Airport and an hour and 15 minutes from Cranbrook, BC (served by Time Air and Air BC). The town of Fernie is five minutes away. Why you should go: This world-class ski area is known among locals as the powder capital of the Rockies â?? the snow is excellent. In addition, the ski area has recently been redeveloped to offer more accommodation (including ski-in/ski-out) and vast new terrain. It features a vertical drop of 2811 ft/857 m, 2500 acres of skiiable terrain on 106 trails, and 348 inches of snow a year. Sun PeaksWhere is it? In BCâ??s interior, 4.5 hours from Vancouver along the scenic Coquihalla Highway, and 45 minutes from Kamloops. Why you should go: Sun Peaks is friendly and fun, with great snow, blue skies, and lots of trails. It features a vertical drop of 2891 ft/881 m, 3678 acres of skiing terrain on 117 runs, with 220 inches of snow a year.Kicking HorseWhere is it?Above the town of Golden in the Canadian Rockies, 3.5 hours west of Calgary (a scenic drive through Banff and Yoho national Parks). Why you should go: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is the Rockiesâ?? newest alpine resort and already gaining notoriety as offering â??the champagne of powders,â? the lightest and driest snowâ? , as well as the second longest ski-out in Canada. It features a vertical drop of 4133 ft/1260 m, 2600 acres of skiing terrain over 78 trails, with 275 inches of snowfall a year. Red MountainWhere is it? In southern BC just outside of Rossland, 2.5 hours from Spokane, Washington, or 7.5 hours from Vancouver or Calgary. Why you should go:Known for its powder and terrain over two mountains â?? Red and Granite â?? Red Mountain Resort appeals to skiers and boarders alike, and particularly those looking for a thrill. It features a vertical drop of 2909 ft/887 m, 1686 acres of terrain on over 87 runs, and 300 inches of snowfall a year.Panorama Mountain Village ResortWhere is it? Located on the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies, Panorama is a 3.5 hour drive from Calgary International Airport and 2 hours south-west of Banff.Why you should go: Panorama has its relatively remote location in the Purcell Mountains to thank for the lack of crowds plaguing other resorts in the Rockies. It features a vertical drop of 4000 ft/1220 m (the highest in the Canadian Rockies), 119 trails and 187 inches of snow a year.

Whether youâ??re taking to the slopes for the first time, or looking for an expert thrill, these mountains have it all. Fewer crowds mean more time on the mountains, so get outside this winter with these unknown gems.

Great Aspen Resort Ski Resorts for your Next Vacations

When you think of all the ski resorts in the world one of them stands out in your mind. Aspen offers a variety of ski areas for all levels of skiers and it covers 4,500 acres or more spread over four mountains. This resort is known for its nightlife because of the downtown area and the quieter Snowmass resort area has something to offer everyone.

Aspen provides all the restaurants and bars you could ever want or need You can take a stroll through this luxurious city and find many boutiques and much more. There is a lot of history in many of the buildings that are in the downtown area. One of these buildings is the Ute bank; this building can be
dated back to the silver area around the 1800’s.

With everything that there is to do in Aspen you should not find yourself getting bored. Aspen is located in Colorado, and with the various mountain ranges, you are sure to find slopes that are suitable for your level. Snowmass is one of the most popular resorts in the world, so be sure to make reservations well in advance.

Family Ski Destinations

Aspen Mountain has long been known as the playpen of the rich and famous and it truly is. But it is also a great place to take a family ski vacation. Christmas
in Aspen is especially wonderful! Aspen Mountain rises above the town of Aspen, with a top elevation of 11215 feet and a vertical drop of 3269 feet. There are 76 trails suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experts, accessible by eight lifts, including seven chair lifts and one cable car line.

While Aspen has much to offer skiers, as well as those who enjoy the night life in a ski town, you should expect lots of crowds and lift lines on the slopes. Again, this is the playpen of the rich and famous, and many people choose this ski vacation spot simply for that reason – as well as for the great
runs and nightlife.

There are numerous places to stay in and around Aspen, with more than 100 restaurants to choose from as well. Ski instructions and equipment rental
are abundant in the area, and snowboarders are welcome.

Ideal Spots for a Perfect Ski Holiday

Old Man Winter is here! Ski-lovers and would-be ski enthusiasts long for this time of year to arrive so that they can plan and enjoy the ski holiday of their dreams. If this is your first ski holiday, get ready for the time of your life.

Skiing is getting more and more popular each year. It is a time honored tradition for many people around the world. Anyone can enjoy ski holidays, even if you have never been on the slopes before. Whether you are a single traveler, or traveling with the entire family, you will have fun racing down the slopes.

Switzerland: Where You Can Enjoy The Ski Holiday Of A Lifetime

Switzerland is one of the most popular places for travelers from around the world. Curling up in front of a warm fire in one of many cozy ski lodges, is a welcome treat after a long day of skiing down the magnificent Alps. And to top it all off, your ski holiday would be incomplete without a fabulous cup of Switzerland’s famous hot Chocolate.

Consider Spending Your Ski Holidays In Japan

In case you did not know it, Japan is quickly becoming one of the world’s most popular ski vacation destinations, and with good reason. Japan can be proud of its slopes which rival those of the very popular Swiss Alps. And as for Japanese hospitality, it simple cannot be beat. We wholeheartedly recommend Japan to anyone who is planning on taking a ski holiday this, or any, year for that matter. Imagine spending your days on the slopes of semi-private resorts; and your evenings staying warm in private apartments filled with the scent of fresh snow. That’s exactly what awaits in Japan.

Colorado Offers Popular Ski Holidays Closer to Home

Colorado is by far one of the most popular ski holidays places in the United States. It provides lots of wonderful ski resorts which are located in the majestic Rocky Mountains. Colorado has a lot to offer. It provides endless inspirations to both beginners and advanced skiers alike. Every day there is a layer of fresh powder to enjoy.

Regardless of where you choose to go on your ski holiday, if you plan and prepare well, you are bound to be in for a treat. Being prepared means that you should take plenty of warm clothing to keep you warm while on the slopes.

A Ski Holiday Is Family Time Well Spent

There are few better ways to spend valuable time with your family during the winter than enjoying a family ski holiday. Most ski resorts offer something for everyone. From lessons for children as young as three years old; to lessons for adults who have never skied before. Within no time, you feel “at home” on the slopes, and be making memories that will last a lifetime.

Do you enjoy the winter? Then a ski holiday is a wonderful treat you. If you have fresh air, and you are surrounded by friendly faces in a comfortable ski resort, the only question left to ask is: what are you waiting for?

Chablais, Porte Du Soleil Ski Resort

The Chablais Alps is the western portion of the Alps near Lake Geneva in Switzerland zigzags to the Mont Blanc pinnacle. The Col des Montets keeps them from reaching Mont Blanc proper, however. There are several large mountains in the area too. The tallest is Dents du Midi (Mountain Teeth) at 3257 meters, with others like Mont Ruan at 3053 meters and Dents Blanches at 2759 meters. Chablais, Les Portes du Soleil, then, is a sizable quarter of the Chablais Alps housing some thirteen resorts between Mont Blanc in France and Lake Geneva in Switzerland.

Each of the communes offers up their own culture and history, with walking tours, tourist’s offices and true Swiss culture everywhere. It could take days to tour and learn something new about each one. The highest commune, by example, is Avoriaz. This modern area built in the mid-1960s used a lot of materials such as wood and stone from the area, rendering it both attractive and eco-friendlier before the word existed. The other bonus is Avoriaz is pedestrian-friendly with a no car policy. If you’re looking for the most snow in this area, you’ll neither get any better snow nor any higher altitude than here.

Other resorty towns in the area include Morzine at 1000 meters. There’s a traditional market and chalets near the river gorge giving pristine views. Beginners, you’ll find the best skiing here making it one of the best bases for families. Plus, Morzine is bull’s eye center in one of the best regions of the Porte du Soleil for getting around. Not to be confused with Morzine, Morgins is not as crowded as the French side of the ski area. Here, there are also some really nice cozy chalets for families wanting to escape the noise and throngs in higher Chablais Porte du Soleil ski resorts. You’ll find plenty of other resorts with their own ambiance. Champery, Val D’Illiez and Torgon are just a few Swiss resorts that have a different mood you might be looking for.

You’ll not only find contrasts in the resort towns but in the activities extended by each. You’ll almost always get a heartfelt welcome—it seems the farther you traveled, the more balmy the welcome. There are more cultural and historical sites to behold here than any other ski resorts in the area, on either side of the border. There are four ways to get here. You can here in less than an hour from the Geneva airport. You can come from anywhere in Europe by car, by train or even by boat (given that you are on waterways and Lake Geneva).

It’s hard to hold back from a visit when the ski region is so expansive: 14 valleys, 645 square kilometers, 650 of marked ski runs and nearly 230 lifts can keep hundreds of thousands of tourists in good spirits for their entire ski vacation. Though the highest ski lift only takes you up to 2466 meters, the snow cannons jet fresh powder on the runs ensuring great all-day skiing. Different slopes face different ways, with nearly each one offering something for every skill level. If you’re whole family wants to go to Chatel, for example, and find over three main ski areas to choose from—one for Mom, Dad and Child.

In the region of Chablais in the Porte du Soleil, you’ll find the highest lift taking you upwards of 2400 meters to below 1000 meters above sea level. There are over 80 chairlifts and four cable lifts. The 14 gondolas, however, take care of the larger groups in no time at all. If you know your level, you’ll be able to find your marked path. The area was initially developed with beginners in mind, so there are 112 blue runs at hand. With the growth and integration of the ski areas, there are now 146 green runs, quite a few more than beginner runs to date. Additionally, there are 23 red runs and six black runs.

If skiing on your entire vacation has got your legs shaking, then you can try a plethora of other outdoor and indoor activities. In addition to snowboarding, you can snowshoe and hike through the area. There are alpine races, leisure parks and museums and cultural affairs nearly every day of the high ski season. Moreover, the restaurants and bars and après ski options never go dim. You can find something to do anytime you get a hankering to have a great time. And, if you’re in photography, don’t forget you’re in the Rhone Valley, one of the world’s best spots for alpine peaks and landscape photography. The Chablais region of Porte du Soleil is second to none for a skiing vacation. Once you arrive, you and your family will have the best times of your lives.

Keystone Vacations for Everyone

When it’s time to take a ski vacation, or any vacation for that matter, it’s important to go somewhere that will accommodate everyone’s interests, needs, and athletic skill levels. When you don’t want anyone to feel left behind, consider visiting a place like Keystone, Colorado. Here, no one will be too overwhelmed by the mountain’s offerings, and even the pros will find a slope to put them to the test. Keystone is all about variety, so check it out for a vacation during any season of the year.
Winter travelers will be wow-ed by Keystone’s seemingly limitless snow-related activities. Eight months out of the year find the majestic mountains covered in the powdery stuff, and with four different peaks to choose from there’s enough room for everyone to enjoy themselves. Novices will find a place to learn the ropes without fearing for their lives, as instruction is readily available and newcomers are hardly a rare sight. Seasoned skiers will be properly challenged by the thrill rides contained within Arapahoe Basin, so no matter who you are you’ll meet your match in Keystone.
For something different and perfect for all the night owls out there, be aware that Keystone hardly shuts down when darkness falls. Thanks to lots of lights and an omnipresent spirit of adventure, it’s possible to keep the ski fun going long into the evening. This is the largest night park in the state, and it offers skiing, snowshoeing and tubing beneath the gleam of the moon. Nothing compares to speeding through the darkness as the snow takes on an otherworldly sparkle, and this experience cannot be missed.
After a good night’s rest and lots of moonbeam-lit dreams, head back outside for another round. Ice skating and winter hiking make great pastimes, so don’t think it’s all about the skis. If you need some time indoors to stay warm, shop for souvenirs or hit the arcade. Keystone is perfect for families who sometimes find it necessary to split up in order to stay sane and have a great day, so while mom gets a pedicure or a massage, the kids will be entertained by one of the many organized activities going on. Meet back up for hot cocoa and compare stories; everyone is sure to think they’ve had the most fun.
Don’t forget that the warm weather months are also jam-packed with laughs and possibilities, making summer vacations just as eventful as winter ones. Hikes and nature walks are of course must-sees, but don’t forget about mini-golf, hot air balloon rides, canoeing, fly fishing or any of the other balmy, wildflower-accented scenarios you may find yourself living within after the ice has melted. Making your way to a higher altitude this June, July or August could be an excellent way to achieve the summer vacation you’ve always wanted to brag about come September.
After working up a sweat mountain biking or horseback riding, you’ll certainly want to investigate Keystone’s culinary offerings. Several noteworthy restaurants along with a healthy nightlife scene will rev up your après-ski or hot summer night situation, and grocery stores will allow you to pick up a few necessities if you’re interested in creating a few happy hours or dinners of your own design. These will be especially likely if you’re lucky enough to have reserved a vacation property, which will take care of the needs you never even knew you had.
Keystone, more than lots of other destinations, has many vacation rentals to choose from. They range in size, style and price, and will duly allow you and your companions to enjoy yourselves to the fullest extent. Having certain things at your disposal, like a kitchen, master suite, game room and super-cozy fireplace, will make this trip far better than your last.
Cabins, lodges and spacious log town homes have undeniable appeal, especially when nestled before the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, so see what you’ve been missing and go online today. Your Keystone Vacation Rental awaits you, as does a vacation that will truly take you away.

Escape the Crowds in Western Canadaâ??s Local Ski Resorts

Make this year’s winter ski vacation one to remember by getting away to a hidden gem of Western Canada. While the crowds flock to big-brand resorts, you’ll be waist-deep in North America’s best powder with no lines to get in your way of making fresh tracks.

Canada ski vacations have it all: snowy landscapes of mountains, valleys, and glacial lakes; deepest and most consistent snow; internationally known parties and resortsâ?¦ and the crowds who love them.

So, for a line-free ski vacation this winter, consider one of Western Canadaâ??s lesser known gems. They may not have Whistlerâ??s glitz and glamour, but locals in the know find the best powder here. FernieWhere is it? In the Canadian Rockies, a 3.5 hour drive from Calgary International Airport and an hour and 15 minutes from Cranbrook, BC (served by Time Air and Air BC). The town of Fernie is five minutes away. Why you should go: This world-class ski area is known among locals as the powder capital of the Rockies â?? the snow is excellent. In addition, the ski area has recently been redeveloped to offer more accommodation (including ski-in/ski-out) and vast new terrain. It features a vertical drop of 2811 ft/857 m, 2500 acres of skiiable terrain on 106 trails, and 348 inches of snow a year. Sun PeaksWhere is it? In BCâ??s interior, 4.5 hours from Vancouver along the scenic Coquihalla Highway, and 45 minutes from Kamloops. Why you should go: Sun Peaks is friendly and fun, with great snow, blue skies, and lots of trails. It features a vertical drop of 2891 ft/881 m, 3678 acres of skiing terrain on 117 runs, with 220 inches of snow a year.Kicking HorseWhere is it?Above the town of Golden in the Canadian Rockies, 3.5 hours west of Calgary (a scenic drive through Banff and Yoho national Parks). Why you should go: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is the Rockiesâ?? newest alpine resort and already gaining notoriety as offering â??the champagne of powders,â? the lightest and driest snowâ? , as well as the second longest ski-out in Canada. It features a vertical drop of 4133 ft/1260 m, 2600 acres of skiing terrain over 78 trails, with 275 inches of snowfall a year. Red MountainWhere is it? In southern BC just outside of Rossland, 2.5 hours from Spokane, Washington, or 7.5 hours from Vancouver or Calgary. Why you should go:Known for its powder and terrain over two mountains â?? Red and Granite â?? Red Mountain Resort appeals to skiers and boarders alike, and particularly those looking for a thrill. It features a vertical drop of 2909 ft/887 m, 1686 acres of terrain on over 87 runs, and 300 inches of snowfall a year.Panorama Mountain Village ResortWhere is it? Located on the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies, Panorama is a 3.5 hour drive from Calgary International Airport and 2 hours south-west of Banff.Why you should go: Panorama has its relatively remote location in the Purcell Mountains to thank for the lack of crowds plaguing other resorts in the Rockies. It features a vertical drop of 4000 ft/1220 m (the highest in the Canadian Rockies), 119 trails and 187 inches of snow a year.

Whether youâ??re taking to the slopes for the first time, or looking for an expert thrill, these mountains have it all. Fewer crowds mean more time on the mountains, so get outside this winter with these unknown gems.

Have You Ever Considered A Crystal Mountain Ski Vacation?

If you are in or near Washington State, you should definitely check out Crystal Mountain. With an elevation of 7004 feet and a vertical drop of 3102 feet, Crystal Mountain actually sits below Mount Rainier, which has a top elevation of 14,408 feet. Between the months of November and April, several feet of fresh powder falls on Crystal Mountain, due to the cold Cascade storms common to the area.
This is rough terrain, and there is little offered to beginners as far as the ease of the trails go. But lessons are available, as well as rentals for ski’s and other equipment. At Crystal Mountain, there are more than 2300 acres and fifty trails, making this the largest ski area in the state of Washington. There are ten lifts available: 2 high speed six passenger lifts, 2 high speed quads, 2 triple chairs, 3 double chairs, and 1 children’s surface lift.
The season runs from the middle of November to the middle of April, when the most snow fall is experienced. There are several places to choose for lodging, meals, and nightly entertainment, but the biggest attraction is the skiing, of course.
The Crystal Mountain Express Buss service runs on weekends from the middle of December to the middle of March. You will be picked up from your lodge and dropped off at the base plaza – where you can begin a full day of fun on the slopes. After a day of skiing, you should definitely head over to East Peak Massage & Fitness to take advantage of the hot tub, sauna, showers, and even the game room. Massages are also available, with a reservation.
If your kids aren’t quite ready for the black diamond trails – but you are – you can register them in the Kid’s Club. The Kid’s Club is open from 8am to 4pm each day for children aged four to eleven years old. The kid’s aged 4 – 11 will be supervised while they ski on a ‘kid appropriate’ slope, and snowboarding is also available for children aged 7 – 11 years old. Your child will have fun, while being supervised and taught. The cost of the care includes a four hour lesson, a lift ticket, lunch, and supervision. Rental equipment is available for the kids for an additional fee.
Everyone has fun at Crystal Mountain. It is a great place for a family vacation, but again, the slopes are more for intermediate skiers and expert skiers – although beginners will have fun as well. Just use good sense, and avoid trails that you don’t feel like your ready for.