Ski Resort Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Destinations

These ski resort hidden treasures could be just for you if the concept of skiing and snowboarding in an uncluttered alpine environment makes your heart sing. They are the ideal winter escape with reasonably priced lift passes and slopes fit for both novice and experienced riders. Swap Chamonix for Slovakia's great Jasna if lift passes are too steep but Chamonix is your bucket list trip. Hosts World Tour qualifying and attracts freeride aficionados.

1. Fernie Alpine Hotel

Regarding skiing and snowboarding, the globe boasts several great locations. However, there are also several outstanding ski resorts that fall short and let visitors savour a more customised winter vacation. For instance, the powder paradise found at Fernie Alpine Resort in the Canadian Rockies Its famed deep snow and large, wide open lines draw skiers of all kinds who wish to visit a resort that values the surroundings just as much as it values its patrons. With a vibrant downtown in a historic miners' town and a comfortable ski village, the resort is family orientated. From moderate lengthy groomed lines and a learning area near the base and a range of ski-in/ski-out options in town to gnarly chutes and extreme trails off stunning peaks up to 7,000’ that encompass five separate high alpine bowls, it has a tonne of terrain. The resort honours Griz, their snow god, during an early season celebration.

2.La Clusaz

A tiny hidden treasure, this magnificent Alpine town is completely French with rustic Gallic appeal and classic architecture. It's peaceful and pleasant, with lots of activities for all from a great local ski area. The 132 km of slopes spanning five mountain ranges will appeal to beginners and intermediates. With its extensive open wooded runs, the Beauregard massif is a favourite with our guests; a terrific day spent traversing each of the five massifs is always a winner. Popular also are the areas of Croix Fry/Manigod and the Cret de Merle. Considered as Candide Thovex's back yard, the Balme area is worth not missing for off-piste skiing exploration. The hamlet boasts an excellent range of chalets and hotels, full of personality and appeal. One of the fastest and easiest resorts to reach by vehicle from the UK, Geneva airport is less than an hour away.

3.Alpbach

Most of your ski buddies will likely stare blankly when you tell them you are heading to Alpbach this winter. Though small in price, this hidden gem is rich in character; its charming cobblestone alleyways and mouthwatering local eateries will whisk you back to a simpler kind of ski vacation. Said to be the most beautiful village in Austria, Alpbach is really a delight with its small lanes and classic wooden chalets. The village adheres to rigorous 1950's planning guidelines to maintain its genuine Austrian appeal, and the vibrant array of flowers strewn on the window sills and wooden balconies is impressive. Alpbach boasts slopes to fit your abilities regardless of experience level and a vibrant après scene where you could relax with a mulled wine and let the world pass by. It also presents a range of flat designs, all with modern conveniences and stunning views. And Alpbach may be reached in the most environmentally friendly manner with best public transport links.

4.Gerlos

Gerlos offers skiers enough and is right in the middle of Austria's Zillertal Arena. Small enough to feel like a local paradise, the resort boasts a friendly community that lets visitors feel right at home. Still, it provides great slopes and fast access to the larger Zillertal Arena. What distinguishes this resort from its larger rivals is the great spectrum of slopes accessible to all skill levels. There is something here for everyone from lengthy, twisting reds to steep and rapid blacks. The mostly traffic-free slopes and outstanding snow record make this a fantastic destination for beginners and intermediates as well. The town itself is small and quiet, with a family-perfect vehicle-free village centre. The area boasts many chic chalet-style hotels to fit a range of budgets as well. For everyone who like peaceful slopes and reasonably priced lodging, this less well-known ski location is a real hidden treasure!