Top Ski Resorts: Finding the “Right” Snow For You
Updated: Nov 18
Skiing is and always will be a luxury. Even more so with global warming. Which makes finding the right location more important than ever.
Firstly, don’t mistake skiing as a one-size-fits-all approach as each continent offers a different experience. More specifically, each ski resort within each continent caters to different needs, interests and experience levels.
To make things simpler (albeit with a huge generalisation), I’ve compiled a quick list of continental differences and recommendations below geared towards fellow Australians. This is a selection from the 25 ski resorts I’ve personally experienced, hopefully, it helps narrow down your search parameters.
A work trip exploring Mt Buller
Australia
Season
June to October (I recommend late June to early August)
Pros
Ski-in ski-out accommodations
Great for locals, families, or first-timers
Cons
More expensive than other destinations
Busy and crowded, particularly in the school holidays
Summary
Australia is a great option for families with ski-in and ski-out accommodation and various on-snow activities. In a good season, Australian ski resorts have a far larger skiable terrain than across the ditch, and being below the treeline compared to New Zealand’s exposed faces, Australian ski resorts are better sheltered from inclement weather. However, with its short and rounded “mountains” the snowfall and conditions can be inconsistent. Similarly, the mountains don't cater for very adventurous or expert-level skiers.
Favourite Resort
Mount Buller: Being only 3 hours from Melbourne, it also has more on offer than other ski resorts with a cinema, spa, sports hall, air zone and dog sledding.
From skiing to bungee jumping, Queenstown has so much to offer
New Zealand
Season
June to October (I recommend late June to late August for the best snow but September has spring skiing deals - just try and go early September!)
Pros
Great activities separate from skiing
Cheaper than Australia
Cons
Short season and very weather-dependent
No on-mountain accommodation* (Except for one option in Cardrona that is usually booked out up to a year in advance)
Summary
The enchanting land of Hobbits and the infamous stomping ground of the All Blacks, New Zealand is one of my favourite countries. Part of this is owing to the ability to ski. The mountains here are steeper than in Australia but with a smaller terrain. And while there is no accommodation on-mountain, there’s so much to do off-mountain, that I almost don’t mind. New Zealand (North or South Island) is perfect for a family trip or as a quick holiday with friends. In your planning, ensure you allow time to explore the activities and natural wonders this incredible land has to offer. Thank me later.
Favourite Resort
Cardrona: being further outside of Queenstown, it is less crowded and has a larger skiable terrain than the closer Queenstown mountains.
From too much powder to the risk of spring skiing in Japan
Japan
Season
December to April (I recommend between Christmas and early March)
Pros
Cultural experiences
World-class powder
Cons
Small mountains and can be cold (down to -20 degrees Celsius)
Not a huge amount of expert-level traditional on-piste skiing
Summary
For once, Instagram doesn’t exaggerate, with some resorts receiving enough snow to cover a seven-story building with room to spare. Apart from this consistent abundance, the snow is light, dry and soft, the result of the confluence of cold winds from Siberia (Russia) and moisture from the Sea of Japan.
Also, as Japan is in the same time zone as Australia, there's no jetlag. And, being relatively close compared to Europe or the Americas, you can be on the snow having collected your rental gear the same day you leave home. That's Japanese efficiency.
Favourite Resort
Shiga Kogen: a more traditional Japanese experience with the largest inter-connected skiable terrain
Notable mention: Shizukuishi (a small ski resort but with great value and extremely quiet)
Canadian highlights
Canada
Season
Typically, November to May (I recommend mid-December to the end of March)
Pros
Huge terrain with great variety and good snow
Lots of non-skiing activities
Cons
Very cold, down to -30 degrees Celsius in some resorts
Limited cultural experiences
Summary
I am the first to admit that Canadian snow has stolen my heart. Its giant mountains, long runs, and comforting, laid-back culture will have me returning forevermore. Modern infrastructure, pristine and reliable snow, combined with relatively limited crowds, make a perfect concoction. It has a wide variety of terrain from the fabled tree runs and steep chutes, to those delightfully long and transcendent runs. There really is something for everyone. But I am not a skier you say, well, how about dog sledding, snowshoeing, ice-fishing or any of the other major activities available at most ski resorts across the Great White North? Did I mention that most houses come with an outdoor hot tub where snowflakes the size of raisins kiss your skin? Oh, Canada, take me back.
Favourite Resort
Sun Peaks: I don’t know how this place isn’t flooded, it’s hands-down, the best you could ask for; no crowds, huge terrain, great snow, activities, and a variety of restaurants.
European delights
Europe (France, Italy, Austria)
Season
Typically, November to May (I recommend mid-December to the end of March)
Pros
Apres vibes and culture with lots of non-skiing activities
Huge terrain ranging from large and steep to family-friendly idyllic runs
Cons
Price: Can be quite expensive, particularly in France or Italy with a language barrier across most of the continent (however, a lot of Europe speaks very good English - but not all!)
Snow is also harder and more icy than Canada or Japan
Summary
Despite my unashamedly biased love for the maple-leafed wilderness, Europe is in a class of its own. Nowhere else in the world can you experience such amazing culture and on-mountain culinary delights. The picturesque villages, giant terrain and exquisite dining are enough for me to surpass any cost (almost). Picture idyllic, rugged snow-shackled mountains flowing into an iconic wooden chalet. You’re reclining outside with a wine in hand under a blue sky, sunglasses plastered to your wind-swept face as melted cheese dribbles onto your meal. Welcome to France. (Insert beer and strudel for Austria or pasta and wine for Italy. Either option, I’m there).
Favourite Resort
Val Thorens: Think of a large skiable terrain and double it; this place is enormous. I spent two weeks there and didn’t reach everywhere, and at a good price with lots of activities, I’ll be back.
Notable additions: Madonna di Campiglio, Italy - I have a soft spot for all things Italian (sue me) so naturally, here is a resort with big terrain with good eateries.
Finally, skiing is very individualistic. I’ve worked in the industry in a sales and managerial role, and understand that no destination is perfect for everyone. As such, I strongly recommend contacting a ski-specific travel agent for your next holiday. My top recommendation is My Snow Holidays. I know them as I worked there for years and can personally guarantee that these guys have spent seasons in resorts and more years testing locations across the globe. And, the company is a family-owned wholesaler. So, drop them a line, explain what you want, and pack your bags; you’re going skiing.