LATE SEASON SKI BOOM

Spring in full swing, but late-season snowfalls bring plenty of opportunity to hit the slopes and enjoy bluebird days out - particularly at higher-level resorts worldwide

 Winter operator Ski Solutions reports a strong increase in sales - so far a 33% increase in passengers to high-level Cervinia, on the other side of Zermatt’s Matterhorn (see GSG).And picturesque Banff in Canada has seen 17% increase in British skiers going further afield to Banff where there is the opportunity to ski nearby major resorts of Ski Louise  and Sunshine.  Ski Solutions has seen a notable increase in bookings to both Ischgl, Austria on the Swiss border and Norway’s Gelio.

Canada 

The state of Alberta offers access to three large resorts and miles of powdery snow. The town of Banff is Canada’s resort with a Scottish name and real Wild West Ski town, with its own snowsure ski runs above the centre with splendid non-ski  activities such as 

• Nordic skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, canyoning, and snowmobiling, as well as  spa offerings at the larger hotels such as the iconic Banff Springs hotel.  Banff is a ski town full of splendid après ski dining. Try the Hungry Moose for steaks.

And the big bonus is Banff’s closeness to the major ski area of Sunshine, which has scores of miles of piste for all grades right on the Continental Divide. It gets better – half and hour’s drive  is Canada’s best, Good Ski Guide’s favourite Lake Louise.

Those seeking Canadian friendliness should give Whistler a chance, requiring a flight to Vancouver, and a two-hour drive to the modern twin-peaks resort.

 Cervinia 

High altitude Cervinia has its own superb two-nation skiing, as it’s connected to Swiss favourite Zermatt.  These two resorts cover all skiers' needs, with plenty of blue and red runs in Cervinia, and a wealth of off-piste with more challenging terrain in Zermatt. Evenings in Cervinia provide a lively atmosphere amongst the town’s many bars and restaurants, with plenty of picturesque streets to stroll around.

 See also www.goodskiguide.com Ski Solutions offers Hotel al Piolet on a bed and breakfast basis from £1,645pp including flights and private transfers.  www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7700

Ischgl, Austria 

Offering snow sure slopes across 240km, Ischgl is an ideal late season choice for skiers. As one of the most impressive resorts in Austria, Ischgl has a great après ski reputation as well as a renowned ski record. This resort is also known to be the largest climate-neutral ski area in the Alps, having implemented a reforestation programme in the local valley, and powering ski lifts with almost 100% renewable energy. 

Hotel Brigitte

This elegant hotel boasts Austrian design throughout, and offers facilities such as a wellness area and cosy lounge bar with an open fireplace - perfect to warm hands after skiing. The traditional hotel boasts great cuisine and light and airy rooms. 

HOW: Ski Solutions offers Hotel Brigitte on a half board basis from £1,449pp including flights and transfers.www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7700

Zermatt, Switzerland 

Zermatt offers unbeaten scenery, fantastic skiing, and a plethora of restaurant and hotel choices. The car free town retains its traditional charm, creating a relaxed atmosphere for holiday goers. The main street, the Bahnhofstrasse, is filled with cafes and restaurants to enjoy, while the slopes offer inviting runs on varied terrain. Perhaps most outstanding is the view of the Matterhorn, whether on the slopes or in the village, this impressive peak is ever visible across the resort.

 V Positive booking data corresponds with data from aviation analytics firm Cirium, indicating that there has been a 17.7% and 49.9% increase on seats offered to Cervinia and Banff respectively in Summer 2025 compared to pre-pandemic levels, showcasing a strong appetite for late season travel 

Val d’Isère, France 

A holiday favourite, the winter ski season in Val d’Isère is long lasting from the end of November all the way through until early May, offering the longest winter in the Alps. Skiing is snow sure, varied, and extensive throughout the resort, offering something for all ages and abilities. Off the slopes, Val d’Isère is home to plenty of fun après spots, and guests can take part in anything from winter walking to dog sledding. 

 Hotel Le Yule 

This popular five-star hotel is one of the best in the area and benefits from being on the edge of the pedestrian area of the village. With the ski slopes right outside the door of this hotel, it's the perfect spot for keen skiers. Rooms offer outstanding views of the slopes, with guests able to sit back and relax on private balconies as they drink in the mountain air. 

HOW: Ski Solutions offers Hotel Le Yule on a bed and breakfast basis priced from £1,945pp including flights and private transfer. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7700

Geilo, Norway

Perfect for families looking for a late season trip, Geilo is home to two fantastic local ski schools, as well as off slope activities such as dog sledging, fat biking, and snowshoeing. Situated between two National Parks, Geilo is a charming ski resort with incredible scenery and a great snow record. The resort can also be reached by the famous Oslo Bergen Railway, allowing guests to travel through Norway’s spectacular Fjord region. 

 Vestlia Resort 

This ski-in ski-out hotel is situated 50 metres from the ski school and childcare centre, making it a fantastic option for families. Many rooms at the hotel benefit from connecting doors, lounges, and kitchens which are ideal for a larger group. Hotel amenities include a soft play area for children, a bowling alley, and family pool, offering plenty to do after time spent on the slopes. For those looking to relax, the award winning spa is a great way to unwind, and the hotel is also in ideal proximity to many off slope activities. 

 HOW: Ski Solutions offers Vestlia Resort on a half board basis from £1,745pp including flights and rail transfer. www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7700

Whistler, Canada

One of the most highly regarded ski destinations in the world, Whistler is the perfect North American trip. Skiers and boarders have access to over 8,000 acres of varied terrain thanks to the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The village itself is filled with everything from lively music venues to cosy snugs for visitors to enjoy. 

 Westin Resort and Spa 

Positioned at the base of one of the most highly regarded ski resorts in the world, the Westin Resort & Spa has easy access to both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain gondolas. Not only that, this hotel is just steps away from the heart of Whistler’s pedestrian-only village. With the restaurants and bars in Whistler Village only a stone’s throw away, guests can enjoy a variety of food and drinks throughout their stay. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to visit the on-site ‘Grill & Vine’ restaurant or the FireRock lounge that offers an intimate setting for an evening digestif at the hotel.

Ski Solutions offers Westin Resort & Spa on a room only basis from £1,945pp, including flights and private transfers www.skisolutions.com / 020 7471 7700

Ski Solutions is Britain's original specialist ski travel agency and tailor-made tour operator and has been arranging ski holidays for more than 40 years to Europe and North America. Ski Solutions works with the finest chalets, hotels and apartments in the mountains and with access to the full ski market, they can tailor-make the perfect holiday. Offering total flexibility, their ski experts can find the best solution for their clients, whether that’s a luxury seven-night escape, a ski weekend or a long-haul, multi-destination trip.