European Winter Resorts that Offer More Than Skiing!

Last updated on January 6, 2022

Most people who live in warmer parts of the world, travel to winter resorts to enjoy winter sports especially skiing and snowboarding. For this reason, people book their reservations beforehand, mindful of the weather forecast, and wait impatiently for fresh snow to fall so they can begin their exciting adventure.

This gives the impression that winter travel is restricted only to skiers and non-skiers do not have much opportunity to experience the magic spell of the winters. This is far from the truth as all around the world there are great resorts that offer fun-filled activities like horse-drawn sleigh rides, sledding, and warm indoor water sports.

Why European Resorts?

European winters are alluring and their resorts are affordable, ideal for families, and provide notable attractions other than just snowy mountains. This post explores breathtakingly beautiful European mountainous resorts that will allow you to take part in active winter sports other than skiing so you do not feel left out.

Prioritise Your Packing & Dressing

First things first, pack and dress appropriately so that you do not fall sick on your trip. This is not concerning if you have travel insurance but, if not, being prepared should be a priority. If you’re planning on traveling with your young child, be sure to invest in a quality toddler fleece jacket. We tend to pack big bulky layers but often miss out on small garments that provide an effective winter shield.

Whether you are out in the mountains or shopping at a local boutique or enjoying a night festival make sure you wear thermal underclothes. Protect your digits and extremities (toes) from going numb and wrap your neck in a cozy and soft neck gaiter. The custom neck gaiter with ear loops by 4inbandana is a new and hot winter essential. What better occasion to buy one and try, right? The personalized warmers look touristy, stylish and with ear loops intact they make for an effective face mask.

Switzerland

Now that we are dressed for the excursion, time to explore the locations and possibilities. The majestic Matterhorn mountain – borders between Switzerland and Italy – is the timeless picture of tranquility and excitement. The mountain towers above the car-free Zermatt village and is the ultimate platform for mountaineering, sledding, ice skating, and skiing. Non-skiers can also enjoy a stroll around the village. Shop for local fashion from the cute boutiques and taste the finest red wine at the Igloo Bar.

France

Add a trip to Avoriaz to your itinerary; a small car-free village in France. The beautiful community has a beautiful sub-tropical Aquariaz water park for some safe indoor water sports during winter. The park has water slides, pools, and water jets for a recreational fun-packed day. The village is also dotted with bistros and restaurants with a variety of dishes; from French cuisine to pizza, BBQ, and seafood they know how to feed their tourists.

Italy

Situated in the heart of Dolomite Alps in Northern Italy is a small town named Cortina d’Ampezzo which is an ideal destination for non-skiers. The greatest attraction of Cortina is the Faloria cable car that takes you up to the summit and allows you to have a panoramic view of the Dolomite mountain. Furthermore, you can visit the local museums and magnificent castles. The rich history and architectural finesse of this small town will leave you spell-bound.