IF you are a skiing enthusiast, you will know that the best slopes can get overcrowded at times. Why not visit ski resorts that are unspoilt?
The beauty of some European ski resorts can now be experienced with a number of skiing holidays that will astound you.
Why not visit the Iso-Syote resort, which is a self-contained village? You will be amazed by the beauty of the snow-covered slopes and trees at this exclusive location. The resort not only has some of the most beautiful slopes to ski on, but a host of other activities too. You will be able to try your hand at husky dog sledging and there is even a nightclub in the hotel. Family ski holidays are catered for as well, with two family runs at the resort. The slopes are relaxed and are floodlit until 20:00 each night, so you can enjoy skiing under the lights. Other activities that are available to partake in include ice fishing and reindeer safaris, with the location proving ideal for a great view of the Northern Lights.
Ruka is one of the most well-known ski resorts in Finland, and with a wide choice of accommodation of ski chalets, apartments and hotels, you would expect to see large crowds. This isn't the case and the resort is surprisingly relaxed, offering a calm setting for beginner skiers. There are also steeper slopes for skiing enthusiasts, and the fact that the World Cup for freestyle skiing was held here in 2010 should sell the resort to any serious skier. Ruka possesses a unique charm, offering guests the chance to take a snowmobile safari and a trip to visit Father Christmas. With the stunning sights of the Northern Lights, this resort is another that should be top of the list for any enthusiast of winter sports.
Many skiers' first choices are to either ski Switzerland, or to ski France. One village that is not crowded is Les Contamines. The village on the slopes of Mont Blanc has marvellous views and the accommodation is stunning. The slopes themselves are ideal for skiers of all abilities, and you can delight in the fantastic scenery.
Another little-known area for skiing is Andorra, a great place for skiers to experience the unspoilt slopes. The highest skiing area in the Pyrenees is an area called Grandvalira, and is ideal for all levels of skiers. As the area is largely unknown, it is ideal for beginners and also for those skiers who like a real challenge. The area is family-friendly and there are a number of other activities that are available for you to experience while taking in the breathtaking views. The real expert skiers can aim for Encampadana, the peak, where they can put themselves to the test. Grandvalira is hosting the World Cup of Alpine skiing in 2012, so even though the slopes themselves are largely unknown, the quality is recognised within the skiing community.
Champoluc, in Italy, is a village that caters for all levels of skier. With an open bowl for beginners to wonderful long runs for more advanced skiers, everyone is catered for. You can even try out heliskiing, which is downhill skiing that is only accessible by helicopter. The largely unused slopes are a delight to ski down, and the scenery will take your breath away. The village offers a friendly atmosphere and there are bars and hotels that provide a friendly welcome. There are also a number of local restaurants that will enable you to mingle with the locals.
There are many other unspoilt ski resorts waiting to be explored across Europe. So if you are crazy about skiing and want to try out something different, it is worth seeking out these unspoilt areas of natural beauty.
