Skiing

Ski Dubai is the Middle East's groundbreaking indoor ski resort, where winter wonderland dreams come alive. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone just looking to experience a snowy escape, this place has got you covered. From skiing and snowboarding to tobogganing, there's something for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. And let's not forget the stars of the show: the adorable Ski Dubai Snow Penguins. These charming Gentoo and King Penguins make their home here, offering visitors a unique chance to meet them up close. You can book one of the exclusive Snow Penguin packages for a personal encounter that will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip to Dubai. Trust me, this is the kind of memory that sticks with you. Beyond the snow, Ski Dubai is nestled within the Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest shopping malls in the world. So, after your snowy adventures, you can indulge in some retail therapy or enjoy a meal at one of the many dining options available. It's the perfect blend of winter fun and urban excitement.

Iceland's diverse landscape is at its most breathtaking when viewed from above, which makes aerial sightseeing tours by plane or helicopter an awe inspiring experiences. Many of Iceland's most beautiful locations are in remote areas, where the rugged terrain can be difficult to traverse. Flying allows you to reach hard-to-access places with limited effort, and gives you an opportunity to experience nature from a new perspective. And if you are in to skiing, there are pristine areas ripe for Heli skiing in many areas. Take your skiing to new heights by reaching untouched slopes via helicopter. This unforgettable experience is an epic adventure, combining powder skiing with an exhilarating air journey and incredible views. https://www.inspiredbyiceland.com/things-to-do/activities/helicopter-tours/

The Medeo outdoor ice skating ring is designed as a huge speed skating and Bandy area. Bandy is a team winter sport played on ice, in which skaters use sticks to direct a ball into the opposing team’s goal. The Medeo rink was constructed in 1949, and the first competition took place at the stadium on the February 4th, 1951. To begin with it was naturally frozen by its location, but, to control its use, it now has a normal refrigerated The statistics of the ring are really impressive. It is located on the eastern outskirts of Almaty at an altitude of 1,69o metres and has an area of 10.5 thousand square meters of ice. The altitude has made the ring the highest skating ring in the world. https://www.almaty-kazakhstan.net/attractions/skiing/medeu-ice-skating/

The Shymbulak Ski Resort is located 25 km outside Almaty city. There are three ski lifts at the resort with the highest going to 3200 meters above sea level. There is also a Hotel located at the Resort, enabling those wishing to ski during the day, have a place to stay at night. The resort is located in the upper part of the Medeu Valley in the Zaiilisky Alatau mountain range. It is popular for its mild climate, large quantity of sunny days and great amount of snow through the winter (from November till May). Almaty hosted the 2011 Asian Winter Games, bid for 2014 Winter Olympics, considered a bid for 2018 Winter Olympics, but decided to bid for 2022 Winter Olympics instead; Shymbulak was a venue for the Alpine Skiing events (both speed and technical), and would have been for the latter. https://www.almaty-kazakhstan.net/attractions/skiing/shymbulak-ski-resort/

At Olympiaberg in Munich, every skier can find their perfect slope. This highest hill in the city presents a range of options for descending: gentle slopes welcome those eager to learn skiing and bobsledding, while the steep descents cater to adrenaline junkies who love to zip across the snow. The Olympic Park, located in northern Munich, is famous far beyond the city's borders. Its unique tent-like architecture and the iconic Olympic Tower stand out as some of Munich’s most recognized landmarks. After hosting the 1972 Olympic Games, the park sprawled into a 300-hectare recreational haven for the entire city. It's a lively hub where joggers, cyclists, and walkers make their rounds, and swimmers glide through the lanes of the Olympic swimming facility. The park's vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon, offering activities for everyone, whether you're into sports or just want to relax with a good book under a tree. Standing over 50 meters (about 150 feet) high, the Olympic Hill offers a breathtaking view of Munich's rooftops with the majestic mountains as a backdrop. On a clear day, the sight is nothing short of spectacular, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking the perfect photo op.

Winter mountain skiing is always a pleaser with its perfect combo of groomers and powder. Also Park City has more biking and hiking trails in the summer than any outdoorist can handle. Park City is a unique combination of easy access and remote appeal. At times you feel like you're hundreds of miles from the civilized world yet you're just 35 easy miles from the Salt Lake International Airport https://utah.com/park-city

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest (UWCNF) encompasses Utah's Wasatch Mountains adjacent to the state's northern metropolitan area, and the north slope of the High Uintas Wilderness. Containing nearly 2.1 million acres of geological and ecologically-diverse landscapes, this collection of forest areas is one of the most frequently visited in the nation. Ski and summer resorts located in this forest along the Wasatch Front near Logan, Ogden, Salt Lake City and Park City provide world-renowned downhill skiing, Nordic and snowmobiling options, as well as a variety of summer activities ranging from the IMBA-certified mountain biking trails of Park City to the mountain coaster and Oktoberfest of Snowbird. Further south, American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon offer a stunning mix of aspen and tree-covered slopes that include the zip lines, Blue Ribbon fly-fishing and singletracks of Sundance Mountain Resort, Deer Creek State Park and other destinations. Between the two canyons lies the 11,750-acre Mt. Timpanogos Wilderness. https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/uinta-wasatch-cache-national-forest/

The Gaisberg is a popular local mountain just a few kilometers from the city center of Salzburg itself. With an elevation of 1287 m above sea level, it is an absolute Eldorado for recreational sports, hiking and nature. Readily accessible year-round, for the most part it is also suitable for children, with all kinds of opportunities for outdoor exercise, games and a bite to eat. In summer, the Gaisberg is an inviting destination for road cycling, mountain biking and hiking. “High-flyers” love to launch themselves from the top of the Gaisberg by paraglider – while spectators still summoning the courage to emulate them look on admiringly and allow themselves to be inspired. Yet another summer highlight is the Gaisberg Race for vintage automobiles. In winter, the outdoor program includes ski touring and cross-country skiing: hiking paths and touring routes are kept nicely maintained, while the XC trails are freshly tracked almost every day. https://www.salzburg.info/en/sights/excursions/gaisberg

Known to Innsbruck residents as a “locals’ mountain” and a three-time Olympic venue, the Patscherkofel ski resort continues to draw wintersports enthusiasts of all kinds. With its pistes 1,400 metres above Innsbruck, fabulous views of the Inn Valley and rich sporting history, the Patscherkofel mountain and the ski resort it is home to are legendary within Tirol and beyond. This mighty mountain to the south of the regional capital hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976 as well as the inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games in 2012. Innsbruck locals appreciate the resort's proximity to the city, which is just a 15-minute drive away. One of the main highlights is without a doubt the large snowpark, where budding freestylers gather to dial in their tricks. The resort also has three children's areas at different altitudes, while from the top cable car station ski touring enthusiasts can climb all the way to the summit at 2,248m. Even those who don't fancy the extra few hundred vertical metres can still look forward to a 6km-long run down to the bottom of the resort along piste number 3. https://www.tyrol.com/things-to-do/sports/skiing/ski-resorts/a-patscherkofel-mountain-lifts

Terelj National Park is the most popular destination and the third biggest protected area in Mongolia. Visitors can take leisurely strolls on meadows carpeted with edelweiss and a dazzling variety of other wildflowers, view fascinating rock formations against a backdrop of pine-covered mountains and wander along the wooded banks of a mountain stream. The park is located 80 km away from Ulaanbaatar and is one of the most beautiful places in Mongolia. There are also a huge number of adventure activities such as rafting, riding, hiking, skiing, camping. https://www.discovermongolia.mn/about-mongolia/destinations/around-ulaanbaatar/terelj-national-park

Canada's largest totally ski-in/ski-out resort village, located one hour from the Kelowna International Airport, has everything you would expect from a world-class resort. Spectacular scenery of the Monashee Mountains, groomed & powder runs and a state-of-the-art lift system, the resort is blessed with ideal ski and snowboard conditions, receiving over 750 cm of dry powder snow annually. https://www.tourismkelowna.com/listing/big-white-ski-resort/3314/

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand, Nelson Lakes National Park is a magical alpine wonderland, brimming with rugged peaks, lush forests, and breathtaking glacial lakes. This compact paradise features mountain ranges divided by serene forested valleys and marks the starting point of the majestic Southern Alps. Whether you're up for a leisurely stroll by the lake or a more intense alpine hike, this park caters to all levels of adventurers. At the center of the park are the stunning alpine lakes, Rotoroa and Rotoiti. They span 102,000 hectares and are encircled by towering mountains. The shores are adorned with native honeydew beech forests, which provide sustenance for an array of melodious, nectar-loving native birds. It's a symphony of nature that delights both the eyes and the ears. If you're planning a visit, don't miss out on the chance to explore the fascinating history of the area. The park is steeped in Maori legend, with stories that add layers of depth to its already rich natural beauty. Also, make sure to pack your camera. The changing light throughout the day paints the landscape in spectacular hues, creating perfect photo opportunities.

Kokonniemi is a ski center located next to downtown Porvoo (under 50 km from Helsinki). The ski area consists of six very different slopes, a ski rental where you can rent both snowboards and skis as well as buy the ski passes required for the lifts. Next to the ski rental, you will find the restaurant Hölmöpulu where you can both dine or simply relax with a cup of hot chocolate. If you prefer cross country skiing there are many different tracks to choose from around the downhill area, we also rent cross country packages in case you do not have your own gear with you. https://www.discoveringfinland.com/destination/kokonniemi-ski-centre/

Ounasvaara Ski Resort is located almost close to the centre of Rovaniemi city. From the Northern side of Ounasvaara mountain, you’ll find a modern ski resort where you can downhill ski, snowboard, or ski while enjoying the international atmosphere. Ounasvaara’s slopes are suitable for both beginners and professionals. The resort features two slope areas, Ounashissit and Tottohissi. The latter has the 3 most challenging slopes, including an FIS-competition slope, and it is consequentially favoured by professional and more experienced skiers. It is often used by Finnish athletes as a training area. Ounashissit has four slopes ranging from beginner to expert, and also includes a ‘street’ for snowboarders and freestyle skiers with many numerous jumps, rails, press boxes and a Super Pipe. https://www.discoveringfinland.com/destination/ounasvaara-ski-resort/

Eaglecrest Ski Area is Juneau, Alaska’s community owned ski area. Located on Douglas Island just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Eaglecrest spans over 640 skiable acres of breathtaking terrain serviced by four double chairlifts. The ski area has a vertical drop of 1,620 feet and offers terrain for all ability levels including groomed runs, wide-open bowls, and glades nestled throughout the mountain. Nordic skiing is also available on the area’s groomed Nordic trails. Eaglecrest is Juneau’s Winter Playground and provides skiers and snowboarders a big mountain experience with a small mountain feel. https://www.traveljuneau.com/listing/eaglecrest-ski-area/43597/

Super holiday experiences for the whole family in Lalandia Billund! Welcome to a world full of play in Scandinavia's largest holiday and adventure center. Enjoy the tropical climate of the giant Aquadome with water activities in all shadows and lots of fun for young and old alike. Gain momentum and excitement in the Twister, Tornadoes and Octopus Racer water slides, and enjoy the bathing life, while the little ones enjoy the many water activities in the children's areas and activity pools. Take the family with you in the impressive arcade, where the sky is always blue. Here you feel like a place far south and behind the great southern house, facades hide cosy and kid-friendly restaurants, exciting shops and lots of entertainment for the whole family, including Monky Tonky Land, mini-golf, bowling centre, gym, fitness centre and Winter World with a ski slope, ice rink, climbing wall and much more. In Lalandia you will find the setting for a successful holiday for everyone - regardless of the wind and weather. https://www.visitbillund.dk/billund/service-information/lalandia-i-billund-gdk611643

Nestled 187 kilometers northwest of Mendoza city on International Route Nº 7, Los Penitentes is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. Whether you're into Nordic skiing, alpine skiing, competitive skiing, or snowboarding, this resort has something for every snow enthusiast. You can even try your hand at extreme skiing or join in on some thrilling ski races. The opportunities for fun on the slopes are endless. Accommodation options are abundant: you can choose from cozy hotels, quaint apartments, or even apartment hotels. If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, fear not. There's a dedicated ski and snowboard school ready to teach you the ropes. Families will appreciate the nursery school and snow garden, perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. And let's not forget the equipment and clothing rentals, which ensure you're geared up for any snow adventure. Feeling hungry after a day in the snow? The resort offers a delightful array of dining options to satisfy any palate. Safety is also a top priority here, with a permanent medical center at the base providing first aid and ambulatory treatments. For those interested in the local culture, Mendoza is renowned for its wine production. Consider taking a day trip to visit some of the nearby vineyards and sample the region's famous Malbec. It's a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the stunning landscapes after an exhilarating day on the slopes.

Despite being relatively young, Bukovel is known as one of the most famous and ultramodern ski resort in Ukraine. This recreational haven owes its enormous popularity among both Ukrainian and foreign lovers of outdoor activities to its climate, endless comforts, and plenty of well-equipped skiing trails. Bukovel is situated in one of the most beautiful places in the country, the Ukrainian Carpathians, at an altitude of 920 meters (over 3000 feet). Because snows fall early in the year, and stay for a long time, from November to April the resort has ideal skiing and snowboarding conditions. The resort has 16 ski lifts, ranging from 650 meters to 2000 meters (2130 to 6560 feet) long, which make it one of the biggest ski resorts not only in Ukraine but all of Eastern Europe. Bukovel is especially proud of its excellent ski trails, which, in total, are over 50 kilometers (30 miles) long. They are spread out across five mountains, on specially prepared slopes. Each visitor can choose a track to his or her experience level: there are difficult trails for professionals, and easier ones for beginners; they even have slopes for children. All the trails are equipped with snow canons and are constantly maintained, so they always stay in perfect condition. Bukovel’s slopes are also lit up, so they stay open in the evening. These high-grade trails attract not only skiers, but also those who are fond of snowboarding and riding snowmobiles. https://discover-ukraine.info/index/western-ukraine/bukovel

Situated in the picturesque Prut River valley, this little town is one of the most famous tourist centers of the Carpathian region. First and foremost, Yaremche is a popular ski resort. Its numerous visitors are attracted by its breathtaking mountain landscapes, pure air, unique Guzul character, and variety of leisure activities. During the winter, Yaremche is populated with skiers and snowboarders. Winters here are a skier’s paradise: it is not too cold, and there is very little wind, but a lot of snow. The mountain slopes especially good for beginners, but are unlikely to impress professionals. Thus, more experienced skiers often choose to visit neighbouring ski resorts - Bukovel, Vorohta and Yablunitsa. But you can admire Yaremche’s unique architecture of all year round! You will find many interesting churches, monasteries, and landmarks in the town. Yet perhaps the town’s main attraction is the Probiy waterfall. It is certainly not the highest (it is only 8 meters – 26 feet – high), but it is the most powerful and picturesque waterfall in all the Ukrainian Carpathians. The torrents of the Prut River, which find their way through the stones, create an unforgettable show, which you can watch from a small footbridge that crosses the river. Not far from the waterfall lies a well-known souvenir market, which has already become one of Yaremche’s most popular attractions. You can buy original handicrafts of local craftsmen, at the same time getting acquainted with the distinctive Guzul culture. https://discover-ukraine.info/index/western-ukraine/yaremche

Syote, Finland’s southernmost fell region, is particularly popular with families. Syote is known for its two downhill skiing slopes. Iso-Syote was chosen as ski centre of the year 2012, and Pikku-Syöte has been lauded for its snowboarding parks The Syöte National Park is an inviting place for skiing during the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Nature safaris provide added entertainment. Hotel Iso-Syöte and Hotel Pikku-Syöte are located right next to the slopes, so you don’t need a car. The Syöte Central Booking Office provides a handy way to make reservations for the area’s extensive range of accommodation and activities. It’s easy to get to Syöte, as it’s only 140 kilometres from Oulu. https://visitoulu.fi/en/syote-2/

Adventure and lively activities, tranquillity, unspoilt nature, and a unique landscape carved out by the last ice age. The Rokua Geopark is part of the Global Geopark Network, a UNESCO-supported conservation group. It comprises Rokua, Lake Oulu, and the River Oulu Valley. A geopark is a geologically unique area. Rokua Geopark is the world’s northernmost and Finland’s only Geopark. In the summer, the park offers fantastic opportunities for trekking, kayaking, mountain biking, and fishing. In the winter, you can ski, snowshoe, go on a brisk husky safari, or enjoy a starlit sleigh ride through the winter night. Be part of the Arctic miracle at Rokua Geopark! https://visitoulu.fi/en/rokua-geopark-2/

The Lake Laurentian Conservation Area is a breathtaking natural haven just a quick ten-minute drive from downtown Sudbury. With 2,415 acres (950 hectares) of lush, protected greenery, this spot is a dream escape from city life. Whether you're a local or just passing through, it's the perfect place to recharge and reconnect with nature. Picture the serenity of a remote wilderness: a man-made lake and pond, panoramic lookouts, and a self-guided nature trail. With plenty of wetland areas to explore, it's a wonderland for hikers, bird watchers, and winter sports enthusiasts alike. Whether you're into photography, wildlife observation, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Lake Laurentian offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. For families, Lake Laurentian is a treasure trove of activities. Kids can get hands-on with nature by touching a frog, savoring juicy blueberries straight from the bush, or feeding the friendly birds. They can even learn essential survival skills for the woods, marvel at animal displays, or leave their mark by planting a tree. It's a place where learning and adventure go hand in hand. With over 40 years of dedication to environmental education, Lake Laurentian Conservation Area has something to offer everyone. It's more than just a place to visit; it's a space to learn, explore, and make memories. Did you know it's also a hotspot for local wildlife? Keep your eyes peeled for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species that call this area home.

There are 23 slopes at Tahko, the biggest ones 1200 meters long and as much as 200 meters high. At Tahko, you can find speedy slopes for active skiers, but the kids and beginners have their own slope, too. Snowboarders will enjoy the proper pipe and the boxes and rails of the street. There are 13 T-bar lifts and two four-person chair lifts taking skiers to the top of Tahko. In addition, there is a lift connection from the slope area to the parking lot, and a safe carpet lift for the youngest skiers. At Tahko, you do not have to leave the slopes when you get hungry. There are five slope restaurants ready to fill your stomach and quench your thirst. Additional slope services include two equipment rental shops and a ski school. https://www.discoveringfinland.com/destination/tahko-ski-resort/

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand, Mount Aspiring National Park is a true paradise for anyone with a love for the great outdoors. Named after the towering Mt Aspiring, one of the country's loftiest peaks, this park is an enchanting playground of rugged mountains, majestic glaciers, winding river valleys, and serene alpine lakes. For hiking enthusiasts, it's nothing short of a wonderland. The park boasts a plethora of short walks, many of which start at the end of the access roads, making it easy to explore. For those seeking a bit more adventure, several longer trails weave through breathtaking valleys and offer the thrilling opportunity to cross mountain saddles. Among these are the iconic Routeburn, Dart/Rees River circuit, Greenstone/Caples, and Wilkin Valley tracks. In the summer months, you can even trek from one valley to another, crossing over stunning mountain passes that offer views you'll never forget. If you're short on time, don't worry. There are plenty of shorter walks that pack in the scenery without packing in the hours. The Routeburn Nature Walk, Haast Pass Summit, and Lake Sylvan near the lower Dart River are all fantastic options. And whatever you do, make sure to take the 30-minute Blue Pools Walk. This trail leads you through a lush silver beech, or tahina, forest, over a charming swing bridge, and to a viewing platform with a breathtaking view of the crystal-clear pools at the mouth of Blue River. It's a must-see highlight for any South Island adventure. Did you know that the park's diverse landscapes have also made it a popular filming location for movies like "The Lord of the Rings"? Walking through this natural wonder, you might just feel like you've stepped into another world.