What to do in the mountains in winter? Skiing, of course, is the main activity. But there are also many other activities besides skiing, and plenty of things to do for non-skiers as well.
Generally, Alpine resorts open in December, but here we provide the exact opening dates of the main resorts in the Northern and Southern Alps.
Classic cross-country skiing has given rise to many subcategories: skating, freeride, snowshoes, telemark... What are the characteristics of each? Are there any versatile skis that combine the advantages of both cross-country and alpine skiing?
At first glance, cross-country skiing and skating seem similar, but there are differences between them. Beyond the skier's posture, the equipment used is also different for each discipline.
Winter in the mountains offers many activities for non-skiers, including outdoor activities (snowshoeing, sledding, dog sled rides), cultural and local activities (visiting mountain villages, museums, and exhibitions), relaxation activities (balneotherapy, spas, Nordic baths), and many more!
When there is no snow in the mountains during winter, there are still plenty of interesting and fun activities to do, such as outdoor pursuits (hiking, mountain biking, climbing, walks), cultural and relaxation activities (visiting towns and villages, thermal baths and spas), and alternative sports (paragliding, golf, indoor climbing).
The mountains offer a wide variety of family activities, regardless of snow conditions. Examples include: skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, family hikes, mountain biking, horseback or pony rides, adventure courses / treetop rope courses, ice skating, swimming pools, and aquatic centers. By combining these activities, you can create a fun and varied program for the whole family while enjoying the wonders of the mountains.
As you can see, you won’t get bored in the mountains during winter, and even if there is no snow, the wide range of activities ensures there is something for everyone!