When is Ski Season?
Skiing holidays have become immensely popular in recent years, with millions of people hitting the slopes at resorts around the world.
If you’re in the process of planning a skiing holiday, we’re here to help.
Before booking your trip, there are a number of things to consider including which resort to choose, the equipment you need and how to get to the resort from the airport. As well as these queries, one of the biggest things you’re likely to want to know is ‘when is ski season?’
With so many different resorts to choose from it can sometimes be hard to know when the various ski seasons start and end.
In this article, we’ll look at when ski season actually is, explaining everything you need to know before you hit the slopes.
How long is a ski season?
If you’re wanting to make the most of the skiing season, it’s important to know when it starts and ends. By knowing how long ski season lasts for, you can make your plans accordingly and ensure you fully maximise your experience on the slopes.
It’s important to note that ski season differs slightly depending on what resort you’re heading to.
For the purposes of this article, we’re going to be focusing on skiing in the Alps, one of the most popular mountain ranges in the world. As well as being the highest and most extensive mountain range in Europe, the region is full of leading ski resorts.
In the Alps, a typical ski season lasts from December – April. However, it’s worth noting that this will vary slightly from resort to resort.
When does ski season start?
For most ski resorts, ski season will get underway in December or even late November.
Getting underway just before Christmas, at this time of year the resorts tend to be a bit quieter so you can make the most of sparser slopes and fewer queues at the ski lift.
Another benefit of going skiing in late November or December is that it’s normally cheaper than at the peak of the season. This is particularly beneficial if you’re a family with little ones or going skiing in a larger group as you’ll likely be able to make the most of deals and discounts. As well as this, going at the beginning of the season means that you can come back again later in the season.
However, it’s important to note that the weather conditions in the Alps at this time of year can be a bit temperamental. With this in mind, we’d recommend selecting a ski resort at a high altitude, such as Tignes and Val Thorens, as these tend to offer greater weather protection.
Towards the end of December, you’re likely to see ski resorts become busier and more lively as people visit to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Firework displays and Christmas shows are likely to take place at this time.
As the season progresses into January, this is a great time to hit the slopes if you’re new to skiing. This is because January is always the quietest month for skiing. Instructors usually have fewer people to teach, meaning you’ll likely be able to learn more from the experts if you go during this time. Chiefly, this is because people are getting back into the swing of things after the Christmas holidays. Furthermore, January tends to be the coldest month in the Alps, so make sure to wrap up warm!
February is undoubtedly the peak of ski season in the Alps. At this time the slopes will be busier than ever, but there will also be plenty to see and do away from the actually skiing itself. Resorts always put on activities to keep kids entertained as well as a range of great après ski options for adults. While February is certainly a busy month, it’s still a great time to visit as the slopes are normally in the very best condition during this time.
When does ski season end?
Now we’ve covered when ski season starts as well as the benefits of going in December, January and February, let’s look at when ski season ends.
Usually, you can expect the annual ski season in the Alps to come to an end sometime in March or April. During spring you’ll likely be able to find a number of great last-minute deals as ski resorts look to maximise visitors before the off-season.
It’s worth noting that the slightly warmer temperatures will result in softer snow, but this can still be incredibly enjoyable to ski on. However, if you really want to ski on the crisp stuff, north-facing slopes and tree line runs should be your focus.
As the ski season comes to an end, there is also a lot of après ski opportunities. Many resorts will put on parties and end-of-season events. Plus, as it’s slightly warmer, enjoying a drink or two outdoors is usually more comfortable than during the heart of winter.
Now we’ve looked in detail at the answer to the question of ‘how long is a ski season?’ let’s turn our attention to the considerations you should make when planning a skiing holiday.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or preparing to hit the slopes for the first time, following the tips below is the best way to ensure that you have the best time on your skiing trip.
Book your accommodation
Selecting the right accommodation is obviously an integral part of any skiing holiday. The Alps is home to some of the most famous and highly regarded ski resorts in the world, so it can be difficult to know which is the right choice for you. Everyone’s preferences and specifications are different, so take some time to consider what you’re looking for when choosing a ski resort. If you’re still struggling, take a look at our previous blog on the highest ski resorts in Europe for inspiration.
Plus, our team has a deep understanding of the Swiss and French Alps, and can supply you with leading shared and private transfers that can take you directly to your resort.
Have appropriate ski gear
The next thing that is important to organise is your ski gear. It mind sound obvious, but skiing can be very cold!
With this in mind, it’s essential you have the appropriate clothing to be safe and comfortable when tackling the slopes. This includes:
- Sunglasses or a ski mask (be sure to check the UV rating)
- A woolly hat and scarf
- Gloves or mittens
- Long socks
- A fleece
- A helmet (or you can rent one)
- Clothing for après ski
- Sun cream
- A rucksack
- Ski trousers (make sure they’re waterproof!)
- Water bottles
- And more!
For a more extensive look at ski gear, check out our blog on what to wear for skiing.
Hire equipment
While you can take your own ski equipment with you, unless you’re an avid skier who goes on a regular basis it is usually more cost effective to simply hire your equipment at the resort. This is what the majority of skiers do and it’s the best way to make sure you’re hiring the right stuff. At the resort, the experts at the rental store will be able to advise you on the right type of equipment for you, catering it exactly to your ability and personal specifications.
You can also book it online before your trip to ensure everything is ready for you when you arrive.
Make sure you get your ski pass
Arguably one of the most important steps of any skiing holiday is getting your ski pass. Without a ski pass, you won’t be able to access the ski lift, slopes and key areas at your resort.
Different resorts have different passes that allow guests to access a wide range of areas, so think carefully about the type of pass you want to purchase. You can get your ski pass at the resort itself, usually in hire equipment shops and at the foot of the slopes. Alternatively, you can get it online before you go.
Plan for après ski
As mentioned above, après ski is a big part of any skiing holiday. With this in mind, it’s important to select a resort that comes with après ski options that are most suitable for you and your group.
As well as this, make sure you pack with après ski in mind and don’t just take clothes for spending time outdoors. Many resorts have dedicated après ski bars and cabins for you to enjoy.
To learn more about après ski, check out our previous blog on the topic here.
Get insurance
Skiing can be risky, and injuries can occur when out on the slopes. Even if you already have standard travel health insurance in place, it’s always worth checking your existing policy’s details. This is because most policies will not account for skiing accidents unless specifically stated.
If this is the case for you, it’s sensible to take out a specific winter sports insurance policy prior to your trip. If you don’t and get injured while on your trip, you will likely face costly medical bills.
Conclusion
At Alpine Fleet, we’re experts in every aspect of the ski season. As well as providing our customers with leading shared and private transfers that can get you conveniently take you to your resort in France or Switzerland, our website is full of handy blogs including skiing for beginners. Get in touch with our team today to learn more.
