When it comes to planning your ultimate ski holiday, there are a few destinations that stand out as must-visit regions for any fan of the slopes. France, Canada, and Japan, are the three "hot spots" that we recommend as the best places to hit the powder in 2024.

We recommend you book your 2024 ski holiday now to get the best that these destinations have to offer!

 

Ski Holidays in France

France is considered to be one of the best ski holiday destinations in the world, and it's not difficult to see why. With its picturesque mountains, charming villages, and world-class ski resorts, the country offers a skiing experience that is hard to beat.

One of the most popular ski destinations in France is Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps. The resort is famous for its stunning views, challenging runs, and a wide range of pistes that cater to skiers of all levels. Mont Blanc is also home to some of the most luxurious chalets in France, offering top-notch amenities such as hot tubs, saunas, and gourmet dining.

Val d'Isere and Val Thorens are two other ski resorts in France that are worth checking out. Val d'Isere boasts over 300 kilometers of pistes, making it perfect for skiers who want to explore a lot of terrain. The resort is particularly popular with experts, thanks to its challenging off-piste runs. Meanwhile, Val Thorens is one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, which means that it offers excellent snow conditions from November to May. The resort is also known for its excellent après-ski scene, making it perfect for those who want to let loose after a day on the slopes.

 

Ski Trips to Canada

Canada is one of the premier destinations for ski trips, with numerous world-class resorts scattered across British Columbia and other provinces. With unparalleled facilities and breathtaking natural scenery, Canada truly offers a ski experience like no other.

One of the top destinations for ski enthusiasts is Whistler Blackcomb, located just two hours outside of Vancouver. Known for its extensive terrain, this resort boasts over 8,000 acres of skiable area, with over 200 trails and 16 alpine bowls. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are runs and lessons available for all skill levels.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, there are plenty of options to choose from. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler offers ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes, as well as world-class spa facilities and gourmet dining options. Alternatively, the Four Seasons Resort and Residences provides unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains, along with its own private gondola and luxury amenities.

Beyond Whistler Blackcomb, there are numerous other ski destinations to explore in Canada. The Revelstoke Mountain Resort boasts some of the deepest powder in the world, with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and a vertical drop of 5,620 feet. Meanwhile, the Banff and Lake Louise Ski Resorts offer unparalleled views of the surrounding Rockies, along with a range of activities including ice skating, snowshoeing, and dog sledding.

 

Japan Ski Resorts

Japan may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about ski holidays, but its ski resorts are a well-kept secret among avid skiers and snowboarders. One of the biggest draws to skiing in Japan is the quality of snow, which is referred to as "Japow" due to its light and fluffy texture.

The most popular ski destination in Japan is the Niseko area in Hokkaido, which boasts over 2,000 meters of vertical, making it one of the largest ski areas in the country. The area also receives an average of 15 meters of snowfall every winter, which is why it's considered one of the snowiest resorts in the world.

In addition to Niseko, there are several other ski areas worth checking out in Japan. Hakuba Valley is one of the largest ski resorts in Japan and hosted several events during the 1998 Winter Olympics. The resort also offers a wide variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

For those looking for a unique skiing experience, check out the ski areas surrounding the volcanic Mount Fuji. These resorts offer breathtaking views of the iconic mountain while skiing or snowboarding down the slopes.

While skiing in Japan, it's also worth taking the time to explore some of the country's cultural offerings. Many ski areas are located near hot springs, or "onsen," which are traditional Japanese baths with mineral-rich waters. Visitors can relax and take in the stunning scenery while soaking in the hot springs.

 

Best time to go skiing in Japan

Generally, the ski season in Japan runs from late December to early April. However, the peak season is typically from mid-January to late February, when the snowfall is at its heaviest and the conditions are perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.

During the peak season, you can expect ski resorts to be crowded and prices to be higher. But if you're willing to brave the crowds, you can enjoy some of the best powder snow in the world. The alpine region of Hokkaido is particularly popular during this time, thanks in part to its abundance of snowfall and challenging slopes.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Japan for skiing in December or early March. While the snow may not be as deep as during the peak season, you can still enjoy a variety of ski slopes and typically find discounts on lift tickets and accommodations.

 

 

Let's Get Your Ski Holiday Sorted

With our own avid in-house "ski team", you will get all the best advice and holiday package to suit your budget when you book with us! Come and have a chat with Melissa who is always keen to share her ski holiday stories as well as her inside tips on all our top ski destinations.

When it comes to planning your ultimate ski holiday, there are a few destinations that stand out as must-visit regions for any fan of the slopes. France, Canada, and Japan, are the three "hot spots" that we recommend as the best places to hit the powder in 2024.

We recommend you book your 2024 ski holiday now to get the best that these destinations have to offer!