Escaping to warmer climes and relaxing on the beach or by the pool is the holiday of choice for scores of tourists during the winter. However, adventurous travellers want excitement and exhilaration from their time away from home, which more often than not involves taking a trip to the mountains.
Unfortunately, the cold weather is not always ideal for camping and alternative accommodation is required. Thankfully, there are an abundance of different options all over Europe, from hotels in France to ski chalets in Austria.
But before booking your next winter sports experience, weigh up the pros and cons of these various lodgings and don’t forget to pack all that essential equipment.
Types of Accommodation
Catered Chalets
Photo Credit By: snowytrees.com
This easy and sociable type of accommodation includes everything you could possibly want and is great value for money. A host is on hand to clean the chalet and provide breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner, which will often come with wine. In bigger chalets there will be additional guests, but this can increase the enjoyment.
Hotels
The majority of Europe’s biggest ski resorts will have numerous hotels of varying size and stature. Some are run by locals or small families while others are managed by multinational chains and tour operators. Even though there are some extremely luxurious hotels out there, the interior decor of most is fairly traditional yet perfectly serviceable.
Self-catered Apartments
If you want the freedom and flexibility to ski and eat whenever you feel like it, choose a self-catered apartment. Just remember that resort shops and restaurants tend to be fairly expensive and this will have to be factored in to the overall cost of the holiday.
Essential items
Ski Equipment
Photo Credit By: altitudeskiaccommodation.co.uk
Things like skis, boots and poles can be hired out easily, but if you head to the mountains regularly, it might be cheaper to buy your own and purchase additional baggage on the flight.
Clothing
Again this can be rented, but if you’re wearing ski clothing all day every day, having your own is advantageous. Remember to pack a jacket, trousers, base layers, thermal underwear, gloves, socks, sunglasses, goggles, neck scarfs and hats.
Protection
Skiing can be a dangerous pastime; so don’t overlook taking a helmet, knee pads and wrist guards. You should also pack some sun cream and lip balm, as the blazing sun at high altitudes can burn your skin easily.
Therefore, next time you want to go skiing but don’t fancy camping, there are several accommodation alternatives available. You’ll probably be able to take even more essential equipment too.