Every year, as soon as the snow melts, I start dreaming about my next ski holiday. There’s something about skiing that captures my imagination like no other trip — the mountains, the snow, the crisp winter air. It’s pure magic.
The Allure of Snow
Skiing requires snow — that rare and beautiful thing that only graces certain parts of the world for a few short months. And those months are what I wait for all year.
The brisk mornings, the dazzling white afternoons, and the soft quiet that settles over the mountains — there’s nothing quite like a true snow day.
But what I love most about skiing holidays is the snow itself. Will it be light and powdery? Hard and fast? Or, if I’m lucky, that perfect fresh powder every skier dreams of? Even the journey to the slopes, winding through mountain passes on a frosty morning, feels like an adventure in itself.
Winter Feels Festive
There’s something inherently festive about ski season. In the northern hemisphere, the slopes come alive during December and January — twinkling lights, cozy lodges, and the happy buzz of the holidays. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas in the Alps or New Year’s in the Rockies, the mountains have a way of making everything feel special.
Travel Is Part of the Adventure
For most of us, skiing means travel — and that’s half the fun. Only a lucky few live right next to the slopes, which means a ski holiday usually involves hitting the road (or boarding a plane) to reach those snow-covered peaks.
Arriving in a new mountain town, waking up to the sight of ski lifts gliding through the mist — it’s an unbeatable feeling. Some of the best ski resorts in Europe, like Chamonix, Zermatt, and St. Anton, offer world-class skiing paired with charming alpine culture.
The Food Always Tastes Better
After hours on the slopes, even the simplest meal tastes like a feast. From fondue and raclette in the Swiss Alps to hearty mountain stews in France or Austria, ski resorts are full of culinary surprises.
Even if you’re just grabbing lunch at a slope-side café, the combination of mountain air and post-ski hunger makes every bite unforgettable.
The Après-Ski Scene
A huge part of any ski trip is the après-ski — the social side of skiing. When the lifts close, the party begins. Think live music, cozy bars, outdoor fire pits, and plenty of hot drinks to go around. Whether you’re dancing in your ski boots in Verbier or sipping mulled wine in Whistler, après-ski culture is reason enough to book that trip.
The Joy of Getting Better
Skiing is one of those rare activities that’s as fun to learn as it is to master. Yes, there are falls and sore muscles, but every small improvement feels amazing. After a long day on the slopes, sitting by a fire with tired legs and a full heart — that’s the kind of satisfaction that keeps me coming back year after year.
Fireside Moments
No ski holiday is complete without a fireplace. There’s nothing better than returning from the cold, cheeks rosy, and curling up by a crackling fire with a drink in hand. These quiet, content moments are what turn winter travel into something truly special.
The Freedom of the Slopes
At its core, skiing is about freedom — the rush of carving down a fresh hill, the silence of untouched snow, and the breathtaking views that surround you. For those of us who are hooked, that feeling is unbeatable.
Plan Your Ski Holiday 2026
If you’ve been dreaming about your own winter getaway, now’s the time to plan it. Whether you’re heading to the Alps, the Dolomites, or North America’s Rocky Mountains, there’s a perfect slope waiting for you.
Here are three top European destinations featured on Thinking Nomads — each with its own unique vibe and guide:
- Davos Klosters (Switzerland) – This winter-guide presents high-altitude slopes, six ski-areas, family-friendly options and lively après-ski in the Swiss Alps.
- St. Anton am Arlberg (Austria) – Known as the cradle of alpine skiing, this guide covers 300 km of groomed pistes, 200 km of freeride terrain, vibrant nightlife and alpine culture.
- Chamonix‑Mont‑Blanc (France) – A full guide to one of Europe’s iconic winter destinations: mix of skiing, mountaineering heritage, culture, gastronomy and family-friendly fun.
Find exclusive ski holiday deals in Europe and North America, from charming chalets to luxury resorts, and make this season your best one yet.
Eternal adventurer and wanderlust seeker! Always thinking about (and planning) our next adventure, hence the name”Thinking Nomads”!
Wife to Marco and mamma to Isabella and Maya. India, Nepal and Vietnam are my top three countries!
Norway, Iceland and South Africa are top of my bucket list!
