An Intermediate Skier? Look for This When Choosing a Ski Resort.
You are comfortable linking turns on groomed Blue runs and managing varied conditions. When you’re planning your escape to the European frosty mountains, you should look for ski resorts that enable you to progress in varied terrain and give you access to steeper or narrower Red runs that offer a challenge – if you’re looking for one.
An American in the Alps. What You Should Know.
We’ve selected the best of the best Alpine ski resorts for intermediate runs and off-mountain activities. Before getting to the specifics, there are some general differences between European and American ski resorts that’s good to get out of the way.
Trail difficulty.
Europeans operate from the following color scheme, which differs slightly from the Green-Blue-Black system used in North-America:
- Green signals beginner runs.
- Blue trails are intermediate runs. Quick note: European Blue runs are equivalent to US Green or easy Blue runs.
- Red signals advanced runs. Quick note: Be aware that European Red runs can be more challenging, steeper, and less groomed than American Blue runs.
- Black trails are expert runs.
Off-piste ski control.
Notably, terrain outside marked pistes (runs) is unpatrolled and unmitigated for avalanche risk in Europe. Keep this in mind if you’re feeling adventurous – and if you plan to go off-piste, you should always bring a local guide and safety equipment.
Quick tip: Pack the avalanche gear in one of our backpacks that are specifically designed for off-piste terrain and Safeback functionality.
Our List of the 6 Best Ski Resorts in Europe for Intermediate Skiers and Snowboarders.
In our guide to the best intermediate ski resorts in Europe, we’ve selected six resorts based on the following parameters:
- Base elevation: This is the lowest point of the ski resort and where the lodging and dining facilities are located.
- Skiable pistes: The size of the skiable terrain.
- Overall intermediate terrain: We give you a percentage of Blue runs at each ski resort.
- Cost range: Passes/tickets are generally cheaper and the food is relatively inexpensive compared to any American ski resort. However, there are local differences between countries and ski areas, for example those in Switzerland and Austria.
- Affiliation with Ikon or Epic Passes: As an intermediate skier, you might hold a pass that gives you regular access to major ski resorts in the U.S. Some European ski areas have affiliations or partnerships with Epic or Ikon that give you discounted/free access to the ski resort.
Ellmau, Austria.
Base elevation: 2,690 feet (820 m)
Skiable pistes: 172 miles (278 km)
Overall intermediate terrain: 41% Blue runs
Cost range: Mid range
Affiliation with Ikon or Epic Passes: Local passes only
Ellmau is part of the SkiWelt ski area, the largest, interconnected ski area in Austria. Other charming villages include Going, Itter, and Scheffau. As a whole, SkiWelt boasts an intermediate-friendly infrastructure, both in terms of ski terrain and off-mountain activities. It’s often mentioned as offering some of the best value in the Alps.
Terrain.
The terrain at Ellmau consists of gentle slopes and many wide, easy Blue runs. The groomed runs are ideal conditions for building confidence on the slopes, while you can also find accessible Red runs if you want to transition to a more challenging terrain.
Après-ski.
Known for its charming and relaxed mountain restaurants and bars, this is a great place to chill with friends and enjoy your downtime together. The bar life is known to be lively and sometimes rowdy – a selling point for some and a caution for others.
Travel.
The closest airport to Ellmau is Innsbruck (INN) or Salzburg (SZG), requiring a 1.5-hour transfer to the resort.
Lech, Austria.
Base elevation: 4,740 feet (1,444 m)
Skiable pistes: 190 miles (305 km)
Overall intermediate terrain: 40% Blue runs
Cost range: High range
Affiliation with Ikon or Epic Passes: Local passes only
Lech is part of the massive Ski Arlberg ski area, which boasts several snow-sure resorts. Among those, Lech is the best intermediate base for skiers and riders. Compared to St. Anton, another Austrian hotspot, the atmosphere is more refined and exclusive, which also is reflected in the facilities and offers.
Terrain.
The Blue runs are groomed, wide, and less crowded compared to many other ski resorts on our list. If you want to cruise along the slopes, uninterrupted and comfortably, then this is the perfect place for you.
Après-ski.
The après-ski scene is centered around great dining and chic bars, enhanced by a traditional, Austrian warmth. This is not a party central like the Austrian resorts St. Anton and Ischgl can be.
Travel.
The closest airports are Innsbruck (INN) and Zürich (ZRH), followed by a 1.5- to 3-hour transfer.
Méribel, France.
Base elevation: 4,700 feet (1,400 m)
Skiable pistes: 370 miles (600 km)
Overall intermediate terrain: 40% Blue runs
Cost range: Mid to high range
Affiliation with Ikon or Epic Passes: Local passes only
Méribel is the ideal intermediate ski resort in the Les Trois Vallées ski area, which also consists of Courchevel and Val Thorens. Generally, you can expect French prices to be higher compared to Austrian or Italian ski resorts, but the massive scale of the resort justifies the cost level.
Terrain.
There are long, tree-lined blue runs that descend into the village. For one, it’s beautiful, but it also enables you to practice your technique before you advance to Red runs, which are equally as nice.
Après-ski.
You can definitely expect an afternoon party on the slopes. While not as rowdy as other spots, there is definitely that unique French Alpine experience post-run.
Travel.
The closest airports are Geneva (GVA) or Chambery (CMF). Transfers typically take 2 to 3 hours.
Val d’Isère, France.
Base elevation: 6,070 feet (1,850 m)
Skiable pistes: 186 miles (300 km)
Overall intermediate terrain: 45% Blue runs
Cost range: High range
Affiliation with Ikon or Epic Passes: Local passes only
A high-altitude and snow-sure destination, Val d’Isère is a cozy village with exceptional pistes and atmosphere. The cost is on the higher end of scale, but that’s to be expected from French ski resorts of this magnitude.
Terrain.
Since the resort sits so high on the mountain, the snow is virtually guaranteed, not only in abundance, but also in quality. Friendly intermediate runs are another given – they are groomed and wide, making any ski day a fun day.
Après-ski.
Expect everything from high-end lounges to fun bars, but with a unique French chic twist.
Travel.
The closest airports are Geneva (GVA) or Chambery (CMF). Transfers typically take 2 to 3 hours.
Livigno, Italy.
Base elevation: 5,990 feet (1,816 m)
Skiable pistes: 75 miles (126 km)
Overall intermediate terrain: 35% Blue runs
Cost range: Mid range
Affiliation with Ikon or Epic Passes: Local passes only
Livigno is a hidden gem for reliable snow and great pistes. The remote location of the ski resort, although more challenging to get to, ensures less crowded streets and runs. You can enjoy the picturesque village and slopes at your own pace. Additionally, due to the duty-free status of the area, lift tickets, alcohol, and similar are significantly lower than other ski resorts in Europe.
Terrain.
Wide, sunny, and high-alpine runs. That’s Livigno in a nutshell. While the ski resort is smaller compared to the other resorts on the list, you get access to a great selection of cruisy, intermediate runs and more advanced Red runs.
Après-ski.
There is a relaxed après-ski scene, focused on traditional, Italian mountain food with excellent chances of a post-run Aperitivo.
Travel.
The closest airports are Innsbruck (INN) or Milan (MXP/LIN). Due to the remote location, transfers can take up to 4 hours.
Grindelwald, Switzerland.
Base elevation: 3,400 feet (1,034 m)
Skiable pistes: 100 miles (160 km)
Overall intermediate terrain: 30% Blue runs
Cost range: High range
Affiliation with Ikon or Epic Passes: Local passes only
Grindelwald is the perfect destination for an iconic, traditional Swiss village experience, combined with great terrain and a charming atmosphere. The ideal combination of culture and nature.
Terrain.
Enjoy scenic runs and long descents at this Swiss resort. The high-altitude runs offer an abundance of snow and idyllic descents.
Après-ski.
It’s a low-key and traditional Swiss post-mountain experience consisting of charming restaurants, chilled bars, and a relatively quiet village atmosphere.
Travel.
The closest airports are Zürich (ZRL) or Basel (BSL).
Packing for Your Ski Trip.
Before booking your lift tickets you should also consider whether you are buying or renting your ski equipment. Consider the cost of each option, as well as whether you’re likely to take several ski trips over the upcoming years. If so, it might be more economical to buy your gear instead of renting. And if you’re worried about traveling with ski gear on planes, don’t be. We got the best ski and snowboard bags for air travel, ready for your journey.
Don’t sleep on the importance of the correct bag.
Some options include a long, compressible ski bag meant to streamline the packing and transport of skis and ski poles. The spacious Snow Roller has compartments that also facilitate space for goggles and helmets. Another choice is the Snow Essential Ski Bag with adjustable straps. It’s also available as a snowboard bag.
Choose the Right Ski Resorts for Your Level.
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Ski Resorts in Europe.
In need of inspiration or where to live out your ski or snowboard fantasies? We’ve gathered a complete list of the best European ski resorts based on terrain, après-ski, and cost.
The best ski resorts in Europe
Your Questions Answered.
Intermediate Ski Resorts in Europe.
What are the best ski resorts in Europe for intermediate skiers?
The best ski resorts for intermediates are those that offer a percentage of wide, gentle slopes (Blue runs) and possibilities for advancing to steeper or more challenging runs. A great après-ski offer is also important. Our top choices that fit these three criteria are Lech in Austria (impeccable grooming), Livigno in Italy (outstanding value), and Méribel in France (massive mileage).
Which resorts are good for a family trip or a mixed-ability group?
If you’re travelling to a ski resort with your family or a group of friends with a varied skill level, we would recommend La Plagne or Les Gets in France (gentle slopes and great mix of runs) or Zermatt in Switzerland (a quiet ski resort with views of the Matterhorn).
Which intermediate ski resort has the best value for money in Europe?
Ellmau in Austria is widely considered the European ski resort that gives the most bang for your buck. Why? Because the on- and off-mountain prices reflect the offer and quality for the ski resort that caters to every ski level, desired après-ski offer, and lodging requirements.
