Enjoy wonderful skiing in Europe's underrated destinations
A winter sports holiday to Europe offers the chance for you to enjoy amazing skiing and snowboarding - as well as other exciting pursuits. Although you could head to world-famous destinations like Courchevel and Val d'Isere, why not think about going somewhere that is underrated, yet no less fabulous instead? Read on to find out more about these resorts.
While Brides-les-Bains might not be the first place to come to mind when planning ski holidays, it certainly is a wonderful spot for sports.
The French resort has plenty of its own high-quality runs to be explored; however, as it is also part of the Trois Vallees - the largest linked ski area in the world - you can enjoy skiing across a total of 600 km of slopes in nearby resorts such as Val Thorens and La Tania.
Furthermore, Brides-les-Bains does not have the high price tag or crowds that many of its neighbours tend to experience, allowing you to enjoy a tranquil, yet still exciting, alpine getaway.
In addition to being able to take part in amazing skiing and snowboarding, you can also go on guided snowshoe expeditions while in Brides-les-Bains. Here, you'll be able to see deer and grouse as you walk.
No matter what you choose to get up to during the day, you'll be able to soothe away any aches and pains at Brides-les-Bains' spa centre, which offers a range of health and beauty treatments. You will feel revitalised and be raring to get back on the slopes in next to no time.
Alternatively, Pamporovo is a great place for those seeking ski resorts in underrated, albeit fantastic, destinations.
Situated high in Bulgaria's Rhodopa mountain range, the resort is the ideal destination for beginners to get to grips with the sport.
In addition to several gentle nursery slopes near the resort village, Pamporovo has more than 100 expert instructors - many of whom speak excellent English - who will be able to teach you everything you need to know to ski safely.
Once you've got a grip on the basics, you can put your skills to the test on one of the numerous green and blue runs or head to the freestyle park in order to pull off amazing freestyle tricks on the half-pipe.
Pamporovo also has a vibrant apres-ski scene, so once you've finished tearing up the slopes, you can tuck into authentic local cuisine at one of the many restaurants, before enjoying a couple of beers at a bar.
You may also want to look for ski deals for the Swiss resort of Arosa. Situated some 1,800 m above sea level, here you can show off your skiing and snowboarding skills across a number of well-maintained runs spread over 70 km of pistes.
However, if you fancy taking a break from carving up the pistes then you may want to try your hand at curling, go on an exhilarating Nordic walk or play a friendly game of ice hockey. Just a short distance from Arosa, you will be able to explore the beautiful 15th-century Bergkirchli church, which contains a stunning gothic ceiling.
Make sure you stop by one of the many mountainside restaurants during your break in order to try some authentic Swiss cuisine, including homemade apple strudel.
Visit any of the above resorts on your next ski holiday and you can rest assured you will have an amazing time.
