Uncrowded slopes, minimal lift queues and a relaxed atmosphere can be bliss when having a ski holiday. If you chose a lesser-known resort instead of a major name, you can discover unique charms and hidden gems. Whether it is a quiet ski resort near Geneva or Innsbruck there’s something for everyone. Our ski experts have created a guide for the best quiet ski resorts in Europe.
Alpbach, Austria
It’s just an hour’s transfer from Innsbruck Airport to get to Alpbach, which makes it one of the best quiet ski resorts in Europe. This hidden gem in the Tyrol region is part of the Ski Juwel ski area where you can access 109km of slopes with a full lift pass. It also has great links with neighbouring ski resort Niederau-Oberau. The slopes are uncrowded throughout the season and the village has a relaxed welcoming atmosphere. In addition, the views on and off the slopes are beautiful.
Stay At:
The Böglerhof is Alpbach’s leading hotel. Furnished in elegant, Tyrolean style, it is steeped in history and offers friendly and superior service.
Trysil, Norway
Trysil is Norway’s largest and oldest ski resort. Despite its size, it is a quiet ski resort with uncrowded slopes and a relaxed nightlife. You can ski 71km of slopes in the area, with the terrain ideal for intermediates and beginners. The views are beautiful and the queuing time for each lift is minimal. Off the slopes, the bars and restaurants are stylish cabin-style buildings with a soothing atmosphere. There is also the possibility to witness the amazing Northern Lights if the weather is suitable.
Stay At:
The upscale Radisson Blu Resort in Trysil offers its guests first-class facilities in a ski-in ski-out location.
Val di Fassa, Italy
Located in the eastern part of the Dolomites, Val di Fassa is a beautiful quiet ski resort. It is a hidden gem within the Sella Ronda Circuit with 120km of slopes to explore locally. In addition, it is also connected to the wider Dolomiti Superski area which has an impressive 1,220km to access if you buy a full lift pass. The village itself has a traditional alpine charm and the locals are very friendly. Enjoy quiet family-run bars and restaurants on and off the mountain.
Stay At:
Hotel Croce Bianca is a beautiful hotel with spa facilities, fantastically situated in the centre of Canazei in Val di Fassa.
Les Menuires, France
Despite being part of the massive Three Valleys ski area, Les Menuires is a quiet ski resort compared to the other big names in the area. The local runs are more suited to beginner and intermediate skiers but more advanced skiers can head to Méribel, Courchevel and Val Thorens to ski up to 600km of slopes. It’s the more affordable and relaxed way of exploring the Three Valleys. There is plenty of ski-in ski-out accommodation so that you can maximise your time on the pistes. A great quiet ski resort near Geneva.
Stay At:
The contemporary Hotel Le Kaya is found in a lovely part of Les Menuires at 1850m, with stunning views of the Cime Caron.
Hafjell, Norway
Hafjell has great uncrowded slopes that suit all abilities. If you’re a first-time skier there are plenty of green and blue runs to progress on. There’s a great range of red runs for intermediate skiers to enjoy too. Advanced skiers will enjoy challenging themselves on the 1994 Lillehammer Giant slalom slope, which is the only black run on the piste map. The après is very relaxed with some great restaurants and bars to unwind in.
Westendorf, Austria
Part of the family-friendly SkiWelt ski area, Westendorf provides a peaceful ski experience for every level of skier to enjoy. The choice of childcare and kids activities in the area is superb for a ski resort, making it ideal for a family ski holiday. The slopes are uncrowded with 284km to enjoy with a full lift pass. There are a few lively bars in the area at peak times but for the majority of the season, it’s more of a relaxed vibe. In addition, there are plenty of great places to eat on and off the mountain.
Stay At:
With uninterrupted mountain views from its sunny terrace, the superior Vitalhotel Schermer is known for its standard of comfort and cuisine as well as its extensive leisure facilities.
Filzmoos, Austria
Filzmoos is one of the best quiet ski resorts in Europe because it is a hidden gem of winter paradise. Expect uncrowded slopes, stunning views and a charming alpine village. This picturesque resort has 13km of slopes mainly suited to beginner and intermediate skiers. If you’re heading as a group or family, Filzmoos is ideal because it feels like the town is for yourself. There are excellent accommodation options and a few lovely restaurants to visit too.
Stay At:
Hotel Hammerhof in Filzmoos is a charming, family-run hotel with a sauna, bar and restaurant.
Samoëns, France
Samoëns is a quiet ski resort near Geneva, only an hour’s transfer. This is an ideal destination if you want to maximise your time on the slopes as it’s only just over an hour from Chambery too. You can ski 265km of pistes in the area, with great links to nearby Flaine, Les Carroz and Morillon. There’s a low key atmosphere in the main village, so expect relaxed dinners and drinks in the local bars and restaurants.
Stay At:
Club Med’s ski-in ski-out hotel in the heart of Grand Massif is the perfect all-inclusive family getaway, with instant access to the slopes.
Sainte Foy, France
Sainte Foy is another quiet ski resort near Geneva, but with a two-hour transfer. This French ski resort has uncrowded slopes, minimal lift time and a relaxed atmosphere. There is 42km of slopes that all types of skiers can enjoy their time on. It is also suitable for a family holiday with the excellent childcare facilities and ski schools in the area. Despite being small, you can visit a lot of restaurants in the area that serve delicious alpine cuisine.
Stay At:
Residence Le Ruitor self-catered apartments have a traditional chalet style. Located in the quiet resort of Sainte Foy, staying here gives you access to uncrowded slopes.
Serre Chevalier, France
Serre Chevalier has lovely quiet slopes that are ideal for any level of skier. It is known for its excellent tree skiing and you can explore 250km of diverse slopes. Serre Chevalier is split into four main villages, all with their own unique charms. There are unique buildings spread along the valley from modern hamlets to more traditional alpine villages. You can expect cobbled streets and cute shops and bars. If you want a peaceful spot in the mountains then this is your ideal ski destination.
Stay At:
Le Grand Aigle Hotel & Spa in Serre Chevalier has an incredible location with ski-in ski-out access.
Mürren, Switzerland
Located in the Jungfrau ski region, Mürren is a peaceful ski experience. The traditional architecture and friendly locals make it a delight to visit. You will arrive at the resort by a lovely mountain train ride through the mountains. The views are truly breathtaking on and off the slopes. You can ski 224km of slopes with a full lift pass. The skiing is mainly suited to beginners and intermediates, but more advanced skiers will enjoy nearby Wengen.
Stay At:
The Hotel Eiger in Mürren is a traditional family-run hotel with a wonderful welcoming atmosphere.
To find out more about the best quiet ski resorts in Europe call our ski experts on 0207 471 7700.
