There are lots of unique ski experiences to enjoy around the world. From bungee jumping on skis to visiting an elk refuge, there are plenty of amazing activities you can do on and off the mountains in ski resorts. There’s something for everyone when you head on a ski holiday. Our ski experts have created a guide to the best unique ski experiences.
Bun J Ride – Tignes, France
This is one of the unique ski experiences for the thrill-seekers out there. The Bungee jump ski ramp (or Bun J Ride) in Tignes lets you travel down a 30m runway into a jump that’s 40ms high. When you do the jump you are attached to a zipline with two elastic cords. If you’re feeling adventurous you can try tricks that you wouldn’t normally attempt in the snowpark. The system then locks once you’ve reached a certain point and gradually lowers you to the ground. An amazing innovative jump!
Stay At:
The Savoyarde-style Hotel Les Campanules is one of the most popular four-star hotels in Tignes.
Europe’s Longest Toboggan Run – Val Thorens, France
Fancy a different mode of transfer on the mountain? Try Europe’s longest toboggan run located in Val Thorens. The Funitel gondola will take you to 3,000m high to this fantastic track. The toboggan run is an impressive 6km long and you’ll feel some speed heading down the mountain. It is open during the day, but we recommend trying it at night when the slopes are closed. A great after-ski activity!
Stay At:
Hotel Marielle in Val Thorens has a slope-side location with ski-in ski-out access to the Three Valley ski area.
Hahnenkamm Ski Race – Kitzbühel, Austria
The most famous ski race in the world is the Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel, Austria. The world’s best ski racers each year battle it out on what’s regarded as the most challenging downhill racecourse on the World Cup circuit. Thousands of fans create an amazing atmosphere in January as the ski racers take on the Streif racecourse. There is also the Slalom day too, where Britain’s very own Dave Ryding made history by becoming the first Brit to win a World Cup Alpine ski race. You’ll see history in the making!
Stay At:
Hotel Kaiserhof Kitzbühel is a great ski-in ski-out hotel, situated right on the slopes and close to the lifts.
Heliskiing – Panorama, Canada
If you love off-piste skiing then this unique ski experience is up your street. Not many resorts offer the public the chance to travel by helicopter to the best snow. Panorama is one of the best places to go heliskiing because there are several operators within the area. The terrain in the area means skiers who can handle a red run can access this service too. On some routes, there are comfortable lodgings if you need a break or want to warm up. A definite bucket-list activity for any keen skier.
Stay At:
The Panorama Upper Village Condos are modern apartments, situated in an exceptional ski-in ski-out location.
National Elk Refuge – Jackson Hole, USA
The National Elk Refuge is just outside Jackson Hole and is a truly wonderful day out. If you want a break from the slopes this is a fantastic way to admire nature. In addition to Elk, there are also bison, eagles, mule deer and bighorn sheep that visit the area too. There’s also an opportunity to book a horse-drawn sleigh which allows people to see the animals a lot closer without scaring them. The tour is about an hour and it is reasonably priced. This is a great opportunity to discover alpine animals.
Stay At:
Hotel Amangani in Jackson Hole has a unique location with stunning panoramic views of the mountains.
Northern Lights Night Skiing – Trysil, Norway
The night skiing in Trysil is quite simply stunning. When you’re on the slopes you’ll be able to see the sky glittered with bright stars. If you’re lucky, you’ll also be treated to the iconic northern lights, which is on many people’s bucket lists to see. Enjoy a magnificent event in one of Norway’s most family-friendly ski resorts.
Stay At:
The upscale Radisson Blu Resort in Trysil offers its guests first-class facilities in a ski-in ski-out location.
Rockies Hot Air Balloon Trip – Aspen, USA
On the ground, Aspen attracts the rich and famous and there are a lot of luxury options of shops and accommodation. However, the views of the Rockies from the skies are priceless. The Above It All Balloon Company offer a bird’s-eye view of Aspen’s Elk Mountain Range during sunrise. A truly unique ski experience with scenery that you’ve never witnessed before.
Stay At:
In the heart of Aspen, the Hotel Little Nell is one of the premier hotels in this stylish resort.
Le Refuge de Solaise – Val d’Isère, France
Le Refuge de Solaise is the highest hotel in the French Alps at 2,551m. This four-star establishment has all the luxury requirements you need and is in the ideal location for spectacular views. Enjoy facilities such as a hot tub, swimming pool and spa. It is also a ski-in ski-out accommodation so you’ll be able to maximise your time on the slopes. This is a great way to live the high life for sure!
Stay At:
Chalet Hotel Le Savoie occupies an exceptionally convenient location on Val d’Isère’s main street and just moments from the ski lift.
La Bee Zipline – Val Thorens, France
La Bee is one of the highest ziplines in the world. You will descend from 3,230m across two mountain peaks for over a minute from Orelle to Val Thorens. The 1,300m zipline is a unique ski experience and you can also do it in tandem if you wish. You will whizz across the mountain range at about 62 mph, a truly exhilarating experience.
Stay At:
The Altapura in Val Thorens is a magnificent five-star hotel, set back from the lively centre of Val Thorens, offering ski-in ski-out access to the slopes.
To find out more about unique ski experiences, please call our ski experts on 0207 471 7700.
