Plus there is a chance to experience history here (though, luckily, in a not-so-hands-on way!). Just a few of the activities for non-skiers include ice skating, canyon ice walks, sleigh rides, dog sledding, ice fishing, gondola rides, and helicopter tours. This article was first published October 2020 and updated November 2022. This is also a perfect time to work on doing other tasks that maybe you dont have time to do much in your day-to-day life, such asdoing crossword puzzles, writing letters, making a photo album, watching movies, knitting, or finishing craft projects. Just strolling the streets in the winter makes for a fun experience, though its also renowned for its skiing and a host of other activities. But you do need to buy proper cold weather clothing (which may or may not be classified as ski clothing( and I would purchase a set of boots, jackets, gloves, and probably pants that are waterproof (or at least highly water resistant). There are practically endless shopping opportunities as well as outstanding restaurants and plenty of fun activities too. Winter snow breaks. The skiing is incredible and the Chamonix accommodations are beautiful, but they also offer a massive . Keystone is one of the most popular ski resorts for families. No matter what you do, be sure to take time to check out the national park for the chance to see moose grazing in frozen meadows, bison roaming snow-filled plains, and geysers spouting all minus the big summer crowds. Thanks to the regions southerly location, youre likely to enjoy it all in the sunshine too, as over 80 percent of the days here are blizzard free and sunny. Boyne Mountain Resort is the premier resort in northern Michigan, welcoming families for over 65 years. Experience being on a sled pulled by Alaskan huskies with a sledding excursion or hop aboard one of Gentle Giants sleigh rides driven by gentle Percheron and Belgian draft horses with beautifully lit Santa-style sleighs gliding among the breathtaking New England scenery. During the day, non-ski options include shopping the many chic boutiques, tandem paragliding, hiking, and snowshoeing. Many ski resorts offer hot tubs and you may also see if there are any natural hot springs around. Offering wonderful hospitality, this historic 3-star superior hotel sits in the idyllic village of Guarda. So, i kinda browse around (and panicking a bit) of what to prepare lol. Below is of course just a partial list of some of the things you can do on your own snow holiday, but hopefully it will help get you started on planning your own non-ski winter holiday! This destination is also considered a foodie heaven, with five Michelin star restaurants, and it also receives an incredible 300+ days of sunshine each year. I personally have never had much interest in skiing (seems like an expensive way to fall down a lot to me! The historic Trapp Family Lodge, made famous by The Sound Of Music, is less than 10 miles from the resort. Those with kids may also want to be sure it has a pool if your kids are more interested in playing in the water than the snow. At the bottom of the main slope, they also have food trucks, so you can grab some later evening snacks while you enjoy the fire. Sun Valley is famous for its year-round ice shows, and you can even skate on the same ice thats hosted countless Olympians, or if swimming is your thing, Sun Valley Resort hosts three pools, including its legendary Lodge Pool, which offers aprs ski cocktail service. Mansfield, the tallest mountain in the state. The gondola showcases the best views of Vermonts wintery landscape and takes you to the top of Mt. 10 great winter holidays in Europe for non-skiers Mountain spas and dog-sledding, cosy cabins and roaring fires You don't need to hit the slopes to enjoy a snowy break Joanne O'Connor Sun. A popular escape for east-coast dwellers, Stowe is a rustic compound that excels at catering to everyones idea of the perfect winter vacation. If you want to head out on your own, ask if the resort has a map of suggested snowshoe treks. Looking to get your heart rate a bit more elevated? Snow resorts often have a course or hill set up for those who want to rent a sled or go snow tubing or tobogganing. This post may contain affiliate links. A perfect place to sip drinks, read, and while away time talking. For hiking trails, often these can be accessed without a ski lift, if hiking is permitted, but if you want or need to use the ski lifts to get to a hiking trail, you will usually need a ticket or pass to access them. I was worried about things to do while everyone else is skiing and now feel way more knowledgeable about activities to keep me occupied, especially tubing and snowshoeing. Most places that have a lot of winter ski activities, also offer dog sledding trips. Two- and five-day winter mountaineering courses in Glen Coe and the Cairngorms include accommodation, food and the first of your winter challenges - a 7am start. Wonder no more. Your email address will not be published. From luxury accommodations and delectable cuisine offerings to abundant outdoor activities and a world-class spa, everyone in your group can enjoy a perfect vacation at Sun Valley. Shoppers looking for a unique keepsake will delight at the quaint storefronts down Main Street, offering everything from stylish boutique clothing, rare books, and local artwork. Perhaps you fancy a little retail therapy? We are delighted to bring the opportunity to experience the magical winter season to a wider audience. Often youll find a fireplace in the shared lobby or restaurant but If youre not on a budget, consider booking a place with a fireplace in the room or suite. Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. There are a lot of fun winter snow activities that dont involve skiing or snowboarding such as sledding, snow tubing, ice fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sleigh rides. Its just like a roller coaster, but youll get to enjoy the gorgeous, snowy mountain scenery of Park City. Dont miss the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar where the seats are saddles, and there is often live music on the weekends. Ive always been more interested in the apres ski than the ski! I would LOVE to go dog sledding some day. If not, youll likely be able to find one within driving distance in many ski resort locations. This is a popular destination for French Alps winter snow holidays for non-skiers. One of the most popular is a year-round 90-minute walking tour through Breckenridges national historic district. There is also ice climbing, ice skating, ice hockey, and mountain excursions. Once you have some experience you can also head off on your own and go ski touring. After a days worth of activities, nothing is better than spending happy hour enjoying a local craft beer. It is so easy as all you need are the snowshoes (which attach onto most winter boots) and poles are also good to have and these are usually not very expensive to rent. Just remember to do your research before your trip so that you know what kind of activities will be available at the ski destination and book any activities you really want to do in advance. Many ski resorts also offer guided hikes as well. Amtraks USA Rail Pass lets you do it. Some resorts have specific groomed cross-country ski trails and many may offer guided tours for those trying it out for the first time. These can be a great way to spend time while your partner or family hits the slopes. Walking the town square, youll find art galleries, boutiques, western wear shops, and more. A plastic trash can cover, lunch tray, trash bag, or large frisbee can be a sled (list of 7 things that can be used as a sled), so even if there isnt a course or designated hills available you can try finding your own hill (away from the ski slopes of course!) Were here for you. While in the Catalan Pyrenees in January, we met with someone who runs a program for adapted skiing at La Molina which can include people with a number of physical and mental health disabilities, including people who are wheelchair bound! Crystal Lodge & Suites. One of the most popular outdoor activities in Stowe besides skiing is fatbiking. Before or after your service, make sure to take advantage of the complimentary sauna access, have a soak in the hot tub, or take a dip in the heated pool. Another reason it ranks high for non-skiers is its close proximity to some incredible attractions like the ancient village of Chamois and Europes highest ice caves. The one that took our breath away, and is considered one of the best ski resort based aquatic centres in the world is the Aquamotionin Courchevel 1550. Many of the hot springs destinations have spas on site for the ultimate relaxing experience. There are also lots of great options for sledding the toboggan run on the Gornergrat is known as one of the finest in the Alps. Skiers can easily access the ski village of Pradollano by bus or car an hour away, while non-skiers can enjoy spending their days walking the whitewashed alleys of the Albaicin and exploring Alhambra, a hilltop fortress-palace known as one of the most exquisite landmarks in the world. Best, Jessica. The Stubai valley is one of the most picturesque locations near Innsbruck. What is available is going to depend a lot on the location of your ski holiday and where you are staying so be sure to research your options beforehand to get the most out of your trip. Snowboarding was invented in 1965 in Michigan and became very popular, especially among younger adults, in the later part of the 20th century. Best, Jessica. I get to enjoy the winter atmosphere without all the pressure to get down the mountain time after time in one piece. We normally do guided treks since guides tend to know the safest and most scenic places to walk but you can also head off on your own. Many people who are scared to try downhill skiing, come to enjoy cross-country skiing. Naturhotel Moosmair, Ahornach. During the day (and sometimes the evenings as well) at ski resorts, meals tend to be the cafeteria or buffet variety. I need to explore the possibility of doing some of these. Then browse the towns 50 unique boutiques, country stores, galleries, specialty markets, sporting goods stores and other retailers. Seefeld is also renowned as a winter walkers paradise with over 88 miles of cleared and salted walking paths as well as plenty of traditional huts for refreshments. Although most of the larger bars and restaurant are normally at the base of the mountains. At the top, you can dine alfresco at the Summit House, the states highest elevation restaurant. Build snowmen, make snow angels, build a snow fort, have a snowball fight, and catch snowflakes on your tongue! Italy. If not, there is likely a skating rink within driving distance. You definitely dont have to ski or board to enjoy Park City in fact, you can still ride down the mountain too thanks to the Alpine Coaster. Youll also find workshops focused on themes like the art of chocolate and ballroom dancing. If your family, school group, or partner is busy planning a ski holiday, you dont have to stay home or spend your time watching TV in the hotel room if you are a non-skier. The wide tires on this bike enable you to easily glide through the snowy, groomed trails. We never knew such experiences were possible and were amazed to see people who arrived in wheelchairs be able to use equipment or be accompanied by another skier to be able to still experience the slopes. Another option is to snowshoe through the alpine forest of the Bullion Basin area. Almost all ski resorts offer lessons and equipment rentals, but if you are considering lessons for either yourself or your children, I would check out reviews and prices in advance as some ski resorts cater more to beginner level skiers than others and prices can vary considerably. Some of my favorite fireplaces are at the Hotel Majestic in Yosemite National Park and I would love to live in that hotel in the winter months! Such gorgeous photos of the snow on the trees here! Another fantastic Switzerland resort for non-skiers, Zermatt is not as pricey or flashy as St. Moritz, but its just as fun. A plastic trash can cover, lunch tray, trash bag, or large frisbee can be a sled (list of, If you have been wanting to try a Segway trip, some places are now offering winter Segway trips that have specially designed Segways that can go on paths that may have some snow or ice on them. Winter holidays instead of ski holidays Fun and activities for non-skiers in Gurgl Visitors to the winter wonderland around the Hotel Edelweiss & Gurgl don't necessarily . Well send you our newsletter with travel destinations, In both Iceland and France, we have been lucky to find outdoor thermal pools or hot tubs where we were able to watch the snow come down around us. Not actually by choice, we were just born into hot climates and never moved! Non-skiers will find plenty to explore in Park City, Utah. Looking for a unique way to warm up, the Homestead Crater about 25 minutes south of the city is the perfect place for a soak or swim. Enjoy a beer or two, or stay for dinner. Snow holidays | Winter holidays for non-skiers in 2022 and 2023 Travel Europe and further afield Snow holidays: 5 of the best escapes for winter 2022 and 2023 With scenery that looks like it's straight off the front of a Christmas card, these snowy holiday destinations are some of the world's most impressive winter wonderlands By Jo Blyth