When you’ve spent as much time on snowy mountains as I have, you begin to collect stories—some epic, some downright hilarious, but all unforgettable. From swapping skis for a snowboard (a process with many, MANY bruises… even a dislocated thumb!) to dreaming of sunny slopes in California, the world of snow sports has taken me on a wild ride. So, let’s talk about my fave places so far and the ones I’m dying to visit next!
Learning to Snowboard in Les Gets, France
Ah, Les Gets. This picturesque village in the French Alps holds a special place in my heart, and not just because it’s where I learned to snowboard—though that is a BIG part of it. After years of skiing, I decided to trade in my poles for a board. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t pretty. There were tears at points. Picture me, sliding down a green run on my backside, laughing hysterically while trying to regain some dignity.
Les Gets is the perfect place to learn, though. The slopes are varied, and the vibe is so welcoming. Beginners like me can stick to the gentler runs, while pros can explore more challenging terrain. I did get to a point of doing some boxes in the park! Plus, there’s nothing like rewarding your efforts with some gooey raclette and a hot chocolate by a roaring fire…I highly recommend the Yeti in Les Gets – perfect for Apres Ski! If you’re new to snowboarding, I can’t recommend this spot enough.
Living the Ski Dream in Val d’Isère, France
Before Les Gets, there was Val d’Isère. This was where my love for skiing truly took off. I had the chance to live here for a while doing a ski season, and let me tell you, it’s like stepping into a snow globe—a really posh snow globe! The runs are endless, the snow is (usually) perfection, and the views? Jaw-dropping.
I loved racing down the Grand Pre slopes and ending my day at one of the cozy bars in town. Oh, and the La Folie Douce experience?! An absolute must. Picture dancing on tables in your ski boots… did that a few times! Haha, well why not?! Trust me, it’s as ridiculous and fun as it sounds.
Adrenaline and Après in St. Anton, Austria
Let’s talk Austria. St. Anton am Arlberg was my playground for some truly heart-racing ski adventures. Known for its steep runs and incredible powder, this place is a skier’s paradise. I’ll never forget tackling the Valluga—equal parts thrilling and terrifying—but the views from the top made every shaky turn worth it.
And the après-ski? St. Anton nails it. MooserWirt is legendary for a reason. You’ll find yourself clinking glasses with strangers-turned-friends while belting out old tunes. There’s just something magical about the camaraderie of ski towns, isn’t there? I’m writing this wishing to hit the slopes!
Dreaming Big: Big Bear, California
Now, let’s talk about my dream destinations. Top of the list? Big Bear Mountain in California. You know I have been to California alot for triathlons. The idea of snowboarding under a bright blue sky in the California sun sounds like absolute bliss. Big Bear’s got a mix of everything—well-groomed trails for cruising, challenging runs for adrenaline junkies, and even terrain parks for those of us who want to pretend we’re cooler than we are.
What really excites me, though, is the thought of a day on the slopes followed by an evening by Big Bear Lake. A little snow, a little sun, and a whole lot of good vibes… what’s not to love? I so want to do a surf, snowboard and skate all in one day at some point!
Bucket List Goals: New Zealand’s Remarkables and Cardrona
If Big Bear is my sunny snow dream, New Zealand is my faraway fantasy. I’ve heard so much about The Remarkables and Cardrona Alpine Resort, both near the adventure capital of Queenstown. I’m completely enchanted. Skiing in the Southern Hemisphere during our summer? Yes, please.
I can already picture myself swooshing down those slopes, with the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Wakatipu at The Remarkables. And at Cardrona, the terrain parks are supposed to be next-level. Honestly, New Zealand sounds like a snow-lover’s dream come true. If you’re heading that way, check out Queenstown Ski Hire for top-notch gear and an easy start to your adventure.
“Skiing in Queenstown is awesome. We’ve got stunning mountains just minutes from town. You’ve got a choice of ski fields with slopes for everyone, from beginners to experts. The views you get while skiing here are incredible too, especially The Remarkables. And when you’re done on the slopes, the town has such a great vibe. It’s this perfect mix of outdoor adventure and fun atmosphere that makes Queenstown a top spot for a winter vacation. We see so many people come back year on year!” explains Justin Worth from Snopro Ski Hire Queenstown.”
I’m determined to make this trip happen someday! I’ll no doubt share when I do!
View of The Remarkables Ski Resort and Queenstown lake
Whether it’s the charm of the Alps, the thrill of Austria, or the allure of far-off destinations like California and New Zealand, snow sports have a way of creating memories that stick with you forever. Every fall (there have been a lot!), every laugh, every stunning view—it all adds up to an adventure like no other.
Now, your turn: What’s your fave ski or snowboard spot? Or where are you dreaming of heading next? Let’s swap stories—after all, there’s nothing better than dreaming about the next run.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.