Everyone may have their own opinions of what makes a great ski run, whether your preference is for long gentle runs with spectacular views or adrenaline fueled mogul runs designed to push you to your very limits. Whilst we have our own views we’ve selected a few of the most beautiful the world has to offer so pick your favourite, make sure your skiing insurance is up to date, grab your passport and get going. We decided to focus on runs that most skiers can enjoy and chose the very best views the skiing world has to offer.
We’ll start off with some of the best cruising slopes the world has to offer which will give you a good run with great views and keep you challenged but not terrified. These aren’t necessarily suitable for beginners but are perfect for the advanced but relaxed skier – and those who love views as much as slopes.
Parsen, Switzerland
First up we have Parsenn in Switzerland which you reach by a beautiful railway built nearly 100 years ago. The best run is an 8 mile gentle slope to Küblis starting from an altitude of 2,662 metres at the Weissfluhjoch. The views along this run are unrivalled and there are plenty of bars along the way to keep you occupied as you glide your way down.
Sella Ronda, Italy
Secondly we have the Sella Ronda in the Dolomites in Italy. This long distance circuit is around 14 miles long and perfect for intermediate skiers. The scenery is absolutely incredible with the pink limestone cliffs glowing in the sun and the many small villages you can stop at along the way making it an excellent afternoon’s excursion. There are a few stretches that you’ll have to push yourself so take your time and have some fun.
Igls, Austria
Thirdly we head to Austria and Igls widely held as the capital of the Alps. This is one of the most charming villages in Austria and though hugely popular it still manages to retain a huge amount of charm and has access to 180miles of ski runs. The actual Igls pistes offer stunning views set deep in the Alps and are absolutely un-missable. The best offer breath taking views into the valley below and there are runs to suit all styles.
Pelion Mountain, Greece
From here we head to Pelion Mountain in Greece. Pelion is little known compared to most of Europe’s skiing which means the whole area still manages to retain a picturesque and largely unspoiled beauty. The runs down the mountain vary from intermediate cruising to adrenaline fuelled moguls but the views are spectacular across Greece whichever route you take. A real hidden treasure of the skiing world.
Valle Blanche, France
Finishing our European runs we head to Chamonix for the Vallee Blanche and the 15 mile scenic run that starts at the end of the Aiguille du Midi. This has great views largely thanks to the 2,000metre sheer drop that lines the run – making it slightly scary in places. Best undertaken with a guide the run is a fairly challenging with some tight squeezes and patches of untouched snow, though the views are absolutely rewarding.
Lake Louise (South Face), Canada
Next we switch continents and head to Canada for the South Face at Lake Louise. This one makes the cut for the views over the gorgeous frozen lake and across the brilliant mountains shrouded in forests of pines. A lot more advanced than our previous entries this is a tough run for intermediates with a very high speed run making up a large part of the
Mike is a travel writer for sites such as Complete-Ski covering worldwide destinations, cheap travel and tips on how to find great deals on your holiday.