Top Places for skiing/snowboarding

The weather is getting colder and in some places it has already been snowing! The 2012-13 snow season is here, and with all the amazing snow gear Surfdome has in stock, we’d be crazy not to tell you about some of the best places for skiing and snowboarding so you can actually use it! It’s time to organise your winter holidays, buy the essentials and book your tickets to a mountainous and snowy landscape.
The following places are more than amazing – all of them have slopes for every level, so whether you’re a beginner or shred at a more advanced level, don’t hesitate to spend some time in one of these wintry places.
Aspen, Colorado

Aspen Mountain, famous for its black-diamond terrain, has been a ski resort synonymous with luxury and tailor made ski holidays since the 1940’s. Anybody who’s anybody can be spotted styling it out on and off piste during the snowy season. On the pistes you’ll get a variety of glades, bumps and steep sections, as well as the choice to have an out-of-bounds experience – if you dare – on the backside. Aspen’s notorious après rivals it’s skiing and snowboarding, with some of the hottest hang out spots any ski resort has to offer.
Lake Tahoe, California

If you’re looking for high mountains full of snow that pile up into epic powder then you are in the right place for skiing and snowboarding here. It’s also an incredible experience to shred a mountain whilst looking across the unbelievable view of Lake Tahoe. This is a great place to bring the kids to give them the first taste of what will surely be a lifelong passion. Tahoe really is a shredder’s paradise due to the phenomenal variety of terrains and slopes on offer. There are beautiful chalets where you can have a tea or a hot chocolate before your next set of tricks.
Girdwood, Alaska

Girdwood is one of the most famous ski spots in Alaska. It has an amazing view, surrounded by seven glaciers. Alyeska Resort is one of the biggest ski areas with six lifts, two magic carpets and a 60-person tram that climbs the mountain’s steep north face with wonderful views to the ocean. Beginner runs are close to the base, but those who are a bit more comfortable with their skis or boards will enjoy their rides on the upper side of the mountain. It also has good places for eating and partying after a good session. Travis Rice is one of the snowboarders who loves snowboarding in Alaska. This year he took a trip to Alaska for another ‘Behind the Ad’ movie for Quiksilver.
Zermatt, Switzerland

Switzerland is the ultimate place to ski. There are many, many mountains, but we think Zermatt is the most beautiful. It has quite a few zones, two of them being within the borders of Italy. The scenery is unbelievably stunning and the skiing even more so. With vertical drops of up to 7,152 feet on terrain you won’t want to stop snowboarding. It has over 50 restaurants which are the finest in the world; make sure you eat as you watch the sunset.
Chamonix, France

Chamonix-Mont Blanc is the oldest ski resort in France. It was also the site of the 1924 Winter Olympics, the first Winter Olympics. As the highest mountain of Europe west of Russia, Chamonix holds a special allure for skiers and mountain enthusiasts. Mont Blanc has great zones for all levels and you can pay one ticket for the 11 different ski zones. With more glaciers and crevasses than any ski area in Europe, skiers and snowboarders who want to stay safe should consider joining forces with a local guide before going off-track or out of bounds. It’s time to visit the real Mont Blanc not only the boutique…!
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the most unique and beautiful ski resorts in the world. Located within the stunning UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites, this resort exudes infamous Italian style. The breathtaking natural beauty of Cortina is offset by a buzzing atmosphere – the resort is home to some renowned world cups and international championships. These events attract a varied clientele, from nature lovers to serious skiers and snowboarders. Cortina is home to the largest ski carousel in the world, with a massive 450 lifts and 1200km of slopes, as well as the famous Olympia ski run. This resort is not only famous for its snow; there is also a lively après-ski scene as well as some amazing events and entertainment on offer. Where can we book our ticket!?
Zell am See Kaprun, Austria

Zell am See is a great place not only for winter but for summer activities as well. Zell was an unknown village market, but after the rail, it became famous and nowadays it’s a hot spot for ski, too. Kaprun is the most famous mountain there with an altitude of 2,900m. Beginners will prefer the slopes of the nearby Maiskogel family mountain, where you can ski only in winter. The upper slopes are ideal for intermediate and expert levels. Kaprun has also good prices and packages, so it’s perfect when your budget is not enough to travel to the States or the more expensive areas in Europe.
Lake Wanaka, New Zealand

Described as having ‘’pure mountain air, crisp sunny days and breathtaking vistas’’, Lake Wanaka has six ski areas to choose from – four of them at world-class status. Housing the largest heli-skiing area outside North America, Lake Wanaka really does have a lot to offer. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, love park jibbing or are planning on taking the kids for their first ski holiday, rest assured you will find exactly what you want in Lake Wanaka. Our recommendation is to check out the breathtaking Snow Park, a boutique mountain resort renowned for its world class terrain park and amazing views. Off-ski, this vibrant resort has everything you could wish for including great food and facilities to ensure all your sporting needs are covered. Perfect!
Niseko, Japan

The Japanese resort of Niseko, which is south of Sapporo, comprises of 4 resorts. All 4 resorts are on one mountain, Niseko Annupuri. Boasting some of the lightest powder in the world due to some extremely nice snow cloud formation, it’s the ideal location for an unforgettable holiday on a rich variety of terrain. All 4 resorts offer a stunning selection of wide open runs, as well as something to suit all levels, making it the perfect destination for families as well as the more adventurous snow lovers amongst us. You can also happily enjoy Japanese culture during your stay by visiting the nearby villages and indulging in an array of ski-in ski-out facilities.
Ski Portillo, Chile

Portillo is one of these places which has both killer steep slopes and wide-open alpine terrain and if the pictures and reviews don’t convince you of its quality, the fact that it’s the U.S. ski team’s favourite resort should. It rises 2880 meters above sea level. It has 23 ski trails and 12 lifts. Grab your board or your skis and ride the slopes with views of Aconcagua and the glowing glacial Laguna del Inca. Small note: the Portillo runs from June to October, so you can have a splendid summer snow season.
We’d be delighted to hear your snow experience or any other recommendations you have for where to go. Feel free to leave your comment here.