Note for those with disabilities. Switzerland. The towering Rocky Mountains arent the only thing that will take your breath away when you visit Aspen/Snowmass. Fancy a romantic ride in a sleigh pulled by horses or reindeer? I am taking my first ski vacation with a group. Have you ever gone on a ski holiday as a non-skier or needed to accommodate non-skiers on a ski holiday you were planning? If youre so inclined, you can try out the bobsled track for yourself. Unfortunately, due to a back injury, I am afraid to even try to ski but love to play in the snow. While skiing was the original focus of the resort, they have become so popular thanks to their other activities, including golf, hiking, beach activities, and a calendar full of family events. Ski holidays for non-skiers? Most people do this as part of a tour, but you could also do it alone if you rent or have access to the equipment, know where to go, and have any necessary permissions. 10 Key Things To Know If Youre Visiting Yosemite In 2023, 14 Best Things To Do In Beautiful Venice, Florida, Plus Where To Eat And Stay, 9 Amazing Experiences At One Of New Brunswicks Most Popular Tourist Attractions, 10 Amazing Ski Resorts In North America Our Readers Love, 7 Luxury Ski Resorts To Experience Around The World, 7 Fabulous Ski Resorts Around The World For All Levels, 5 Fabulous Mountain Experiences Skiing The Cascade Volcanoes, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing Company. If youre in the mood for a different kind of winter adventure, arrange for a sleigh ride, dog sledding, snowmobiling or snow-coach tour through the National Elk Refuge. Snowboarding was invented in 1965 in Michigan and became very popular, especially among younger adults, in the later part of the 20th century. If you don't see the confirmation e-mail, please check your spam folder. Best, Jessica. Taos is a haven for artists, and there are endless galleries and museums to delight any art lover. The resort even offers a few unique activities like sumo wrestling in the snow and organized snowball fights. If not, there is likely a skating rink within driving distance. 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. Sacred to local Indigenous populations, Spirit Mountain (or Avi Kwa Ame) might become the newest federal national monument. Skiers flock to the Telluride Ski Resort each winter, but the area attracts visitors year round. Growing up and living in Texas, the biggest snowfall that I ever see in these parts is a couple inches that rarely stays around more than 1 day. Those looking to get away from it all know Colorado is one of the best states to unwind. Hi Jon, I am glad you found our tips helpful, and I hope you and your wife have a great ski holiday together! Your email address will not be published. It also has a top-notch dining scene thats often acclaimed for its wide variety of international cuisine. It is a great way to head out for a walk without worrying about sinking into the snow drifts! For a more relaxing way to enjoy the resort, check out the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, the largest indoor waterpark in Michigan, conveniently located on the resort property. 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. Telluride is offering several hot springs nearby, allowing you to soak in natures mineral path while taking in the stunning mountain scenery. At these 10 best winter vacations for non-skiers, you can dash through the snow in an open sleigh, sled, or tube. Jessica, Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields Post author. If you havent spent much time doing cold weather photography, take a look at our winter photography tips for tips on what to bring and how to get the best photos. In many areas where skiing is popular, youll find little ski villages have popped up with stores and restaurants to cater to visitors. Indulge in some upscale comfort food classics, like beef tenderloin or their signature Hungarian goulash, and a soul-warming specialty cocktail while listening to the soothing sounds of the baby grand piano. Two unique dining experiences: head to Fireside Dining at Deer Valley Resort, which moves guests from station to station for a taste of the Alps, or take a sleigh up to The Viking Yurt on Park City Mountain for a multi-course dinner. our latest advice & deals in your inbox! Most places that have a lot of winter ski activities, also offer dog sledding trips. Food is always good too, and you cant beat the beauty. Just because you are staying at a ski resort doesnt mean you have to spend all your time there. I also would love some spa time or just time relaxing by the fire with a warm beverage! However, this resort offers so much more than the freshly groomed, uncrowded ski slopes for which it is so well known. (This will thrill the kids.) There are options for the non-skier to enjoy a fabulous fun-filled and action-packed winter holiday in a spectacular snowy winter wonderland. This is a popular destination for French Alps winter snow holidays for non-skiers. 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. The valley is known for its extensive winter walking options, all accessed with your free local travelcard . 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. 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! If youre looking for a less taxing way to explore the wilderness, dont miss the whimsical horse-drawn sleigh ride experience! Now, if you are not skiing, you dont need to buy specific ski or snowboarding clothing or gear. Part of a small grocery store, the owners produce much of what they serve on their farm. 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. Youll also find workshops focused on themes like the art of chocolate and ballroom dancing. Its a lot of fun and isnt too hard to learn the basics, but do be careful as you can get it stuck in a snowdrift (as Laurence has done) and the machine can tip so do pay careful attention to safety instructions and go only as fast as you (and your partner) feel comfortable. Sun Valleys original restaurant, The Ram, has welcomed diners since 1937, just one year after the resort opened its doors to the public in 1936. Some of the best times Ive had on ski vacations have been tubing, snowmobiling and swimming in the heated/outdoor pool. Eating well, sitting by a fire and the hot drinks also sound like a great way to pass time not skiing. Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. Caves, a hidden lodge and panoramic fog-filled vistas await along the best hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here are the best. Mountains close to Denver are some of the best places to snowboard in Colorado. deals, and more! What is winter without skis? 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. When I lived in Montana I went ice fishing a few times and it was cool, but got boring quickly as I dont eat fish anyways! It allows you to move at your own pace and ski off-piste, allowing a wider range of people to be able to do it. They have free smores in the evening, plus cold beers or hot chocolate for the littles. Snow holidays for non-skiers and boarders in Aspen are chock-full of fun winter activities. Jessica, Its not so much that I dont ski its more that I cant ski lol. This post is perfect for me because I am not a skier and to be honest, I it is not something that attracts me a lot. 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. Sun Valley is alsoone of Americas top towns for culture, and filled with local galleries featuring Western and contemporary art. Look out for our newsletters in your inbox soon. Im just too clumsy and awkward for it it seems. There are practically endless shopping opportunities as well as outstanding restaurants and plenty of fun activities too. If you think that you are not mobile or physically strong enough to ski, there may be places where you can still enjoy a fun ski experience. For the first time ever, Lonely Planet's experts have compiled the USA's 500 most memorable, beautiful, surprising and compelling experiences. How beautiful place! Please check your e-mail to confirm your sign up. Ive been DYING to go to a winter ski resort, somewhere cute and quaint, maybe in Switzerland to unwind form the city, but we dont ski haha. 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 While skiers appreciate its wide runs that are occasionally dotted with moguls, its the town that earns honors as much as the mountain itself. Its streets are car-free for a more peaceful atmosphere and are lined with many upscale nightclubs and shops, while the larger-than-life Matterhorn looms in the background. in the Spanish Pyrenees which included three obstacle courses (each a different level of difficulty), zip lining, climbing, and snowshoeing activities. 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. While the vintage trains are most popular during the fall for leaf peeping, there is some availability in December and February. Located in the Catskills Mountains, this resort offers a variety of non-skiing activities like ice skating, snow tubing, and snowshoeing. Looking to get your heart rate a bit more elevated? Great. Our Ski Resorts for Non-Skiers: Les Gets Les Gets is a great ski resort for non-skiers as it has a wide array of non-skiing activities on offer for both adults and children including a cinema, 10 pin bowling alley, and over 100 shops, bars and restaurants sourcing local crafts and produce. It boasts a full-service spa, a hot tub, and pool complex, as well as a shopping promenade and multiple restaurants which focus on regionally-sourced ingredients. 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! Perhaps you fancy a little retail therapy? Some of my favorite fireplaces are at the Hotel Majestic in, If you want to have some sledding fun and there is no sledding area or sled rentals, dont despair. Hotel Aava. Nothing beats sitting in front of a warm fire on a cold day! If you want to head out on your own, ask if the resort has a map of suggested snowshoe treks. If you are riding one of the amazing resorts like Loveland, Vail Mountain, Copper Mountain, Winter Park, Keystone, Breckenridge, Arapahoe Basin, or any other resort not far from Denver that offers some of . Rainier Gondola, which will whisk you by beautiful evergreen trees as you take in a birds eye view of the surrounding snow-covered mountain peaks. Youll often find walking tours, food tours, and museum passes in towns/cities to help you get more out of your visit. Best, Jessica. My husband wants to spend as much time as possible on the ski slopes and by the time we make it back to the hotel we are both exhausted. 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. Even as a non-skier you will find happiness during your winter holiday in Tyrol. History buffs can deep dive into the gold rush origins of the town by exploring the ten museums and preserved gold mining sites. During many winter weekends, a host of other entertainment options are often available too, including tastings, demonstrations, and music. 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. Mansfield along the way. It will depend on the rules of the specific ski resort, but at some places you may need to purchase a ski lift pass or ticket to access some of the bars or restaurants if they are at the top of the mountains. Most breweries, including the Telluride Brewing Company and Smugglers Brew Pub, have cozy on-site restaurants where you can tuck into plates of comfort food that will warm you up instantly. Although most of the larger bars and restaurant are normally at the base of the mountains. Great ideas here! Walking the town square, youll find art galleries, boutiques, western wear shops, and more. The Viking Yurtwelcomes guests by sleigh ride to an elaborate, Norwegian-inspired tent. For those opting to skip the slopes, we detailed some of our favorite non-skiing activities in these top skiing destinations. You'll also have access to an onsite lodge with a snack bar, a . Plus, it's a lot more affordable than Zermatt, which sits just across the Swiss border. Winter snow breaks. Utah Olympic Park is the perfect first stop on any non-skiing adventure. 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. The very best views and cuisine in the region can be found at the Cliff House Restaurant, which sits atop Mt. Enjoy a beer or two, or stay for dinner. Another option is to snowshoe through the alpine forest of the Bullion Basin area. Otherwise, you can just pack as normal. To do this, we store the data as outlined in our privacy policy. If youre looking for a unique place to stay, check out the top Airbnb rentals in the area. Beautiful Mont Tremblant is situated 80 miles north of Montreal and is frequently named the top resort in eastern North America. Telluride is a quaint western village tucked in between 13,000- and 14,000-foot mountain peaks. Whether you are looking for some warm winter clothes, a new handbag, delicious chocolate treats, or a Christmas gift, youll likely find some interesting local stores to check out. Next door, Table + Tonic is a great option for breakfast and lunch. After all of the shopping, you can refuel on authentic New Mexican fare featuring traditional green chiles and mole and grab a drink and enjoy live music at Taos Mesa Brewery. Sip hot cocoa by the fire or try a little back-country snowshoeing. Many people who are scared to try downhill skiing, come to enjoy cross-country skiing. One thing thats a definite must-do for enjoying some of the most epic views on the planet is to take a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. skishoeing/ sledding/ tobboganing etc? The park has 5 different Nordic ski trails with beautiful views around the lake. When we were in the Spanish Pyrenees we visited a lot of the local towns and villages in between ski resorts so the trip was a good mix of skiing for Laurence and culture stops and exploring for me. Snowmobiling is a fun way to explore and cover longer distances. The park is open seven days a week until 8 pm. The one that took our breath away, and is considered one of the best ski resort based aquatic centres in the world is the Aquamotion in Courchevel 1550. But don't despair. We understand why you might not be into the idea of hurtling yourself down the side of a slippery and snowy mountain with nothing for support other than what are essentially two sticks. There are plenty of ways to plan a fun ski holiday for non-skiers, and to get you started well share 25 things to do at a ski resort if you dont ski. Or, head to the resort and embark on a snowshoe excursion, ice skate, go tubing, ski biking or even try the snowy rollercoaster known as Rollersledge. Boyne Mountain Resort is the premier resort in northern Michigan, welcoming families for over 65 years. Perfect! If youd like to ride the rails, you may want to take the railway to the top of Muottas Muragi and watch the sunset or join an evening excursion to the Alp Grum, where fondue is served. My family and I are going to have our 1st Winter/ snow holiday in Austria next Jan, while non of us can do ski! Some ski resorts may have a frozen over pond or indoor skating rink you can use. Not only does it offer plenty of great skiing, but there is also practically an endless number of other things to do. I personally dont ski but have spent time at a number of ski resorts and winter holiday destinations around the world. Additional ways to have frozen fun include snowshoeing, tubing, wildlife observation tours, fat tire biking, guided forest hikes with a trapper and more. If downhill skiing isnt your thing, you may want to consider trying cross-country skiing, also called Nordic skiing. 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