Many Americans are under the mistaken impression that all European ski resorts charge exorbitant prices, but the reality is, the highest costs are more likely to be found in the U.S. – particularly at famed resorts like Aspen and Vail in Colorado. Of course the famous European alpine destinations such as Switzerland and Austria tend to be expensive, but there are great skiing bargains to be had across the continent.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Trip Advisor recently named Bansko as the No. 1 best value ski resort in all of Europe. The town is set at the foot of the Pirin Mountains in southwestern Bulgaria and has been gaining a reputation as a top destination for great powder as well as outstanding local bars for those who want to stretch their dime. A five-day lift pass will set you back less than $200 USD. That same amount will also get you one night’s hotel accommodation, a one-day ski pass as well as equipment rental, a local meal and an ice cold beer.
Mount Etna, Italy
MSN Travel called Mount Etna the best budget ski favorite in Europe in 2012. Set atop the continent’s largest active volcano, this ski destination offers challenging slopes at the summit as well as outstanding tree-free slopes for beginners further down. Vacationing in this region will allow you to hit the slopes one day and enjoy the warmth of the Sicilian coast, just 40 minutes away the next.
The same night’s lodging, pass and equipment rental, local meal and beer for a stay at Mount Etna is priced at right around $160 USD.
Berchtesgaden, Germany
Berchtesgaden is set on the edge of Berchtesgaden National Park, just 15 miles from the Salzburg airport. There are several slopes for skiing in the area, with the Berchtesgaden resort most suited to intermediate skiers with an abundance of off-piste forest tracks while Golf and Ski am Obersalzberg is ideal for beginners.
The same package as above including accommodation, ski pass and rental, a local meal and beer runs about $275 USD.
Soldeu, Andorra
Soldeu is located high in the Pyrenees, nestled between France and Spain, providing an excellent alternative to the high priced Alps. The resort is known as the nation’s biggest and best ski resort with bargain prices for one-day access to the slopes at under $60 USD. The pass covers the Grandvalira area with access to other resorts, including 126 miles of runs. This is a great family-friendly option as the focus here is mainly on beginner to intermediate hills.
Your night’s lodging, one-day ski pass and rental, meal and beer here add up to about $300 USD.
Oberstdorf, Germany
Although Oberstdorf is known as a cosmopolitan ski resort and has been honored as the top ski resort in Germany, it also offers an excellent value for those who are looking for a bargain. The town is tucked between Munich, Stuttgart and Lake Constance and can be reached fairly easily from Munich.
Obserstdorf is well known for its fantastic value and accommodation that is clean and relatively cheap. This charming alpine village is small, friendly and offers good food as well. For less than $275 USD you can spend the night comfortably, get your ski pass and equipment, meal and a beer.
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