If you’re looking for a more flexible approach to ski holidays, you’re not alone. Short ski breaks are on the rise, giving snow lovers more options to tailor their trips to their schedules and budgets.
To find out why this trend is growing and how skiers can make the most of it, we turned to SkiWeekends, the UK’s leading flexible ski specialist with over 35 years of experience. Offering everything from short ski trips to full weeks, they’re seeing increasing demand for flexible, value-packed ski breaks.
Why Flexible Ski Holidays Are Becoming More Popular
According to SkiWeekends, the demand for flexible ski holidays has never been higher. “We’re seeing more and more people opting for shorter trips rather than committing to a full week on the slopes,” says owner, Dan Fox. This trend is driven by several factors. Firstly, not everyone wants to ski for six consecutive days. Shorter trips, usually lasting 3-4 days, provide a more relaxed experience, especially for those who might not have the stamina for a full week. Plus, spreading skiing over two shorter breaks increases the chances of hitting ideal snow conditions in different locations.
Flexible holidays also offer better value for money. A 4-night trip gives you 4½ days of skiing, but it costs less than a traditional week-long holiday. This kind of trip is perfect for skiers who want to maximise their time on the slopes without paying for days they won’t use.
Another perk? You can visit more resorts in a season. With a flexible ski holiday, you’re not tied to a single week or destination. You could ski in one resort in January and explore another in March, making the most of your time and variety.
Accommodation: Flexibility Without Compromise
One of the reasons SkiWeekends stands out in the market is the wide range of accommodation options available. They partner with over 100 hotels, all offering flexible stays where guests can arrive any day of the week (except Saturday) and stay for as few as 3 nights, or as long as 14. This level of flexibility allows you to craft a trip that fits your schedule perfectly.
But it’s not just about hotels—SkiWeekends offers the largest selection of flexible-stay chalets in the market. Whether you’re after a cozy 8-bed chalet or a sprawling 42-bed Club Chalet, the variety is extensive. Many of their chalets offer ski-in/ski-out access, and features like saunas, hot tubs, and even hammams (steam rooms). You’ll find these chalets in some of the best resorts in the Portes du Soleil region, which includes Avoriaz, Morzine, and Les Gets, as well as the famous 3 Valleys, home to Courchevel and Les Menuires.
If you’re planning a group trip, SkiWeekends’ chalets are perfect for groups large and small. And with options spread across two of the world’s largest ski areas—Portes du Soleil and the 3 Valleys—there’s something to suit everyone.
Best Resorts for Short Breaks
If you’re looking to maximise your skiing time, proximity to the slopes and short transfers are key. Resorts like Les Gets and Chamonix are just an hour from the airport, making them ideal for quick weekend getaways. Want ski-in/ski-out convenience? Add another 30 minutes to your transfer and you can be staying in Avoriaz, where you’ll be right on the snow.
Other great resorts for short breaks include Engelberg and Crans Montana in Switzerland, and Kaprun and Schladming in Austria, the latter known for its lively après-ski scene. For those seeking luxury and high-end skiing, Courchevel is just over two hours from the airport, while Tignes and Val d’Isère are about a three-hour drive, but well worth the journey for their expansive terrain and reliable snow conditions.
How to Get the Best Value for Your Short Ski Break
SkiWeekends has a few tips to help you get the most value from your short ski break:
- Book Early: While SkiWeekends includes transfers and accommodation in their packages, flights are up to you. The earlier you book, the cheaper your flight will likely be.
- Consider a Local Area Lift Pass: For most resorts, a local lift pass covers nearly 200 km of runs, which is more than enough for a few days of skiing. You can always upgrade for a day if you want to explore a larger area.
- Opt for Evolution Ski Hire: Most recreational skiers won’t notice the difference between standard and premium skis. If you decide you want an upgrade, you can always do it in the resort.
- Mid-Week Breaks: Flying mid-week is often up to 36% cheaper than weekend flights, and you’ll also avoid the crowds at the airport and on the slopes.
Solo Skiers and Other Options
SkiWeekends also caters to solo travellers, offering great-value solo ski weekends where you can meet other like-minded skiers. You can choose a room to yourself or share to save even more. If you’re feeling adventurous, SkiWeekends also arranges twin-centre holidays, where you can stay in two resorts in one trip, giving you the chance to explore even more terrain.
Plan Your Next Ski Weekend
With flexible stays, convenient transfers, and a variety of accommodation options, SkiWeekends makes it easier than ever to enjoy a short ski break.
For more information and to book your next ski weekend
