With fresh powder having opened up in a slew of countries in the last few decades skiers and snowboarders have never had so many resorts and so many pistes to choose from. Whilst France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy are still the most popular snow sport destinations in the world there are now dozens of countries around the world trying to compete and take on the big boys. Many of them are still in the developmental stages and are largely untouched by the mainstream snow sport crowd making them the perfect places for those looking for something a little more off the beaten slope. With that in mind we decided to take a look at some of the best new destinations Eastern Europe has to offer. The only extra consideration you need to take visiting these paces is your ski travel insurance . Some of these countries don’t have the best hospitals and treatment facilities so you will want to ensure you have the highest level of ski insurance cover available.
Eastern Europe and The Balkans
Eastern Europe and more specifically The Balkans is definitely one of the most exciting up and coming snow sport areas in Europe at the moment with new resorts, hotels and slopes being opened every year. Prices are still fantastically low and many of the pistes easily rival the best the Alps has to offer.
Bosnia
If you want a relaxed friendly atmosphere and hundreds of miles of un-plowed slopes then Bosnia is the best new destination you can travel to this season. Many of the best resorts are still “in development” so you will be able to enjoy miles of off-piste runs and not be too crowded as you enjoy the pristine landscapes and immaculate and spectacular views. Prices are still incredibly low compared to much of Europe and the atmosphere is fantastic.
Serbia
Serbia has some great off the beaten track ski resorts but Kopaonik is where you can find the very best party. This resort is as high tech as any in the world and caters to the elite of Serbia with fashion dominating the scene as much as skiing itself. If you want somewhere to party this is the very best the Balkans have to offer. With regards the slopes though they are well kept and there are hundreds of miles catering to all experience levels. For those who enjoy more technical snow sports the fun parks are spectacular and as good as any to be found in the Alps.
Slovenia
Slovenia is a lot more westernised than many of its neighbours and the ski crowd is generally young lively and party going. Generally speaking Slovenians are keen skiiers and take the sport very seriously. This means that they have high quality slopes and high levels of ski instruction making it a fantastic place to learn or develop you skills.
Montenegro
Untouched doesn’t even begin to describe the beauty of the skiing and snowboarding on offer in Montenegro. There re miles upon miles of untouched backcountry skiing available in Montengro and a slew of guides willing to take you to some of the very best places. A low budget is easily accommodated and the slopes are unmatched.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is building a great reputation as a fantastically cheap place to travel whether for sunny beaches or skiing holidays. It is one of the cheapest places in Europe though it can sometimes feel a little tacky with happy hours everywhere and fake goods littering every shop in sight. When it comes to the slopes there are miles suitable for all levels with the focus being mainly on intermediate skiiers. A decent sized meal will only cost £3 or so and a hotel can be as little as £30/night so this is the best budget option around.