Sports Then and Now

Mayrhofen Ski Resort is one of the top skiing and snowboarding destinations in Europe

Picking a snow resort to head to for the winter is like picking lunch from an endless menu – there’s just so much to choose from. And it’s not just the resort you get your pick of, there are hotels at the base of different mountains, all-inclusive or half-board and whether to opt for a luxury lodge or humble hostel; you could drive yourself a bit mad going through your options but hopefully the Snowfusion & Extremepie list of the top 3 Snowboarding destinations in Europe will help you narrow it down just a bit.

Mayrhofen, Austria
Mayrhofen tops our list because it’s got the best of everything – superb location, excellent facilities for everyone from the novice to the seasoned pro, and thanks to its proximity to the Hintertux Glacier it offers all year-round boarding too. The resort is characterized by its laid-back and relaxed vibe and recognized for the superb Vans Penken Park; the best to be found in Europe.  If you’re after a resort that offers more than the top-quality free riding terrain to really enjoy your own on-piste adventures then this is the one for you. Mayrhofen is world renowned for its additional events so if you fancy a little time away from your own snow bombing downhill, then you can enjoy watching others while you enjoy a beer slope side.

Davos, Switzerland
A lot of boarders will tell you that in Switzerland, Verbier is where it’s at. We have to agree if over-priced, over-crowded fashionable resorts are your thing, but we much prefer the appeal of Davos. True, first impressions with a large city-like and fairly busy atmosphere mean that if you wanted a rustic village charm you won’t get it here, but Davos has much to offer. Its extensive slopes are set across 5 different areas so you’ll never tire of this resort; and with long runs away from the lifts and plenty of off-piste terrain you’ll not be short of adventure. Apres ski activities are abundant too so when you’ve worked up an appetite you can relax and enjoy an evening while your muscles ache.

Chamonix is a destination for serious snowboarders.

Chamonix, France
If you’re just starting out and the closest you’ve come to snowboarding is slipping down the street on a patch of compacted powder then Chamonix isn’t for you; this resort is rough around the edges and occasionally suffers when snowfall is scarce. But as the saying goes – all good things come to those who wait and if you can, it’s certainly worth hanging back until the snow has fallen and then making a trip across the channel for freestyle charm that doesn’t have to try too hard. Snowboarders are in for a treat both on and off the mountain slopes with good runs during the day and great venues for a good night with friends.