Although most will head to the mountains to fuel their passion for skiing or snowboarding, there has also been a rise of non-skiers in resort over the last few years. If skiing is not for you, resorts are now well equipped with a variety of alternative alpine attractions to ensure you don’t have to miss out on any of the fun! Below we have highlighted some of our favourite activities within resort that will excite both skiers and non-skiers alike. Our Concierge Team have been working with resorts for many years and can organise all the below experiences as well as many more to ensure your ski holiday is one to remember.
Val d’Isere
Hurtle down a full-sized ski jump and try out the most complicated flips and tricks under the safety of a bungee wire. Adults and children aged 14 and above can take off and see life through the eyes of a pro skier or boarder at this exhilarating attraction.
You may wish to stay a little closer to the ground but swap your skis for wheels! Race your friends and family around the go-kart track at Val d’Isere Ice Driving and experience a real-life Mario Kart set up. Step up the adrenaline levels and ride the larger circuit behind the wheel of a race car.
Track experiences can be booked throughout the week for a change of scenery and sport during your ski holiday.
Chamonix
Take to the skies and enjoy an unforgettable tour, high above Mont Blanc. Admire stunning views of the alpine landscape that surrounds Mont Blanc during a 30 minute helicopter flight. This truly unique experience is available to anyone aged 7 or older.
Chamonix opened the Luge Alpine Coaster in 2011 to replace the former summer toboggan ride. The track is full of twists, spins and thrills and covers a total of 1.3km through a beautiful alpine setting. The ride is open to everyone from the age of 3, with two people being able to ride the luge at any one time.
Whistler
The popular Public Bobsleigh in Whistler is an activity that should feature on every adrenaline-lover’s bucket list. You’ll take your seat in the 4-person bobsled, steered by a trained pilot who will guide you through the world’s fastest track. Running in the rain, snow or shine, the Public Bobsleigh is the perfect addition to your ski trip, no matter the weather.
Nestled in the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, Ziptrek Ecotours is the pioneer of zipline tours in North America, offering some of the highest and longest ziplines around for the ultimate aerial adventure. There are a range of passes available for everyone, whether you’re new to the canopies or a regular thrill-seeker, ziplining is the perfect accompaniment to any alpine stay.
Lech
Explore new heights and experience a whole new perspective of Lech and the surrounding areas with a tandem paraglide. Your qualified instructor will introduce you to this exhilarating sport and show you some of the most amazing views that Lech has to offer. You can also opt to take the flight in your skis too. Ride by day and watch the hustle and bustle of the resort or take a night trip and enjoy the romantically lit houses for a truly magical atmosphere.
A horse-drawn sleighride is a must-do in Lech. This unique way to explore is one of the most popular and romantic. Your sleigh and driver will await you in the centre of the village or collect you from your hotel. Once you board, simply sit back and enjoy the beautiful snowy scenery that surrounds you.
Zermatt
Watch one of the famous ‘heroes of the night’ in action from close up on an exclusive ride in a PistenBully. These ‘heroes’ prepare a total of 200km of piste to ensure that guests can have an unforgettable skiing experience every day. You can join the Piste Basher drivers for a unique experience grooming the piste, but you’ll need to be free between 4.00pm and midnight.
For those competitive members of your group, experience an unforgettable day exploring the entire Matterhorn Ski Paradise. Labelled signs at the tops of lifts explain where to go to cover over 10,000 metres of elevation change without using the same cable car or slope twice.
Verbier
St Bernard Dog Walk
Nimba is the local St Bernard, a dog who lives in the resort of Verbier. Visitors can spend an hour with Nimba, walking around the mountain paths and even taking photos to remember their time together in Verbier. A small addition to your ski holiday which is perfect for animal lovers.
Originating in Norway, Telemark skiing is a technique that combines elements of Alpine and Nordic skiing. The traditional method of skiing oozes with elegance and style but isn’t the easiest to master. Take a lesson with an expert to try your hand at this unique ski style.
