We have put together a handy guide outlining the best places to ski in January. From high altitude ski resorts with unbeatable snow records, to après ski hotspots and family-friendly ski villages. January is generally one of the quietest months in ski resorts, so the slopes are less likely to be crowded and the lift queues should be shorter too. Here’s our pick of the best places to go skiing in January.
La Plagne
La Plagne ski resort is one of the best places to go skiing in January. The resort is comprised of 11 villages, with the highest village Belle Plagne regarded as the best centre for families. There is a large choice of ski-in ski-out accommodation, meaning skiers can enjoy easy access to the slopes and to the high-altitude Bellecote glacier that sits just above the resort. All abilities are catered for, with the accessible Paradiski ski area providing everything from nursery runs to snow parks and even a toboggan run. Children under the age of 5 can claim a free lift pass, whilst advanced skiers can try off-piste territory. Get stuck into the 425km of slopes, and then pass sunny evenings dining at the resort’s restaurants, which serve up hearty Alpine dishes in a classic rustic setting.
Stay at: Chalet Iris Bleu, a luxurious apartment with spectacular views of the Paradiski slopes.
View La Plagne ski resort here
Geilo
If you are choosing where to ski in January, and would like to try somewhere a little different, then Geilo in Norway should be at the top of your list. This picturesque ski town combined with its blissfully quiet slopes, make for a magical experience. The greatest snow depths of the season often occur around this time, which can be enjoyed across a range of pistes to suit all abilities between the two main ski areas of Vestlia and Slaatta. These slopes also give way to breath-taking views of the surrounding National Parks. As one of Norway’s most popular health and wellbeing destinations, Geilo’s choice of spas could offer the perfect opportunity to indulge in a little R&R.
Stay at: Geilo Cabins and Apartments, which offer cosy lodgings with incredible views of the Hallingskarvet Mountain.
Tignes
Purpose-built to occupy a prime, high-altitude location with unparalleled access to the Espace Killy ski area; Tignes is one of the best places to go skiing in January for an abundance of snow-sure terrain. With 300km of slopes reaching up to a peak altitude of 3,456m at the skiable Grande Motte glacier, this varied ski area offers something for every type of skier. The ski resort has the longest season of any resort in Europe. Down in the town, you can expect a lively après scene with parties taking place in both Tignes and the neighbouring connected resort of Val d’Isère.
Stay at: Residence Le Lodge des Neiges, a modern apartment block in a prime ski-in ski-out location.
Livigno
If you are wondering where to ski in January in Italy, then Livigno may well be the perfect choice. This charming village offers one of Italy’s longest ski seasons thanks to its reputation for very cold winter months. This helps to preserve a fantastic base of snow which can be enjoyed across 115km of runs. Livigno is perfectly suited to both beginners and intermediates. Much of the town’s accommodation is ski-in ski-out, making for easy access to blissful days enjoying the fresh powder. Skiers can also enjoy the option of taking a day trip over to the neighbouring glamorous Swiss resort of St. Moritz.
Stay at: Hotel Livigno, a classic Alpine family-run hotel with a restaurant serving South Tyrolean cuisine.
Val Thorens
Europe’s highest ski resort and part of the Three Valleys ski area, Val Thorens, sits at 2,300m with slopes reaching up to 3,230m. You’ll find the finest conditions here with snow all but guaranteed in January. A lot of the slopes here are north-facing which protects the snow base. There’s a brilliant atmosphere in resort with plenty of bars and restaurants to sit back and enjoy a post-ski drink.
Stay at: Le Fitz Roy, a fabulous five-star hotel in a slope-side location with ski-in ski-out access to the Three Valleys.
View Val Thorens ski resort here
Ischgl
Ischgl ski resort is one of the best places to ski in January. It offers more terrain above 2,000m than any other ski resort in Austria. Skiers are all but guaranteed snow cover until as late as May. A holiday in January is therefore guaranteed to see you enjoying the slopes at their very prime. With 240km of runs to choose between there is enough to keep skiers busy all week long.
Stay at: Hotel Jagerhof for a convenient central location and family-friendly atmosphere.
To find out more about the best places to ski in January, call our experts.
