Best ski destinations flying under the radar

Hidden gem ski destinations

Popular Alpine resorts often steal the spotlight, but they’re not the only places worth skiing. Across Europe, there are plenty of resorts with beginner-friendly slopes, easy access from the UK, and far fewer crowds.

The destinations below stand out for their mix of choice, convenience, and appeal to all kinds of skiers.

Germany

Germany doesn't always come up in ski conversations, but it quietly offers more choice than most people realise. With 638 ski resorts, there's a real mix here, from Alpine resorts in Bavaria to smaller mountain areas.

A lot of that choice leans towards accessible, well-organised skiing. Around 80 resorts are beginner-friendly, with wide runs and practice areas that feel manageable. Add in direct flights from 13 UK airports and short transfers, and it's a very easy destination to plan.

Accommodation near ski resorts is widely available and often good value compared with larger Alpine destinations.

Ideal for: beginners, mixed-ability groups, and easy travel from the UK.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has 316 ski resorts, many in the Giant Mountains, and they tend to be smaller and lower than Alpine resorts.

That smaller scale changes the feel of a ski trip. Resorts are easier to get around, slopes are less hectic, and days tend to feel more relaxed. Places like Lipno and Plešivec are set up with families in mind, with gentler runs and clear areas for learners.

With flights from 15 UK airports and good-value accommodation near resorts, it's an easy option if you want skiing without the buzz.

Ideal for: families, first-time skiers, and quieter resorts.

Poland

Poland is home to 286 ski resorts, mainly in the Tatra Mountains. What stands out here is how the terrain is often split - easier slopes lower down, with steeper, more challenging runs higher up.

That layout works well if people in your group ski at different levels. Beginners can stay on gentler runs, while more confident skiers have options to push on. Resorts like Kotelnica and Witów show that balance well.

Flights are available from 16 UK airports, and accommodation near ski resorts is widely available and often reasonably priced.

Ideal for: mixed-ability groups that want progression without busy slopes.

Sweden

Sweden is home to around 256 ski resorts and benefits from its northern location, which helps snow conditions remain reliable later into the season. Resorts often feel more open and spacious, with wider slopes and a more relaxed pace than many European alternatives.

There are 12 ski areas particularly well suited to beginners, including Tänndalen, named Sweden’s Best Ski Resort 2025.

The appeal goes beyond novice skiers. It offers a different kind of ski experience for all abilities, with fewer crowds and less pressure, so you can focus on snow quality, space, and enjoyment.

You can fly directly from 6 UK airports, and accommodation ranges from simple hotel stays to cosy lodges close to the slopes.

Ideal for: late-season trips and skiers who prefer room on the slopes.

Slovakia

Slovakia has 122 ski resorts, many benefiting from frequent snowfall thanks to its continental climate.

It's a good place to build confidence and then take things further. Resorts like Tatranská Lomnica offer nursery slopes and ski schools, but also longer, more demanding runs once you're ready. It's home to the country's longest and highest piste, which gives it an edge for progression.

With flights from 6 UK airports and generally good-value accommodation, it's a practical option too.

Ideal for: skiers looking to progress and get more out of their time on the mountain.

A quick note on ski travel insurance

A standard travel insurance policy usually covers common issues that can arise on a trip, such as:

• Cancelling your holiday or cutting it short due to illness or a family emergency
• Lost luggage or stolen belongings, including passports and travel documents
• Travel delays or disruption caused by bad weather or mechanical issues
• Accidental injury to another person or damage to their property while abroad

While this level of cover works for many holidays, skiing and snowboarding come with additional risks and aren’t always included as standard.

If you’re planning to ski or snowboard, you’ll usually need to add winter sports cover to your policy. This provides enhanced protection for time spent on the slopes and can include:

• Emergency medical treatment for ski-related injuries
• Mountain rescue, including helicopter airlifts to hospital
• Repatriation to the UK for further medical treatment
• Cover for ski and snowboard equipment if it’s lost, stolen, or damaged
• Piste closure or lift-pass cover if poor conditions mean you can’t ski

When you get a quote, select winter sports cover, and we’ll show policies that include it.

Don’t forget your UK GHIC

If you’re planning to ski in Europe, it’s worth taking a UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC) with you.

The UK GHIC gives you access to state-provided healthcare in European Economic Area (EEA) countries and Switzerland on the same basis as a local resident. It can also be valid in some countries outside Europe under reciprocal healthcare arrangements.

It’s useful to have as a precaution in case you need emergency medical treatment while you’re away, but it doesn’t replace travel insurance. A UK GHIC won’t cover mountain rescue, private medical treatment, or ski equipment, so it should be used alongside travel insurance that includes a winter sports add-on.

Some insurers may also require you to hold a UK GHIC as part of their policy terms. If you still have a valid UK EHIC, you can continue to use that until it expires.

Tips for a smoother ski trip

• Keep your insurance info handy. Store your travel insurance policy number and emergency contact in your phone for quick access.
• Carry a backup copy. A printed copy of your policy and key documents can be useful if your phone is lost or runs out of battery.
• Know local emergency numbers. Familiarise yourself with mountain rescue contacts and local emergency services at your destination.
• Keep proof of ski passes and lift tickets. Some insurers require evidence for claims related to lost ski days, piste closures, or lift pass reimbursements.
• Note any pre-existing conditions. If you have medical conditions, ensure you declare all necessary info when getting a quote to avoid issues with claims.