Europe doesn’t want for great ski resorts. France, Italy, Austria and Switzerland are all home to wonderful pistes and even better après-ski. Yet if you are looking for something a little different then why not head to Slovenia?
The main resort in Slovenia is the picturesque town of Kranjska Gora which lies at the bottom of the Julien Alps that separate Slovenia from Italy. A relatively small town it offers good accommodation, uncrowded slopes and plenty of welcoming faces. Better still, it is only a short transfer from Ljubljana airport meaning that if you are arrive early you can hit the slopes by lunchtime. The season lasts from November to April and the resort is snow-sure meaning you can relax in the knowledge that there should be plenty of the white stuff around. For more info on the resort itself, including a webcam so you can check out current conditions, have a look at: www.kranjska-gora.si.
As a relatively small resort Kranksja Gora is ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers. Snowboarding is also popular but advanced skiers may find that this is not really the resort for them. Ski and snowboard instruction is offered by friendly instructors all of whom speak excellent English. The weekends can become busier when the locals also head for the slopes, but in general it is an excellent place to learn or develop your skills on the piste.
After a hard day’s skiing, Kranska Gora offers plenty of entertainment in the evening although those looking for wild parties might be better served in one of the larger, more developed resorts. However, there are enough restaurants and bars to ensure any ski-induced aches and pains can be soothed especially at very friendly prices.
When it comes to value for money, Slovenia fares extremely well. Prices are significantly cheaper than its close neighbours France, Italy and Switzerland and mean you really do get a great deal. Hotel accommodation is excellent, food and drink high quality and ski passes and equipment also excellent value. In short, you don't have to break the bank this year if you want to go skiing.
If you’ve had enough of skiing for one day then Slovenia isn’t short on things to do. Day trips across the border into Italy are popular as are sight-seeing trips to many of Slovenia’s top tourist destinations such as Lake Bled, the capital Ljubljana and the Postojna caves.
Slovenia is an excellent country in which to learn to ski and Kranjska Gora is an unspoilt, charming town offering excellent tuition, good accommodation, few crowds and great prices in a friendly setting. Although a relatively small resort it has enough nightlife to keep all but the wildest party animals content. So, if you’re after something different this year then why not head to Slovenia?