Behind The Pines's favourite European snowboard & ski resorts

The European Alps are home to some of the best snowboarding and skiing in the world. With over 1,000 resorts to choose from, there is something for everyone in the Alps. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there is a resort that will challenge and excite you.

In this blog post, we will take a look at five of our personal favorite snowboard/ski resorts in the European Alps. These resorts offer a variety of terrain, snow parks, non-snowboard-skiing possibilities and atmospheres to suit all you types of skiers and snowboarders;)

First up, LAAX. Its nice yo.

LAAX is a world-renowned snowboard/ski resort located in the Swiss Alps. The resort offers a huge variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, including some of the most challenging terrain in the Alps. LAAX is also home to the famous LAAX snow park, if you are an freestyle enthousiast you should definitely put LAAX on your list.

Terrain

LAAX offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort has over 200 kilometers of pistes, including some of the most challenging terrain in the Alps. LAAX is also home to a number of off-piste areas, as well as their famous snow park. There is also the Vorab glacier so snow is pretty much guaranteed there.

Atmosphere

You are in Switzerland so prepare yourself for a little less atmosphere then in the other Alpine countries but this can be a plus for some people. The resort is home to a number of bars and clubs, as well as a variety of events throughout the winter season. LAAX is also a popular destination for lots of snowboard and ski athletes because of their high quality snow park.

Getting there

LAAX is located in the Swiss Alps. The nearest international airport is Zurich Airport, which is about a 2-hour drive from the resort. LAAX is also accessible by train and bus. When we go to LAAX we mostly go by car, it is a 10 hour drive from amsterdam to LAAX.

Things to do in LAAX - Disentis

There are a number of things to do in Avoriaz, including:

• Ride the park
• Break your bank account
• Have cheese fondue
• Switch method in the super-pipe
• Stay and Party at the Riders Hotel

Cost

Be ready to sell your kidney because LAAX ain't cheap!

Disentis, LAAX’s hidden gem.

Disentis is a small Swiss village located just a short drive from LAAX. The village is home to a number of historical buildings, including a Benedictine monastery and a church. Disentis is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area, which includes the Rhaetian Railway, the Albula Pass, and the Ruinaulta Gorge.

Things to do in Disentis

There is only one thing to do in Disentis and that is  riding powder. Disentis is the hidden gem next to LAAX, if there is a big dump and everyone has shredded everything in LAAX you go to Disentis because paradise awaits you there. Disentis is now also connected to Andermatt which is also a great ski resort in the Swiss alps. Also both of these resorts are great for touring, especially later in the season there are lots of tracks for any kind of rider around Disentis and Andermatt

Getting to Disentis

Disentis is located in the Swiss Alps. The nearest international airport is Zurich Airport, which is about a 2-hour drive from the village. Disentis is also accessible by train and bus. Best thing is to just drive so you have the option to go to LAAX easily.

Cost of staying in Disentis

The cost of staying in Disentis varies depending on the type of accommodation you choose. A double room in a hotel costs around CHF 100 per night. we can recomend the Nangijala for a stay in Disentis.

Why we love LAAX and Disentis

We love LAAX and Disentis because they offer something for everyone. The resorts have a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, as well as a number of amenities and activities for non-skiers and snowboarders. We also love the atmosphere of the resorts. LAAX is a lively resort with a lot to offer, while Disentis is a charming village with a lot of history. Mostly LAAX and Disentis get lots of snow each year so for freeriders it is a great place to got to because there is always something to find and ride.

If you are looking for a great place to snowboard or ski in the European Alps, we highly recommend LAAX and Disentis. The only disadvantage might be the Swiss prices:) LAAX is just sehr teuer but definitely worth it in our opinion. Disentis is a lot cheaper but it is small and there is no snow park so it is a bit limited for some riders if there isn't good pow.

The famous LAAX gondola and a great day in Disentis a while ago.

Avoriaz, Portes Du Soleil.

Avoriaz is a car-free magical village located on the mountain between the slopes in the French Alps. The resort is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, its variety of terrain, and its stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif. Avoriaz is also home to a number of activities for non-skiers and snowboarders, such as a couple snow parks, a bowling alley, and a cinema for if you want to watch some French dubbed movies. 

Terrain

Avoriaz offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort has over 100 kilometers of pistes, including some of the most challenging terrain in the Alps. Avoriaz is also home to a number of off-piste areas, as well as multiple snow parks. With the option to venture over the French-Swiss border and explore the Chatel area Portes Dus Soleil is a great ski/snowboard resort.

Facilities

Avoriaz has a number of facilities for skiers and snowboarders, including a variety of ski schools, a snow park, a rodl-bahn, and a bowling alley for the bowling fanatics amongst us. The resort also has a number of restaurants and bars, as well as a spa and a fitness center. It is also recommended to stay in Morzine which is a city in the valley and has more options for accommodation as well as more other stuff you would find in a medium sized town.

Atmosphere

Avoriaz has a family-friendly atmosphere. The resort is home to a number of activities for children, such as a children's ski school and multiple snow parks. Avoriaz is also a great place for families to relax, with a number of restaurants and bars offering family-friendly menus. Hamburgers and Pain-American on the slopes are great in Avoriaz we can highly recommend:)

Getting there

Avoriaz is located in the French Alps. The nearest international airport is Geneva Airport, which is about a 1-hour drive from the resort. Avoriaz is also accessible by train and bus. Mostly we just drive from Amsterdam, it is about 11 hours to drive there. But flying to Geneva and then a shuttle to Morzine is also really doable.

Things to do in Avoriaz

There are a number of things to do in Avoriaz, including:

• Skiing and snowboarding pristine French and Swiss terrain
• Visiting one of the many snow parks to catch some airtime
• Watching a french dubbed movie in a french theater, not recommended.
• Drink red wine and Genepy after shred, recommended.

Why we love Avoriaz

We love Avoriaz because it is just a great place. The resort has a variety of activities for experienced riders, as well as a family-friendly atmosphere and beginner level slopes. Avoriaz, Morzine and Chatel are all great destinations in the Alps. You should definitely go there once if you are a snowboarder/skier. When you do, make sure you order some Genepy, it is one of our favorite drinks when we are in France and soon will be yours too.

Avoriaz in all its glory and shredder @wallgroot sending it in Avoriaz at the Volcom Spot2Spot battle

Montafon, in the depths of Austria.

Montafon is a valley located deep in the Austrian Alps. The valley is home to a number of interconnected resorts, including Silvretta Montafon, Brandnertal, and Klosters. Montafon offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, as well as a number of activities for non-skiers and snowboarders, such as a toboggan run, a snow park, and a children's ski school. It is actually very close to the popular St Anton, the terrain is similar but is less well known which is one of the reasons we prefer Montafon as an Austrian resort.

Terrain

Montafon offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The valley has over 200 kilometers of pistes, including some challenging terrain for those who want to challenge their snowboarding/skiing skills. Montafon is also home to a number of off-piste areas, as well as a snow park. Even though some parts are closed off for freeriding because of environmental reasons there is still so much cool terrain to ride if there is a decent dump.

Facilities

Montafon has a number of facilities for skiers and snowboarders, including a variety of ski schools, a snow park, schnitzel paradises, and lots of apres-ski possibilities.

Atmosphere

Montafon is a classic Austrian valley village with authentic bars, restaurants and shops. If you like Austrian food and culture, Montafon is the place to be.

Getting there

Montafon is located in the Austrian Alps. The nearest international airport is Zurich Airport, which is about a 2-hour drive from the valley. Montafon is also accessible by train and bus.

Cost

The cost of a ski pass at Montafon varies depending on the length of your stay and the type of pass you purchase. Check the website of the ski resorts for up to date prices.

 Things to do in Montafon

• Become Austrian
• Eat some great Schnitzels
• Ride great powder, pistes and park
• Schnaps

Why we love Montafon

We love Montafon because it is a great authentic Austrian ski resort for people who love to ski and snowboard. The valley has a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, as well as a number of activities for non-skiers and snowboarders. Montafon also has some really authentic apes-ski options that aren't as massive and over-exploited as the more well known ski resorts like St Anton for example.

If you are looking for a classic Austrian experience and also a great place to snowboard or ski in the European Alps, we highly recommend Montafon.

Montgenevre, The Milky Way.

Montgenevre, La Via Lattea is a resort located on the border between France and Italy. The resort is known for its challenging terrain, its stunning views of the Matterhorn, and its proximity to the Italian ski resort of Claviere and Sestriere

Terrain

Montgenevre offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort has over 100 kilometers of pistes located on the border of France & Italy. The great thing here is you can have breakfast in France and have your lunch in Claviere, Italy. There is a small restaurant that serves awesome Italian food and I wish I could have my lunch there every day. Montgenevre and Sestriere are also great not-so-well-known freeride heavens. The terrain is mostly not too steep and there are lots of freeride options. If you find a guide that can show you the area you will ride some epic runs.

Atmosphere

Montgenevre has a relaxed atmosphere. The town center has some shops, bars and restaurants but if you are looking to party Montgenevre might not be your best option. If you like good food and want to SHRED then The Milky Way is for you.

Getting there

Montgenevre is located on the border between France and Italy. The nearest international airport is Turin Airport, which is about a 2-hour drive from the resort. Its also possible to drive there from Milan which takes 3 hours or so. Driving is also possible but it is at least 12 hours to drive there from Amsterdam.

Cost

The cost of a ski pass at Montgenevre varies depending on the length of your stay and the type of pass you purchase. Check the website of the ski resorts for up to date prices.

Things to do in La Via Lattea

• Resort Exploration, awesome pistes and off pistes possibilities
• Have great French breakfast and Italian lunch.
• Great accommodation options for big groups

Why we love Montgenevre

We love Montgenevre because it is a great place for groups of people who love to ski and snowboard. The resort has a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, as well as a number of activities for non-skiers and snowboarders. Montgenevre is also a great place to relax, with a number of restaurants and bars offering family-friendly menus.

If you love French breakfast and Italian lunch and are looking for a great place to snowboard or ski in the European Alps, we highly recommend Montgenevre.

@Sendmen making turns in Montgenevre

Flachauwinkl, Austria.

Flachauwinkl is a family-friendly resort that is known for its gentle slopes and its proximity to the village of Flachau. The resort has over 50 kilometers of pistes, making it a great choice for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Mostly we like Flachauwinkl for the Absolut snow park, this is probably if not the best snow park in the Alps at the moment. With an insane amount of obstacles it is the perfect spot for any freestyle snowboarder or skier that want to hone their freestyle skills. 

Zauchensee

Zauchensee is a more challenging freeride resort that is known for its steep slopes and its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The resort has over 80 kilometers of pistes, making it a great choice for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The big plus is this resort is across the street from Flachauwinkl making the two a great option for experienced snowboarders and skiers that either want to ride park or ride powder.

Terrain

Flachauwinkl and Zauchensee offer a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Flachauwinkl has gentle slopes that are perfect for beginners and families. Zauchensee has more challenging slopes that are perfect for experienced skiers and snowboarders.

Atmosphere

Flachauwinkl and Zauchensee are small area’s without many bars and restaurants. perfect for Families that book a place and do your own cooking or small groups of fanatic shredders that don't care too much for partying. Although you can go to Flachau where there are some great partying options for those who want to drown themselves in bad Austrian Schlager music and cold alcoholic beverages.

Getting there

Flachauwinkl and Zauchensee are located in the Salzburger Sportwelt, which is a large ski area in Austria. The nearest international airport is Salzburg Airport, which is about a 1-hour drive from the resorts. Flachauwinkl and Zauchensee are also accessible by train and bus.

Driving from Amsterdam is a short 8 hour drive so it is a relatively close by resort.

Cost

The cost of a ski pass at Flachauwinkl and Zaugensee varies depending on the length of your stay and the type of pass you purchase. Check the website of the ski resorts for up to date prices.

Things to do in Flachauwinkl and Zauchensee

• Shred park
• Shred Pow
• Party in Flachau (optional)

Why we love Flachauwinkl and Zauchensee

Flachauwinkl is awesome for the epic Absolut Snow Park and with Zauchensee next door for some of the best powder tree runs the two make a great team. If you are an experienced snowboarder looking for a resort with a great funpark and good terrain for when it dumps please go here you will not be disappointed.

one of our best powder days in Zaugensee 2022

Allright so in short these are all great options to have a good time in the European Alps on or off you snowboard / ski's. We hope our intell and personal vieuws will give you the insight you need to select the perfect resort for your next winter sports adventure in the Alps. Also if you want to know more find us in the store in Amsterdam or give us a call;)

xoxo

Behind The Pines