8 unforgettable ski experiences in Europe's most beautiful regions

    Imagine gliding through freshly fallen powder snow as the majestic peaks of Europe's most beautiful ski resorts rise before you. We all look for this feeling of freedom and adventure in winter sports. From adventurous slopes in Finland and Serbia to the majestic glaciers in Switzerland. In the middle of these snow-covered landscapes, there are not only spectacular runs and breathtaking views, but also a number of charming, traditional places with a very special flair. These are themmost beautiful ski resorts in Europe.

    Text: Michael Tulgay

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    Saas Fee is not only a paradise for ski and snowboard enthusiasts, but also a piece of film history. The breathtaking Alpine backdrop of this charming mountain village in Valais was the setting for the iconic music videoLast Christmasby WHAM!. By the way, the song is celebrating its 40th birthday. Feeling old now? It is also iconic that international athletes train for championships at the rustic ski area. In addition to this cultural touch, Saas Fee offers pristine slopes suitable for all levels and offers glacier skiing all year round. One of the area's great specialties is the mix of modern winter sports and traditional, authentic mountain village atmosphere. The view of the Dom massif and the famous “Fee Glacier” make a skiing holiday here a visual experience.

    Overnight tip:The Capraoffers a relaxing retreat after a long run on the slopes and a generous selection of Valais wines.

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    We now immerse ourselves in the fairytale winter world of Levi, the largest ski resort in Finland, where the untouched nature of Lapland will captivate you. Glide through snow-covered forests on perfectly groomed slopes while the arctic sky above you offers a fascinating play of colors. Levi offers you the unique chance to experience the breathtaking spectacle of the Northern Lights. After an exciting day of skiing, imagine lying in a cozy glass igloo suite and watching the dancing lights in the night sky - an unforgettable experience for every adventurer. For the ultimate Northern Lights expedition, you can even ski at night.

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    Lech Zürs, in the middle of the Arlberg, is the ideal destination for those who are looking for luxury and exclusivity without having to forego authenticity and original alpine beauty. This place, which is also popular with royal families and celebrities, not only offers first-class slopes, but also the relaxed, rustic flair of a Tyrolean mountain village. Lech Zürs offers 305 kilometers of slopes and a fantastic snowboard and freeride area that has a lot to offer in winter for both beginners and professionals.

    Overnight tip: theHotel Arlbergwith the most charming hosts and excellent cuisine. It is part of Alpine hotel legends and was Princess Diana's favorite.

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    The picturesque village enchants you with its cobbled streets and the breathtaking backdrop of Mont Blanc. Megève is part of the Evasion Mont-Blanc ski area, which includes over 400 km of slopes and more than 80 ski lifts. It offers a wide range of runs for both beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders and is less crowded compared to other major French ski resorts. Unlike many other large ski resorts, which are characterized by modern architecture and tourist complexes, Megève has retained its historic charm. The old town with its narrow streets, pretty squares and traditional chalets exudes a special atmosphere that is reminiscent of an old mountain village.

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    Who doesn't dream of following in the footsteps of James Bond? In Sölden this dream becomes reality. The ski area that serves as the backdrop forSpectreserved, stretches impressively from 1,350 to 3,340 meters high. Our absolute highlight are the three-thousanders (Gaislachkogl, Tiefenbachkogl and Schwarze Schneid) with their spectacular viewing platforms. The "Golden Gate to the Glacier" connecting lifts take us to both glaciers, where there are perfect piste conditions even in autumn. With 144 kilometers of slopes, the area offers enough space for long turns. After a day of skiing, Sölden turns into a pulsating hotspot. This is a special highlightIce Q Restauranton the Gaislachkogl, which was seen in the Bond film as the Hoffler Clinic.

    Overnight tip: The five-star hotelCentralin the middle of Sölden. Since 1969, the founding Falkner family has run the house with a lot of Tyrolean passion, commitment and innovative spirit.

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    In the middle of the Pyrenees we discovered a hidden gem –Great value, the largest ski area in the southern European mountains. With 215 kilometers of slopes, there is a winter paradise that combines Alpine tradition with modern comfort. What's special here is the guarantee of snow: at an altitude between 1,710 and 2,640 meters, up to 66 percent of the slopes can be covered with artificial snow. In Canillo you can discover the magical Mon(T) Magic Family Park, while in El Tarter the only snow park in the Pyrenees with floodlights impresses. Aside from skiing and snowboarding, you can go on guided snowshoe hikes through untouched winter landscapes, adrenaline-charged snowmobile tours or traditional igloo building with local experts.

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    Wengen, an idyllic mountain village in the Bernese Oberland in the beautiful Jungfrau Region, is one of the most famous and charming ski resorts in Switzerland. The car-free village, located at an altitude of 1,274 meters, is famous not only for its exceptional location and alpine beauty, but also for its role as host to one of the world's most prestigious ski races - the Lauberhorn Race. This legendary event, which attracts the best skiers in the world every year, takes place on the slopes of the Wengernalp area and is a highlight of the international ski season.

    Overnight tip:that woke up from its sleeping beautyby Beaumier. It couldn't be more beautiful and alpine!

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    Deep in the heart of the Balkans we discovered a ski resort that surprised us with its authenticity and excellent value for money. In Kopaonik National Park we experience skiing from a completely different side. The largest ski area in the Balkans extends at an altitude of between 1,057 and 2,017 meters. With 55 kilometers of slopes and an additional 12 kilometers of ski routes for touring enthusiasts, Kopaonik offers a surprising variety. What particularly impresses us: Thanks to modern snowmaking systems, 97 percent of the slopes are guaranteed to have snow. A special highlight is night skiing on the 3.5 kilometer long illuminated Malo Jezero run.

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