What are the Best Value Ski Resorts in Europe?

If you’re looking for a cheap ski holiday, read on.

A recent report by the Post Office has revealed the cheapest ski resorts in Europe*, where you can hire equipment, hit the slopes and enjoy a few drinks without having to spend a fortune.

So for an active holiday with a bargain price, here’s a rundown of the top five places you should look at.

Bansko, Bulgaria

Cost: £273.81

If you’re really on a tight budget, Bansko is by far the most wallet-friendly ski resort in Europe. A six-day ski pass, ski hire and ski school costs just £259 per person so you’ll have even more cash to enjoy the après-ski facilities. Not that you’ll need much – there are many bars and restaurants to choose from with the average cost of a beer being just £1.30 – happy days.

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia

Cost: £325.54

When you think of a ski holiday, you probably won’t immediately think of Slovenia. But for another ski trip that won’t break the bank, you should definitely consider the Slovenian resort of Kranjska Gora. If there’s a few of you who have never skied before, there’s no cheaper place in Europe to learn – the average cost of 5-6 half days at a ski school is just over £77 per person.

Livigno, Italy

Cost: £350.73

Livigno is a great option for anyone wanting to hit the slopes in Italy. The area caters for all abilities, whether you’re happy on the nursery slopes or want to challenge yourself on a red run. Hiring equipment here is relatively inexpensive (around £75 for ski and boot hire for six days) compared with many of the other resorts across Europe, making it a great spot for the casual skier.

Ellmau, Austria

Cost: £367.69

Austria is a wonderful place to ski, and the resort of Ellmau is the most cost-friendly area of the country. This relatively quiet resort is popular with beginners and families, and offers over 55km of runs to choose from. Don’t worry if you haven’t got your own equipment though as the average cost of hiring skis and boots for six days is only £55 per person.

Morzine, France

Cost: £402.42

France is Europe’s most popular ski destination, but the resort of Morzine in the heart of the Portes du Soleil area is still the fifth cheapest in Europe. Whether you’d like to ski or snowboard, all levels of ability are catered for in Morzine, and you’re sure to fall in love with the scenery here too. On a budget? Don’t worry! A six-day ski pass costs less than £150 (£25 per day).

*Cost covers a six-day ski pass and ski/boot hire for one person, as well as ski school (five-six half days) and the cost of one lunch on the slopes including drinks (coffee, Coca-Cola, wine and beer).