Want to hit the slopes without emptying your wallet? Affordable skiing is possible! With Petit Futé, discover 15 ski resorts where pleasure rhymes with budget control. From the French Alps to the Bulgarian mountains, via Italy and Spain, we take you to destinations where the snow is king without the prices being royal. Get your skis and wetsuits ready: an economical winter adventure awaits! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, these resorts offer you the best of skiing at low prices. So follow the guide for a winter of skiing without breaking the bank! And don't miss the 15 family-friendly ski resorts where you can ski with your kids!
1- Les Houches, France
Les Houches, nestled in the Chamonix valley, is an ideal ski resort for those on a tight budget. With 55 km of pistes to suit all levels, it welcomes beginners and advanced skiers alike. A total of 24 slopes await you. The ski area extends from an altitude of 950 to 1900 meters, offering breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Les Houches is also renowned for its Kandahar downhill run, which is famous in competitions. With its charming village and affordable prices, it's a perfect choice for a ski vacation without breaking the bank. Take advantage of its ski school and numerous mountain restaurants.
2- Bansko, Bulgaria
Bansko, located in Bulgaria, is a popular ski destination for its excellent value for money. The resort offers 75 km of well-groomed slopes, divided into 14 easy, 8 intermediate and 1 difficult runs, suitable for all levels of skier. The altitude of the ski area varies between 990 and 2600 meters, promising quality snow. Bansko is also known for having one of the longest ski seasons in Europe, stretching from December to April. The town itself blends historic charm with modern amenities, with a variety of restaurants and hotels to suit all budgets. The resort also offers ski schools and rental equipment, making the experience accessible to all. Rent your touring skis in Bansko here !
3- Sierra Nevada, Spain
Sierra Nevada in Spain is a unique ski resort. It extends over 106 km of pistes, with a total of 103 runs suitable for all levels of skier. The ski area, situated between 2100 and 3300 meters above sea level, guarantees excellent snow quality. Sierra Nevada is notable for being Europe's southernmost ski resort, often offering generous sunshine. It boasts a snowboard park and several ski schools for beginners and advanced skiers. The resort is also known for its lively après-ski atmosphere, with a good selection of bars and restaurants. With its varied accommodation options, Sierra Nevada is suitable for all budgets. Sierra Nevada is also one of the best family resorts to go to on a budget!
4- Poiana Brasov, Romania
Poiana Brasov in Romania is a charming ski resort, ideal for families and skiers of all levels. It offers around 15 km of slopes, with 12 runs suitable for a variety of abilities. The ski area's altitude ranges from 945 to 1765 meters, offering reliable snow conditions. Poiana Brasov is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and picturesque scenery. The resort offers ski and snowboard schools, as well as equipment rental options. Prices for ski passes and accommodation are particularly attractive, making it an ideal destination for an economical ski holiday. In addition to skiing, the resort offers other winter activities such as tobogganing and snowshoeing. Poiana Brasov combines quality and accessibility for a memorable skiing experience.
5- Jasna, Slovakia
Jasna in Slovakia is one of the country's largest ski resorts. It offers over 50 km of pistes, suitable for all levels. Situated in the Lower Tatra Mountains, the ski area's altitude ranges from 934 to 2004 meters, offering excellent snow conditions. Jasna is known for its well-groomed slopes and modern facilities, including efficient lifts. The resort also offers opportunities for off-piste skiing and snowboarding. Budget-wise, Jasna stands out for its affordable rates for ski passes and accommodation. The resort also offers ski schools and equipment rentals, making skiing accessible to all. With its magnificent natural setting, Jasna is the destination of choice for an economical, quality ski holiday.
6- Vogel, Slovenia
Vogel, Slovenia, is a resort offering an authentic ski experience at an affordable price. The ski area covers around 22 km of slopes. Located in the Triglav National Park, Vogel offers breathtaking views and altitudes ranging from 569 to 1,800 meters. The resort is renowned for its natural snow and majestic mountain scenery. Vogel is also appreciated for its tranquil atmosphere and less crowded ski facilities. The resort offers ski and snowboard lessons and equipment rentals. With its diverse accommodation options, Vogel is equally suited to families and solo skiers. It's a perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful and economical skiing experience. Book your ski day with instructor or your snowboarding day with an instructor at the Vogel ski center!
7- Söll, Austria
Söll, located in Austria, is part of the vast Wilder Kaiser-Brixental ski area. It offers more than 270 km of pistes (223 runs). Altitudes range from 620 to 1869 meters, ensuring good snow quality. Söll is particularly appreciated for its well-groomed slopes and modern lifts. The resort is also renowned for its lively après-ski scene, with numerous bars and restaurants. For beginners, ski schools offer lessons and rental equipment. Accommodation in Söll ranges from hotels to guesthouses, to suit all budgets. It's an ideal destination for those looking for a complete, affordable ski experience in the Austrian Alps.
8- Livigno, Italy
Livigno, Italy, is an exceptional ski destination, known for being a free zone, which makes shopping more affordable. The resort offers 115 km of pistes, with an ideal distribution for all levels. Altitudes range from 1816 to 2900 meters, offering excellent snow conditions. Livigno is also famous for its large snowpark and cross-country skiing facilities. The resort offers a friendly atmosphere, perfect for families and groups of friends. You'll find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to affordable apartments. Ski schools and equipment rental services are readily available to all visitors. With its unique blend of quality skiing and tax benefits, Livigno is the destination of choice for an economical yet memorable ski holiday.
9- Saint Lary Soulan, France
Saint Lary Soulan, in the French Pyrenees, is a welcoming, family-friendly ski resort. It offers 100 km of pistes, divided into 56 different slopes: 7 green, 26 blue, 15 red and 11 black, suitable for all levels of skier. The ski area's altitude ranges from 1700 to 2500 meters, ensuring good snow quality. Saint Lary Soulan is known for its mix of technical slopes and children's play areas. The resort offers ski schools and equipment rental. It is also appreciated for its charming village with good restaurants and accommodation options to suit all budgets. With easy access from major cities, Saint Lary Soulan is an ideal destination for an affordable and enjoyable ski vacation. Find out more about the resort here!
10- Kopaonik, Serbia
Kopaonik, Serbia, is the country's largest ski resort, offering a unique and cost-effective skiing experience. The ski area extends over 55 km of pistes and features 26 lifts. Altitudes range from 1057 to 2017 meters, guaranteeing good snow conditions throughout the season. Kopaonik is renowned for its well-groomed slopes and modern facilities, including efficient lifts. The resort also offers a snowboard park and children's areas. When it comes to accommodation, Kopaonik offers a variety of options, from luxury hotels to more affordable lodgings. Ski schools and equipment rental services are available to facilitate your stay. With its magnificent natural setting and attractive prices, Kopaonik is the perfect destination for an affordable and memorable ski holiday.
11- Zakopane, Poland
Zakopane, Poland, is a popular ski destination, known for its picturesque ambience and affordable prices. The ski area offers 34 lifts and around 20 km of pistes with a majority of easy and intermediate runs, ideal for families and beginners. Zakopane is also famous for its unique architectural style and rich culture. The resort offers ski schools, equipment rentals and a variety of après-ski activities. Accommodation options range from comfortable hotels to traditional mountain chalets. Zakopane is perfect for those looking for a budget ski experience, with a touch of local charm. In addition to skiing, the region offers wonderful opportunities for hiking and outdoor relaxation.
12- Goudaouri, Georgia
Goudaouri, located in Georgia, is an up-and-coming ski resort, appreciated for its off-piste skiing and competitive prices. The ski area covers around 34.8 km of slopes for 26 runs, with options for all levels. Altitudes range from 2,000 to 3,278 meters, offering excellent snow conditions and magnificent scenery. Goudaouri is particularly famous for its extensive off-piste areas and ungroomed slopes, ideal for adventure. The resort boasts modern lifts and equipment rental services. Accommodation options include comfortable hotels and more economical lodgings. Goudaouri is also known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It's an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders looking for new experiences at an affordable price.
13- Les Orres, France
Nestled in the Hautes-Alpes region of France, Les Orres ski resort is a great choice for skiers of all levels. With 36 slopes spread over a 100-kilometer ski area, it offers an impressive variety of runs: 10 green, 4 blue, 18 red and 4 black. The altitude of the resort, at 1,550 meters, rises to 2,720 meters, guaranteeing great snowy descents. Les Orres isn't just about skiing: there are also play areas, children's zones and other activities. Ideal for families, this resort combines fun and a warm atmosphere at an affordable price. Les Orres is also one of the best budget resorts in the Alps!
14- Erciyes, Turkey
Erciyes, Turkey, is a hidden gem for ski enthusiasts, offering a unique experience at an affordable price. The resort offers 55.1 km of pistes and 14 lifts. The ski area's altitude ranges from 2088 to 3346 meters, ensuring excellent snow conditions. Erciyes is known for its modern facilities, including state-of-the-art lifts. The resort also offers extensive opportunities for off-piste skiing. With accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to more economical guesthouses, Erciyes suits all budgets. Ski schools and equipment rental services are available for skiers of all levels. Erciyes is the ideal place for those looking to explore new ski slopes away from traditional European destinations. Here you can enjoy a ski and snowboard tour at Mont Erciyes !
15- Champorcher, Italy
Champorcher, Italy, is a small ski resort, perfect for those looking for an authentic, tranquil ski experience. It offers around 12 km of pistes, mainly suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers. The ski area's altitude ranges from 1427 to 2494 meters, ensuring good snow conditions. Champorcher is known for its unspoilt natural setting and peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the big resorts. The resort is ideal for skiers who appreciate less crowded slopes and an authentic mountain atmosphere. With accommodation options ranging from comfortable hotels to traditional B&Bs, Champorcher suits a variety of budgets. It's an excellent choice for a relaxed, affordable ski getaway in the Italian Alps.
See also our selection of the 10 best ski resorts in France for kids!
What are the prettiest ski resorts?
- Zermatt, Switzerland: Famous for its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is one of Europe's most picturesque ski resorts.
- Aspen, USA: Known for its luxury and charm, Aspen offers a magnificent setting in the Rocky Mountains.
- Chamonix, France: Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is renowned for its majestic setting and traditional Alpine village.
Which family resort to choose in Savoie?
- Valmorel: Known for its charming village and family-friendly slopes, Valmorel offers an enjoyable skiing experience for all levels, including children.
- La Norma: This resort is ideal for families, thanks to its manageable size and friendly atmosphere. It offers a good balance between easy and medium runs, perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers.
- Saint-François-Longchamp: Located near the Col de la Madeleine, this resort is perfect for families looking for a quiet spot with beautiful views and slopes suitable for all.
Which family resort to choose in the Northern Alps?
- Saint Jean d'Arves: Part of the Les Sybelles ski area, this resort offers affordable skiing with great runs for all levels and a picturesque setting.
- Les Saisies: Known for its exceptional snow cover, Les Saisies offers reasonably priced ski passes, with family-friendly slopes and magnificent views of Mont Blanc.
- Thollon-les-Mémises: Situated above Lac Léman, this small resort is ideal for families looking for a quiet spot with mainly beginner and intermediate slopes, at very attractive prices.
