How to choose the right ski resort

Choosing a ski resort comes down to four things: who is travelling, how you ski, the style of stay you want and when you can travel. Our quiz weighs all four and recommends three resorts from the destinations we know best, chosen by MySnow ski specialists who have skied them.

Ski holidays are all we do, and our specialists have been helping Australians plan them since 1992. The quiz is a starting point. Your specialist can then fine-tune hotels, lift passes, lessons and flights around your group.

Which ski resort suits you?

Families with young children

Choose resorts with English-speaking ski schools, childcare and ski-in ski-out stays, so little legs aren't carrying skis far. Whistler Blackcomb, Aspen Snowmass, Sun Peaks and SilverStar are all excellent, and Naeba and Tomamu offer family-friendly slopeside hotels in Japan.

Couples

Look for great dining and village atmosphere as well as the skiing. Breckenridge pairs a historic town with big terrain, Vail has an alpine-style village and legendary back bowls, and Méribel offers refined French style in the Three Valleys.

Groups of friends

Big terrain and lively après make the difference. Whistler Blackcomb, Niseko and Vail are favourites, and Val Thorens is famous for its après in the French Alps.

Powder lovers

Japan is the place for light, reliable powder. Niseko and Hakuba Valley are our most popular choices, best from late December to February.

Skiing closer to home

New Zealand is a short flight from Australia, with the season running from June to September. Queenstown gives you Coronet Peak and The Remarkables plus a lively lakeside town, while Wānaka offers Cardrona and Treble Cone. Many clients split their stay between the two.

Frequently asked questions

Which ski resort is right for me?

It depends on who is travelling, how you ski, your accommodation style and when you can go. Families often suit resorts with strong English-speaking ski schools and ski-in ski-out stays, such as Whistler Blackcomb or Aspen Snowmass. Powder lovers tend to choose Niseko or Hakuba in Japan. Take the quiz above for a personal recommendation, or speak with one of our ski specialists.

Is Japan or Canada better for skiing?

Japan is known for consistent, light powder snow, great food and a shorter flight from Australia, with the best snow from late December to February. Canada offers larger ski areas, lively resort villages and excellent ski schools, which suits mixed-ability groups and families. Many of our clients ski both over time, starting with whichever suits their dates and group.

When is the ski season?

In Japan, Canada, the USA and Europe the season runs from December to April, with peak conditions in January and February and spring skiing in March and April. In New Zealand the season runs from June to September, with August usually the most reliable month for snow.

What is the best ski resort for families?

Look for English-speaking ski schools, childcare, gentle beginner areas and accommodation close to the lifts. Whistler Blackcomb, Aspen Snowmass, Sun Peaks and SilverStar are strong family choices in North America, while Naeba and Tomamu offer family-friendly slopeside hotels in Japan.

What is the best ski resort for beginners?

Beginners do best at resorts with wide, gentle runs, good lessons and easy access from their accommodation. Sun Peaks, SilverStar, Naeba and Tomamu are all well suited, and our specialists can recommend the right hotel and lesson package.

Where should I go for a luxury ski holiday?

For five star hotels, fine dining and ski-in ski-out residences, Aspen Snowmass, Vail, Whistler Blackcomb, Niseko and Méribel are standouts. Our specialists can match you with the right property and arrange private lessons, transfers and lift passes.

Can MySnow book my whole ski holiday?

Yes. Our ski specialists have skied the resorts we sell and can package accommodation, lift passes, lessons, equipment hire, transfers and flights into one trip. Call 1300 697 669 or request a quote.