There's no better time than now to plan your New Year activities to include a New Year ski trip. The mountains beckon. Especially in Europe, there is a host of locations where you can plan a memorable New Year ski adventure. Air fare from the United States has never been lower. And if you're already residing in Europe, than take advantage of the numerous charter flights that are currently doing big business.
If Italy is on your agenda for your new year ski trip, then no location is more stunning than Cortina d'Ampezzo, one of the most popular Italian ski resorts. A New Year ski adventure on the Cortina slopes has something for everyone. There are slopes for every level of skiing expertise. And if skiing isn't part of your New Year activities, than how about snow boarding? Or trekking? The many resorts spread across Cortina each have a talented and patient staff of snow board and ski instructors just waiting to serve tourists.
Another option for your New Year ski adventure is Courmayeur. This location is very popular as a weekend getaway. It's very easy to get to either by plane, bus or car. New Year activities spent at Courmayeur need some advance planning: the roads leading in are narrow and backed-up traffic is all but guaranteed. The locals will tell you that the skiing isn't much and they're probably right. But the nightlife! That alone is worth the price of admission. Snow bunnies of all ages, captivating with their tans from a day sunning on the slopes will have you straining not to stare. The typical agenda in Courmayeur is ski or sun during the day and party at the discos all night.
Other great New Year ski trips should be considered in Austria's Gastein Valley. Gastein is known more locally rather than internationally, so in that respect it may be one of Austria's best kept secrets. The skiing is there for the taking. An array of impressive slopes that are more than challenging for intermediate skiers. You'll be disappointed if you're looking for first-rate accommodation in the area. There's a real disparity between resorts and the distance from them to the slopes. Better to rent a car and make a day of it.
Last but not least, what New Year ski adventure would be complete without adding Garmisch, Germany to your agenda? Garmisch is located at the base of the Zugspitze, the highest mountain in all of Germany. Garmisch offers one of the most famous health spa's in the Bavarian Alps, and in general is a winter sports magnet for tourists from all over Europe. Garmisch isn't just about skiing. The area offers a stunning mixture of natural beauty, shopping, and overall wellness.
A wide range of sports activities is available throughout the year. If sightseeing is your interest, a casual walk through the city center of Garmisch will impress you with its mix of moderness and Bavarian charm. Boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops will impress you with the range of both traditional handicrafts and original souvenirs, not to mention all the other shopping benefits. Better bring a credit card! And when the sun sets get ready for Garmisch' special brand of night life!
All in all, Europe offers slopes, shopping and more. All designated to create a great way to usher in the New Year!