So, you’re thinking about going on a snowboarding holiday but aren’t sure where to go. Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’m going to breakdown some of my personal favorite locations and locations considered by the community to be some of the best.
This list is going to consider all variables like the resort(s) themselves, the city surrounding the resorts, culture, scenery etc. We want to make sure you know all the details before choosing a location because we know people go snowboarding for a magnitude of reasons.
Hakuba Valley, Japan
After hosting events the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, Japan’s largest ski resort has become one of the most popular in the world and is personal favorite of mine. Stretching 40km with 10 different resorts to choose from, whether its perfect deep snow populated by a plethora of trees you’re looking to ride in, or some of the best powder the world has to offer, Hakuba Valley has both.
Not only that but experienced snowboard and skiers can test their ability on the men and women’s Olympic Downhill courses used at the 1998 winter games. For beginners there’s Goryu resort that offers plenty of long greens to practice and further develop your ability.
The surrounding area of Hakuba feels a little more touristy than other ski resorts in Japan, due to the sheer popularity of this resort. However, there is still loads of authentic Japanese sights and activities to be getting up to. There’s the Matsumoto Castle and even a monkey park for you to check out when you’re not on the slopes.
If you’re looking for a resort with top tier slopes, snow and advanced terrain surrounded by exquisite scenery, than Japan’s Habuka Valley is definitely one of my top recommendations.
Breuil – Cervinia, Italy
This is one of Europe’s best known ski resorts especially for beginners and intermediate riders. Lots of great cruising runs and a few advanced runs for the best snowboarders.
Get access to 350km beautiful views when riding down the slopes of one of the highest altitude ski resorts in Europe. In terms of quality of slopes it doesn’t compare with the variety that Habuka Valley has to offer, however for beginner riders I’d prefer to this location to enjoy the long runs specifically made for them to enjoy.
In terms of the surrounding area, what better place than Italy to go. There’s a vibrant apres-ski scene at the resort with exceptional amenities and restaurants. Don’t want to stay there? Fine, the surrounding city is packed full of great restaurants, bars and shops for you to enjoy when the slopes shut.
For you less advanced snowboarders or anyone looking for a memorable snowboarding holiday I’d highly recommend Breuil – Cervinia as one of the best resorts to go.
Quebec, Canada
Arguably the best location on this list for the quality it offers in all aspects of a snowboarding holiday. With loads of resorts to choose from each offering a different type of holiday depending on why you’re going.
If it’s challenging slopes with stunning views you’re after than Le Massif De Charlevoix will be your resort. With the highest vertical drop east of the Canadian Rockies and some challenging off-piste backcountry to explore you’ll find yourself busy somewhere all day, to then come back to some of the finest French cuisine at the Summit Chalet. What more could you ask for?
For beginners snowboarders, families and people looking for the apres-ski scene then Mont Tremblant is your best bet. Voted the best ski resort on the East Coast of North America, over 100 slopes varying in skill level and the stunning natural beauty of the Laurentian Mountains, it makes this location perfect for any snowboarder.
Aside from the slopes, there’s extensive choices of gourmet restaurants, bars and family friendly activities to choose when your not on the slopes and with Montreal being an hour half drive away, it makes it an extremely attractive resort for you casual snowboarders.
Vorarlberg, Austria
Back to Europe and we have one of the most renown countries for ski and snowboarding in the world, Austria. It has numerous locations within it to go boarding, however I’ve gone with Vorarlberg due to its luxurious prowess and even though it’s expensive it’s worth paying if you have the money.
With numerous resorts located in the provenance, each one provides a quality resort for whatever price you’re willing to pay. In the upper end you can experience boarding royalty at Lech – Zurs, with perfect powder and a range of slopes for advanced boarders to test their limits. And close to the resort a vibrant nightlife, mixed with classy restaurants for you to enjoy when the slopes are shut.
If it’s a family vacation you’re looking for, then Sonnenkopf is a better fit resort for you. There’s 39km of slopes to enjoy and an excellent off-piste section where you and your family can enjoy the slopes whatever your skill level. The resort is populated with beautiful 4-star hotels, self-catering ski apartments and lovely bed and breakfasts for your family to enjoy.
Like I said before, this is one of numerous beautiful locations Austria has to offer and this is probably the most expensive. If you can afford this then great, but if your budget is limited maybe another Austrian location would be more suited.
Mammoth Mountain, California, USA
We’re finishing this list in the eastern edge of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. With 3500 acres of skiable terrain and at 11,000 feet this resort certainly reflects the title it’s given.
It’s been voted in the top 3 terrain parks in California for multiple years now, and we’ve chosen it I this list for its all-round quality, with beautiful snow and a range of slopes targeted for all types of riders it makes it such a good location for any type of holiday.
It’s not just known for its sheer size, the surrounding town of Mammoth Lakes provides everything from an exciting nightlife to great restaurants, whilst surrounded by the most surreal views
The only issue that I have with Mammoth mountain is it’s a very long drive there. At least 5 hours from L.A, which is the nearest large city, however once you’re there I’m sure you’ll be having the time of your life surrounded by friends and family.
I hoped you enjoyed reading our list, these are only my top 5, so be sure to check out these in more detail or other locations before deciding on somewhere to go.
Finally, you can’t go on a great snowboarding holiday without a great snowboard, can you? Make sure you’re all prepared by checking out our range of snowboards and accessories down below!
