Fancy skiing down a snow-capped mountain in the middle of August? Skiing is no longer a sport reserved only for the colder months as those in search of winter sports can simply hop on a plane and arrive at a stunning ski resort in a matter of hours. All of the following ski resorts offer the finest skiing conditions during the summer season, and you can try out your best moves on some of the most beautiful glaciers in the world.
1. Ski Portillo, Chile
Most people imagine golden beaches and tropical cocktails when you think of Chile, but the country also offers some of the finest skiing slopes in the world. The Sky Portillo resort features stunning views of Laguna Del Inca and accommodates only 450 people at a time making it an exclusive and worthwhile haunt.
2. Treble Cone, New Zealand
This huge backcountry resort offers plenty of slaloms, jumps, table tops and miles of pristine white terrain for skiers of every level. The resort also organises competitions for the more adventurous skier, and you may even be lucky enough to get your photo featured on the website whilst showing off your best jumps.
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3. Les 2 Alpes, France
One of the largest summer ski resorts in Europe, this sprawling glacier opens from mid-June. Experienced skiers can ride the railway up to the resorts 8 runs, or beginners can hang out in the snowpark and get better acquainted with the half-pipe. The glacier is also served by chairlifts and drags and provides one of the more affordable options for summer skiers.
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4. Hintertux, Austria
Open 365 days a year, this huge resort offers something for skiers of every level. Betterpark offers a range of jumps and half-pipes for snowboarders, and the glaciers challenging terrain will test the nerves of the more advanced skiers. In the summer months the Hintertux operates 14 miles of runs accessed by 9 lifts so you don’t have to worry about long lines.
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5. Zermatt, Switzerland
Get 2 destinations for the price of 1 at this spectacular resort that sits on the border of Switzerland and Italy. Skiers can hop over to Cervinia for a traditional Italian lunch before skiing back to their cabin and relaxing with a glass of wine whilst enjoying incredible views of the Matterhorn.
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6. Whistler Blackcomb, British Colombia
The legendary Horstman glacier offers a challenging terrain that can only be reached by a 45 minute ride by T-Bar. Advanced skiers will experience the thrill of their life as they whizz down this impressive glacier, and other activities on offer include golf, horseback riding, rock climbing, and even bear viewing tours.
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7. Tignes, France
Tignes hosts an annual bikini contest and skiers can work on their tan whilst gliding down the North Face run. The glaciers snowpark offers plenty of options for freestylers including half-pipes, rails, moguls, and quarter-ramps.
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8. Las Lenas, Argentina
The highest ski resort in Argentina offers a whopping 40 miles of pistes that are better suited to beginners and intermediate skiers, and experts can ride the Marte chairlift in search of off-piste powder. 150 ski-instructors are on hand to put you through your paces, and guided tours are available to lead advanced skiers into virgin territory.
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9. Tordrillo Mountains of the Alaska Range, Alaska
As well as skiing over mountains of pure white corn snow, guests can fish for King salmon and rainbow trout before trying their hand at white-water rafting. Guides are on hand to steer you around the Alaska Range, and all destinations are accessed via your own private helicopter.
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10. Saas Fee, Switzerland
This popular resort is open from mid-July and is home to the Allalin glacier that can only be reached by underground gondola. As well as a sizable ski area, the resort features a snowpark with a half-pipe, kickers, boxes, and rails to suit all levels, and the park also plays host to the Saas Fee Ride competition that features a barbecue and live DJs.
All of the aforementioned resorts offer options for both beginners and experts and will keep the whole family entertained throughout your entire stay. Skiing is fantastic exercise and provides an exciting and fun alternative to the traditional beach holiday, so strap on your skis and test your skills at one of top 10 summer ski resorts in the world.
