Doorstep Skiing Deals

Pila, Italy

The drive up to Pila at 1,800 metres altitude via the Aosta Valley is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular Alpine scenery across Europe. What better way to set the tone for a charming ski holiday escape at Pila when the majestic Mont Blanc, Matterhorn and Monte Rose slowly come into view as you climb the valley heading up to the resort. Pila may come up short in glamour, glitz and flamboyance but its traditional Italian character oozes originality. Now a modern, pedestrian ski resort with some of its accommodations offering doorstep skiing, Pila is a fantastic option for visitors looking to experience Alpine charm. The ski resort is modernised and is steadily upgrading its resort centre however, it is still home to several historical buildings including several Roman and mediaeval monuments. Pila sits above the historical village of Aosta which is also well known for its art exhibitions which often provide subtle glimpses into its fascinating history. What gives Pila such charm and originality is its ability to effortlessly combine culture and winter sports.

Lech, Austria

Lech is a quiet and luxurious ski resort in the Arlberg region of the Austrian Alps. One of the most exclusive ski resorts in the Alps, very few villages possess a better charm and romantic atmosphere as does Lech. Its previous guests include members of the British Royal family, Jordanian Royal family, Dutch Royal family, as well as other notable celebrities. It may be a favourite of the royals across the world but Lech’s charm is purely authentic and organic in nature. Once an old farming mountain settlement, Lech’s intriguing cultural history still adorns the village as a silent ode to its modest past. The gothic style church of St Nicholas built in 1390 still overlooks the village with its 33-metre high bell tower featuring bronze bells which are centuries old. The rest of the village is mostly made up of lovely Alpine wooden chalets with streets lined with designer shops and upmarket cafes. The village of Oberlech sits just above the resort and is 100% doorstep accommodation with easy access granted from accommodation straight the lifts, pistes and other amenities. With a modest altitude of 1450 metres, Lech still possesses a fantastic snow record and manages to receive twice as much snow as other resorts located at a much higher altitude.The slopes are groomed daily and almost evenly split among ski ability levels, the slopes here slightly favour intermediates and advanced skiers but there are great beginner level slopes. Overall, one of the best options for a charming and romantic ski getaway, but a pricey one at that.