Once you’ve got the snowboarding bug, it’s hard to shake it. And while riding the same resort every season has it’s own charms, you might want to switch up and head to other snowboard friendly resorts every so often.
Thankfully, here in Europe, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to epic terrain. From snow parks or freeriding, to long runs through varying terrain, we definitely have some of the best places to go snowboarding in the world…
From the early snowfall in the Nordic resorts, the high-altitude thrill of the Alps, the Pyrenean charm, through to the fun pistes of Eastern Europe — you’ll find your ideal snowboarding holiday here in Europe.
We’ve lined up the best snowboarding resorts in Europe, in no particular order, to help you plan your next snowboard adventure.
There are a few affiliate links in this article. That just means we may make a commission if you buy via these links, at no extra cost to you…
1. Chamonix, France
Resort size: 150 km
Altitude: 3842m
Chamonix, in the shadow of Mont Blanc, is famous for its snow-sure reliability offered by the high altitude.
With some fantastic runs and varied ski terrain, Chamonix offers access to several exhilarating options for snowboarders who love freeriding, particularly at the Grand Montets ski area. The Chamonix Le Pass gives you access to the great Brevent-Flegere, Grand Montets and Vallorcine/La Tour, which all offer different experiences. Pay for the more comprehensive Mont Blanc Unlimited and you’ll also be able to access Les Houches, the epic Aiguille du Midi (one of the longest ski runs in the world) and also Courmayeur in Italy and Verbier and Crans Montana in Switzerland.
Après ski in Chamonix is also pretty vibrant, and the lift pass is fairly affordable considering what you’re getting here. We recommend mostly the Chamonix Le Pass for intermediates and shorter stays, and the Unlimited Pass for longer visits or advanced riders who plan to hit the Aiguille du Midi (make sure to book a guide).
Cham is a bit of a premium resort though, and is favoured by the Geneva weekeders, so can get busy. But if you’re looking for one of the world’s best snowboarding resorts, this is a top pick and a must visit for any snowboarder looking for epic terrain.
Read our full Chamonix review.
2. Val Thorens, France
Resort size: 600 km
Altitude: 3,230m
Located in the heart of the Alps, Val Thorens boasts the title of Europe’s highest ski resort – and in 2023 she scooped the award for best ski resort in the world (for the 9th time). The high altitude setting assures snow throughout the season with a high chance of fresh snow powder riding, and plenty of off piste riding.
Part of the Trois Vallees, which includes Courchevel and Meribel, the resort is famous for its extensive terrain, excellent lift system, and vast freeride opportunities. It’s also one of the best resorts in the world for apres ski too, so if you love to party, you’ve double the excuse to ride Val Thorens.
Having access to the entire Three Valleys ski area with one pass is literally priceless, and means you’ll never run out of epic lines to carve. And while we’ve picked Val Thorens as the headline resort here, the truth is you could base yourself anywhere from Meribel to Les Menuires and have an awesome time.
3. Verbier, Switzerland
Resort size: 412 km
Altitude: 3,330m
Verbier is a top rated resort in the Swiss Alps known for its challenging terrains and reliable snow record. In fact, alongside Val Thorens, Verbier has won the best ski resort in the world multiple times, the last award coming in 2022.
Offering opportunities for high-level freeriding and a sizable snowpark, Verbier is a go-to for bold snowboarders. Enjoy the stunning run down from the highest point, Mont Fort.
The lift pass includes the entire 4 Vallees area which is a veritable playground for skiers and snowboarders. However, this is one of those ski resorts with a hefty price tag, although there are ways to ride here for relatively cheap.
The town’s vibrant après-ski scene is one of the most active in Switzerland and we think this is definitely a bucket list snowboard resort for a whole bunch of reasons.
Check out our Verbier and the 4 Vallees review.
4. Livigno, Italy
Resort size: 115 km
Altitude: 3000m
Livigno is dubbed the ‘Little Tibet’ of Italy due to its great snow coverage and stunning scenery. Blessed with lengthy seasons, Livigno is a prime choice for breath-taking freeriding and features a well-outfitted snow park. Besides, the lift prices are surprisingly affordable for such a top destination.
The Livigno ski resort is also a duty free haven, making it a good spot to pick up bargains on your snowboarding gear (new gloves or snowboarding jacket anyone?). And this being Italy, the food is also fantastic, of course.
5. St. Anton, Austria
Resort size: 305 km
Altitude: 2,811m
St. Anton invariably stands in all alpine conversations for its reputation as ‘the cradle of Alpine skiing.’ In short, this is some of the best terrain in Austria, but take note that it’s not really a top pick for beginners.
You’ll find the resort features an extensive terrain for snowboarding, an excellent snowpark, and is known for its admirable snow reliability. Basically, this is one of the most fun places to go snowboarding in Austria, and you’ll have an awesome time whenever you come.
Oh and the apres ski scene here is very lively. I hope you like techno and German pop music.
In addition to the fantastic riding in St Anton, the Arlberg ski pass, get access to nearby resorts like Lech and Zurs.
6. Zermatt, Switzerland
Resort size: 360 km
Altitude: 3,883m
Zermatt, is the picture postcard image of the Swiss Alps, framed by the mighty Matterhorn and with a car free chocolate box village below. Oh and the ski terrain is exceptional, with snow sure coverage, a glacier which is open early in the season, and some of the best piste riding anywhere in the world.
This is also where you’ll find one of the longest ski runs in the world, from the glacier back to town.
While Zermatt is undoubtedly one of the world’s best ski resorts, and is great for snowboarders, it might not suit everyone due to its high cost and relatively well-heeled clientele.
Apart from its terrain, Zermatt is renowned for its high-quality mountain dining and extensive après ski options.
7. Grandvalira, Andorra
Resort size: 210 km
Altitude: 2640m
As the largest ski area in Southern Europe, Grandvalira is located in the Eastern Valley of Andorra, offering an unforgettable snowboarding experience.
The resort has an impressive terrain variety and houses well-maintained freestyle areas, including El Tarter snowpark – one of the best snowparks in Southern Europe. Known for its snow sureness, Grandvalira often maintains a snow-rich base from December through April.
For after riding fun, the après ski scene in Pas de la Casa and Soldeu is pretty vibrant, ranging from serene lounges to festive atmospheres in bars and restaurants.
We thought Grandvalira was great value. Read our snowboarding in Andorra report.
8. Tignes, France
Resort size: 300 km
Altitude: 3,456m
Tignes is a popular ski resort in the high French Alps, part of the Espace Killy ski domain. Being so high means a long-lasting ski seasons, which also extends to summer, thanks to the Grande Motte glacier. This resort opens doors to fantastic freeride possibilities and presents a dynamic snow park and some great apres ski too.
The high altitude also means lots of opportunity for off piste riding in fresh snow, and a good variety of both beginner friendly and more testing terrain for advanced riders.
Access to the Val d’Isère ski area as part of the Espace Killy network means you’ll never have a dull day.
9. Laax, Switzerland
Resort size: 224 km
Altitude: 3018m
Laax is a global benchmark in the snowboarding world. Adorned with extensive freeriding terrains and world-class snowparks, Laax also houses Europe’s largest superpipe. Anyone looking to amp up their snowboard freestyle repertoire will do well to book a trip to Flims-Laax Falera, which is absolutely made for snowboarders.
This isn’t the most lively resort in the Alps though, but don’t let that put you off. With the summit over 3000 metres and the proximity to other resorts such as Zermatt and Saas Fee, this is both snowsure and amazing terrain.
Alongside superb scenic beauty, the infrastructural brilliance of this resort makes it a paradise for snowboarders.
10. Mayrhofen, Austria
Resort size: 136 km
Altitude: 2,500m
Mayrhofen, is the jewel of the Zillertal Valley, is a known for its consistent snow cover and impressive terrain parks. The Vans Penken Park is a central attraction here, and the Mayrhofen area offers plenty of exceptional riding whatever your level, plus plenty of tree lined runs, wide pistes and stunning views.
For those brave enough to take on the Harikiri, the steepest skiable piste in Austria, well, you’re braver than me.
Here for a week? Well, your Zillertal lift pass gets you access to numerous resorts dotted down the valley. So you can head to the glacier at Hintertux jump on the bus or train to Zell am Zimmer or Hippach to switch it up.
Mayrhofen is definitely the most vibrant town in the valley though. Combined with lively après ski activities, seals its position as a premium snowboarding spot.
11. Avoriaz, France
Resort size: 650 km Portes du Soleil region / Avoriaz 130 kms
Altitude: 2,466m
Avoriaz, situated in the heart of the Portes du Soleil region, ensures an enjoyable snowboarding experience with its superb freeride zones and well-designed snowparks. With a season extending from December to April, Avoriaz also guarantees good snow coverage. Its lift pass bundle can include other resorts in the Portes du Soleil region.
This is also where you’ll find the Swiss wall, for those who want to make the day trip to the Swiss side of the Portes du Soleil. Warning though: The Swiss wall is not for the faint of heart!
The après ski scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants, is also worth noting, with a Folie Douce setting the pace. Avoriaz is also home to the Snowboxx festival at the end of the season, which really amps up the apres ski.
12. Sölden, Austria
Resort size: 144 km
Altitude: 3,340m
Sölden, a majestic wonderland in the Otztal Valley, caters to snowboarders with its two glaciers and three mountain peaks above 3000m. Its superb snow reliability and a season that extends to May make it a popular choice. The resort has a large snow park, and the lift pass covers nearby Obergurgl and Hochgurgl.
This is undeniably one of Europe’s best resorts, with some incredible lines for snowboarders including one of the longest ski runs in the world.
The nightlife in Sölden is known for it’s Austrian energy, which is means the party gets going from lunch time and lasts until the early hours.
13. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Resort size: 120 km
Altitude: 2,930m
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a fashionable resort with a reliable snow record, well-maintained snowparks, and breath-taking scenery. The resort has an extended ski season thanks to the high Col Druscie Aided station.
The Dolomiti Superski pass allows access to surrounding ski areas, and the illustrious après ski scene adds charm to your snowboarding adventure.
14. Alpe d’Huez, France
Resort size: 250 km
Altitude: 3,330m
Known for its sunshine record, Alpe d’Huez offers an extensive glacier and enthralling freeride opportunities. You’ll also find the longest pisted run in the Alps, the Sarenne, which is something like 18 kms top to bottom and is quite a do-able black run.
Plus, it has one of Europe’s largest snowparks. With access to the Grand Rousses ski area and a vibrant après ski scene, this resort is certainly a bucket list contender.
15. Les Arcs, France
Resort size: 425 km
Altitude: 3,226m
Les Arcs is part of the enormous Paradiski domain, offering high altitude and snow sure terrain, easily making this one of the best snowboarding resorts.
The ski area is acclaimed for its broad range of steep descents, differentiated snow parks, and extended ski seasons. And, with a Paradiski lift pass, riders can also explore neighboring La Plagne.
Les Arcs is also a pedestrian only resort with ski in/ski out standard here, which means more fun on your board.
And after a hard day riding the stunning high altitude skiing terrain, you can enjoy some of the fun apres ski activities in town too.
16. Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria
Resort size: 270 km
Altitude: 2,100m
Saalbach-Hinterglemm is one of many ski resorts in Austria that could reasonably lay claim to the title of best snowboarding resorts – with expansive terrain, a solid location in the heart of the Tyrol and some fun terrain parks too.
With a good season length, guaranteed snow and ample night riding options, the resort is a snowboarder’s paradise.
Thanks to the Ski Alpin Card, visitors can also visit neighboring Zell am See and Kaprun for some bonus terrain if they’re here for a while.
17. Les Deux Alpes, France
Resort size: 200 km
Altitude: 3520 m
With both high altitude and glacier terrain, Les Deux Alpes is one of the most snow sure ski resorts in Europe. In fact, you can even ride here in the summer, as many professional and Olympic teams do.
Expect stunning wide open piste runs, including a thigh burning 14 kms run from the glacier back to town. There’s also an excellent snow park for all those looking for the trick boxes and rails.
Les Deux Alpes is also known for excellent apres ski, with various clubs and festivals found across the town. And if they ever link it with Alpe d’Huez as promised, this will be one of the most incredible ski areas arguably in the world.
Check out our Les Deux Alpes snowboarding review.
18. Are, Sweden
Resort size: 100 km
Altitude: 1,420m
Are in Sweden provides a different vibe with early winters and long-lasting daylight. This resort is an enticing choice for adventurous snowboarders who love freeriding and park riding. Despite not having Alpine altitudes, you’ll find some stunning riding here, tons of powder and a really long season too.
The après ski here is engaging with lots of activities, both indoors and out. Are is also known as a family friendly resort, but this is the Nordics, so expect an expensive ski trip.
19. Sierra Nevada, Spain
Resort size: 106 km
Altitude: 3,300m
The most southerly ski resort in Europe is surprisingly excellent, snowsure and is a haven for snowboarders. A short hop from the city of Granada, Sierra Nevada is a gem with its high altitude and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.
Enjoy riding top notch groomed slopes with stunning views across the Andalucian plains. The resort is renowned for its sunny weather, long ski season, excellent snow reliability, and Sulayr Superpark, one of the best snowparks in Europe. Not so sure? Well, Sierra Nevada actually hosts a leg of the snowboard cross world cup, such is the quality here.
Add in the vibrant nightlife and Spanish culture which only adds to the overall charm. You could also choose to stay in nearby Granada and take the ski bus with just a 40 minute ride from the city.
20. Bansko, Bulgaria
Resort size: 48 km
Altitude: 2,600m
Bansko in Bulgaria offers a pocket-friendly and uncrowded alternative to its western European counterparts. It boasts a good snow record, has a well-groomed snowpark and high-speed lift system. While some say that Borovets is the better option, Bansko is undoubtedly a lively option not to mention home to a UNESCO recognised old town.
There are a few other reasons why Bansko might be one of the best places to snowboard. There are pockets of excellent freeride terrain, an excellent snow park and one of the longest runs in the world in the ski road (when its open). That said, the ski road does have some long flat sections near the bottom, so keep your speed up.
As for the après ski scene… Lets just say you’ll have a blast whatever you’re looking for.
21. Krasnaya Polyana, Russia
Resort size: 102 km
Altitude: 2,320m
A wild card pick here, but a fun one if you want to check out something different. Krasnaya Polyana, the host of the Sochi Winter Olympics 2014, offers exhilarating freeriding opportunities, super modern lift systems, and a well-maintained snowpark.
The ski season often extends until June thanks to its high-altitude location. This being Russia, the après ski ranges from tranquil lounges to vibrant nightlife.
22. Isola 2000, France
Resort size: 120 km
Altitude: 2610m
Set in the Southern Alps, Isola 2000 benefits from the snow of the Alps and the sun of the French Riviera. It is known for its snow reliability, maintaining a good snow cover throughout the season.
Fun fact: this is the first ski resort in France to host a snowboard club, making this a uniquely friendly resort for snowboarders. It’s also home to one of the best snow parks in the Alps…
In fact, Isola several terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts. And of course the apres ski is top notch too.
23. Crans-Montana, Switzerland
Resort size: 140 km
Altitude: 2927m
Crans-Montana, perched on a south-facing plateau, offers a unique snowboarding experience with its sun-soaked slopes and impressive freeriding zones. You’ll find some great off piste and powder riding here, not to mention lots of tree runs.
It hosts several snowboarding competitions annually, adding to its credibility. This resort also offers beautiful views of the Valais Alps, deep-rooted charm, and a bustling après-ski experience.
We absolutely loved Crans Montana, although we did luck out with the weather somewhat.
Check out our Crans Montana snowboarding review.
24. Grimentz/Zinal, Switzerland
Resort size: 115 km
Altitude: 2900m
Located in the Val d’Anniviers, Grimentz/Zinal is a spectacular area blessed with spectacular freeriding terrain and well-maintained snow parks. It is recognized for its exceptional snow reliability and relatively uncrowded slopes.
This is high on my list of resorts to ride, so stay tuned as I’m planning a trip to check this one out ASAP.
While this isn’t the most apres ski focused resort, it’s perfect for those looking for untracked powder late into the season.
25. Baqueira-Beret, Spain
Resort size: 160 km
Altitude: 2,610m
Smack in the heart of the Pyrenees, Baqueira-Beret is characterised by its large ski area, well-kept snowparks, and fabulous off-piste possibilities. The ski season commonly extends from November to April, providing a lengthy interval for snowboarding. The relaxed beauty of the Val d’Aran villages and numerous après-ski options give a local flavour to your snowboarding trip.
26. La Grave, France
- Size: 12 km (Off-Piste)
- Altitude: 1,450 m – 3,550 m
For the adventurous snowboarder seeking uncharted territories, La Grave is a literal off piste paradise. While the official piste area is limited, the vast untamed terrain attracts experts craving a backcountry challenge. There is one lift here, which drops you at the top of a freeride wonderland. Just around the corner from Les Deux Alpes, this could make a great day trip for snowboarders looking for some thrilling powder riding.
With its unique, unpatrolled environment, La Grave is not for the faint-hearted but promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking the ultimate freeride adventure.
Snowboarding or skiing?
If you’re new to winter sports, you might be wondering whether to try snowboarding or skiing. Well, the age old debate about snowboarders vs skiers probably won’t be settled any time soon – and we do have a full guide ‘should I ski or snowboard?‘
But some great reasons to learn snowboarding are…
- You don’t need to carry poles
- Snowboard boots are much more comfortable than ski boots
- If you fall you don’t have to walk halfway down the mountain to get your board back
- It’s cool
- It’s a lot of fun
If you’ve ever done board sports you might find some elements of snowboarding familiar. Although don’t assume you’ll go straight from surfing or skateboarding and effortlessly learn to ride snow. It is a whole other thang.
Take a look at some of these snowboarding YouTubers for inspiration.
Planning a snowboarding trip to Europe?
Remember, the beauty of these resorts lies in their diverse character. Every resort has a unique charm and whether you are a seasoned snowboarder or a beginner, there is a perfect resort for you.
Find great packages to European ski resorts with SkiWorld. They often include flights from the UK, transfers and hold luggage as standard…