As climate change continues to shorten the ski season and alter snowfall patterns, traditional ski resorts are facing new challenges. With an increasing number of resorts experiencing reduced snow coverage and warmer winters, many have begun diversifying their offerings to remain appealing across the winter months. From helicopter tours in the Dolomites to wildlife safaris in Wyoming, ski destinations across the globe are evolving to provide more than just skiing sojourns. This shift is not only about the businesses’ survival but also about enhancing the overall guest experience, turning ski resorts into adventure hubs with a rich blend of activities, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Niseko, Japan 

Nestled on the northern island of Hokkaido, Niseko is one of Japan’s most luxurious ski resorts. The resort is said to have the best powder snow in the world, making it a winter dreamscape for avid skiers and snowboarders. But beyond its snowy slopes, Niseko’s appeal lies in its combination of natural beauty and rich Japanese culture. 

The ski resort is made up of four main areas: Anuupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and Hanazono, of which there are an abundance of activities to do. Annupuri is home to Niseko’s famed traditional onsen (Japanese hot springs), which are dotted all over the area. Visitors can participate in “Toji” — a traditional Japanese way of using the hot mineral waters as therapy — while surrounded by snow-covered landscapes.

In Hirafu, the NAC Adventure Park is open all year round. The park stretches across two acres, with high ropes courses available in six different difficulty levels. Ranging from five to thirteen meters high, keen adventurers can swing, hop, or climb their way through 130 different challenges, high among the trees. 

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Levi, Finland 

Located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Levi Ski Resort is a magical winter wonderland that not only features outdoor adventures but also one-of-a-kind Nordic experiences. Most famously, Levi offers an incredible opportunity to witness the Northern Lights, often visible on clear winter nights. As one of Finland’s largest ski centres, the resort provides numerous ways to catch the enchanting aurora borealis, whether by arctic ice floating atop a lake, zipping by on a sled ride, or quietly staring up at the night sky surrounding a campfire. 

Another unique Lapland experience is its animal activities. Guests can embark on husky sled rides, where they’re pulled through snowy forests by a team of eager dogs, a moonlit horse riding adventure across the vast tundra, or even a Christmas-themed reindeer farm visit and Santa sleigh ride. 

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Alpbachtal, Austria 

In Tyrol, Austria, Alpbachtal is home to a wealth of cultural experiences that can only be viewed off the slopes. The mountain valley is made up of nine villages, some distinct for its charming wooden-style buildings and others for its rich history. Known as Austria’s smallest town, Rattenberg is a village near the Alpbachtal ski resort, most famous for its glass-blown art. As Christmas approaches, the Rattenberg Advent kicks into full gear. Visitors can explore the candlelit town streets while sipping Rattenberg Advent wine and listening to Weisenbläser (traditional brass instrument players) — all set against a backdrop of medieval architecture. 

For a dazzling experience, the Swarovski Crystal Worlds exhibition in nearby Wattens is a must-see. This immersive display of art and design is orchestrated by international artists, showcasing impeccable crystal craftsmanship, including exclusive collectors’ and memorabilia items. 

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READ MORE: A Sensory Journey Through Christmas at El Palace Hotel, Barcelona

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada 

On the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler Blackcomb is a year-round playground with world-class activities. Spanning over 8,100 acres of terrain, Whistler is one of the largest ski areas in North America, with many skiers and snowboarders flocking to it during winter months. But the ski resort has also expanded to other activities off the slopes. 

Thrill-seekers can experience the rush of a bobsleigh ride at the Whistler Sliding Centre, where they can race to speeds of 125+ km/hr down the same track used in the 2010 Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, the Vallea Lumina combines Whistler’s picturesque natural landscape with advanced special effects. The interactive adventure uses video, sound, and lighting to create an immersive story of a magical hidden valley as guests embark on an hour-long nighttime stroll through the mountain trail. 

Although skiing is the preferred way to appreciate the mountains, guests can also opt for Whistler’s ziptrek tours, which combine an extensive network of ziplines and suspension bridges to explore the vast mountain range and its forests. 

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Sierra Nevada, Spain 

While Spain might be more well-known for its sun-kissed beaches and Mediterranean waters, the Sierra Nevada near Granada is actually a popular spot for skiers. As the southernmost ski resort in Europe, the mountain valley also has a number of non-ski activities for patrons. 

Its most famous attraction is the Blackbird Sled, a mountain rollercoaster situated in Mirlo Blanco activity park. A combination of banked curves, speed bumps, and rails lets visitors race down the slopes on a winding track, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. For Christmas, the resort offers a “Christmas Stars” astronomy event. Using advanced astronomical software, guests can marvel at the starry sky above while learning about the Solar System and its celestial bodies, as guided by expert astronomers. 

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Kronplatz, Italy

Kronplatz — also known as Plan de Corones — is a hidden gem in the Dolomites, with breathtaking natural beauty and a range of exciting activities. The ski resort utilises its location on its scenic mountain valley, which UNESCO declared a World Heritage Site in 2009. Flying activities are particularly popular at Kronplatz, with the option of helicopter tours or paragliding flying. Opting for a helicopter takes guests atop the Dolomites and the surrounding Pustertal Valley, crossing snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes from above. 

The paragliding flight is a more hands-on experience of the mountains. After a scenic ascent by cable car, visitors can soar through the crisp mountain air and take in the views of the jagged Dolomites on one side and the main ridge of the Alps on the other. For first-time flyers, the resort offers tandem flights with experienced pilots. 

Off the slopes, Kronplatz is a hub of cultural attractions, including the Messner Mountain Museum in nearby Brunico, where the legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner’s art and exhibits showcase the region’s deep connection to mountain culture.

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READ MORE: Top Tips for an Unforgettable Road Trip Across Italy

Jackson Hole, Wyoming 

In Wyoming’s rugged Teton Range, Jackson Hole Ski Resort is not just popular for its snow sports but also for its opportunity to explore the extensive national park through varying seasons. In the colder months, Jackson Hole turns its wildlife tours into winter safaris. Led by knowledgeable naturalists, winter safaris venture into the surrounding Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, where guests can spot a variety of wildlife, including herds of elk, bison, mule deer, and even wolves. The safaris are typically conducted on snowmobiles or snowcoaches, allowing visitors to cover more ground while staying warm and cozy. 

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Las Leñas, Argentina 

Tucked away in the Andes Mountains is Las Leñas ski resort. Because of its challenging terrain, the resort draws skiers and snowboarders from around the world with its backcountry opportunities and steep bowls. Since its winter season runs from June to September/October, Las Leñas typically transitions to summer-style activities in the Christmas month. 

White water rafting is a particular highlight of the resort, where groups of up to seven can navigate through the fast-moving rapids of the Rio Desecho and Rio Salado. The resort also offers horseback riding adventures, where guests can saddle up and ride through the high-altitude terrain, experiencing the Andes’ dramatic vistas up close. 

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Thredbo, Australia

Also in the Southern Hemisphere, is Thredbo Ski Resort in New South Wales, Australia. With the winter and summer months flipped, Thredbo is also a summer alpine resort. Located in the Snowy Mountains, the resort has crafted as many year-round activities as it has on the rugged landscapes of the surrounding nature. In winter — in addition to skiing and snowboarding — Thredbo offers a skate park for those who prefer their slopes sans snow. Another highlight is their “Zero Gravity” centre, an indoor acrobatic training facility with two Olympic-sized trampolines, and plenty of foam pits and airbags to practice aerial tricks.

In the summer, Thredbo transforms into a mountain hiking haven. Hikers can explore breathtaking alpine landscapes along the iconic Kosciuszko Track, leading to the summit of Australia’s highest peak. The resort also offers a 9-hole golf course that runs alongside the Thredbo River and sits at the base of the mountain, allowing spectacular views during a leisurely game. For adrenaline junkies, abseiling and alpine bungee jumping are also available, creating a thrilling summer adventure.

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Queenstown, New Zealand

Surrounded by the Southern Alps, Queenstown is home to New Zealand’s premier alpine ski resort. While the ski season stretches from June to October, Queenstown thrives as a year-round resort, blending relaxation with breathtaking scenery. In particular, the Queenstown region is home to some of New Zealand’s most celebrated wineries. The nearby Gibbston Valley — often referred to as the “Valley of Vines” — is known for producing exceptional Pinot Noir. As one of the oldest wineries in New Zealand, the winery offers a cellar-door experience where guests can sample an array of wines and cheeses while surrounded by an enchanting view of the mountain. Other options include a “Complete Winery” experience that takes guests on a behind-the-scenes tour of Home Block (the region’s oldest vineyard), through the winery barrel rooms, and ending in a tasting at the wine cave library.

Meanwhile, hot air ballooning over Queenstown offers a completely different kind of serenity, soaring to altitudes of 6,000 feet, above Lake Wakatipu, the snow-dusted top of the Coronet Peak, and even gives visitors a view of The Hobbit filming locations. Flights begin at dawn and guests are treated to champagne and pastries after landing.

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St. Moritz, Switzerland

Although St. Moritz stands as the crown jewel of alpine resorts, its unconventionality actually lies in its range of exclusive events — ones that go beyond skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The resort town, bathed in sunlight for over 300 days a year, sits at the edge of a shimmering lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, making it a rare combination of both a winter wonderland and a sun-drenched paradise. In actuality, many of St. Moritz’s most famed events occur around the lake rather than atop the mountains.

One such event is the Snow Polo World Cup, which has been a long-standing tradition since 1985. Held annually in January, this tournament takes place on the frozen surface of the lake, with four teams of top international players competing in a series of matches over the weekend. In February, St. Moritz hosts its glitziest event yet: The I.C.E. St. Moritz. The automative and lifestyle event gathers avid car collectors and global elites to witness a showing of supercars from high-profile brands like Aston Martin, Porsche, and Ferrari.

The vehicles are driven by professional drivers, and guests are given the opportunity to watch them navigate ice tracks on top of the frozen lake, specifically designed to showcase their handling, speed, and agility in extreme conditions. The icy terrain challenges both the cars’ engineering and the skill of their drivers, offering a once-in-a-lifetime car show for spectators.

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