If you are torn between yearning for the mountains and a love of the sea, then consider these ski resorts that offer the best of both worlds.
Mount Etna, Italy
Skiing in Sicily is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Where else would you ski down Europe’s highest volcano with a view of the sea and cooled lava fields?
If the active volcano spews a fountain of lava into the sky, you can have a true fire and ice experience – though caution is advised.
More info: etnasci.it
Lofoten, Norway
In winter, the rugged coastline of northern Norway transforms into a ski touring paradise with descents down to the sea.
Special boat trips take you comfortably from one stage of the tour to the next; there are also small ski areas along the routes.
More info: visitlofoten.com
Akureyri, Iceland
Skiing in Iceland can be a mystical experience. The mini ski resort of Hlioarfjall on the Eyjafjorour fjord really comes into its own in the evening under floodlights.
By day, ski tours on the Troll Peninsula with descents to the shore are always a treat.
But nothing beats “heliskiing” in the land of fairies and trolls – especially late in the season, when “heliskiers” are out late into the night under the midnight sun in June.
More info: hlidarfjall.is
Alyeska, United States
This ski resort in Alaska is only for good skiers and snowboarders. It is a place where you can test your limits to the fullest if you leave the resort near Anchorage and go heliskiing – a pricey treat though.
There are views of the Pacific Ocean from both the slopes and many freeride slopes.
More info: alyeskaresort.com
Osorno, Chile
The huge Lago Llanquihue is part of the panorama, as is the emerald green Lago Todos Los Santos – and, in good weather, the Pacific Ocean. With just under 12km of slopes in the Centro de Esqui Volcan Osorno ski resort, you have plenty of time to enjoy the view.
More info: centrovolcanosorno.cl
Niseko, Japan
Niseko is Japan’s freeride hotspot with powder snow guaranteed. The exceptionally good combination of cold and humid air masses ensures legendary snowfall that is reported worldwide.
When the sky clears, you can see the Sea of Japan in the distance. You may also catch a glimpse of the sea while enjoying winter sports around Sapporo.
More info: niseko.ne.jp/en/
Mount Hutt, New Zealand
In preparation for the Ski World Cup, many racers train in the southern hemisphere during the summer, including New Zealand.
Mount Hutt is the home ski resort of the city of Christchurch on the South Island, where from the slopes you can see the Pacific Ocean.
More info: mthutt.co.nz
