As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the cooler weather brings with a sense of nostalgia and longing. For ski enthusiasts across Europe, a sense of eager anticipation, of the first snowfall and the thrill of the slopes, is the only natural reaction here. For those who can’t wait to hit the slopes, knowing which resorts open earliest can be crucial. Some, it turns out, have been open all year round.
Hintertux Glacier, Austria
Opening Date: Year-round
Hintertux Glacier is a haven for those who simply can’t wait for winter. This Austrian gem is open 365 days a year, making it the go-to destination for early-season skiing. Located in the Zillertal Valley, Hintertux offers over 60 kilometres of pistes and a vertical drop of 1,750 metres. The glacier’s high altitude ensures reliable snow conditions, even in the early months of autumn.
Highlights:
- Snowpark Hintertux: Perfect for freestyle enthusiasts.
- Panoramic Views: Stunning vistas of the surrounding Alps.
- Family-Friendly: Excellent facilities for children and beginners.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Opening Date: Year-round
Zermatt, home to the iconic Matterhorn, is another resort that offers skiing throughout the year. The Theodul Glacier provides excellent conditions for early-season skiing, with lifts operating even in the summer months. By late September, the resort ramps up its winter operations, making it one of the earliest to fully open for the season.
Highlights:
- Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: The highest cable car station in Europe.
- Extensive Terrain: Over 360 kilometres of pistes.
- Luxury Experience: High-end accommodation and dining options.
Read: 9 of the best European ski resorts for non-skiers
Tignes, France
Opening Date: Mid-October
Tignes, part of the Espace Killy ski area, is renowned for its early opening. The Grande Motte Glacier allows skiing from mid-October, offering a substantial 20 kilometres of pistes. Tignes is a favourite among both professional athletes and recreational skiers looking to get an early start to the season.
Highlights:
- Varied Terrain: Suitable for all skill levels.
- Lively Apres-Ski: Vibrant nightlife and après-ski scene.
- Sports Facilities: Excellent infrastructure for various winter sports.
Stubai Glacier, Austria
Opening Date: Late September
Stubai Glacier, located near Innsbruck, is another early opener, typically welcoming skiers early in the calendar, often by the end of September. With over 26 lifts and 64 kilometres of pistes, it is the largest glacier ski resort in Austria. The resort’s high altitude and extensive snowmaking capabilities ensure excellent conditions from the get-go.
Highlights:
- BIG Family Ski-Camp: Ideal for families with young children.
- Snowpark Stubai Zoo: A top destination for freestyle skiing.
- Scenic Beauty: Breathtaking alpine landscapes.
Sölden, Austria
Opening Date: Late September
Sölden is famous for its early start to the ski season, often opening in late September. The resort boasts two glaciers, Rettenbach and Tiefenbach, which provide reliable snow conditions. Sölden is also known for hosting the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, making it a hotspot for early-season skiing.
Highlights:
- World Cup Venue: Experience the thrill of skiing on professional race tracks.
- Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art lifts and amenities.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: A lively resort with plenty of entertainment options.
Val Senales, Italy
Opening Date: Mid-September
Val Senales, also known as Schnalstal, is one of Italy’s earliest-opening ski resorts. Located in South Tyrol, this resort offers skiing on the Hochjochferner Glacier. With its early opening in mid-September, Val Senales provides a great opportunity for skiers to get a head start on the season.
Highlights:
- Glacier Skiing: Reliable snow conditions on the glacier.
- Historical Significance: Close to the site where Ötzi the Iceman was discovered.
- Quiet and Scenic: A more tranquil alternative to busier resorts, with plenty of luxury accommodation.
Stelvio Pass, Italy
Opening Date: May to November
Stelvio Pass in South Tyrol is unique in that it operates primarily during the summer and autumn months, closing in November. However, it offers some of the earliest skiing opportunities in the year, making it a great choice for those looking to ski before the traditional winter season begins. Located in the Italian Alps, Passo Stelvio offers a range of pistes on its glacier.
Highlights:
- Summer Skiing: One of the few places in Europe where you can ski in the summer.
- High Altitude: Excellent snow conditions due to its elevation.
- Scenic Routes: Stunning alpine scenery and challenging runs.
Early-Season Skiing 101
- Insurance Smarts: Early-season skiing can come with unpredictable conditions, so Get a quote for ski insurance as soon as you can to ensure you’re covered for any eventualities.
- Check Snow Reports: Early-season conditions can vary, so stay updated on snow reports.
- Book in Advance: Early openings can attract crowds, so secure your accommodation and lift passes early.
- Layer Up: Although not as cold as in winter, weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers to stay comfortable.
The Bottom Line
For those eager to carve the first tracks of the season, these European resorts offer some of the earliest opportunities to hit the slopes. From the year-round offerings of Hintertux and Zermatt to the early autumn openings of Tignes, Stubai, Sölden, Val Senales, and Passo Stelvio, there’s no shortage of options for early-season skiing. So, dust off your skis, pack your bags, and get ready to embrace the winter wonderland that awaits!