Outstanding ski schools, the latest lift systems and varied ski areas. Andorra used to be known as the cheap and cheerful destination for young singles and couples looking to enjoy the good value bar prices more than the slopes. As huge numbers of visitors have already discovered, Andorra offers a whole lot more than lively apres-ski. Although there is still a good choice of budget accommodation on offer, an increasing number of quality hotels with great facilities are springing up all over the place. Add to this the continuing financial investment in lift systems and the expansion of ski areas and it's easy to see why Andorra becomes more attractive every year.

Random facts

• Andorra is one of the best destinations for first-time skiers and snowboarders. Its ski schools are recognised as some of the finest in the world, with many native English-speaking instructors and expert teaching methods ensuring speedy progression.
• The majority of Andorrans are multi-lingual, speaking Catalonian, Spanish, French and English so there should be no problem ordering lunch in the mountain restaurants.
• Caldea Thermal Spa in Andorra la Vella is an impressive spa centre with indoor and outdoor pools, fountains, waterfalls, saunas, hot tubs, Turkish baths and even a grapefruit bath! Well worth a trip one afternoon and accessible from all our resorts.

Resorts accessable from Toulouse (France) in Andorra

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Picturesque villages, traditional family-run hotels, guesthouses and welcoming hospitality. Austria is famous for its beer and schnappsfuelled fun apres-ski; mountain restaurants and bars start the proceedings mid-afternoon with live music and dancing. Not all resorts are this lively but the larger ones such as St Anton, Saalbach & Hinterglemm, Solden and Zell am See certainly are!

Random facts

• As a predominantly Catholic country, Austrian villages are home to some beautiful churches, typically with an onion-domed bell tower that resonates early every Sunday morning - not a bad alarm call to get you on the slopes.
• Be aware, sauna areas in Austria tend to be naked zones. It is frowned upon to wear swimming costumes for hygiene and health reasons so be brave and make sure you take a towel!
• Cuisine is hearty and delicious, a local favourite being 'Tiroler Grostl', a tasty combination of potatoes, onions, bacon and cheese cooked slowly and served in a heavy pan.
• In some resorts, ski hire shops classify child and youth skis by length of ski. A rough guide to working out what length of ski your child requires is to take the height of your child and minus 30cm. We have given an approximate age range based on the average height of children in that age bracket. Once in resort, if your child requires a longer length of ski than you have booked, you may be required to pay a supplement locally.

Resorts in Austria accessible from Innsbruck

Resorts accessible from Salzburg

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Ideal for beginners, families and great value skiing. Bulgaria may not be home to the most extensive ski areas in the world, but it cannot be beaten on value for money. The ski schools are award winning and provide an excellent service for those who are new to winter sports. You really would be hard pushed to find better places to make your first few turns on skis.

Random facts

• The resorts in Bulgaria are ideal for beginners and improvers, as they offer great value ski hire, lift passes and lessons, and the ski schools cater very well for first time skiers.
• Neither Bulgaria nor Romania would be recommended for gourmets as the food is basic and can be served warm rather than hot. However, the wine connoisseur will find many excellent local wines available at bargain prices.
• All children travelling to Bulgaria, regardless of age must travel on their own passport.
• Currency should be taken in £ sterling and changed in resort. Although living in these countries is cheap by UK standards, bring enough money for the unexpected as it may be difficult to get hold of extra funds.

Resorts accessable from Sofia in Bulgaria

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You can't beat the French Alps for variety. The incredible range of skiing includes some of the worlds largest pisted areas and plenty of snowsure, high altitude resorts. Without a doubt there is a resort that is ideal for everyone and one in every three skiers from the UK goes to France to sample some of the best ski terrain in the world.

Resorts in France available from Grenoble

Resorts in France available from Geneva (Switerland)

Resorts in France available from Turin (Italy)

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Mystical, blue skies, untouched forested fells and every winter activity you could dream of. Arrive in Lapland, almost 200km above the artic circle, and immediately you experience a magical charm that's hard to explain. Perhaps it's the polar skies that change dramatically through the winter and, if you're lucky enough, provide a backdrop to the enchanting Northern Lights. Of course, Lapland is home to Santa Claus so December is a special time. What some people don't realise is just how much is on offer right through the season. Blanketed under snow from November to May, not only is it a fantastic ski destination but also one of the best places to experience a whole host of arctic activities.

Random facts

• Seeing the 'Aurora Borealis', otherwise known as the Northern Lights, is believed to bring good luck. High in the polar skies, solar particles collide with the earth's atmosphere to create a spectacular light display. No-one can predict when it'll happen although it's most likely on clear nights between November and February.
• As long as you wear the right clothing, the cold, dry arctic climate is comfortable. Natural base and mid layers (e.g. thermal, cotton or wool) under waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential, as are waterproof boots, warm socks, mittens/gloves and a hat. All Neilson guests who participate in the Arctic Adventure Taster or any winter activity are provided with thermal suits and boots to go over clothing.
• Daylight hours vary. In the mid-winter months of December and January, days are shorter with around 5hrs of daylight. Sundown never reaches blackout as daylight turns to a unique blue twilight, the ski centres illuminate their downhill slopes & cross country trails, and hotels, restaurants and bars light their fires and candles so guests feel cosy and warm. By April, days are as long as 16hrs.
• Anyone planning to drive a snowmobile must take a valid driving licence.
• There are more reindeers in Lapland than inhabitants!

Resorts in Finland available from Kittila

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Since the last Winter Olympics Italy is enjoying a new burst of popularity, and rightly so with the host resorts receiving a huge makeover with new lifts, hotel refurbishments and extended artificial snow coverage. This has made these already fantastic resorts into some of the best equipped in the Alps, ensuring minimal queuing to get onto some of the biggest ski areas Europe has to offer, all with the unique Italian skiing experience of sophisticated apres-ski, great cuisine and genuine hospitality.

Random facts

• Look out for hotels and bars offering 'aperitivos' as these pre-dinner drinks and snacks are unique to Italy.
• Italians love skiing and they love sunshine. The mountain restaurants can look more like beach front cafes when the sun shines as the locals lose their jackets and relax on the deckchairs.
• It is now a legal requirement for all children under the age of 14 years old to wear a helmet while skiing or snowboarding in any Italian resort, although we would recommend any child wears a helmet while skiing.
• Smoking policy: Smoking is banned in all indoor public places in Italy. This means smokers will be asked to step outside to indulge - or face a hefty fine!

Resorts available from Turin

Resorts available from Turin

Resorts available from Verona

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Traditional, snow sure, family-friendly resorts for a complete winter experience. The myths about skiing in Norway have finally lifted. Yes, it may be a bit chillier than some resorts in the Southern Alps but no colder than North America or Canada and, as we know, cold conditions mean great snow. There is so much to do apart from skiing and snowboarding... have a go at a range of off-slope activities including reindeer or dog sledding, snowmobiling, horse drawn sleigh rides, ice fishing, ice climbing, toboganning and snowshoeing.

Random facts

• Days are often no shorter than in some parts of England. It may get dark earlier in December and January but floodlit pistes mean you can enjoy the experience of skiing as dusk falls - not to be missed!
• Apres-ski tends to be low-key during the week while weekends see an influx of Norwegians ready to party!
• Remember to take your driving licence if you're planning to go snowmobiling or ice driving - it's Swedish law that you must show it.
• Recent legislation in Norway means that smoking is not permitted in any indoor places including hotels, bars or restaurants.
• Eating out and drinks can be expensive, although no more so than some parts of the UK or some other European resorts. We recommend choosing a half board option where possible for the best value holiday. Also note, evening meals tend to be a set menu rather than a choice of dishes.

Resorts in Norway available from Fagernes

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Pristine landscapes, snowsure slopes and friendly service. Sweden offers a refreshing change from crowded resorts in the Alps. You'll be struck by the beauty of its unspoilt, snow-covered landscapes. This is the place to come for an all-round winter experience where a huge array of non-ski activities are on offer including snowmobile safaris, ice fishing, dog sledding and ice climbing. Add great standards of accommodation into the mix and you have a very attractive winter destination.

Random facts

• Recent legislation means that smoking is not permitted in any indoor places including hotels, bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
• Remember to take your driving licence if you're planning to go snowmobiling or ice driving - it's Swedish law that you must show it.
• Swedish cuisine is particularly meat and fish based - expect to see deer, moose and salted fish on the menu as well as more familiar beef, lamb, chicken and fresh fish dishes. Preserves such as lingonberry or cloudberry jam are popular and a tasty compliment to rich meat dishes.

Resorts in Sweden available from Ostersund

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