Italy has emerged as the new go-to budget-friendly ski destination in Europe, surpassing Bulgaria, according to a recent study conducted by British travel agencies.
The annual analysis, conducted by British tour operators Post Office Travel Money and Crystal Ski Holidays, assessed the value-for-money offered by ski holidays across 36 European cities.
Topping the list was the charming Italian town of Bardonecchia, showcasing a minimal price increase of 1.4 percent compared to the previous year. This result positions Italy as an attractive and affordable choice for ski enthusiasts.
Borovets and Bansko, two renowned Bulgarian ski resorts, secured the second and sixth positions in the study.
Borovets, located in southwestern Bulgaria, earned its second-place ranking with an 8.2% price increase, while Bansko, in the same region, claimed the sixth spot with an 18.1% increase. The surge in Bansko’s costs was primarily attributed to escalated ski school expenses.
The comprehensive study scrutinized prices of ski passes, equipment rentals, lessons, as well as lunch and drinks on the slopes across the featured European cities.
The results highlight the evolving landscape of ski destinations and the importance of evaluating overall affordability for winter sports enthusiasts.
Notably, the study revealed that prices decreased in nine of the 31 European winter resorts featured in this year’s and last year’s analysis.
The French Les Arcs and Swiss Wengen resorts experienced the most significant price drops, marking a 5.5% decrease this year. These shifts indicate a dynamic market where destinations adjust pricing to remain competitive.
On the other end of the spectrum, Zermatt in Switzerland emerged as the most expensive ski resort, with prices soaring to more than double those in Bardonecchia.
The disparity underscores the range of options available to winter travellers, with Italy standing out as an affordable alternative without compromising on the ski experience.
As winter enthusiasts plan their upcoming ski holidays, the study’s findings provide valuable insights into the changing landscape of ski destinations in Europe.
Italy’s ascent to the top spot in affordability reflects a broader trend of travellers seeking budget-friendly options without sacrificing the thrill of the slopes.
The competition among ski resorts to offer competitive prices and enhanced value will surely keep reshaping the skiing landscape in the coming years.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members