Think skiing is only for winter? Think again! Across Europe, there are high-altitude resorts where snow lovers can carve fresh tracks even during the summer months. From panoramic glaciers in Switzerland to freestyle-friendly snowparks in France, these destinations offer a rare mix of sunshine and snow. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just want a unique alpine escape, here are 5 perfect places to enjoy skiing this summer.
🏔️ 1. Zermatt (Theodul Glacier)
Location: Zermatt, Valais, Switzerland
Distance from nearest airport: 230 km from Geneva Airport / 250 km from Zurich Airport
Zermatt is one of the few places in Europe where skiing is available even during the summer, thanks to the Theodul Glacier. Surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery and the iconic Matterhorn peak, the resort is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to summer skiing, visitors enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and relaxing in luxury mountain lodges.
• Average prices: €120–300/night; €25–45 per meal
• Types of accommodation: Luxury hotels, alpine lodges, apartments
• Recommended restaurants: Findlerhof, Chez Vrony, Restaurant Schäferstube
• Popular activities: Summer glacier skiing, hiking trails, mountain biking, paragliding
• Accessibility: Reachable by train from major Swiss cities (Zermatt is car-free)
🏔️ 2. Tignes (Grande Motte Glacier)
Location: Tignes, Savoie, France
Distance from nearest airport: 135 km from Chambéry Airport / 220 km from Geneva Airport
Tignes is one of the few French resorts that offer summer skiing, thanks to the Grande Motte Glacier. At over 3,000 meters altitude, the glacier provides excellent skiing conditions in the early mornings, while the afternoons are perfect for hiking or relaxing by the alpine lakes. The village is vibrant in summer, with festivals and mountain sports.
• Average prices: €80–200/night; €20–35 per meal
• Types of accommodation: Ski lodges, family hotels, chalets
• Recommended restaurants: La Ferme des 3 Capucines, Le Panoramic, L’Armailly
• Popular activities: Summer skiing, glacier hiking, mountain biking, kayaking
• Accessibility: Accessible by car or bus from Bourg-Saint-Maurice (30 km)
🏔️ 3. Hintertux Glacier
Location: Tyrol, Austria
Distance from nearest airport: 85 km from Innsbruck Airport
Hintertux is the only ski resort in Austria that’s open for skiing 365 days a year. Located in the beautiful Zillertal Valley, the glacier offers wide, well-groomed slopes even in July and August. Visitors can combine skiing with scenic hiking trails, spa relaxation, and fresh Tyrolean cuisine.
• Average prices: €70–150/night; €15–30 per meal
• Types of accommodation: Alpine hotels, guesthouses, spa resorts
• Recommended restaurants: Hohenhaus Tenne, Wirtshaus Linde, Spannagelhaus
• Popular activities: Skiing, glacier tours, hiking, spa treatments
• Accessibility: Accessible by car or shuttle bus from Mayrhofen (30 km)
🏔️ 4. Saas-Fee (Allalin Glacier)
Location: Saas-Fee, Valais, Switzerland
Distance from nearest airport: 230 km from Geneva Airport / 200 km from Zurich Airport
Saas-Fee is known as the “Pearl of the Alps” and offers excellent summer skiing on the Allalin Glacier. The resort is surrounded by 4,000-meter peaks and offers a peaceful, car-free environment. Besides skiing, visitors can explore panoramic trails, visit the world’s highest revolving restaurant, or relax in wellness hotels.
• Average prices: €100–220/night; €20–40 per meal
• Types of accommodation: Boutique hotels, wellness lodges, apartments
• Recommended restaurants: Fletschhorn, The Capra, Zur Mühle
• Popular activities: Glacier skiing, ice cave tours, hiking, thermal spa visits
• Accessibility: Reachable by bus or train from Visp, final stretch by electric taxi
🏔️ 5. Les Deux Alpes (Glacier 3200)
Location: Isère, France
Distance from nearest airport: 110 km from Grenoble Airport / 160 km from Lyon Airport
Les Deux Alpes boasts one of the largest summer ski areas in Europe, on the Glacier 3200. It’s a favorite among freestyle skiers and snowboarders due to its well-maintained snowpark. In addition to skiing, the resort is popular for downhill biking and summer festivals in the alpine village.
• Average prices: €70–160/night; €18–30 per meal
• Types of accommodation: Hotels, ski apartments, budget lodges
• Recommended restaurants: Le Cellier, La Porte d’à Côté, Le Raisin d’Ours
• Popular activities: Skiing, snowpark, MTB trails, paragliding
• Accessibility: Accessible by car or shuttle from Grenoble (approx. 1.5 hours)