After a disappointing season last year, many have high hopes that the 2021/22 ski season will go ahead as normal. So, how likely is it that you’ll have a ski holiday this year? Whilst we don’t know what will happen over the coming months, there are a few reasons to be cautiously optimistic…
4 ski destinations are on the government’s green list
At the time of writing, four ski destinations are on the UK government’s Green List. Austria, Norway, Canada and Switzerland were all added to the list in August, meaning that there is no need to quarantine on return to the UK.
These destinations are now deemed ‘safe’ for travel by the UK government, which is great news for the ski industry and skiers. The ski resorts in these countries will be hoping to welcome tourists from the UK when the season starts.
Despite this, you still need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before you leave the UK and after you return. You’ll also need to check the entry requirements of the country you are travelling to.
European resorts are gearing up for the ski season
Thankfully, there are signs that European ski resorts are readying themselves for the upcoming season. Many have started to announce opening dates.
France
France is gearing up for its 2021-22 ski season, with the Les 2 Alpes and Tignes aiming to open for glacier skiing in October. Most other resorts, including the popular Chamonix and Val Thorens, have announced their opening dates for November and December.
Italy
Several Italian ski areas were open in summer following the government allowing re-opening in the spring.
At the start of September Cervinia and Passo Stelvio were open. The likes of Cortina, Livigno and others have announced opening dates for November and December.
Switzerland
Glacier ski areas in Switzerland have been open for summer skiing, such as Glacier 3000, the Diavolezza Glacier and Engelberg’s Titlis glacier. Zermatt is also currently open for year-round skiing. Other resorts, such as Saas Fee and Verbier, have announced opening dates from October through to December.
Austria
Austria’s ski resorts have also revealed their opening dates for November and December. Some resorts have also announced the opportunity for early season skiing. The glacier resorts in the Tirol, such as Hintertux, Stubai and Pitztal, will be opening slopes in September and October.
Will ski resorts enforce COVID-19 safety measures?
Depending on where you choose for your ski holiday, you may find that several measures are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
France and Italy have introduced a ‘Health Pass’ for most establishments, which determines whether you are double jabbed or have recently tested negative. There is also talk in Austria of limiting access to après ski venues to just those who have been fully vaccinated.
Meanwhile, it’s a similar story in Switzerland, which has just extended the use of Covid Certificates. These are now compulsory to access most indoor areas.
Start looking for your ski property today
You may be able to take a ski holiday this year! So, to get the process of buying your ski property underway, why not take a look at our handy ski property buying guides? They lay out the buying journey step by step to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Mar 25, 2024
