There is no doubt that Russia is simply a winter haven. Every winter, tourists from multiple countries travel there to experience the chilly and breathtaking sceneries and experiences. It does get extremely cold but even if you are not a fan of cold, it will definitely be worth it. Moreover, everything is traditionally decorated and the cities light up at night. You will see ice-skating rinks, carnivals, and much more especially if you are travelling to Moscow or St. Petersburg. One thing I can say as a Russian myself is, Russia looks even better in the snow.. well, most of it. It’s a frozen paradise that is a must-visit. To make your experience in Russia in the winter even better, we have come up with a list of the best ski resorts in Russia in the article below. Read on to find out more.
1. BigWood, Kirovsk
Whether you are a beginner or you’ve mastered the sport, BigWood ski resort in Kirovsk is a great one. Skiing and snowboarding are affordable here so you can even try both! It’s not easy to pick the best time to come here as the weather might be foggy, too windy, or snowing too much, but February is a superb time to come there. And you will even be able to find hot beverages such as tea and coffee there to warm up!
BigWood Kirovsk
Address: Southern slope of Mount Aikuaivenchorr, Kirovsk 184250 Russia
Website: BigWood Kirovsk
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 10am - 6pm ; Tue - Sat: 10am - 7pm
Price: From 4 USD
2. The Zavyalikha Ski Resort, Tryokhgorny
The Zavyalikha Ski Resort has some amazing slopes which will be able to give you the adrenaline rush you are looking for. The staff there are known to be very welcoming and kind so you will not have any issues if you need any help. There is also a very affordable cafe located there, in case you want to get a bite or some hot drinks to warm up. Do note that some tracks might be closed if there is too little snow.
The Zavyalikha Ski Resort
Address: Gornaya St., 10, Tryokhgorny, Russia
Website: The Zavyalikha Ski Resort
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
3. Rosa Khutor, Krasnaya Polyana (from USD 352)
Located roughly 45 minutes away from center of Adler, this is probably one of the most romantic places to bring your partner to, but at the same time, one of the best places to spend time with your family at. Rosa Khutor offers incredible views during the winter, which will make you want to spend as much time outside as you possibly can. Compared to the other ski slopes in Moscow, Rosa Khutor’s are longer.
Radisson Rosa Khutor Hotel
Address: Naberezhnaia Panorama 4
Accommodates: 6
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Sauna
4. Volen Ski Resort, Yakhroma (from USD 67)
At Volen Ski Resort, you can find steep and extremely fun slopes and also slopes that are suitable for children and beginners. It does, however, get a little crowded in the evenings. You should also be prepared as this place is a bit pricier than other places but the quality of the experiences at this sports park is every bit worth it.
Sport Park Volen
Address: Ulitsa Troitskaya 1
Accommodates: 3
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Tennis court Sauna
5. Park Hotel Zolotaya Dolina, Korobitsyno (from USD 41)
On this trip, you will not have time to sit around in your hotel - and in fact, you wouldn’t want to. The number of activities you can do there will blow your mind. Nearby, you have everything you need from cafes and restaurants to supermarkets. Enjoy ski-to-door access and get ski equipment and passes directly from the hotel.
Park Hotel Zolotaya Dolina
Address: Vasilyevo Village
Accommodates: 9
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Tennis court Sauna
6. Dombai Resort, Dombay
Now, this is the kind of panoramic views that you would wish to see. Once you go on the lift, the views are even better as you can see it from above. The mountains and fresh air make the atmosphere even more amazing. The Dombay area features six cable ways and the slope is 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) long. You’ll find many shops for equipment rentals, dining, and much more in the area.
Dombai Resort
Address: Dombay settlement, Karachai Municipal District
Website: Dombai Resort
7. Kurshale, Kurovo (from USD 68)
Located in Kuovo, Kurshale is near the popular Ski Resort Sorochany. It is another wonderful resort for skiing and snowboarding during the sunset. There are great instructors for not only beginners but also professionals. Moreover, there are cafes, shops, and equipment rental located conveniently for you.
Kurshale
Address: Деревня Курово дом 42 А
Accommodates: 14
Parking Pets allowed Sauna Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing Skiing Family rooms
8. Krasnoe Ozero Resort, Korobitsyno (from USD 211)
Krasnoe Ozero Resort, also known as Red Lake, is located north of St. Petersburg. It has a wide variety of tracks for everyone. It’s a great place to spend quality time with your family while having fun in the snow. It is a great quality resort at an affordable price. Not to forget, the sight of the lake from the mountain is simply incredible! Also, there are great chalets and houses with barbecue pits available - these make the perfect addition to the natural vibe this resort gives.
Krasnoye Ozero Resort
Address: Village Korobitsyno, Krasnoye ozero Resort
Accommodates: 14
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Tennis court Sauna
9. The Abzakovo Ski Resort, Novoabzakovo (from USD 69)
The Abzakovo Ski Resort is one of President Vladimir Putin’s favourite places to skii! That’s how you know that it is definitely a must-visit. This gorgeous resort has also been announced as the best alpine skiing resort of Russia and the best alpine skiing resort of Ural. There are plenty of facilities that you can enjoy there as it is a long stretch of slopes, restaurants, and entertainment. Not to worry if you are a beginner to skiing as there is a range of slopes to suit everyone! You would probably need to dedicate a whole day to spend here to enjoy it the most.
Дом на Трассовой
Address: Трассовая 5
Accommodates: 4
Parking 24-hour front desk Sauna Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Family rooms Free parking Express check-in/check-out
10. Solnechnaya Dolina Resort, Miass (from USD 76)
Solnechnaya Dolina Resort, also known internationally as Sunny Valley, offers absolutely incredible sunsets so the best time to ski there would definitely be during the sunset hour. With 9 lifts and 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) of slopes, the location is spacious enough to have all the fun when skiing and snowboarding. Moreover, you get to enjoy breathtaking views while doing fun activities with your loved ones, and four restaurants with mouthwatering Russian food. There are often competitions there so you would most likely get to see professionals doing tricks and racing with one another.
Apartments Solnechnaya Dolina
Address: GLK "Solnechnaya Dolina "
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed 24-hour front desk Sauna Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms
Ski safely and enjoy
It’s guaranteed that these are some of the best ski resorts that you will find in Russia! With amazing views and lovely resorts, you will have an enjoyable time there. It is, however, Russia, and most people know how cold it is there during the winter so do remember to dress warm and look after yourselves. Happy skiing, ladies and gentlemen!
Editor's note: In light of the 2022 political and military situation in Russia, Trip101 urges you to be apprised of the latest news if you have any urgent plans to travel to Russia. Do note that some bookings and services have been suspended or may not be available at this moment.
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