Every December, there comes a moment when the city noise becomes tiring, and your thoughts drift naturally to snowy slopes. This year, celebrating New Year on skis turned out to be the perfect choice — with Spain, Andorra, France, and Italy offering ideal destinations for a winter getaway.
Andorra — a celebration at every turn
Andorra is truly a winter wonderland. At the resort Grandvalira you can spend the whole day on the slopes and head to Andorra la Vella for gifts in the evening. Shops stay open late, their window displays sparkling with lights, and after shopping — enjoy dinner in a traditional borda with fondue and local wine. To relax and recharge, Caldea with its thermal pools, is the perfect choice.
Catalan Pyrenees — coziness and a family vibe
For those seeking peace and seclusion, the Catalan Pyrenees offer a variety of resorts: from the upscale Baqueira Beret to smaller stations like La Molina и Vall de Núria. On last year’s holiday, the author visited Port Ainé — there were hardly any queues, and the views of the snowy peaks were spectacular. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a mountain restaurant serving Catalan cuisine. Many stations feature New Year traditions: torchlight descents and midnight fireworks to create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Aragón and Sierra Nevada — unique experiences
В Cerler, the highest station in the province of Huesca, hosts the ‘Uvas del Mundo’ party, where guests sample grapes from around the globe. At Formigal-Panticosa the tradition of eating 12 grapes, one every hour starting at noon, turns into a real spectacle. After skiing, there are open-air dances and torchlight descents.
Sierra Nevada is Spain’s southernmost and highest ski resort. Here, the snow still lies thick even as orange trees bloom along the coast. The chance to combine skiing at 3,300 meters with a stroll along the beach makes this getaway truly unique and memorable.
France and Italy: wintertime in Europe
The French Alps, for example, Les 2 Alpes и Tignes-Val d’Isère, are known for their New Year’s traditions: torchlight descents, rooftop dance parties, and magnificent fireworks. Last year, the author visited Saint-Lary, where locals host dance nights and serve guests hot mulled wine at the ski lifts.
Italy and Dolomiti Superski are just as impressive. In Ortisei New Year is celebrated here with torchlight descents, fireworks, and dinners featuring Alpine cuisine. Local hospitality and homemade liqueurs create a welcoming, family-like atmosphere.
Planning is the key to a great holiday
Whether you choose bustling Andorra, family-friendly Catalonia, or the extreme slopes of the French Alps, remember: the best offers are snapped up as early as November. For booking ski trips, platforms like Esquiades.com, which works with top resorts in Spain, Andorra, France, and Italy, are convenient. The service offers packages with accommodation, ski passes, and extra services, and regularly updates deals for clients.
Winter holidays on Europe’s slopes aren’t just about sports—they’re a celebration, a tradition, and a unique atmosphere that leaves lasting memories.
