Best Winter Activities in the Snow

Are you planning to take up winter sports? But there’s just one small problem, namely that skiing and snowboarding aren’t really your thing? Don’t worry, you’re definitely not the only one! The good news is that you don’t need skis or a snowboard to have an unforgettable vacation in the mountains.

The idea that a vacation in the mountains is all about skiing down snowy slopes on two skis or a snowboard is long gone, if we have our way. Nowadays, there are countless other alternatives to soak up the atmosphere of winter sports in a different way. Whether you like a lot of adrenaline and are looking for adventure or you want to relax and enjoy the magic of winter sports resorts, there is something for everyone. We present a range of winter sports activities that will make your vacation an unforgettable experience. Think cross-country skiing, fat biking in the snow and much more.

Activities on foot during your vacation in the mountains

Hiking

If you’re on a mountain vacation and the thought of skiing or snowboarding doesn’t exactly give you a thrill, don’t worry. There is another way to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Alps, namely: hiking. You might think that’s rather boring because everyone comes here to ski or snowboard, but nothing could be further from the truth.

Hiking during your winter vacation gives you the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the mountains away from the hustle and bustle of the ski resorts. You can hear the crunch of fresh snow under your boots while surrounded by breathtaking views. What’s more, you can tailor the hiking tours to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for a leisurely stroll through the forest or a brisk hike to a mountain peak, hiking offers a sense of freedom and adventure. Hiking is also a great way to get some exercise, be outdoors and soak up an extra dose of winter sun. So if skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, don’t forget to pack your hiking boots for an unforgettable experience in the snowy mountains.

Snowshoe hiking

If you want to enjoy beautiful nature on your winter vacation but are looking for a challenge, then go snowshoeing. Many people say it’s like hiking, but we think otherwise. In reality, it’s much more than hiking. If you like adrenaline, this is an ideal activity. Before you think you can just go to the mountains and start your hike, we recommend you go with a guide or an organized tour. Why? Because as soon as you leave the established paths, the layer of snow underneath rolls out in front of you like a mysterious carpet. Who knows what’s going on under that blanket of snow? A guide knows the area like no other and knows exactly where you should and shouldn’t go. What’s more, and this is not unimportant, the guide takes the risk of avalanches into account.

The nice thing is that the guide knows the hidden gems of the area, from insane viewpoints to nice restaurants where you can take a break. In short, an activity with which you can make endless great memories.

Cross-country skiing

Cross-country skiing is undoubtedly one of the forgotten treasures of the winter sports world, especially for those who are not that interested in skiing or snowboarding. But once you discover the magic of cross-country skiing, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

The great thing about cross-country skiing is that it’s accessible to almost everyone. It doesn’t require steep descents, on the contrary, it offers relaxation. You glide on long, narrow slats through an enchanted snowy landscape. It’s as if you’ve landed in a winter wonderland painting.
Cross-country skiing is not only a great way to stay in shape, but also offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy nature. You can set your own pace and enjoy your surroundings. Whether you opt for a quiet tour through the forest or a more challenging route with hills and valleys, cross-country skiing gives you the freedom to explore winter your way.

Fat biking in the snow

If skiing or snowboarding isn’t quite your thing, but you still want to hit the slopes, then fat biking is the ultimate activity for you. Fatbiking is a fun and adventurous way to explore the mountains, regardless of your level or age.

What makes fatbiking so unique is the feeling of freedom you experience when cycling on snowy trails and in the winter wilderness. The bike’s thick tires grip the snow and let you glide effortlessly through the mountain peaks. It’s a completely different way of exploring the mountains and enjoying the tranquil beauty of the winter landscape.

Another advantage of fat biking is that you decide how adventurous you want to be. Whether you want to cycle leisurely along frozen lakes or take on the challenge of steep climbs and descents, the possibilities are endless. It’s the perfect way to keep moving, breathe in the fresh mountain air and experience the winter splendor up close.

Tobogganing

During your mountain vacation, a tobogganing adventure should not be missed! Race down the mountain on a toboggan and experience an unforgettable ride full of fun and adrenaline. In many ski resorts, it is possible to toboggan both during the day and in the evening. There are numerous ski resorts that have set up a special slope for tobogganing. After all, you glide down at high speed and you really need to have a good grip on yourself. If you’re not careful, you could fly out of the bend. Fortunately, you can steer a little and adjust your speed, but it still takes a lot of technique. Did you know that the Windkogel ski resort in the Austrian Alps has the longest floodlit toboggan run in the Alps? It is a whopping 14 kilometers long and the ride takes between 30 and 50 minutes.

When you sit on a sledge and toboggan down the mountain, you can feel the adrenaline rushing through your veins and the cold wind blowing in your face. It’s a feeling of freedom and excitement that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re out with your friends, your family or on your own, sledging is the perfect winter activity to awaken your inner adventurer. What are you waiting for?

Paragliding

If you love adrenaline and no challenge stands in your way, then paragliding through the Alps might be something that’s been on your bucket list for a long time. We say: let’s go! As you soar high above the snow-covered peaks, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. A surreal silence that is only interrupted by the gentle sound of the wind. Paragliding allows you to experience the mountains in a completely different way.

What makes this adventure even more unique is that you don’t need any experience to enjoy paragliding. You fly with an experienced pilot, so you don’t have to worry about the technical details. All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the view. It’s the ultimate way to add an unforgettable twist to your vacation in the mountains and an experience you’ll remember for a long time to come.

Relax in the wellness area

A vacation in the mountains doesn’t necessarily have to be filled with action and adventure. If you’re not a fan of skiing or snowboarding, you can also opt for some much-needed relaxation. So why not get away from it all and recharge your batteries in peace?

Most winter sports accommodations have a luxurious spa with all the amenities you need to completely unwind. For example, they often have beautiful swimming pools, massages and other spa treatments. Whether you want to enjoy a warm bubble bath with a view of the snow-capped mountains or have a moment to yourself in the sauna, there’s something for everyone.

In short, you don’t always have to go skiing or snowboarding to enjoy winter sports. There are many other activities that will make your vacation in the mountains an unforgettable experience.

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Would you rather go skiing? Discover the most beautiful ski resorts in France, Germany and Austria or all of Europe.