Five of Europe’s best value lift passes

Want one more ski trip but short on cash? Here are five European ski spots where you can score a lift pass bargain

SkiWelt, Austria

It’s one of Austria’s biggest ski areas with 284km, but at just €200 for a six-day pass it’s also one of the best value. Resorts on this mega-circuit include Ellmau, Scheffau, Westendorf and Brixen im Thale.

Semnoz, France

This small hill above Annecy is one of the few places in the ski world we know where you can pay for skiing by the hour, starting at €4.70 for one hour and increasing to €8.90 for 10. Bargain! Read more about it here. 

Monterosa, Italy

Monterosa makes the list for offering free (yes, free) lift passes. There is, of course, a catch. The offer is only valid during quieter weeks and you have to stay in a participating three-, four- or five-star hotel. Even if you can’t snag a freebie, Monterosa – that is, Champoluc-Gressoney-Alagna – still offers excellent value, with six days from €222, including two days in the rest of the Aosta Valley (eg Courmayeur and Cervinia).

Austria’s SkiWelt, €200 for six days | griassdi.com

Pejo 3000, Italy

There’s epic freeride terrain to be had at this little, powder-covered gem in the Trentino district. A day pass for Pejo 3000 will set you back as little as €32; six days starts at €134.

Nevis Range, Scotland

Home to Scotland’s finest back lift-served bowls, Nevis Range offers day passes for £32.50 (six days £146.25). If you live close, consider getting five non-consecutive days for just £137 so you can cherry pick the best days on the hill. 

…and if you’re prepared to travel further

  • Tetnuldi, Georgia: US$12/day. Its long lifts open up swathes of deserted backcountry. 
  • Mount Cheget, Russia. According to Fall-Line digital editor Matt Clark, who toured there last May, it’s a bit like La Grave: £14/day (no website but read more on Lonely Planet)
  • Parnossos, Greece: €25/day or €85 for six days. With epic powder in the last couple of seasons, we’re predicting this’ll soon be a freeride hotspot. 
  • Teine Highlands, Japan: single ride for £2.50. This spot allegedly has Hokkaido’s steepest terrain.