Your ski guide for a ski holiday with friends

If you are here it is because you are thinking of going on a ski holiday with your friends and don't know where to start. You have come to the right place! In this guide we are going to help you plan your ski holiday so that you and your friends can make the most of your time on the slopes.

Who doesn't like going on a ski holiday with friends and have a blast in the mountains? It's the perfect cocktail: laughs, fun, and lots of snow.

Whether you're planning to go skiing for a weekend or more days, on Esquiades.com we have the best tips to help you plan your next ski holiday. 

We are mainly going to focus our attention on ski resorts where there's great atmosphere, the best après-ski spots, pubs and clubs. 

How do you know what your ski level is?

The first thing you need to know is everyone's level on the slopes. Depending on your group's skills, you can choose ski resorts with slopes for more advanced or more amateur skiers and snowboarders.

-> Our advice is that you identify who has the lowest level and the rest of the group can adapt to him or her.

Luckily, all the ski resorts are perfectly adapted for all levels of skiing and snowboarding. The secret is to find a balance so that you and your friends can enjoy your ski holiday to the fullest.

Below we're going to list our recommended ski resorts according to the profile of your group of friends. ;)

Check out our incredible ski deals NOW!

The best ski resorts for friends of mixed levels

It is possible that in your group of friends you have some who ski and others who practice snowboarding. In addition, it may also be that not all have the same level or that some have never skied. If this is the case, we recommend visiting one of the following resorts:

1. Skiing in Vallnord Pal-Arinsal with friends:

❄ Located in Andorra, it is one of the most versatile resorts and where you can ski whatever your level. It has 63 skiable kilometres and 31 ski lifts.

❄ There are two ski areas connected to each other by a gondola. The Pal ski area is more geared towards beginners or amateur skiers and snowboarders. Pal has a wide variety of green and blue slopes where you can learn to ski, or improve your technique. In addition, it is easily accessible from the La Massana cable car.

❄ On the other hand, the Arinsal ski area is made up of several blue, red and black slopes so that the most advanced skiers and riders will be able to fully enjoy sliding in this area.

❄ In summary, whether you do not know how to ski or are experts, at the Vallnord Pal-Arinsal ski resort you will find a large number of slopes that adapt to everyone's skills.

If you want to stay in Pal-Arinsal, we recommend these hotels:

✔ Hotel Del Bisset 3 * : This accommodation is perfect for traveling with friends as it has a great value for money. In addition, the hotel staff is very friendly. They will make you feel right at home!

-> Regarding the location, it's located in L'Aldosa de la Massana, which is 3 kilometres from the Pal ski slopes and 7 kilometres from the centre of Andorra. 

✔ Hotel Marco Polo 3 * : This hotel is located in the town of La Massana, a short walk to the cable car that will take you up to the slopes of Vallnord Pal-Arinsal. It also has very good value for money and if you are looking to go shopping after skiing, in La Massana you will find all kinds of shops.

✔ Ushuaia Mountain Hotel 4 * : If you're looking for convenience, this hotel is located on the slopes! It was renovated in 2018 and is located at the foot of the Arinsal slopes. It's perfect if you and your friends dream of being surrounded by snow all day, every day!

You're also only about 15-minute drive to the centre of Andorra La Vella. What more could you want?

If you are looking for a good après-ski atmosphere in Arinsal, we recommend the following pubs:

The Cabin bar and restaurant

This is the place to relax in Arinsal. It's within walking distance of the gondola, serves breakfast, and stays open late into the night. It has a terrace where you can have a few beers after skiing and enjoy the incredible views.

The Derby Bar

It is known as the best Irish pub in Andorra where you will find a great selection of imported beers. The staff are very friendly and there are live football and rugby matches and live music almost every night. They also show videos of people skiing on the slopes!

One last thing, if you fancy a bite to eat, they also serve toasted sandwiches and hot meals.

2. Skiing in Sierra Nevada:

❄ It is located in the south of Spain Pyrenees and has a total of 124 slopes: 20 green runs, 42 blue runs, 55 red runs and 7 black runs. It's one of the biggest ski resorts in Spain. 

❄ It is perfect if in your group of friends you are both advanced or beginner skiers or snowboarders.

❄ The ski season runs from December to April and the best time to go skiing in Sierra Nevada is in March as you get to enjoy fantastic blue bird days. 

❄ It's only a 1-hour drive from Granada and 2 hours away from Malaga, so you can easily reach this ski resort by plane (you can add car rental to your booking on Esquiades.com)

Where should you stay in Sierra Nevada if you go to the snow with a group of friends? Our recommendations are:

✔ Hotel Montblanc: Located on Plaza Pradollano, this 3 start hotel will exceed your expectations. It was recently renovated and serves an excellent breakfast service. The largest rooms sleep up to 4 people. 

✔ Hostal Ciervo: Located within walking distance of the nearest ski lift, this modern-looking hostel will be so much more than you were expecting. Some of the rooms can sleep up to 6 people and all have fully-equipped independent bathrooms, 

✔ Todosierranevada Zona Baja Apartments: These are different tourist apartments that are located in the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort, most of them really close to the ski lifts. The largest apartment has 4 bedrooms for a total of 8 people. 

Après-ski in Sierra Nevada. Where are the best places for good food and drinks?

Plaza Andalucía

This square is where everyone meets up after skiing. Here there are loads of tapas bars all around the square so you can sit under the sun and have a couple of drinks after skiing. 

Granada 

The Sierra Nevada Ski Resort is a 40-minute drive from Sierra Nevada so, you should definitely take the time to head down there and do some sightseeing and get to see the beautiful Alhambra. If you don't want to drive, there's a regular bus service from Plaza Pradollano to Granada and return. The nightlife in Granada is also incredible so, it's always a great idea to go out for dinner and drinks and maybe even see a flamenco show!

The best ski resorts for snowboarders

If you are snowboarders, you will be interested in knowing which ski resorts you can find on Esquiades.com that have a good offer of snowparks, as well as good off- slope areas.

1. Skiing in Les 2 Alpes with friends:

❄ It is located in the French Alps, an hour from Grenoble by car, and has 220 skiable kilometres. It has 17 green runs, 11 blue runs, 31 red runs and 11 black runs.

❄ This ski resort is famous for its snowparks (it has two), where international competitions are held and it has halfpipe, bars and multiple jump lines, ordered from easiest to most difficult, so if you still don't know too much about freestyle , this is the perfect place to start.

❄ Also, if you're into off- slope  slopes, this resort has very exclusive areas to enjoy the powder to the fullest. It even connects with La Grave where you can ski through a privileged off- slope area that is accessible only by ratrack .

-> If you decide to do this off- slope run, make sure you plan your return well, because there are no chair lifts that will connect you with Les 2 Alpes, so the return will have to be done by public transport, taxi or car.

Do you know where to stay with your friends if you go skiing to Les 2 Alpes?

✔ Apartments and studios Multi Residencias 1650 : If you go with your friends and are looking for something close to the slopes and that is inexpensive, this is the best choice. These apartments have everything you need to recover after spending long days skiing.

You will not regret!

✔ Residence Alpina Lodge 3 * : This cozy residence is located directly on the slopes and 500 meters from the centre of Les 2 Alpes. If you are looking for a spacious, comfortable and affordable apartment, without a doubt, this is the best choice. In addition, these apartments have their own car park (upon booking) and they also allow pets.

Do you want to know where you can go after skiing in Les Alpes to do some Aprés-ski?

To end the day after a long day of skiing, there is nothing better than going to have a few beers with friends at any of the Après-ski parties or Pubs that this resort has. Our recommendations are:

Umbrella Bar

This place is ideal to make your first stop after skiing as it is directly on the slopes. Here you can meet with everyone and explain how your day on the slopes went, laugh at the falls and decide what you are going to do during the night.

Smithy's Tavern Bar

You will love this place! On the outside it looks like a typical French Chalet and inside it is a spacious modern pub. On the second floor they have a restaurant where they serve grilled meat so you can start the night upstairs and then go down to the bar for a few drinks. They also have theme nights so depending on when you go, you can get your friends to dress up for the event ;)

Bar Bistrot Le Chamois Lodge

If you are looking for something more chilled, we recommend this bar that is 500 meters from the slopes. Here you can have a drink in a very cozy atmosphere if you are looking for a quite drink and go to bed early to hit the slopes the next day. They also serve breakfast here.

Have we convinced you? Start planning your ski holiday and check out our ski deals in Les 2 Alpes.

2. Skiing in Grandvalira with friends:

❄ This famous resort is located in Andorra and has 210 skiable kilometres, spread over 23 green runs, 54 blue runs, 42 red runs and 19 black runs.

❄ It is perfect for groups of snowboarders, as there are long slopes to slide down so you will not have to constantly play with the straps of your board.

❄ In addition, it has 3 snowparks, all of them accessible for free with your Ski Pass for Grandvalira: Snowpark El Tarter, Sunrise Park Xavi and Sunset Park Peretol. In the latter, you can perform your favorite tricks even after the slopes are closed, as they are open from 3 pm. to 9 pm. Have you never skied at night? This is your chance.

What accommodations do we recommend if you go to the Grandvalira resort with friends?

✔ Hotel Cims 3 *: This hotel is located by the slopes in Pas de la Casa and is perfect if you are looking for something cheap. It's also located very close to the bars and pubs in case you and your friends want a bit of partying at night.

✔ Hotel Parma 3 *: If you want a hotel in Grandvalira with good value for money, this is what you are looking for. It is located 300 meters from the slopes in Pas de la Casa and next to the après-ski area where you will find bars, restaurants and shopping areas.

✔ El Tarter Park Mountain Resort Apartments: They are located in the town of Tarter and only 400 meters from the ski lifts. The apartments can accommodate between 2 and 5 people and are fully equipped.

✔ Hotel Vall Ski: It is 1 km from the Tarter slopes and the accommodation offers a free shuttle service that takes you to the slopes. This hotel also offers a picnic service that you can order so you can take your food with you to ski. If you want to relax after skiing, it has a sauna and a jacuzzi.

Where are the best après-ski spots in Grandvalira?

L'Abarset El Tarter

If you are staying around the El Tarter or Incles area, this place has the best atmosphere. If you visit it during the weekend, you will experience great Djing! You'll definitely won't want the party to end! Follow them on Instagram (@labarset) and get access to their weekly shows!

Igloo-Hotel and Bar (Grau Roig)

If you stay in the Grau Roig area, you have to visit this very original place on the slopes! The Igloo is built entirely of ice and changes the theme of its interior décor every year. Here you can try different drinks and dishes from the menu. There is also a heated room to warm up.

Cala Bassa beach club (Pas de la Casa)

If you are thinking of staying at one of our hotels in Pas de la Casa, you have to go to the Cala Bassa Beach Club! The original is in Ibiza and now you can find a replica on the ski slopes. This place will make you think you are at the beach!

The best ski resorts for advanced skiers.

If you and your friends are some of the most professional skiers, you're probably looking for some adrenaline. So, you need to find a ski resort with plenty of many red and black slopes.

1. Skiing in Tignes and Val d'Isère with friends:

❄ The Tignes and Val d'Isère resorts are located in the French Alps, 3 hours from Lyon by car.

❄ It is internationally known for its great ski area (a total of 300 kilometres), among which we can find 25 black runs and 44 red runs. There are slopes so long that they even have a satellite phone in the middle of it for emergencies, like the Sache black slope.

❄ You will also find two glaciers: La Grande-Motte and Pisaillas. Are you ready for endless hours of skiing?

❄ If you're into skiing through large snowy forests and dodge pine trees, here you will find dozens of slopes that will take you to some incredible places. You might even see some animals!

❄ Another tip in case you love to go off- slope skiing: in Tignes and Val d'Isère you will find some fantastic routes, but make sure to plan your route or go with a professional guide to show you the secret corners of the resort.

❄ Finally, to relax after a great day of skiing, there is nothing like going to the Le Lagoon swimming pool, located in the centre of Tignes Le Lac and which can be accessed for free with the ski pass.

Do you want to book an accommodation that is on the slopes in Tignes? We recommend the following:

✔ Tourist apartments and studios in Val Claret (Tignes): This accommodation is the best option if you are going to ski in Tignes with friends. If you are looking for a spacious apartment directly on the slopes and at a good price, don't think twice and book these apartments in Val Claret. Here, you and your friends will have loads of pubs, restaurants and shops.

✔ Tourist apartments and studios in Lavachet (Tignes): If you want to be in a quieter area, then we recommend the Lavachet area. It is a residential neighborhood where the locals live. Here you will have all kinds of shops and you can socialize with the local snowboarders ... they might even show you some secret areas full of good powder ;)

What are the best pubs in Tignes and Val d'Isère?

Dropzone

Located in Val Claret, Dropzone has the resort's largest south-facing terrace and some of the cheapest beers in town. There is "happy hour" from 3 pm. to 6 pm. The bar area serves snacks and features DJs, live bands, table football, billiards, a large video screen, and free Wi-Fi. At 10:00 p.m. the place turns into a disco.

Le Blue Girl

Open from midnight to 5 am., Le Blue Girl in Val Claret is one of the few nightclubs in the complex. With a playlist mainly of EuroPop, Techno and R&B, don't pretend to be the first on slopes if you end the night dancing here;)

Le Cocorico

At the bottom of the slopes, the main area in Val Claret, Le Cocorico opened its second bar "dance-in-your-ski-boots" in 2019/20, after the great success from its branch in Val d'Isere, which opened in 2014. The 400-square-meter outdoor terrace offers live bands and DJs, who play pop-rock for all audiences, every day from 4 pm. to 8 pm. The restaurant serves fast food and pizza, as well as coffee, and is open all day.

2. Skiing in Chamonix-Mont Blanc with friends:

❄ Mythical resort located in the French Alps, one hour from Geneva. You probably know it for its alpine history (since it is located at the foot of Mont Blanc).

❄ In it you can enjoy various ski areas, its great slopes and its impressive mountains.

❄ With the Chamonix Unlimited ski pass, you can access the Aiguille du Midi and try the “step into the void” run. Do you dare?

❄ If you want to live a totally new experience, we recommend you ski in La Mer de Glace (you must be accompanied by a qualified guide) and return to Chamonix on the Montevers rack railway. A unique experience!

If you want to enjoy the essence of Chamonix with your friends, we recommend that you stay here:

✔ Tourist apartments and studios in Chamonix: This accommodation is perfect for small groups of friends. These are very cheap apartments and studios and very close to the ski lifts.

✔ Odalys Residence Prestige Isatis: If you are looking for apartments that reflect the style of Chamonix, this is your place. They have been designed with equipment such as stone and wood and also have all kinds of services such as an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, a fitness room and a hammam. 

✔ La Folie Douce Hotel Chamonix: This hotel is truly amazing! It is a 5-minute walk from the Chamonix - Planpraz ski lift and offers direct access to the slopes. It has standard and shared bedrooms. The hotel hosts themed parties every Thursday.

✔ Rockypop Hotel  This hotel is in Les Houches, at the entrance to the mythical Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley and a 4-minute drive from the slopes. It is not a conventional hotel at all  and its relaxed atmosphere makes it a very popular hotel for young people. It has a bar with live music and a restaurant with a food truck that serves pizza and hamburgers. The bedrooms are super modern and functional.

Where is the good après-ski atmosphere in Chamonix?

Selection of bars in Chamonix

La Folie Douce Hotel Chamonix

Are you and your friends going to book one of our ski deals in Chamonix-Mont Blanc ?

3. Skiing in Ordino-Arcalís with friends:

❄ This ski resort is located in Andorra and has 30 kilometres distributed in 9 green, 7 blue, 10 red and 2 black.

❄ If you like to ski off- slope  and enjoy the best powder snow in the Pyrenees, this is your resort. It has several freeride areas, so a certain technical level is required to be able to make the descents and enjoy them to the fullest. We are sure that you will love skiing at the Ordino-Arcalís resort!

❄ Even if you book one of our hotels in Andorra, you can rest and relax after a hard day of skiing in the Caldea Spa Centre, one of the largest spas in Europe, and then go shopping in Escaldes ... perhaps you will come back with new equipment.

Not sure which hotel to book on your holiday to Ordino-Arcalis with friends? We recommend:

✔ Hotel La Planada 3 * : This cozy hotel is located in the town of Ordino, 2.5 km from Pal Arinsal resort and 15 km from Arcalis. If you are looking for a very cheap hotel with good services, this is your place. In addition, it has free outdoor car park and allows pets.

✔ Llorts 3000 Apartments : If you want fully equipped apartments with very good features, you will have everything here. These are newly opened, furnished apartments that have 1, 2 or 3 bedbedrooms, that is, they are very spacious. Perfect if you travel with a lot of friends!

They have indoor car park for all customers (for a fee) and they also allow animals (on request).

Our tips for organizing a ski holiday with friends.

A ski holiday with friends can be one of the best experiences and something you will want to do every year. Laughter, fun falls, nights of fun and parties and loads of photos that will mark indelible memories. But, if you don't organize yourself well, the holiday can also turn into a real nightmare and even end with your friendship. That is why we recommend reading these tips so that success is a guarantee.

1. Choose well the number of travellers.

The more you are, the more difficult the organization will be. Our ski and snowboard experts recommend a small group of 5 or 6 people as in many ski destinations there are options so that you can all be in the same apartment and thus reduce costs. In addition, you have to think about how you are going to get to the ski resort and, if you are going by car, two cars is ideal and perfectly manageable.

2. Plan your ski holiday well.

The ideal thing is that you can distribute the tasks so that each one is in charge of something. One of your friends can be in charge of making the booking, another of the food shopping, another of activities that you can do after skiing and snowboarding. The drivers should take their time to plan the route and get their cars checked.

3. Decide on a budget.

An important issue when planning a ski holiday is money. Here you and your friends have to be honest and say how much each of you can spend on your ski holiday. Think about what it means to go skiing since you not only have to think about accommodation and Ski Pass but also other expenses such as ski and snowboard equipment, lessons (for those who need them), food, drinks, etc. So set a budget and make sure you stick to it so that later there are no surprises or arguments.

Nowadays there are several applications that you can download as a group so that you can manage your expenses well during the holiday.

4. Do not leave anything at home.

Who hasn't forgotten something when going on holiday? Mobile charger, toothbrush, or even our pajamas! When it comes to a ski holiday, there are many things that are essential so from Esquiades.com we have prepared a downloadable checklist to help you pack your suitcase without leaving anything behind.

If you and your friends follow these simple tips, we are sure that you are going to have a great time! Your ski holiday can become a ritual that you do every ski season so that you can get to know all the ski resorts that we recommend visiting to have a great time with friends.