Skiing in Surprising Spots: 10 Unusual Winter Sports Destinations Worldwide
Picture alpine huts, chocolate crêpes, steaming hot tubs, and endless glühwein—the classic ski resort scene. But imagine active volcanoes, African sunsets, or a warming plate of rogan josh after hitting the slopes. Après-ski isn't just fondue and saunas. Discover 10 unexpected destinations for world-class winter sports.
These offbeat spots offer thrilling skiing and snowboarding amid stunning, unconventional backdrops. From high-altitude Himalayan runs to volcanic peaks, here's where hardcore enthusiasts chase the snow.
India
Two members of ski patrol at Gulmarg, India. Image by Julian Love / AWL Images / Getty Images.
Despite political challenges, bears, high altitudes, and military presence, Kashmir's Gulmarg (skihimalaya.com/gulmarg) draws dedicated winter sports fans to the Himalayas. Basic facilities belie its crown jewel: the world's highest gondola-accessible ski runs, blanketed in abundant snow—affectionately dubbed 'curry powder.' Essential gear? Hire a local guide—essential for off-piste adventures, regardless of your expertise.
Afghanistan
No full ski resort yet, but Bamyan Province delivers raw on- and off-piste action via the Afghan Ski Challenge (afghanskichallenge.com). This 7km March race welcomes skiers and snowboarders, offering true 'outback skiing.' Expect no lifts, no rescue services, minimal medical aid—racers must be fully self-sufficient.
Hawaii
A couple at the summit of Mauna Kea, Hawaii. Image by Dahlquist Ron / Perspectives / Getty Images.
On Hawaii's Big Island, thrill-seekers ski Mauna Kea's slopes in the morning and surf by afternoon. This dormant volcano earns its 'White Mountain' name with steep, wild terrain. Use a 4x4 as your lift—facilities are nonexistent. Experts only; novices should opt for stargazing at the observatories or beach cocktails. Details at skihawaii.com.
Chile
Slalom past molten lava streams on Villarrica volcano—one of Chile's most active in the Lake District, last erupting in 1971. The established ski resort (skipucon.cl) thrives in southern winter. Base in charming Pucón for 20 runs favored by snowboarders.
Greece
Beyond beaches, winter Greece hides solid ski resorts with diverse runs for all levels. Blend slope time with ancient ruins, or stick to myth-inspired pistes like Aphrodite, Hera, and Hermes.
Mongolia
Snowy slopes in Mongolia by Einar Fredriksen. CC BY-SA 2.0.
Beyond steppes, Sky Resort (skyresort.mn) on Bogd Khan Mountain, 13km from Ulaanbaatar, caters to beginners and experts. Bitter cold means snow cannons often supplement natural falls. Pair with a visit to the towering Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue.
Lebanon
Mzaar Kfardebian (skimzaar.com), Lebanon's top resort, offers 42 runs across 80km—just an hour from Beirut. Natural snow abounds from December to April for downhill, snowboard, and cross-country fans. Skiing dates back to the 1960s.
Lesotho
This 'kingdom in the sky' (all above 1,000m) features AfriSki (afriski.net) at 3,200m. Active June with natural and machine-made snow, it has one main run, a beginner area, and snowboard park. Remote vibes include cabaret and upside-down house shots from ceiling-anchored snowboards.
Morocco
Skiers in Morocco by jobdodane. CC BY 2.0.
Erratic snow and limited gear can't dim Oukaïmeden's Atlas Mountains allure—80km from Marrakesh. Short season (January-April) includes heli-skiing for epic tales.
South Africa
Beyond safaris, Tiffindell Ski Resort (tiffindell.co.za) in the Eastern Cape reopened post-2013 upgrades. Three-month southern winter season on one main slope, with South Africa's highest pub for après-ski.
One to Watch: North Korea
The ultimate offbeat: Kim Jong-un's planned world-class resort on Masik Hill, Wonsan, with runs under construction—potentially open to foreigners soon.
