Can You Ski in Summer? Europe’s Best Glacier Resorts

Hit the Slopes All Year Round

For dedicated skiers, the end of the winter season can feel like a long wait until the next snowfall. However, it doesn’t have to be. High-altitude glaciers across the Alps offer the unique opportunity to ski throughout the summer months, providing a perfect escape for those looking to extend their season, train, or simply combine a mountain holiday with a few turns on the snow.

Summer skiing offers a different rhythm to a winter trip. It typically involves early starts to catch the best snow conditions before the sun softens the pistes. This leaves afternoons free to enjoy a host of other alpine activities, from hiking and mountain biking to swimming in crystal-clear lakes. Many national ski teams use these glaciers for off-season training, so you might even find yourself sharing a lift with a world champion. Here are some of the best resorts in Europe for a summer ski adventure.

Summer Skiing in Austria

Austria is home to several reliable glaciers, offering excellent conditions and extensive terrain even in the height of summer.

Hintertux Glacier

As Austria’s only year-round ski resort, Hintertux is a top destination for summer skiing. Located at an altitude of 3,250 metres, it boasts impressive snow depth and around 20 kilometres of pistes open during the summer. Unlike many other summer areas that close by noon, Hintertux often keeps its lifts running from 9 am to 4 pm. The terrain is predominantly made up of red runs, making it an ideal playground for intermediate and advanced skiers looking to carve on perfectly groomed slopes. For non-skiing activities, visitors can explore the Nature’s Ice Palace, a stunning glacial cave system, or enjoy hiking and biking in the Zillertal valley. For younger visitors, the Glacier Flea Park offers a fun, educational experience at 3,250m.

Mölltal Glacier

Situated in Carinthia, the Mölltal Glacier provides skiing for over 300 days a year at an altitude of up to 3,122 metres. In summer, it offers a good mix of blue and red pistes, making it a more accessible option for families and less experienced skiers. The resort is a popular training ground for professional race teams, but there is ample space for everyone. The lifts typically run from 8 am to 3:30 pm. The glacier is located within the Hohe Tauern National Park, opening up a world of afternoon adventures, including hiking, paragliding, and exploring the stunning natural scenery.

Summer Skiing in Switzerland

Switzerland’s high-altitude terrain makes it a premier destination for summer snow sports, with two world-class resorts leading the way.

Zermatt

Home to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Zermatt offers Europe’s highest and largest summer ski area. At an incredible 3,883 metres, the glacier provides around 21 kilometres of pistes that are open 365 days a year. The area caters to all abilities, with gentle blue runs for beginners and more challenging terrain for experts. Its summer snow park is renowned as one of the best in the Alps, attracting freestyle skiers and snowboarders from across the globe. When the skiing is done for the day, you can visit the Glacier Palace, an enchanting world of ice sculptures 15 metres below the surface, or descend to the valley for hiking and mountain biking with iconic views of the Matterhorn.

Saas-Fee

From mid-July, the Allalin Glacier in Saas-Fee opens its slopes for summer skiing at 3,600 metres. With 20 kilometres of pistes, it’s another favourite training spot for professional athletes, including the Swiss ski team. The slopes are generally open until midday, giving you plenty of time for other activities. The resort’s freestyle park is a major draw, while the revolving restaurant at the top station offers breathtaking panoramic views. In the afternoon, you can explore the Ice Pavilion, a grotto that reveals the secrets of the glacier, or enjoy the vast network of hiking and biking trails in the surrounding valley.

Summer Skiing in France

France offers a couple of excellent glacier options for those who want to ski in the sunshine, with Tignes being the most prominent.

Tignes

The Grande Motte glacier in Tignes, soaring to 3,656 metres, is one of France’s top summer skiing destinations. It typically opens from mid-June for a limited summer season. Early risers are rewarded here, with lifts often starting at 7 am and closing around 1 pm before the snow becomes too soft. The glacier offers around 20 kilometres of pistes, including several blue runs suitable for beginners, alongside a well-maintained snow park. Once off the slopes, Tignes transforms into a summer paradise. The Tignes Bike Park offers extensive downhill and cross-country trails, while the lake provides opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and even a jump on the giant waterslide.

Tips for a Great Summer Ski Trip

To make the most of skiing in summer, a little preparation goes a long way.

• Check Dates: Glacier opening and closing dates can vary each year depending on snow conditions. Always check the resort’s official website before planning a trip.
• Start Early: The best snow is always found in the morning. Aim to be on the first lift up to enjoy firm, groomed pistes before the sun turns them to slush.
• Protect Yourself: The sun’s rays are incredibly strong at high altitudes and are reflected by the snow. High-factor sun cream, UV-protective sunglasses or goggles, and a hat are essential.
• Dress in Layers: Temperatures can change quickly. Wear a breathable base layer, a light fleece, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell that you can easily remove or add as needed.