How to Choose the Right Ski Trip Destination for Your School
Planning a school ski trip is more than just booking a holiday - it’s about creating a safe, educational, and unforgettable experience for your students. With a wide variety of ski resorts across Europe and North America, choosing the right destination can feel like a mountain to climb. That’s where we come in. For over 40 years, SkiBound has supported UK schools in finding the right destination, transport, and apres-ski activities.
Whether you’re seeking cultural richness, culinary excellence, high-altitude adventure, or top-tier organisation, here’s our guide to help you select the perfect location for your next school ski trip gathered with insight from members of our SkiBound team.
Why Choose Austria?
For a cultural ski experience with cutting-edge tech
Austria blends traditional Alpine charm with modern innovation, making it ideal for school groups looking for both authenticity and efficiency.
Expert Overview
If you're looking for a destination that combines reliable snow, exceptional ski infrastructure, and rich cultural experiences, Austria offers a school ski trip experience like no other - here’s what to expect:
- Ultra-modern lift systems with heated seats and weather protection.
- Friendly, manageable resorts ideal for first-time or younger skiers.
- Cosy Alpine villages perfect for school groups to explore and take part in evening activities.
Suzanne - Austria Operations and Contracts Manager
Top Austrian Resorts for Schools
- Hinterstoder Wurzeralm – A well-organised, compact resort perfect for school groups.
- Lofer – Exceptionally scenic with gentle slopes for learners.
- Zell am See – A stunning lakeside resort with a variety of runs and an attractive town centre.
- Gerlitzen – A hidden gem in Carinthia with uncrowded slopes and fantastic instruction.
Why Choose Italy?
For a fabulous foodie ski experience
Italy is famous for its hearty, delicious cuisine - think pasta, pizza, and pastries - all served with family warmth and mountain views. Add in the relaxed pace of life and you’ve got the recipe for a brilliant school ski trip.
Top Italian Resorts for Schools
- Passo Tonale – Snow-sure and student-friendly with great beginner slopes.
- Bardonecchia – A charming Olympic resort with traditional Alpine flair.
- Sauze d’Oulx – Part of the vast Milky Way ski area with a fun, sociable vibe and plenty of runs.
Italy’s blend of food, friendliness, and fun makes it a favourite among teachers and students alike.
Explore our full range of school ski destinations
Why Choose France?
For a lively, high-altitude ski experience
France is known for its high-altitude skiing, bustling resort villages, and extensive ski areas. Whether you’re looking for doorstep skiing or fantastic après-ski, France ticks all the boxes.
Top French Resorts for Schools
- Les Deux Alpes – Stay at the popular Hotel Brunerie, ideally located in the heart of the resort with direct access to the slopes and plenty of student-friendly facilities.
- La Plagne – Part of the Paradiski area, offering a massive variety of terrain for all skill levels.
- Valloire – A traditional French village with great skiing and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
- Montgenèvre – Located on the French-Italian border, it’s perfect for mixed-ability groups and known for its sunny slopes
Add in our exclusive Clubhotel options, and France offers both value and vibrancy for schools.
Why Choose North America?
For exceptionally organised skiing with unique wildlife
North American ski resorts offer world-class service, perfectly groomed slopes, and awe-inspiring scenery. Though it’s a longer journey, the reward is an unmatched ski experience.
Top Canadian Resorts for Schools
- Jasper – In the heart of the Rockies, with incredible wildlife and relaxed slopes.
- Banff – A bucket-list location with three ski areas and a lively mountain town.
- Mont Sainte-Anne – Located in Quebec, this resort combines a French-Canadian cultural flair with well-maintained pistes.
Top USA Resorts for Schools
- Jay Peak (Vermont) – Renowned for its consistent snowfall and indoor water park—great for evening entertainment!
- Loon Mountain (New Hampshire) – Modern lifts, varied terrain, and excellent snowmaking.
- Cannon & Waterville Valley (New Hampshire) – Classic New England resorts offering well-organised skiing and a strong school trip reputation.
These destinations are ideal for older students or groups seeking a premium ski adventure, with high levels of on-the-ground support and an unforgettable setting.
Ultimately, each destination brings something special to the table. Whether you’re dreaming of the Alpine charm of Austria, the food-lovers’ paradise of Italy, the snow-sure excitement of France, or the wide, tree-lined slopes of North America - there’s a resort perfectly suited to your school’s goals.
Still not sure? Our SkiBound team has decades of experience tailoring ski trips for schools of every size and ability. Let us help you find the perfect destination for your group.