The Alps have long dominated European skiing, but their popularity comes at a cost. These five resorts prove you can have outstanding skiing without the crowds or inflated prices.
1. Bansko, Bulgaria
Bansko offers 75km of pistes with modern lifts. A six-day lift pass costs around €180 - less than half of French Alps prices. Comfortable hotels are available for €30-50 per night.
2. Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Slovenia's compact resort features scenic slopes with minimal crowds. The intimate scale means short lift queues and a relaxed atmosphere.
3. Livigno, Italy
This duty-free zone offers 115km of pistes with significantly lower prices on everything from lift passes to equipment rental.
4. Poiana Brasov, Romania
Romania's premier resort has invested heavily in modernization. Lift passes cost around €30 per day, with good hotels at €50-80 per night.
5. Andorra (Grandvalira)
Grandvalira is the largest resort in the Pyrenees with 210km of pistes, costing 20-30% less than French resorts while offering better lift infrastructure.