The Best Resorts for Non-Skiers

Discover places where you can lose yourself in the sights of magnificent mountain ranges that provide awe-inspiring backdrops. Or why not try unique activities such as dog sledding through snowy forests and ice fishing on frozen lakes?

It’s not all about being active either, these towns and villages are brimming with rich history and vibrant culture, with a wealth of bars and restaurants to make any foodie's mouth water.

Worried about missing out on the party? There are some fantastic après (non-)ski options, and plenty of chances to easily meet up with skiers for lunch on the mountain.

We recognise how crucial accommodation is too. A relaxing spa, on-site activities and a breathtaking view can make all the difference. Staying somewhere that’s jam-packed with facilities and in an ideal location will ensure you’ll have the best holiday possible.

By Rollo Squire, Marketing Assistant

The historic town of Park City is a fantastic destination for non-skiers. It’s so much more than just a ski resort; it’s a year-round destination with a culture-rich town built during the 19th-century silver mining boom. And it’s only a 35-minute transfer from Salt Lake City. 

With over 100 cafés, restaurants and bars, the town is great for foodies. We recommend The Riverhorse on Main for award-winning fine dining or Chi Mayo for popular southwestern cuisine. But don’t worry if they’re not up your street - you'll find loads of brilliant alternatives in the colourful town.

Shopaholics will be pleased to hear that Park City is the shopping mecca of the Rocky Mountains. You'll find all kinds of stores along Historic Main Street as chain stores are banned, meaning it’s kept local and unique. If you're looking for some big-brand bargains, there's outlet shopping galore in Kimball Junction. Both are accessible on the local bus.

Attention all film fans! The Sundance Film Festival - the largest independent film festival in the US - is hosted here and held annually in January. You can expect dramatic documentary features, short films, and episodic content alongside daily filmmaker conversations and panels.

As proud hosts of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games (and future hosts of the 2034 Winter Olympics!) Park City presents a chance to discover the legacy of the games. The Olympic Park is still an active training facility and thrill-seekers' paradise, where visitors can try their hand at bobsledding and skeleton.

For those wanting to dial back the adrenaline and focus on relaxation and well-being, there are numerous spas, salons and health clubs dotted around, plus classic family activities such as bowling. With all these possibilities, it’s easy to forget that the skiers of the group will have the largest single ski area in the USA to explore!

If you’re looking for truly memorable experiences, this is the place for you. From hot air ballooning at sunrise, where you reach altitudes of 1,500 feet, to a scenic and wholesome horse-drawn sleigh ride. Or try classic winter activities like snowshoeing, family dog sledding and ice skating.

Park City also presents an incredible opportunity to combine your trip with Utah’s ‘Mighty Five’ National Parks. The Utah and National Parks Ski Safari is an adventure that keeps both skiers and non-skiers happy. Stay for a week in the well-equipped Park City resort, then travel to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park - a dream few days for the intrepid out there. Winter is the most underrated time of year to visit as crowds are minimal yet the striking mountainous surroundings are as breathtaking as ever.

The 4* Park City Peaks Hotel stands out to us. This is a popular family-run hotel with excellent facilities including a pool and hot tub. The on-site dining available at Versante Hearth + Bar is a super option, dishing up innovative pastas and fresh pizzas alongside local craft beers, wines and cocktails.

This Norwegian resort is a hidden gem, especially when it comes to satisfying the non-skiers in a group. It’s filled to the brim with culture and history, the perfect destination for those who love to learn all about where they’re staying. We visited Gausta back in April 2024 on a company-wide trip, so we’re talking from fresh first-hand experience here.

The incredible Gaustatoppen mountain is the highest peak in the Telemark region. Skiers and non-skiers alike can reach the history-filled summit on the Gaustabanen tramway via tunnels built during the Cold War. It’s a unique experience as you journey inside and up the centre of the mountain, which was a top-secret military project and only opened to the public in 2010.

Once you’re at the top, you’ll reach NATO’s secret Cold War base and you can take a tour of the apartments where the radio operators worked and lived. Here you can also find the café selling their famous waffles… yummy! Gaustatoppen is so much more than just a scenic mountain. While the skiers take to Gaustatoppen's off-piste runs, you have the best seat in town with the most breathtaking views. You might even see Sweden or Denmark on a clear day!

Food in Gausta is a highlight with its consistency and quality. Deliciousness awaits in the ski centre, as well as Gaustablikk Fjellresort where the food concepts are looked after by Michelin-starred chef Melker Andersson. The restaurants are all at the base of the resort, making it a piece of cake to meet skiers in your group for lunch! The scrumptious bakery ‘Bakeriet’, run by an award-winning pastry chef, is doubling in size for the upcoming 2024/2025 season. It’s a Ski Safari favourite - the cinnamon buns are just delightful!

Vemork, the hydroelectric power plant and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another must-visit historical site. Take a guided tour to delve into the history of the power station that almost turned the tide of WWII.

It was home to a critical mission in World War II history which inspired the film ‘The Heroes of Telemark. Fascinatingly, the founder of the popular Gaustablikk Fjellresort hotel starred in the film as Kirk Douglas’s stunt double and used his earnings from it to build the hotel!

The museum at Vemork is well worth visiting to learn more about the history. It is located down in the valley with the town of Rjukan. The valley sides are so steep the town remains in the shade till April making for perfect conditions to form frozen waterfalls, so much so it has become a world famous ice-climbing destination.

It’s worth noting both Vemork and Rjukan are a short drive from Gausta, but one you won't regret!

We can’t talk about Gausta without mentioning the floating saunas. Look out at the majestic view of the frozen Kvitåvatn Lake and Gaustatoppen while you’re getting nice and toasty. You can even dare to tackle the Scandic tradition of taking a rather refreshing dip in the frozen lake straight after! The saunas are open from 9am to 9pm, Monday to Sunday, so you’ve got every opportunity to try this for yourself. Booking required in advance.

Other activities for non-skiers include wholesome winter walks, endless cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

The clear choice for non-skiers lies in the heart of the resort at the 4* Gaustablikk Fjellresort. It’s the premier accommodation in Gausta with activities such as wine tasting and shuffleboard. Services include a swimming pool and wellness area, while the rooms are modern and cosy with a decidedly Scandinavian feel. We recommend upgrading your room to the Gaustatoppen side for a simply incredible view.

Whistler is the go-to resort for pretty much everything. We’ve been selling and staying here since 1996 and know first-hand just how much there is to do here for non-skiers.

Firstly, it’s massive! Across three bases you’ll have anything you could wish for right at your fingertips. Whistler Village lies at the base of the mountain and is home to a load of fantastic accommodation, shops, restaurants and bars. What’s even better is that it’s all pedestrianised from the Olympic Plaza in Village North to Skier's Plaza at the base of the lifts, meaning all amenities and services are walkable!

The town is designed to keep you busy. The (well over) 100 restaurants and bars offer an exceptional range and quality of cuisine - you’ll likely need Tourism Whistler’s Dining Guide to help you choose. There’s also the vast shopping, which isn’t to be outdone by the food. Shops are brimming with homegrown and globally-inspired goods. In Whistler, you really can shop 'til you drop!

There are also tasting tours, escape rooms, art galleries and a lively après scene. We weren’t lying when we said it has it all!

You’ve got two options to meet skiers for lunch (or a drink, perhaps!) in Whistler. Let them come down to any of the three villages or ride the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola with a non-ski ticket to experience Blackcomb Mountain and Whistler Mountain firsthand.

One adventure we’d recommend is Ziptrek Ecotours. Zip across the forested valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, exploring the natural beauty of Fitzsimmons Creek.

For a bird's-eye view of Whistler, the helicopter sightseeing tour will dazzle you with breathtaking mountain views and the chance to land on top of Rainbow Glacier - a truly magical experience.

Back on land, have a go at snowmobiling from Whistler Village. The perfect way for non-skiers to explore the iconic mountain surroundings. Other winter activities available in Whistler include dog sledding, snowshoeing, bungee jumping, and an ice tube park.

Many of the hotels have great spa facilities with outdoor pools and hot tubs. But we think it’s worth heading just north of Whistler to spend a day at its iconic thermal spa, ‘Scandinave Spa’. Bathe in incredibly unique surroundings of a spruce and cedar forest while overlooking the mountains - relaxation at its peak.

If you’re looking to extend your horizons, adding a stay in Vancouver should be top of the list. As one of Canada’s most invigorating cities, there’s so much you can pack into one day as many of the main attractions are situated in the walkable West End and Downtown districts. Here at Ski Safari, we love a visit to Stanley Park, Gastown and Robson Street. And don’t miss out on the chance to cross False Creek to Granville Island, an absolute dreamland for foodies.

With plenty of options available, choosing where to stay in Whistler can feel like a kid in a sweet shop. For non-skiers looking to maximise their experience, we can’t help but recommend the landmark 5* Fairmont Chateau Whistler.  It has a wealth of facilities, including a top-class spa, some of Whistler’s best restaurants, and provides guests with impeccable service. It’s the epitome of luxury.

The colourful and unique 4* Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel is also worth considering, with its top-notch pool and spa facilities. The units are large and all stays come with free hot drinks all day. Rooms are fully equipped with kitchenettes, soaker bathtubs, balconies and a fireplace to relax by.

Family-owned Beitostølen delivers every single time for non-skiers with its outstanding on-the-ground service. We’ve been skiing and staying there for over 10 years and have felt at home each time. The accommodation is at the base of the slopes, so you can easily meet any skiers in the group throughout the day.

The compact village has a surprising number of restaurants, bars and cafés; more than enough options for a week of dining. One of our favourites is Cafeén Restaurant and Bar where you’ll find homemade food right at the base of the slopes.

We advocate throwing yourself into all of the available activities, which include taking advantage of the incredible frozen lake by going full Scandinavian with guided ice fishing. Learn the basics and maybe even catch your dinner! There’s also horse riding just a few minutes' drive away at Myhre Gård farm, where you’ll go on an incredible horseback ride through the fluffy snow.

Dog sledding in Beitostølen is a gateway to this magical winter wonderland, and is available as a daytime or evening activity. Either ride across a frozen lake under the moonlit sky as howling huskies guide your sledge, or head out for a daytime adventure with the furry friends. You can even become a musher for the day on a mountain tour and learn how to take care of your pack - a wholesome memory to cherish.

The activities are all fantastically run with snow rafting down a 500m purposely built track being one of our favourites. We’ve tried this many times, and it’s something the team absolutely love! Click below to see our video from when we tried it in 2023:

Another wonderful way to experience the astonishing Norwegian nature is ever-popular snowshoeing. Take a guided tour through some remarkable surroundings, or simply rent the shoes and head out on your own journey. Beitostølen is your oyster!

Renowned for having brilliant instructors, they’ll ensure you make lasting memories of a true winter experience in Beitostølen.

The state-of-the-art Ridderbadet Spa at the 4* Riddergaarden Apartments makes it the standout place for non-skiers in our opinion. The spa is one of the most luxurious we’ve visited, with an indoor/outdoor pool that looks onto the Jotunheimen National Park. Additionally, the on-site Casa Montagna Italian Restaurant serves up charming Italian dishes and outstanding wines. The apartments are located slopeside, meaning any skiers in the group can pop back at any time.

We also think the ever-reliable 4* Radisson Blu Resort Beitostølen is a cracking non-skier option. Being steps away from shops, bars and restaurants combined with its large indoor pool, squash court and wellness centre means there’s always something to keep you busy.

The vibrant town of Banff is nestled in the staggering backdrop of Banff National Park. It’s the place to go for that authentic Canadian feel as it’s a genuine working town, but with the added bonus of astonishing scenery wherever you look.

Banff town is packed with things to do, with a range of museums and art galleries. Genuine Canadian goods are available from the various shops, and the buzzing restaurant scene isn’t something to miss out on. The Maple Leaf and The Bison Banff are two highlights we love, but don’t stress as you shouldn’t go too far wrong wherever you go.

The mineral-rich water of Banff Upper Hot Springs has been a big attraction since 1886 to both locals and tourists. Relaxing in Canada’s highest operating hot spring amongst astonishing mountain surroundings is one of Banff National Park’s greatest traditions. The water is heated geothermally from the earth’s core meaning the natural temperature differs from season to season. Pretty incredible stuff, right?

Entry to the springs is first come, first served.

There’s every opportunity to take advantage of the spectacular sights. A sightseeing gondola with awe-inspiring views tops the bill, with various area tours of Banff and Lake Louise also being strong contenders. You can’t be a non-skier in Banff without taking the time to explore the natural beauty surrounding you.

Another huge plus of Banff is it’s super easy to visit the nearby frozen lakes. Lake Louise, Vermilion Lakes and Johnson Lakes are just a few within short driving distance. Ice skating on the lakes is a massive hit in Banff. It’s not hard to imagine why - gliding along as you look out to snow-topped mountains. What’s not to like?

A short walk away is Bow River, the heart of Banff National Park. The stillness you experience whilst standing on its banks is truly something special as the water meanders through a tranquil forest.

Near to Banff town are plenty of fun activities to get involved with. Popular ones include snowmobile touring, ice fishing, ice skating, bowling, dog sled tours and snowshoeing - plenty of opportunity to try something new!

The world-famous, castle-styled 5* Fairmont Banff Springs is a given. This colossal hotel overlooks the Bow River, and the interior has everything you’d imagine. You could spend hours simply exploring it! A luscious pool, spa and 12 acclaimed restaurants, bars and pubs only begin to describe the luxury.

With a little less grandeur, the 4* Moose Hotel and Suites is still an impressive option. It’s a Ski Safari team and customer favourite and is home to what might be Banff’s best hot tubs, situated on the rooftop. The on-site dining is the icing on the cake.

Award-winning Geilo is well worth a visit – 6th time winner of Norway’s Best Ski Resort. The journey is a highlight in itself. Arrive in this family-friendly resort on the Oslo to Bergen railway, one of the world’s most scenic routes. Benefit further from the railway by easily adding a city stopover or reaching the nearby breathtaking fjords. Our Norway & Sweden Product Manager, Andy Hemingway lived here for five years so we know what we’re talking about when it comes to Geilo.

The resort is situated between two famous Norwegian national parks; Hallingskarvet National Park and Hardangervidda National Park, so whatever you’re doing, the surroundings add that extra bit of beauty. Geilo has an authentic village charm that is made extra welcoming by the noticeably friendly locals. It’s an excellent resort that’s tailored to families, so if you’ve got little ones this could be the place for you.

Are you an animal lover? A 45-minute drive will take you to Langedrag Nature Park, home to over 350 animals - including lynx, reindeer, wolves and elk - that you can meet up close. Packed with unique and intriguing wildlife, it’s certainly worth the trip.

For some adrenaline-fuelled fun, head 30 minutes southeast and arrive at Dagali Fjellpark. Exhilarating activities here include tobogganing, snowmobiling and ice karting (yes, that’s go-karting on a frozen lake).

Other popular non-skier activities here include dog sledding, where you‘ll meet a friendly team of well-trained Alaskan huskies who’ll take you on a winter adventure.

Additionally, guided snowshoeing walks, horse sleigh rides and ice fishing are all fun, well-run activities that we recommend you try your hand at.

Food-wise, you’re planning to eat out, we’re happy to report that the food is exquisite. Really - it’s top-notch, quality stuff! We’d recommend heading to Hallingstuene, which serves up fine dining from Geilo’s celebrity chef, Frode Aga.

The 4* Vestlia Resort is a prime option for non-skiers. Having been voted Best Resort Spa 2021 by the World Spa Awards, and Norway's Best Ski Hotel 2023 by the World Ski Awards, there’s no shortage of relaxation available here. With views of the frozen lake and ski area to boot, you can’t go wrong with Vestlia Resort.

There are several reasons why you’ll love Aspen Snowmass. You’ll be staying in either Snowmass Village or Aspen itself. But don’t worry, travelling between the two is easy - buses depart from the Snowmass Mall daily and are completely free.

Snowmass is more of a family setting, with a quieter, laid-back vibe. Aspen is where the party is - there’s a big après scene and it’s known for its nightlife - who says you have to ski to join in? Even the celebs come here to party, so keep your eyes peeled! But the real reason we love Aspen extends far beyond just its evening antics.

It's brimming with art, history and culture. The Victorian buildings of this old mining town have been well preserved and are complete with bundles of boutiques, galleries and the Wheeler Opera House, all of which embody the rich local culture. There are plenty of shops with local charm in town too, as well as over 100 bars and restaurants. Aspen’s packed with more than enough to keep non-skiers occupied (and their stomachs full!).

If you’re lucky enough to catch one, there are regular concerts hosted here. These are held on a rotation basis between Aspen Mountain Gondola Plaza, Snowmass Base Village and downtown Aspen. A great chance to blend in with the locals and have a boogie to some tunes!

Explore Aspen and its surroundings by trying snowshoeing, snowmobiling or dog sledding. For a bucket-list experience, hot air balloon rides are available to book over Aspen Snowmass too.

If it’s an ‘indoorsy’ kind of day, the Aspen Recreation Centre offers swimming, fitness facilities, rock climbing, ice skating and plenty more. Aspen Snowmass has you covered whatever the weather!

With several amazing hotels for non-skiers, we recommend the 5* Limelight Hotel Snowmass and the 4* Limelight Hotel Aspen as the leading options in each location. Both have a vibrant, fresh and relaxed atmosphere while being excellently situated. Top-notch facilities are aplenty, too.

The 4* Crestwood Condos offer helpful value and are located across the street from Snowmass Village. They’ve been revamped in recent years and now boast a brand-new exterior as well as a markedly improved interior. Definitely worth a look for non-skiers!

The joys of Åre, Scandinavia’s largest ski resort, extend far beyond the slopes. It’s a gorgeous lakeside town with an array of things for all to do - varied (and super tasty) cuisine, unique shops and electric activities. A genuine all-round winter destination.

Being mere steps from Lake Åresjön is a delight, but the town’s prettiness doesn’t stop there. From homely cafes to swanky hotels, Sweden’s got the styling game on lock. The village is simply lovely just to be in and walk around.

Beyond the local beauty, take a visit to the Tännforsen Waterfalls & Igloos, Sweden’s largest waterfall coupled with a magnificent igloo village. In winter, Tännforsen turns into a frozen waterfall allowing for a spectacular ice walk into it. Located just 20km west of Åre in Lake Noren, it’s a great trip well worth making.

East of the main village lies Åre’s chocolate factory, Åre Chokladfabrik. Take a step into chocolate heaven to buy, browse, taste and learn all about 30 or so flavours. Their handmade pralines have been a hallmark for over thirty years. Who doesn’t love a sweet treat?

For the driving fanatics out there, or if you enjoy exhilarating activities, why not get behind the wheel of a rally car on a frozen lake? Ice driving is a real hit in Åre and what’s even better is the track is on Lake Årejön - meaning it’s within walking distance of the the village.

A further activity to provide a buzz is Europe’s largest zipline park where you can fly at speeds of up to 70mph. The longest course is almost 350m long, zipping over ravines and trees.

Experium Adventure Pool and Sauna World promises fun for all the family. Hot tubs, water slides, an indoor surf wave and six different sauna experiences mean there really is something for everyone. Snowmobiling, snowshoeing and dog sledding also ensure that Åre lives up to the hype.

Åre is one of Scandinavia’s liveliest resorts for afterski. The English-speaking locals are all friendly and welcoming people who love it when Brits join the party. One afterski bar to try is ‘Verandan’ - located in the village centre with regular live bands and DJs. Our top tip? Get involved!

The 3* Åre Residences offer great value, with remarkable views of the mountains and Lake Åre. Each apartment is unique and has been carefully designed. The location, next to Åre’s main square, is another big plus for non-skiers.

Last but certainly not least, the working town of Voss has irresistible lake and mountain scenery, heaps of winter activities and amazing adventures nearby. Trust us - it’s as good as it sounds.

Firstly you’ve got the highly recommended option to take the gondola up the mountain for a walk and a tasty lunch. Overlook the beautiful Lake Vangsvatnet, which lies ever-present at the foot of the resort. This most picturesque of backdrops is the perfect place for a scenic stroll and epitomises the natural beauty in Voss.

When in Voss, taking the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) to Flåm simply has to be on your list. Some of our team hopped aboard in April on a research trip and confirmed it’s even better than described. Start the adventure at the conveniently located Voss Station, just steps away from most of the accommodations. Take the Bergen Line, on which you’ll ascend over 1,300 metres over the largest mountain plateau in Europe and the Hardangerjøkulen glacier. Scenes from Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back were filmed here!

It’s then time to embark on the Flåm Railway for a mystical journey. Hug the mountainside while passing frozen waterfalls and striking icy scenery as you descend into Aurlandsfjord in Aurlandsdalen, known as Norway’s Grand Canyon.

On arrival in the charming village of Flåm, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fjords Nærøyfjord and Geirangerfjord here. Take to the water on a relaxed sightseeing cruise or jump on a high-speed RIB for an action-packed guided tour.

The town has a host of history to get stuck into. Stalheim Folk Museum offers guests a chance to see a timeline of how rural Norway has evolved from the late Middle Ages. You’ve also got the authentic Voss Folkemuseum which gives a feel of the area’s history, while the national monument Finnesloftet, built in 1295, is only a short walk from the town centre. You’re also not short of tasty off-mountain dining options thanks to Voss being a working town.

Activities in Voss range from pushing new heights at VossVind’s indoor skydiving centre to bowling with the family, you’ll easily find something for you.

One more great visit is to one of the best wine cellars in the world, located inside the Park Hotel Vossevangen. The tour is an absolute must-do! Some of the team here at Ski Safari visited earlier this year and had a whale of a time (as you can tell from the cheesy grins!)

The 4* Scandic Voss is suitably brilliant for non-skiers and is the pick of the bunch. It’s located on the outskirts of the town, right next to the railway station. Facilities are aplenty, including a gym, sauna and shuffleboard to keep you entertained throughout your stay. The conveniently located on-site bar and restaurant round off the hotel.

If you’ve spotted a resort that sounds right for you or your group, enquire online or speak to our friendly and knowledgeable team on 01273 224060 (Monday to Friday). We're always happy to help!

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