Features · In depth
Lesser-known resorts worth the trip
The back story
About Lesser-known resorts worth the trip
Some of the best days in the mountains happen far from the famous names. Smaller resorts often mean shorter queues, warm welcomes and prices that leave room for a second week, and many have a story every bit as rich as the Alps.
Kopaonik, Serbia
Serbia’s biggest ski resort sits inside a national park, with about 55 km of alpine runs and 12 km of cross-country trails, a choice of spa hotels and a lively après scene.
The mountains above Sarajevo
Bjelašnica hosted the men’s alpine events of the 1984 Sarajevo Winter Olympics and Jahorina the women’s. Both still run as ski resorts and host FIS races (olympics.com).
Shorter queues, warm welcomes and prices that leave room for a second week.
Bulgaria and Greece
Bansko’s six-kilometre gondola carries skiers up into the Pirin mountains, Borovets lies in the Rila mountains, and Parnassos, about 21 km from Arachova, has 34 km of runs between 1,640 and 2,260 metres.
Our advice: these mountains reward curiosity. Go once and you will want to go back.
Why it's on our list
- Kopaonik, Serbia
- The Olympic mountains above Sarajevo
- Bansko and Borovets, Bulgaria
- Parnassos, Greece
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Lesser-known resorts worth the trip before you go.