The Best Ski Resorts for Intermediates

If you’re an intermediate skier or snowboarder, congratulations! You’re in the sweet spot of skiing or boarding. You’ve graduated from the wobbly pizza slice or frequent edge-catching to smooth turns, and now the world’s best ski resorts are at your feet!

At Ski Safari, many of us are proud intermediates ourselves, and we’ve skied or boarded every single resort we offer - so you can trust we know our stuff! In this blog, our team shares their personal highlights of each resort, including our favourite runs, lifts, and regions that are well-suited for intermediates of all interests.

Every season, we help countless intermediates find their ideal destination, based on first-hand experience and real customer feedback. Contact our friendly team on 01273 224060 or enquire online, and we’ll tailor your perfect ski escape from start to finish.

With ultra-reliable snow, expansive resorts, and an incredible variety of terrain, Canada is the flagship destination for intermediate skiers and boarders.

Add in Canada’s famously friendly locals and breathtaking mountain scenery, and it’s no wonder skiers return year after year - we certainly did! In fact, it was after skiing in Canada back in 1996 that our founder, Richard, was inspired to create our tailored ski holiday service, and Ski Safari have been helping others experience the magic ever since.

Terrain: 25% advanced / 55% intermediate / 20% beginner

Our favourite intermediate runs: Peak to Creek, Cloud Nine, Harmony Ridge

Intermediates really hit the jackpot in Whistler. Thanks to the resort’s Peak 2 Peak Gondola that connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain, you can enjoy over 8,000 acres of varied terrain. That’s not a typo - it really is a huge resort!

Having spent decades skiing and selling North America, Canada & USA Product Manager Rupert always recommends Whistler to intermediates. He says, “Whistler’s two huge mountains offer terrain for all levels of intermediates - you’ll be spoilt for choice! And with a long, reliable season with a fantastic snow record, it really ticks all the boxes. There’s no shortage of excitement, including heli-skiing, snowmobiling, or bobsleigh rides - nothing like voluntarily launching yourself down an icy track at 100 km/h! Whistler is not regularly voted the best resort in the world for no reason!”

The well-designed trail system grants access to a huge range of runs, so you’ll have room to practice carving turns without accidentally heading down a black diamond. And for those who want to progress their skills, you can practice pushing into your edges on steeper runs before switching to gentler tree-lined blues for an easier afternoon.

With great restaurant options and dozens of welcoming après spots, you won’t need to look far when it’s time for a celebratory pint after a long day of ticking off runs. So sit back, unclip your boots and take it all in - you deserve it!

“Location, Location, Location..... Whistler is an outstanding ski resort. We were there over Easter, so it was a busy time, but it was still easy to avoid the crowds. Great range of skiing, wonderful scenery and a hotel less than a minute's walk from the gondola, what's not to like?” - Adam Holmes

“Great skiing for intermediates. No lift queues. Lots of restaurant options. Friendly, good atmosphere.” - Emma Cannon

10 nights in Whistler including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,200 and £2,600 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult Whistler Blackcomb lift pass costs between £547 and £647.

Terrain: 30% advanced / 45% intermediates / 25% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Roller Coaster, Great Divide Express Quad

Set in the heart of the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, Banff delivers unforgettable views and world-class skiing in equal measure. With over 7,700 acres of terrain across three ski areas - Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay - the variety on offer is next level.

Sunshine Village gets the most snowfall and is perfect for mastering those carves on soft powder. Lake Louise offers sweeping, leg-burning descents across three faces, while Mt. Norquay is great for a more relaxed ski day - especially when your legs need a break and a second hot chocolate.

As part of our Continental Divide Ski Safari, Sales Consultant Phoebe visited both Banff and Panorama in March 2024. Following her visit, Phoebe says, “Having skied in Europe, Asia, and across Canada, I can honestly say that Banff is my favourite resort. Intermediate skiers will love the wide-open groomed pistes, playful tree runs, off-piste sections, and even some freeride-adjacent terrain. My top pick is Sunshine’s Roller Coaster run - an undulating blue trail that twists through the trees. Whenever someone tells me they’re going for the first time, I can’t help but feel excited for them.”

You’ll find up to 30 feet of light, dry powder every season from November to May, and with free mountain tours, you won’t need to pretend you know where you're going either.

Off the slopes, Banff continues to impress with soothing hot springs, frozen waterfalls, boutique shopping, and après that ranges from fireside drinks to full-blown dance floors.

“Endless skiing options, over three mountains, coupled with a beautiful, friendly town, big enough to give you a massive choice of restaurants and other activities, but small enough to feel 'local'. Highly recommended!” - Simon Gregory

“Banff was fantastic. Brilliant hub for skiing at Mt Norquay, Banff Sunshine, and Lake Louise. The town had a lovely feel to it and the variety of skiing in the area was top notch; from the gentle slopes of Norquay, the rollers of Sunshine, and the World Cup downhill at Lake Louise.” - Helen Gloistein

10 nights in Banff including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,200 and £2,000 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult SkiBig3 lift pass costs between £516 and £934.

Terrain: 50% advanced / 35% intermediates / 15% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Show Off, Sun Bowl, Roy’s Run

As intermediates, a good day out on the slopes includes racking up miles and trying a range of terrain and challenges. Panorama is the perfect place to progress - you can ski across a huge area, try out technical blacks, or stick to winding tree-lined blues and perfect your carving.

Phoebe recommends Panorama to intermediates every season for its wide range of intermediate terrain and friendly atmosphere. She says, “One of my favourite runs is Show Off - a long blue that flows into a gentle green beneath the Mile 1 Express. Although there’s endless variety, I especially enjoyed Sun Bowl and Roy’s Run, where moguls and tight turns gave me the perfect challenge for honing my skills.”

Ready to take the next step? There are several perfectly spaced glades filled with powder stashes that are ideal for skiers and boarders wanting to dip into off-piste without diving into anything too extreme. It’s a natural, low-pressure way to push your skills while still enjoying a relaxed mountain vibe.

Explore secret stashes with the free Mountain Friends tours, or keep the turns going after dark with night skiing on Fridays and Saturdays. Still not enough? For the bold and the brave, heli-skiing with RK Heliski takes off right from the resort - go big or go home, we say!

“Panorama has a wonderful open feel to it. Wide, long groomers at the bottom and more challenging terrain up top, with an easy descent if you want it. We’ve had some great days skiing here in the past and always come away wanting more.” - Chris Cookson

“Panorama is a lovely resort. Very picturesque, a couple of nice bars, and restaurants. Runs are not very busy, with a good mixture of runs from green to double black diamond. We have been there for a number of years, and the accommodation has always been very well presented and clean with excellent facilities.” - Martin Ricketts

10 nights in Panorama including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,600 and £2,400 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult Panorama lift pass costs £693.

Terrain: 8% expert / 24% advanced / 58% intermediates / 10% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Still Smokin’, Mid-life Crisis, Cruiser

Spread across three well-connected mountains - Sundance, Tod Mountain and Morrisey - Sun Peaks is Canada’s second-largest ski area and offers 4,000 acres of scenic terrain that is jam-packed full of thrilling runs for intermediates.

Sun Peaks' wide-open terrain is refreshingly crowd-free, especially on Tod Mountain, where you’ll find a mix of open bowls and glades to keep you busy. Over on Sundance, the long groomers are great for picking up speed and letting your skis and boards fly, while Morrisey offers some steeper surprises for a post-lunch challenge.

After visiting Sun Peaks in December 2023, Marketing Executive Archie writes: “I love to sharpen my carving on the long, snaking runs on Mt. Morrisey’s Mid-Life Crisis. Confident intermediates should make a beeline for the Sundance chairlift - the views across the west side of the mountain are brilliant, and the trees are sensational to ski through. Off the slopes, axe throwing at Cleavage Axe Co is a fun way to spend an evening with friends and family - the instructors are friendly and an entertaining evening is guaranteed!”

Upper intermediates will thrive in Sun Peaks - there’s plenty of off-piste and easy black runs to test out. Alternatively, every lift in Sun Peaks grants access to runs for all levels, so if you’ve got tired members in your group or you fancy an easy blue down, don’t worry about splitting up from the energetic bunch within your group.

Sun Peaks also offers excellent touring options: the Gil's Backcountry Private Tour is a great way for confident intermediates aged 13+ to explore off-piste with a professional guide, or the 'Nifty Fifty Super Group' is ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers aged 50+.

Nestled in a scenic valley, Sun Peaks village is smaller and more laid-back than busier neighbouring resorts like Banff or Whistler. The resort’s annual winter wine festival is worth attending, and we always try to catch a Kamloops Blazers hockey match when we’re here.

10 nights in Sun Peaks including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,600 and £2,400 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 9-day adult Sun Peaks lift pass costs between £707 and £884.

“Sun Peaks was like a traditional Austrian ski resort, but with Canadian quality snow. Ski-in, ski-out, family-oriented, intermediate skier heaven with some decent off-piste areas. This is a very picturesque ski mountain with great piste skiing through the trees. Good snow parks with big jumps.” - Trevor Budd

“Our favourite place to ski. This was our 4th visit to Sun Peaks and we decided to spend a fortnight there this year. Once again, some amazing skiing, the team look after the slopes so well, no lift queues and very quite slopes. A good variety of terrain, something for everyone and the village itself is lovely, great choice of restaurants, bars and shops. We are already planning next year’s trip, which will definitely include Sun Peaks again!” - Alex Conboy

With nearly 500 ski resorts spread across 37 states, the USA has plenty of choice when it comes to skiing. We’ve been skiing in the States for over two decades, and we love sending fellow intermediates to California and Colorado for light snow, varied terrain, and lift lines shorter than your après-ski drinks list.

With so much choice across the pond, have a read of Rupert’s handy blog on the best ski resorts in the USA or contact us to decide your dream intermediate resort.

Terrain: 35% advanced / 45% intermediates / 20% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Ridge Run, Liz’s, California Trail

Heavenly boasts consistent sunshine, scenic runs, and a touch of Las Vegas flair - how amazing does that sound?! This resort offers spring skiing vibes all season long - with over 300 days of sun a year. And with a base elevation of over 6,000 ft, you get that magic combo of reliable snow and a sunny slope-side drink that doubles up as a sunbathing session.

Along with other Ski Safari members, Sales Specialist Chloe visited Heavenly in March 2024. She says, “Our favourite runs were the cruisy blues - specifically Ridge Run and Liz’s! The photo spots along these runs, as well as California Trail, offer epic views of the lake as you ski.

The town of Heavenly itself is beautiful with so many restaurants, shops and bars to try out. I highly recommend Azul Latin Kitchen for the biggest and best Mexican food! There's a great range of accommodation for everyone to enjoy, it's worth swinging by the Margaritaville for the vibes and outdoor DJ!”

The terrain is tailor-made for confident intermediates: wide, rolling blues, optional moguls and a chance to drop into off-piste through the trees to perfect your technique. No matter where your skis or boards take you, you’ll always be faced with jaw-dropping views of Lake Tahoe and Nevada’s desert. It’s so scenic you’ll probably catch an edge from turning your head mid-run (you’ve been warned).

Then there’s the après. Once the skis and boards come off, head into South Lake Tahoe for cocktails, live music, and - you guessed it- casinos. Heavenly straddles the California-Nevada border, so you can carve turns in one state and hit the roulette table in another.

“Simply unbelievable [...] A great variety of terrain combined with great facilities and people, added to what must be some of the most stunning scenery in the world, makes Heavenly a must-go for anyone. To make it even better, it's just an hour's drive to some other top-class resorts [...] As a package, I find it hard to believe there are many places that can offer what Lake Tahoe does.” - Mark Berry

“Heavenly is just what it says it is. The ski area is great, from wide, groomed runs and steep mogul fields to, as they say in the USA, some awesome powder off piste. The ski school was fantastic [...] We loved our time there, and we will be looking to go back again next year for another awesome ski holiday.” - Debbie Turnbull

10 nights in Heavenly including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £1,100 and £1,700 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. Purchase the Tahoe Value Pass for £448 for unlimited skiing in Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood (date restrictions apply).

Terrain: 58% advanced / 31% intermediates / 11% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Ridge Run, Liz’s, California Trail

Breckenridge isn’t just one of North America’s most iconic ski resorts - it’s also one of the highest! With a base at 9,600 ft (2,926m) and a summit pushing 13,000 ft (3,962m), you’ll be skiing among the clouds in seriously good snow that sticks around until mid-May.

Spread across five linked peaks, intermediates can blast down mellow cruisers to steeper, leg-burning reds. And with so many trails to choose from, there’s always a new run to tackle - and new muscles to discover in your legs.

While skiing in Breckenridge with her family in March 2024, Chloe says, “In my opinion, the best runs are the long blue groomers on the top of the Mercury Superchair. My top tip would be building confidence here before heading to the beautiful black diamonds on the top of peak 10 for some great intermediate advanced terrain. My favourite lift has to be the Imperial Superchair for the incredible valley views at a whopping 13,000 ft before you descend into the front bowls carving through the fresh powder.”

If you're just skiing Breck, then the Summit Value Pass is best (or Keystone Plus Pass if skiing in April) and daily shuttles open access to nearby Keystone. But if you're hungry for more and looking to explore nearby resorts like Vail and Beaver Creek, the Epic Local or Summit Value Pass gives you great flexibility and value. Breckenridge also has the fun Ski with a Ranger program, a free way to explore the mountain while learning about local wildlife and the area’s eco-efforts.

Off the slopes, Breck is a proper, historic mining town where real locals live, work, and après. So expect charming streets, a laid-back vibe, and more than a few cowboy hats.

Chloe says, “I always make sure to catch a local hockey game at the ice rink when I’m in town. The vibe is incredible, and tickets are super affordable. Alternatively, I highly recommend taking a tour of the distillery, you get lots of free samples and a great break from the slopes!”

“Breckenridge is one of the best, if not the best, ski resort we have been to over the years. The skiing is great, wonderful slopes and amazing bowls to explore and play in. The town is just awesome, incredibly pretty with lots of bars and restaurants and really friendly people. Would move there in a heartbeat! [...]” - Nadia Mongelli

“Never fails to live up to expectations - something for everyone on the vast slopes. Genuine old town atmosphere with a wide range of shops, restaurants and leisure facilities. Excellent transportation system. No one will be disappointed on the slopes.” - Frances Jones

10 nights in Breckenridge including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £2,000 and £2,800 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. Purchase the Summit Value Pass for £499 for unlimited skiing in Breckenridge and Keystone (date restrictions apply).

For downhill sliders, is a match made in intermediate heaven. Just a short two-hour flight away, its resorts offer immaculately groomed wide, quiet pistes, surprisingly good off-piste and reliable snow all season - what more could you want?

Just a short two-hour flight away, Norway is a match made in intermediate heaven. With resorts offering immaculately groomed wide, quiet pistes, surprisingly good off-piste and reliable snow all season - what more could you want?

Skiing is deeply ingrained in Norway’s national identity and remains a part of daily life - as the saying goes, Norwegians are “born with skis on their feet”, so it’s no surprise that the country dominates the Winter Olympic medal table.

So why not take lessons in the country that invented the sport? Instructors in Norway are friendly, speak perfect English, and are proud to share their beautiful and exciting ski areas.

Plus, the resorts are thoughtfully designed, making it easy for large groups to split up and meet up easily at the base. For those wanting to improve their skills, skiing off-piste is a popular and safe option in Norway’s open terrain. Intermediates can confidently dip off-piste without feeling isolated or at risk. The pisted runs are often just a turn away!

Terrain: 20% advanced / 55% intermediates / 25% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: World Cup Course, red Tealøypa route

Voss has churned out more Olympic medal-winning athletes than anywhere else on the planet - so expect some seriously impressive skiing!

With 24 varied slopes, intermediates can glide, carve, and occasionally humble themselves across terrain that’s perfect for building confidence. And thanks to the high-speed Voss Gondol, you’ll be whisked from charming town centre to snowy summit in under 10 minutes - faster than it takes to find your other glove.

Sales Specialist Alec says, “Voss has to be one of the most engaging ski areas around. On a clear day, it’s hard to beat the views from Slettafjellet peak! Hit the legendary Storslalåmløypa giant slalom course, where you can channel your inner Olympian (or just try to get down in one piece). The accessible off-piste here creates a playground-like feeling that is sure to bring a smile to your face. If you want to elevate your skiing, Wild Voss offer beginner to expert ski touring packages, which was by far the most enjoyable day on the snow I’ve ever had!”

At the top, Hangurstoppen has everything you need to get started: rentals, ski schools, and lockers. Head to the Slettafjell T-bar for a stash of red runs - ideal for intermediate dabblers who want to boost their carving game.

“Amazing off-piste playground with a wide variety of terrain in a scenic setting. [...] There’s so much hidden away here, it's just magic.” - Huw Griffiths

“Voss is a fabulous family resort. The ski school, ski hire and main Gondola are all located together. There's plenty of good skiing for everyone from beginners to off-piste keen skiers. Easy to get around and back in time for ski school pick up. Nice long, fun ski lessons for the children, and friendly instructors.” - Suja Moore

7 nights in Voss including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £750 and £1,200 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 6-day adult Voss lift pass costs between £168 and £234.

Terrain: 35% advanced / 40% intermediates / 25% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Olympiabakken, Red Run 26, Red Run 23.

For intermediates keen to perfect their slalom turns, Kvitfjell’s uncrowded runs are an absolute dream.

Norway & Sweden Product Manager Andy Hemingway says, “Kvitfjell has amazing terrain for intermediates to stretch their legs. Kvitfjell is one of few resorts in the world that has been built from scratch to Olympic standard as the host of the 1994 Winter Games downhill. As a result, the resort benefits from a modern lift infrastructure and slopes that flow through the resort.

Kvitfjell remains off the radar, so you’ll enjoy quiet slopes and minimal queuing (if at all). It’s also one of Norway’s most snow-sure resorts - no small feat in a country already known for its reliable snow! On the mountain, you’ll find excellent dining options that blend modern and traditional styles, with equally high standards reflected in the accommodation.”

Kvitfjell’s three distinct areas - Varden, Kvitfjell Vest, and the original Olympic side - offer wide, well-groomed slopes, scenic tree-lined cruisers, and gentle off-piste zones that are perfect for building your skills and confidence.

Scenic, peaceful, and ideal for progression, this resort offers serious snow reliability and is often the first resort to open and the last to close in the season.

We recommend taking in the panoramic views of Gudbrandsdalen and Jotunheimen National Park as you ski, then refuel at cosy mountain cabins like Tyrihanstunetor try out a seasonal menu at Gondolen Fjellbistro.

“We thoroughly enjoyed the skiing in Kvitfjell. The snow is good and you can find everything to suit your mood, from steep and challenging through to glorious cruising. There are a number of cute and quirky places to stop for hot drinks and a snack too. [...] It never felt too busy and we soon learnt where to go to have the slopes virtually to ourselves.” - Chris Tomlinson

“Kvitfjell is a perfect family resort - incredibly quiet it has plenty to keep you entertained for a weeks skiing. The pistes are mostly intermediate, open groomed runs but because it's so quiet you can really enjoy fast carving if you are a more experienced skier. It means families can ski together on most runs, and the ski-in hotel is literally that, bang in the middle of the mountain.” - Andrew D

7 nights in Kvitfjell including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £875 and £1,800 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 6-day adult Kvitfjell lift pass costs between £231 and £311.

Terrain: 15% advanced / 45% intermediates / 40% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Black Run 18, Red Run 15, Green Run 14

With a ski area that spans across three peaks - Fjellheisen, Skipsfjell, and Vatnedalheisen - Gausta offers reliable snow, zero lift queues and over 50% of its terrain is perfectly suited to intermediates and offers some of Norway’s most exciting terrain.

Marketing Executive Rollo says, “Gausta holds the key to some excellent skiing for intermediates. Red run 15 is the perfect groomer, with steepness to satisfy speedsters, but enough width for the less confident. Black run 18 will be a favourite for those who’ve nailed carving, while Green run 14 shouldn’t be discounted - plenty of twists and turns against an incredible backdrop. The best part? All three of these runs lead down to the same chair lift, so you can lap them as many times as you like!”

For those ready to push their limits, the black run Svart’n offers a real challenge, or for a playful change of pace, there are two mini snow parks and mellow freeride zones.

But the real adventure lies at Gaustatoppen, reached via a Cold War-era funicular railway inside the mountain. This experience is unlike anything else in Europe - the train tunnels deep into the rock before climbing to 1,883 m, where panoramic views stretch across one-sixth of Norway.

There’s a historic Turisthytte lodge where you can stop for fresh waffles. You can either ride the funicular down, or take on Norway’s arguably most scenic and exhilarating descent with a guide - a ’must do’ on a powder day!

Back in the resort, and for a great post-ski snack, we can never resist the fresh pastries on our visits! If you’re looking for fine dining, the Blikk Brasserie features star chefs throughout the season and delivers exquisite flavours for all, making it a widely popular hotspot for foodies.

“Gausta is a lovely mix of mainly wooded runs with some beautiful views across the mountain. We love skiing there with quiet slopes even in half term. Well-groomed pistes plus good off-piste through the trees. Great for intermediate skiers and above.” - Ellen Turtle

“An excellent resort. An easy journey to get there and gorgeous snow when we did. Everyone was friendly and helpful and the atmosphere was cosy. A gorgeous place and one we’d certainly go back to.” - Samantha Benbow

7 nights in Gausta including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £955 and £1,800 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. A 6-day adult Gausta lift pass costs between £246 and £254.

Japan often gets typecast as a playground for powder-hungry pros - but trust us, that’s only half the story. While it does boast some of the deepest, driest snow on the planet, it also serves up terrain that’s mellow, magical, and perfect for intermediates.

Add in sweeping views of snow-capped volcanoes and steaming onsen baths waiting at the bottom, and you've got a ski trip that’s equal parts dreamy and doable.

Terrain: 30% advanced / 40% intermediates / 30% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Riesen Slalom Course (Happo-one), Route 1 (Hakuba-47), Route 8 into Route 7 at Goryu

Set in the stunning Japanese Alps, Hakuba links ten ski resorts (yes, ten!) on one lift pass, all connected by shuttles or a short drive. It’s a brilliant setup for skiers and boarders who want more than just a handful of runs - there’s so much to explore here, and it’s all included.

Intermediates will thrive in the main resort, Happo-One (pronounced Happo On-ay), which has loads of wide, confidence-boosting reds and more challenging pistes to build up to. It’s also the best place to base yourself, with the most accommodation, ski school, and après options.

Sales Consultant Andy Evans lived in Japan for five years and regularly recommends Hakuba to intermediates looking to test out the world-famous snow conditions of the Japan Alps. He says, “With 10 ski areas all covered under the same lift pass and linked by regular shuttle buses, Hakuba has something for everyone! My top tip for intermediate skiers is the Goryu/Hakuba 47 area, which offers long, cruisy runs that start on a high plateau and wind down through the trees into the valley. The world-class snow conditions and incredible views of the Japan Alps are guaranteed to boost confidence and put a huge smile on your face!”

Hakuba47’s terrain park is one of Japan’s best, and on powder days, we recommend heading to Cortina for legendary tree skiing.

After a day of skiing, soak in a steaming onsen or try local sushi at Kikyo-ya. For any rest days or a non-ski activity, visit the snow monkeys for a unique off-mountain experience or visit other cultural attractions in the local area, including a temple and sake brewery.

“Happo One in the Hakuba Valley has all you need for a ski trip. Easy access to numerous other ski areas. [...] The skiing was great, tons of snow and good quality hire gear meant it didn't take long to get our ski legs! Wide, wide tree-lined pistes, stunning. So pleased we added a week of skiing [...] it made the trip of a lifetime all the more special. Would we go back? In a heartbeat, Japan is like nowhere else, and we loved it!” - Alex Horsfall

“An excellent number of areas to ski in and abundant snow whilst we were there. Easy to reach and lovely people facilitating all aspects of the ski resort” - Helen Facer

10 nights in Hakuba including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £? and £? per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. An 8-day adult Hakuba lift pass costs £516.

Terrain: 30% advanced / 43% intermediates / 27% beginners

Our favourite intermediate runs: Strawberry Fields, Utopia, Junkyard

As Japan’s most famous ski and snowboard resort, Niseko delivers some of the fluffiest and deepest snow on the planet, with up to 14 metres falling each season. So get ready for powder days you’ll never forget!

Product & Sales Specialist Abbie says, “Niseko’s groomed runs are fantastic for intermediates wanting to progress. For the quietest slopes, take the top lifts and drop over to Annupuri resort, where the wide, long pistes funnel down to the main gondola. You can experiment with easily accessible, well-spaced tree sections to practice your turns. Book a Resort Powder Discovery guide for the Niseko area, and they will take you on an adventure to the best local spots. Ski the best in-bounds off piste under the knowledgeable supervision of the professional Whiteroom guiding.”

With four connected ski areas - Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village and Annupuri - all on one lift pass, there’s plenty of terrain to explore. Cruise down world-class tree runs (our favourite is Strawberry Fields in Hanazono), tackle ungroomed bowls, or book guided tours to try out some backcountry.

Just an hour away, Rusutsu makes the perfect day trip from Niseko for skiers and boarders craving fresh powder, excellent tree skiing, and peaceful runs away from the busier Niseko crowds. In this resort you’ll find diverse terrain on two mountains linked by a gondola that is ideal for intermediates wanting to explore new challenges.

Abbie says, “Rusutsu has unbelievable tree runs on a powder day, and you can lap fresh lines all day over the East side of the mountain and cruise through Heavenly Canyon. Only a 40-minute drive from Niseko, it is an epic day trip addition.”

During your Niseko adventure, night skiing is a must - carving turns under the stars with Mount Yotei in the background is pure magic. And when the lifts stop turning, unwind in a steaming onsen, or enjoy everything from sushi to wood-fired pizza.

“We love the versatility of Niseko for our group- from beginners to advanced it had all we could ask for! The ski school was great with small classes and great instructors. The snow quality was all it was hyped up to be!” - Erin Brennan Allan

“Niseko offers a great skiing experience which is very distinct from Europe. The snow is the key factor; it falls nearly all the time, but in a light, non-white-out way that is a joy to ski in. [...] Off-piste is far superior, with the chance to ski through trees in light, fluffy snow, most of the time. As a lifetime Trois Vallees skier, I was very happy to experience Niseko's difference.” - Michael Cutbill

10 nights in Niseko including flights, transfers and accommodation typically costs between £2,000 and £5,000 per person depending on departure dates and accommodation preferences. An 8-day adult Niseko lift pass costs between £389 and £554.

Excited by what you see, but unsure of what to do next? Request a quotation online, and our helpful team will get back to you as soon as we can. We love chatting all things skiing and snowboarding and are here to make planning easy.

While out on the slopes, we always recommend ski lessons to intermediates of all ages - even if you’re slalom-ing blues like it's nothing, you’re guaranteed to learn from the local instructors. At Ski Safari, we work with the best schools in all the resorts we offer. If you need more information, contact our friendly team on 01273 224060.

For more tips, stories, and inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Instagram or sign up for our newsletter for more tips and advice from our team, plus the latest photos and stories from our customers.