So you’re heading to a ski resort—but you don’t ski.
Don’t be sad about it! There’s plenty more to do at a ski resort than just skiing or snowboarding.
Wellness, Wellness, Wellness
Most ski resorts have well-developed wellness programs featuring saunas, steam rooms, pools, and more. The best also offer hydrotherapy circuits, red light therapy, meditation classes, and other premium spa experiences.For travelers who won’t be skiing, this will be where you live: Embrace the wellness mentality and spend your morning hiking or walking in the cold snow, then warm up in the sauna and steam room before taking a cold plunge or—for the more adventurous—heading back out into the snow before a nice, long soak in a hot tub.
While the kids are learning to ski, take a breather to just breathe: Find a quiet place to meditate, or, if your resort offers wellness classes, dive right in!
Take a Hike
Or maybe just a leisurely stroll in the snow—it’s whatever you decide.Most ski resorts are located in incredibly scenic areas, surrounded by at least one sizable mountain and a charming town or two. When your friends or family head out to hit the slopes, get dressed up in your winter clothes and hit the trail, or hike into town to get some fresh air and some fun souvenirs.
Families with kids can make snowmen, snow angels, or go wandering along the trails. Some resorts might also have snowshoes, hiking sticks, toboggans, snow tubes, or other fun winter accessories and gear to help make the most of your snowy winter vacation—without skiing.
Take It Slow
Embrace the slow life—instead of hitting the Black Diamond, you’ll be the one in your group to cozy up to that giant fireplace in the lobby, sipping your favorite warm beverage and curling up with that book you’ve been staring at for the past three years.And why not? After all, a vacation is just that: a chance to relax, decompress, and thoroughly enjoy just being, without any expectation to perform or earn anything.
So take your time waking up in the morning. Spend some time in the wellness area. Wander around the hills or the halls. Enjoy leisurely meals, without looking at your phone or the clock.
Enjoy the Scenic Route
Ski lifts aren’t just for skiers and snowboarders ... are they? If you’re heading to a ski resort, there might be a chance that there’s something at the top of those hills. Whether it be a restaurant or a fun lookout point, take a lift up to see what’s there, or practice any budding photography skills you might have.Lastly: Learn to Ski?
If you are able-bodied and simply don’t know how to ski, heading to a ski resort is the perfect opportunity to learn!Ski resorts typically provide opportunities for engagement from childhood to adulthood, offering experiences for everyone to learn to ski or test themselves with different levels of difficulty.
If you’re not familiar with skiing, consider booking a session with one of the guides or teachers. You might just find that the right instructor and several hours of practice really boost both your confidence and your skills. And who knows? You might find a new love.
