When planning a winter holiday or ski holiday, most people don’t necessarily think of the Czech Republic as the first destination. The country is an excellent alternative to the winter sports areas in the Alps. The Czech Republic is criss-crossed by several low mountain ranges, which are suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers. The country has also invested a lot of money in lifts and the general tourist infrastructure in the mountains in recent decades. Most of the slopes in the almost 200 ski areas belong to the red and blue categories and can therefore be classified as easy or moderately difficult.
The great child-friendliness of the Czechs is now known and special emphasis is placed on ensuring that the country is and remains attractive as a travel destination for families. Most ski resorts are only between 600 and 1200 m high, but due to the climatic conditions, the snow conditions in the eastern part of Europe are often excellent even at lower altitudes. Depending on the respective snow conditions, the slopes are usually open from the beginning of December to mid-April.
Which ski resorts are there in the Czech Republic?
The most internationally famous winter sports resort in the country is the cozy Špinlerův Mlýn (Špindlerův Mlýn) in the Giant Mountains. The ski area around the highest peak, Medv̌edín, is located at an altitude of between 715 and 1310 m. There are 17 lifts and 27 km of well-developed downhill slopes, 92% of which can be artificially snowed. So there is no risk that skiing on holiday will have to be cancelled due to a lack of snow.
The slopes around the small town of Špindlerův Mlýn are pleasantly wide and attractive and allow wonderfully wide views of the Giant Mountains. Even professional skiers have 2 km of difficult slopes at their disposal and cross-country skiers are also catered for in the region, as a well-maintained trail system of more than 90 km in length runs through the beautiful forests. Snowboarders and freestylers can try out their new jumps and tricks in the fun park at the mountain station, and the largest halfpipe in the Czech Republic in Hromovka awaits thrill-loving athletes. The equipment of the snow park with the mogul and wave slopes guarantees a lot of fun.
In addition to the most famous and modern ski area in the country, many idyllically situated villages in the Šumava Mountains, the Orlické and Jeseníky Mountains and the Beskydy Mountains also offer pure snow fun. They may not be as sophisticated as Davos and St. Moritz, but they are certainly no less attractive for a successful winter holiday with family or friends.
Other popular activities on a winter holiday in the Czech Republic
Many places have long toboggan runs and snow tubing runs. In this new trend, the slope is slid down on large rubber tires. Fun and entertainment for all ages are guaranteed in the Czech Republic and are financially much cheaper than in most other areas. The child-friendliness of the country is also reflected in the fact that the ski lifts can often be used free of charge by children up to 6 years of age and that ski courses for the offspring can be booked inexpensively both in groups and as individual lessons.
The gentle hills of the Czech low mountain ranges are perfect terrain for children and beginners. Some of the smaller ski resorts, such as Razula in Moravian Wallachia, Lipno in South Bohemia and Špǐcák in Šumava, have been particularly geared towards younger guests. Often, there are also exciting alternatives, such as indoor playgrounds where the kids can let off steam.
To ensure that you don’t get bored, guided snowshoe hikes or ski tours are also part of the local organisers’ offers in many areas. Both are ideal ways to get some exercise in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery. If you prefer to be driven, you can also take part in a romantic sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests – an activity that inspires holidaymakers of all ages alike. Even non-skiers can experience fantastic holidays in the Czech Republic and try something new and unusual like ice fishing and dog sledding. The country has also been known for centuries for its glass industry. It is worth planning a visit to a glassblowing workshop or a glass museum in between.
If you are interested in a winter holiday in the Czech Republic, there is a wide range of accommodation for every taste. The range extends from simple private rooms to guesthouses and high-class hotels in the 4-star category to holiday apartments and holiday homes, which are also very suitable for families.
At higher altitudes, the typical mountain huts, called chalets, have enjoyed great popularity in recent years. Especially for larger groups, these accommodations, which are often located in the immediate vicinity of the slopes, offer many advantages.
The price-performance ratio for a winter holiday in the Czech Republic is very good. If you also appreciate a family atmosphere and friendly hosts, you will certainly be thrilled with your stay. Even if the après-ski program is not quite as exciting as in some Alpine resorts, there are still nice restaurants and pubs all over the country where the evening can end pleasantly and entertainingly with Czech beer or Jagertee .
