Where to Ski And Snowboard - Banff voted top ski resort by Crystal

Banff voted top ski resort by Crystal

3rd May 2013, by Abi Butcher

Banff has it all: jaw-dropping views and skiing for everyone

BANFF in Canada has been voted best overall ski resort by Crystal Ski customers. The resort topped the poll for its convenience, “jaw-dropping” views, unlimited skiing for any ability and “incredible ski schools to boot”.

Crystals says Banff “is commonly criticised for its convenience but we don’t think it’s too much of a problem. The buses to the slopes work like clockwork, and if one bus fills up (and by that we mean the seats, no one ever has to stand) then they’ll put on an additional bus, following right behind. It couldn’t be easier and as you are in one of the most beautiful spots in the Canadian Rockies, your journey to the slopes will pass jaw dropping mountain ranges.”

Read our latest blog on Banff by WTSS reader Tanya Booth.

Second most popular resort this season is the chocolate box village of Selva in Italy, for its “incredibly varied” skiing, great après-ski. Third is another Canadian resort, Whistler, for its massive terrain, consistent snow and village with “great après, night life and restaurants to die for”. Crystal Ski holiday makers think Whistler has “the whole package”.

Grindelwald in Switzerland has been voted the fourth best ski resort this season, with 200km of “sublime” pistes, views of the Eiger and a pretty village offering great value for money. In fifth place is Zürs in Austria, for its pretty and exclusive town, modern and efficient lift system, “superb on-mountain dining” and consistent snow record.

Best ski resort for overall value this season is Kranjska Gora in Slovenia — which Crystal ski says quite simply offers the best value for money this year compared to any other Eurozone country in Central Europe “and has real quality to boot”. In second place is the ever-popular Borovets and, third Bansko, both in Bulgaria, St Wolfgang and then Alpbach in Austria.

Voted top resort for no queues this year is the ski-in, ski-out village of Hochgurgl in Austria, followed by Gressoney in Italy, lesser-known neighbour to Champoluc and part of the Monterosa ski area. In third place is La Thuile and then Claviere, both also in Italy. In fifth and final place is Ruka, Finland, which is also gets top votes for beginners, families and kids ski school.