If you’re planning a ski holiday, snow certainty is one of the most critical factors. Nothing can replace the feeling of fresh powder under your skis, and no artificial snow can fully mimic Mother Nature’s gift. In this blog post, we’re going to take a deep dive into some of the best ski resorts from Iran to Norway, focusing on their snow certainty from November through April.
Country | Ski Resort | November ( | December (%) | January (%) | February (%) | March (%) | April (%) | Altitude (Low-High, meters) | |
Iran | Dizin | 30 | 70 | 90 | 90 | 70 | 30 | 2650 – 3600 | |
Iran | Shemshak | 30 | 70 | 90 | 90 | 70 | 30 | 2550 – 3050 | |
Iran | Tochal | 30 | 70 | 90 | 90 | 70 | 30 | 1900 – 3750 | |
Bulgaria | Bansko | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 930 – 2600 | |
Bulgaria | Borovets | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 1300 – 2300 | |
Serbia | Kopaonik | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 1100 – 2017 | |
Bosnia & Her | Jahorina | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 1200 – 1916 | |
Kosovo | Brezovica | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 900 – 2500 | |
Turkey | Palandoken | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 2200 – 3176 | |
Turkey | Uludag | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 1200 – 2500 | |
Turkey | Erciyes | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 1835 – 2917 | |
Turkey | Kartalkaya | 50 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 80 | 50 | 1850 – 2223 | |
North Korea | Masikryong | 30 | 80 | 90 | 90 | 50 | 30 | 768 – 1364 | |
India | Gulmarg | 30 | 70 | 90 | 90 | 70 | 30 | 2690 – 3980 | |
India | Auli | 30 | 70 | 90 | 90 | 70 | 30 | 2519 – 3049 | |
India | Solang Valley | 30 | 70 | 90 | 90 | 70 | 30 | 2560 – 3200 |
1. Iranian Ski Resorts: Dizin, Shemshak, and Tochal
Dizin, Shemshak, and Tochal are three prominent ski resorts in Iran. Situated at altitudes ranging from 1900 meters at Tochal to 3600 meters at Dizin, these resorts typically offer good snow certainty, especially in the heart of winter from December to February. This time period can see snow certainty rates as high as 90%.
2. Skiing in the Balkans: Bansko, Borovets, Kopaonik, Jahorina, and Brezovica
The Balkans is a hidden gem for ski enthusiasts. From Bulgaria’s Bansko and Borovets, Serbia’s Kopaonik, Bosnia & Herzegovina’s Jahorina, to Kosovo’s Brezovica, these resorts offer reliable snow certainty, often 80-90%, during the core winter months. Altitude ranges from 900 meters in Brezovica, Kosovo to 2600 meters in Bansko, Bulgaria, providing a good mix of terrains.
3. Turkish Delights: Palandoken, Uludag, Erciyes, and Kartalkaya
Turkey might not be the first country to come to mind when planning a ski trip, but its resorts are worth a look. Palandoken, Uludag, Erciyes, and Kartalkaya all offer consistent snow certainty of around 80-90% during winter. With altitudes peaking at over 3000 meters in Palandoken and Erciyes, you’re sure to find some impressive runs.
4. North Korea’s Hidden Treasure: Masikryong
While it may seem like an unconventional choice, Masikryong in North Korea is gaining attention from adventure-seekers. At 768 to 1364 meters, Masikryong offers an 80% snow certainty during December, January, and February.
5. India’s Untouched Snow: Gulmarg, Auli, and Solang Valley
Gulmarg, Auli, and Solang Valley in India are excellent choices for those seeking unique ski experiences. With altitudes stretching to nearly 4000 meters in Gulmarg and snow certainty peaking at 90% in mid-winter, it’s a paradise for powder hounds.
6. Norway’s Pride: Hemsedal
The Hemsedal ski resort in Norway offers a different experience with its impressive winter season. The resort sees excellent snowfall throughout the winter, maintaining high snow certainty rates. Boasting a high altitude, this resort is renowned for its breathtaking views and exceptional ski conditions.
In conclusion, when planning your next ski trip, keep these destinations in mind. From the peaks of Iran to the mountains of Norway, these resorts offer a wide range of experiences, all with a reliable blanket of snow. Always remember to check the resorts’ official sites or trustworthy weather sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Ski safe and enjoy the slopes!