World-Class Ski Destinations You Can Visit All Year Round

Ski resorts aren’t just for winter anymore. From former Winter Olympic venues to emerging adventure hubs, many ski destinations across the globe now offer unforgettable experiences year-round. Yes, we are going to give you a rundown of the best ski destinations you can visit all year round, with or without your skis!

For adventure seeking travellers, this means more freedom, more flexibility, and more ways to explore, without being tied to one season.

And of course, when your trip involves changing plans, new activities, or longer stays, having the right travel insurance in place gives you that all-important peace of mind, wherever the journey takes you.

Quick Reference: Global Snow Calendar

Planning your ski trip around the best snow conditions in Canada, Japan, or Europe? Here’s when each ski destination delivers its strongest snowpack, whether you’re travelling in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere, year round.

Wherever you go, choosing travel insurance that covers winter sports and emergency medical expenses helps ensure your trip stays worry-free, even if conditions change. Travel insurance is a must when planning a trip to ski destinations you can visit all year round.

Northern Hemisphere Ski Destinations: Where Winter Meets Year-Round Adventure

Canada: Whistler, Banff & Lake Louise

Canada’s ski towns are built for adventure, and not just on snow.

In winter, Whistler and Banff are bucket-list destinations for skiing and snowboarding, catering to everyone from beginners to confident off-piste skiers. These Canadian hotspots are the perfect place if you’re weighing up terrain types and want to know the difference between on-piste vs off-piste skiing.

Outside ski season, these resorts transform into peaceful mountain escapes. Think turquoise lakes, wildlife spotting, hiking trails, and long summer evenings. Shoulder seasons often offer better value and fewer crowds. This is a perfect time to visit for travellers who want worry-free travel without peak-season pressure.

Canada is also hugely popular for working holidays and long-stay travel, especially for those combining ski seasons with casual work. We have helped countless people navigate a safe working holiday in Canada over the last 25 years. And we hope to continue that service!

Did you know? Many travellers on working holidays or extended stays need personalised cover that adapts as plans evolve, especially when mixing work, travel, and adventure activities.

Japan: Niseko & Hakuba

Japan’s reputation for world-class powder draws skiers from across the globe, but the appeal goes far beyond winter.

In warmer months, Niseko and Hakuba offer hiking, cultural festivals, stunning autumn colours, and the ultimate post-adventure reward: traditional hot springs. It’s an ideal destination for travellers who want a balance of adventure and comfort, backed by reliable medical infrastructure and easy transport.

For UK travellers heading to Japan for a focused holiday, single trip travel insurance can offer straightforward protection for winter sports, cultural travel, and everything in between.

Europe: Alpine Resorts Beyond the Ski Season

The European Alps have hosted multiple Winter Olympics, but it’s their year-round appeal that keeps travellers coming back.

In spring and summer, ski lifts open for walkers, alpine lakes replace ski runs, and mountain towns slow down. It’s a popular choice for older travellers, families, and gap year students alike — particularly those seeking reassurance, familiarity, and excellent access to healthcare.

Parents supporting younger travellers may find this guide helpful when planning longer trips:
https://www.go-walkabout.co.uk/news/gap-year-travel-a-parents-guide-2025/

Southern Hemisphere: Chasing Winter, Your Way

Chile: Portillo & Valle Nevado

Chile’s ski season runs from June to September, making it ideal for UK travellers chasing winter during the summer months.

Trips often combine skiing with wine regions, city breaks, or coastal travel. If this is your plan, you’ll need travel insurance that protects you across multiple activities and locations. In remote mountain areas, knowing you’re covered for emergency medical expenses can be the difference between stress and confidence.

New Zealand: Queenstown & Wanaka

New Zealand is made for adventure seekers. Skiing in winter gives way to hiking, road trips, and adrenaline sports year-round.

It’s especially popular with backpackers and working holidaymakers who want flexibility, freedom, and support when plans change. We are one of the UK’s leading insurers offering backpacking travel insurance, a must have as opposed to standard policies for those longer trips.

Why Ski Destinations You Can Visit All Year Round Make Sense

Travellers are increasingly choosing destinations that offer:

• Flexibility beyond one season
• Confidence to try new activities
• Better value outside peak winter
• Support when plans change

If you’re still planning a last minute ski trip this year, or perhaps you’re already thinking about next year, discover the best ski destinations this winter with Go Walkabout by your side.

Travel Insurance That Travels With You

Year-round ski destinations often involve more than skiing alone, from hiking and biking to long stays and multi-country trips.

Choosing travel insurance in the UK that offers reassurance, protection, and real-time support helps you travel with confidence, knowing help is there when you need it most.