Choosing your accommodation

Obviously price may be an important factor when choosing your ski and snowboard holiday accommodation. However, there are a number of factors you should consider before booking your lodgings.

It is important to consider where your ski and snowboard holiday accommodation is situated in the resort.

Some accommodation is advertised as 'ski in, ski out'. This usually indicates that you can ski or board all the way to your door – if the snow conditions are right.

Look for accommodation that is close to mountain lifts that will get you to slopes. Check the lift provides access to slopes that you are capable of skiing or boarding on and if you are visiting the resort out of peak season check the lift is open.

Don't assume that all accommodation will be 'slope-side'.

The accommodation in many ski and snowboard resorts is located in towns and villages close to the slopes not necessarily directly next to the slopes. In most of these resorts a shuttle-bus will get you to and from the slopes and these busses are often free.

Even if your accommodation is relatively close to the slopes, look for accommodation located near to the shuttle-bus stops because even walking short distances in ski boots can be slippery under foot and a bit of a chore.

Check what time the last bus is with your tour operator or the local tourist information office.

If you intend spending your evenings in the resort's bars and restaurants it's might also be worth investigating the local taxi services. Walking long distances after a night out is not advisable as it can get very cold in the mountains at night.

If you intend making most of the resort's après-ski, accommodation in the centre is probably a good idea. However, if you are a light sleeper it's probably worth checking whether the local nightspot is located directly outside your room!

Summary
When choosing your accommodation think about what is important to you.

Consider the following:

• Tour operator run hotels and mixed chalets are usually quite sociable places – probably better for those looking to mix with fellow guests
• Self catering chalets and apartments offer more privacy and flexibility
• Private hotels might provide a more authentic experience of the local culture
• The quality of accommodation varies enormously. Are you looking for luxury surroundings or will you be spending most of your time on the slopes and enjoying the après-ski?
• The size of accommodation varies enormously – bunk beds and sofa-beds are common in smaller apartments
• Check the location of your accommodation – how far are you willing to travel to the slopes each day and how are you going to get there? Remember you may be carrying your skis/boards/boots etc.
• Does your accommodation have other facilities such as a drying room and ski locker where you can securely leave your boots/boards/skis?