Whether you’re tucking into traditional cuisine in an alpine restaurant or soaking up the scenes from a soothing spa, some of the best parts of a ski trip happen beyond the slopes. These resorts are ready and waiting to welcome non-skiers with open arms and an A-Z of activities.

Tignes, France

Fly to Chambery

Sure, 300km of slopes might be Tignes’ main draw, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy the mountain magic, without ever strapping on a pair of skis. Buy a pedestrian lift pass and you can ride the funicular to the top of the Grande Motte glacier, which sits at 3,400m. Why not stay for a spot of lunch at Le Panoramic restaurant? There’s a spacious sun terrace for soaking up the rays, and a menu which includes homemade pasta and classic French fare. And don’t even get us started on those Mont Blanc views. It’s easy to get your adrenalin fix here too, thanks to outdoor pursuits like snowmobiling, snow tubing and dog sledding.  

Kitzbühel, Austria

Fly to Innsbruck

It won’t take you long to see why this resort got the nickname ‘Glitzy Kitz’, once you spy the selection of high-end bars and boutiques. Spend your afternoons pottering around Prada, Swarovski and Louis Vuitton or check out the local shops for handmade crafts and regional delights. Wellness is big business, so once you’re all shopped out, take your pick of the swish spas. A-ROSA Kitzbühel offers day and evening passes to its on-site spa, complete with a sauna, fitness studio and indoor pool. It’s easy to make day trips by train to Salzburg and Innsbruck too.

Chamonix, France

Fly to Geneva

One of the oldest resorts in France, Chamonix has been dishing out alpine adventures since the 1800s. Whizz up to 3,842m on the Aiguille du Midi cable car and drink in the views across the Alps. Feeling brave? Take on the Step into the Void experience, a glass box which dangles over the side of the mountain. Another activity to add to the agenda is a ride on the Montenvers railway. It’ll take you to the Mer de Glace, France’s largest glacier. Inside, you’ll find a man-made wonderland of ice sculptures and caves, which are re-carved every winter.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Fly to Geneva

Dominated by the stunning silhouette of the Matterhorn, Zermatt’s arguably one of the most beautiful resorts in Europe. There’s as much to do off the slopes as on them, so it’s one to pop on your winter wish list! The village itself, with its vehicle-free streets and timber-clad chalets, is a joy to amble around. If you want to venture further afield, hop on the train to the 3,000m-high Gornergrat viewing platform. Winter hiking is another popular pastime, with over 40 miles of trails to discover. You could even have your own Torvill and Dean moment on one of the town’s ice rinks!

Pas de la Casa, Andorra

Fly to Barcelona

There’s no time to be bored in Andorra’s liveliest resort. Foodies have more than 70 restaurants to chomp their way around, while night owls will find a bar to suit every budget. There’s a climbing wall and swimming pool in the town’s sports centre, as well as a soft play area for little ones. When the mood to explore strikes, take the bus to the capital Andorra La Vella and make the most of the low-tax shopping. It’s also home to the luxurious Caldea spa, which offers a great range of tranquil treatments. Take a dip in the indoor and outdoor lagoons, then recline and unwind in the steam room and sauna.

Ortisei, Italy

Fly to Verona

Say buongiorno to winter bliss in Ortisei. This resort’s a photographer’s best friend, with its dramatic Dolomite scenery and Tyrolean charm. You can swap moguls for massages at the Mar Dolomit, the town’s aquatic and wellness centre. With 11 different saunas, an indoor and outdoor pool and a Turkish bath, you’re sure to leave feeling zen. If culture’s more your thing, you can learn about the town’s traditions at the Val Gardena Heritage Museum. On an evening, why not jump on the bus to nearby Selva and watch the local ice hockey team?