12 Strangest Ski Resorts You Won’t Believe Exist

12 Strangest Ski Resorts You Won’t Believe Exist” showcases a collection of bizarre and unconventional ski destinations around the world that defy expectations and offer an unforgettable skiing experience. When we consider ski hotels, we often photo snow-capped mountains, relaxed chalets, and picturesque villages. But, there are a few ski motels around the sector that defy convention and push the boundaries of what we keep in mind “every day.” From ski accommodations inside the center of deserts to ones built on energetic volcanoes, those strange and uncommon locations will leave you amazed and keen to hit the slopes.
These unconventional ski hotels offer a unique combination of natural splendor, journey, and from time to time, a touch of weirdness. Whether you’re a pro skier or simply searching out a brand new enjoy, those motels promise to supply an unforgettable revel in. So, if you’re prepared to undertake off the overwhelmed path and discover the peculiar and unknown, then be a part of us on this journey to the 12 strangest ski accommodations you won’t accept as true with exist.
Best place where you get all about the ice skating is The New Ski website. From the surreal landscapes of Iran to the futuristic slopes of Japan, we will take you on a tour of the most bizarre and charming ski inns in the world. Get prepared to discover the unexpected, the unusual, and the simply undeniable bizarre. Let’s dive into the top 12 strangest ski resorts. It is a good way to go away from questioning the entirety of your notion you knew about snowboarding.
Now, let’s flow on to describing the 12 strangest ski motels! Please provide me with the names of the motels or I can suggest some and we can continue with writing approximately each one.
Contents
- 1 Number 12: Masikryong, North Korea
- 2 Number 11: Mauna Kea, Hawaii
- 3 Number 10: Bamyan, Afghanistan
- 4 Number 9: Oukaïmeden, Morocco
- 5 Number 8: Mt. Etna, Sicily
- 6 Number 7: Tiffindell, South Africa
- 7 Number 6: Mt. Hermon, Israel
- 8 Number 5: Cerro Castor, Argentina
- 9 Number 4: Chacaltaya Glacier, Bolivia
- 10 Number 3: Zermatt, Switzerland
- 11 Number 2: Yabuli International Ski Resort, China
- 12 Number 1: Gulmarg, India
Number 12: Masikryong, North Korea
Our adventure begins in the most unexpected of places: North Korea. It’s hardly the first country that comes to mind when thinking of a ski destination! Yet nestled deep within the rugged Taebaek Mountains near Wonsan on the eastern coast lies Masikryong Ski Resort, a luxurious winter playground brought to life by Kim Jong Un himself. This extravagant project was fueled by the leader’s fascination with the Swiss ski resorts he experienced during his youth, where he indulged in chocolate while studying abroad.
Driven by this nostalgia, Kim Jong Un commanded his military construction teams to complete Masikryong in a mere 10 months—a pace they proudly dubbed “Masikryong speed.” With over 15 miles of ski runs that are often deserted, this could be the most solitary ski resort in the world. In North Korea due to intense clod you need Ski Base Layers to keep warm. Visitors can ascend the slopes via high-speed lifts imported from Austria and take in the breathtaking mountain views. But don’t let your guard down; the sound of state propaganda music echoing across the slopes is a stark reminder of where you are.
As a foreign visitor, you will be under steady surveillance through government minders, so it’s sensible to stay well-mannered and compliant. The resort gives a mix of skiing reviews, from amateur slopes to an intimidating double black diamond magnate run for thrill-seekers. However, be cautious not to stray from the special trails, because the vigilant ski patrol is ever-watchful—no longer only for protection, but possibly for any signs of dissent. After a day on the slopes, you may retreat to the Masikryong Hotel, a hanging eleven-story construction with over a hundred and twenty rooms, an indoor pool, and even a karaoke bar. Modeled after Swiss chalets with wooden-paneled rooms and marble flooring, the hotel’s luxury is overshadowed by the unsettling sense of being monitored.
As you unwind in the Swiss-themed restaurants, sipping cocktails or enjoying fondue, the emptiness of the hotel is palpable—often devoid of other tourists, except for ever-present government guides and reserved resort staff. The eerie atmosphere is in sharp contrast to the impoverished North Korean countryside that lies just beyond the resort’s fortified perimeter. If you’re looking for a truly unique and bizarre ski experience and are willing to overlook the ethical implications, Masikryong offers a ski vacation like no other. Just don’t forget to bow to the statues of the Kims and keep your smile in place—this is a ski resort like no other on Earth.
Number 11: Mauna Kea, Hawaii
Skiing on the dormant volcano of Mauna Kea in Hawaii is an as soon-as-in-a-lifetime experience, however, its rugged terrain and high-altitude conditions make it an impressive mission. With no ski patrol, lifts, or centers, this is natural backcountry skiing in one of the planet’s most extreme environments. Standing at a towering thirteen,796 feet, the air is dangerously skinny, and altitude sickness can set in quickly. The weather is similarly unpredictable, with fierce winds and unexpected whiteouts making the steep volcanic slopes in particular hazardous.
Despite the sunny skies, UV exposure is excessive as the tropical daylight bounces off the snow, so don’t forget your goggles and excessive SPF sunblock. The snow itself, referred to as “pineapple powder,” has a spring-like texture, however, watch out for hidden rocks below the surface which are infamous for unfavorable skis. Since there aren’t any lifts, you’ll want a dependable driver to travel you back to the pinnacle after each run, or be prepared to hike up yourself. The risks are real, however, the thrill of carving down a Hawaiian volcano beneath the brilliant sun is an adrenaline rush like no different!
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Number 10: Bamyan, Afghanistan
Our subsequent prevent takes us on an unforgettable ski adventure to the snow-covered slopes of Bamyan, Afghanistan. Nestled inside the coronary heart of the Hindu Kush mountains, Bamyan once offered a serene getaway from the turmoil elsewhere, with its far-flung place making sure that the powder remained untouched.
Skiing here was as raw and authentic as it gets—no groomed trails, just vast, open mountaintops waiting to be explored. From the peaks, you could gaze down at valleys dotted with remote villages before carving through the dry, pristine powder all the way to the base.
The journey to Bamyan was well worth it for both the exhilarating skiing and the warm hospitality of the locals—at least, it was before the Taliban regained control. The local community had embraced skiing not only for the thrill but also for the economic opportunities brought by ski tourism. The Afghan Ski Challenge, an event that attracted international attention, saw adventurous tourists competing against determined local skiers, some of whom trained on homemade wooden skis. While luxury was scarce, the breathtaking views of the Hindu Kush peaks more than compensated.
For experienced skiers seeking unmatched scenery and a deep cultural experience in a place few have explored, Bamyan’s snow-capped slopes delivered something truly extraordinary. Up next, we’ll be taking you down the fiery, erupting slopes of one of Europe’s most active volcanoes—but first, let’s head to North Africa.
Number 9: Oukaïmeden, Morocco
Perched high in the Atlas Mountains, just a 45-minute force from Marrakesh, lies the hidden gem of Oukaïmeden Ski Resort. This tranquil wintry weather retreat gives a clean escape from Morocco’s sweltering warmness and dusty plains. At an elevation of eight,500 feet, the lodge is protected by over 6 feet of tender, powdery snow every season. With the best ski lifts, Oukaïmeden is a small, comfortable lodge with a charming, laid-returned ecosystem.
The scenery is stunning, with cedar forests lining the slopes and Barbary sheep roaming the mountainsides. In ice skating Slow Down and Speed Control is very necessary. After a day at the slopes, you can unwind in traditional Moroccan fashion—loosen up your muscle tissues inside the steaming hammams of Marrakesh, then experience a relaxing cup of sweet mint tea and a shisha pipe. Oukaïmeden masterfully blends the fun of snowboarding with rich Moroccan tradition.
As one of the few ski motels on the African continent, Oukaïmeden may not be flashy, but its far-off place and strong feel of the community offer an actual cultural revel that’s really particular.
Number 8: Mt. Etna, Sicily
For an unforgettable volcanic skiing journey, look no in addition to the fiery slopes of Mt. Etna in Sicily. Standing tall at 10,900 feet, Etna is Europe’s largest energetic volcano, making it one of the maximum exhilarating ski destinations in the world. But be prepared for the surprise—eruptions can now and again send ash drifting throughout the mountainside, and the prospect of flying lava bombs provides a further thrill to enjoy.
The primary hotels, Nicolosi and Piano Provenzana provide a range of runs from beginner-pleasant slopes to extra hard terrain, all lined with ancient lava flows. Keep an eye fixed out for rising smoke plumes—when you see one, it is probably time to pick out up velocity and outpace the falling ash! With sparse crowds, you’ll have masses of room to carve down the slopes even as taking inside the stunning, unspoiled perspectives of Sicily.
On clear days, you can see all the way to the beaches and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea from the mountain’s summit. The skiing right here is as numerous as the landscape itself, with options to drift through evergreen forests or across stark volcanic terrain. After an afternoon at the slopes, treat yourself to Sicilian wines and cuisine, rich with flavors from the fertile volcanic soil. Mt. Etna masterfully combines breathtaking scenery with a daring, off-the-beaten-course skiing enjoy like no different. If you crave formidable adventures and volcanic snow, Sicily’s fiery height is watching for you.
Number 7: Tiffindell, South Africa
Our next vacation spot takes us to the slopes of South Africa’s most effective ski inn. Tucked away inside the Drakensberg Mountains, Tiffindell offers a snowy retreat in one of the most sudden locations. Sitting at an elevation of 8,900 ft, it proudly holds the name of the very best ski resort in Africa. While natural snowstorm is restricted to just about 2 ft every wintry weather, the lodge is based on artificial snowmaking to stay open between June and August.
The snowboarding at Tiffindell is simple, with just a few quick runs and minimum vertical drop, which may also go away professional skiers trying extra. Though it is able to not a pinnacle-tier skiing destination, Tiffindell’s appeal lies in its strong point as the sole ski resort in South Africa and one of the few across the complete continent.
Stay tuned as we discover a deserted inn that when held the file for the very best elevation inside the globe. Discover why skiing there may be now not possible. But first, we’re heading to the Middle East!
Number 6: Mt. Hermon, Israel
Transport yourself to the snow-blanketed slopes of Mt. Hermon in Israel, in which you will locate the U.S’s maximum height at 9,232 toes, rising above the Golan Heights near the Syrian and Lebanese borders. This particular and strategic region makes Mt. Hermon a in reality exceptional skiing destination.
The Mount Hermon Ski Resort gives 14 runs spread throughout greater than 20 miles of expansive terrain. Ride the scenic gondola to the summit, where you can choose between properly groomed cruiser runs or explore the backcountry. But be cautious—now not venturing too far off the targeted trails is critical, as you could inadvertently discover yourself in a restrained navy area!
While the ski season typically runs from January to March, snowfall isn’t always a sure thing. The mountain’s remote location brings unpredictable weather, with sudden whiteouts often sweeping down from Syria. Additionally, the lifts may close if tensions rise along the border. This is a landscape deeply influenced by its sensitive geopolitical position. If you’re looking for a ski experience that blends adventure with culture and history, Mount Hermon offers something truly unique. For an only-in-Israel skiing adventure, Mt. Hermon is an unforgettable destination.
Number 5: Cerro Castor, Argentina
Situated alongside the Beagle Channel in Ushuaia, Argentina, Cerro Castor proudly holds the identity of the southernmost ski inn on earth. This faraway gem is located near the aptly named “End of the World,” supplying a skiing revel in like no different. The lodge’s southwest orientation ensures a regular supply of clean powder, making for unprecedented snow exceptional.
Cerro Castor’s sixteen lifts provide admission to over 25 runs suitable for all skill ranges, offering extensive open bowls, tree-covered glades, and a terrain park serviced by means of high-speed quads. But what definitely sets Cerro Castor aside are the breathtaking views—observing the icy channel in the direction of Chile is an enjoyment that no other resort can fit. After an afternoon at the slopes, loosen up in the comfy mountain eating places with lovely vistas.
The vibrant city of Ushuaia, just half an hour away, gives great eating and nightlife options. With a protracted ski season from June to October, Cerro Castor is a haven for skiers inside the Southern Hemisphere. For the ones looking for an adventurous and exceptional ski vacation spot, Cerro Castor is an absolute must.
Number 4: Chacaltaya Glacier, Bolivia
High within the Bolivian Andes, the remnants of what became as soon as the sector’s maximum ski hotel now stands deserted. Chacaltaya Glacier ski vicinity held the wonderful record at 17,785 toes above sea level—higher than even Mount Everest’s base camp! From the 1930s to the 1980s, this ski area featured an unmarried rope tow, imparting skiers exhilarating descents down its 1/2-kilometer glacier.
For the citizens of close by La Paz, just 20 miles away, Chacaltaya became a famous weekend escape, presenting a taste of a journey close to home. However, in the early Nineteen Nineties, scientists expected a grim future for the glacier, forecasting its entire disappearance through 2015. Sadly, even that dire prediction was too positive. By 2009, after 18,000 years of existence, the glacier had melted away, forcing the ski location to shut down permanently.
Today, the simplest crumbling infrastructure and faded recollections continue to be wherein skiers as soon as amassed. The closing caretaker’s warfare to preserve this cherished relic, even as La Paz grapples with intense water scarcity due to the lack of its glacial water source. Chacaltaya’s tragic stop serves as a stark reminder of the urgent realities of weather alternate.
Number 3: Zermatt, Switzerland
Its location: Zermatt, Valais, Switzerland, Elevation: 5,276 feet (1,607 meters), Unique Factor: Skiing below the Matterhorn and yr-spherical snow
Zermatt is a world-renowned ski resort positioned in the Swiss Alps, proper at the bottom of the enduring Matterhorn mountain. It sticks out for its breathtaking alpine scenery and the opportunity to ski year-round thanks to its high elevation and considerable glacier insurance. With over two hundred miles of ski slopes and an outstanding array of centers, Zermatt caters to all ranges of skiers, from novices to superiors. The motel is car-unfastened, adding to its allure and ensuring a serene surrounding. Visitors can revel in skiing at the same time as taking inside the lovely views of the Matterhorn, and the lodge’s pricey resorts and connoisseur eating options provide top-class skiing enjoyment. Zermatt’s mixture of scenic splendor, high-altitude snow, and distinctive atmosphere make it a unique and sought-after vacation spot in the global of snowboarding.
Both Yabuli International Ski Resort and Zermatt provide specific reports that contribute to the range of particular ski destinations around the sector.
Number 2: Yabuli International Ski Resort, China
Its location: Yabuli, Heilongjiang Province, China, Elevation: 3,480 toes (1,060 meters), Unique Factor: Largest and maximum superior ski motel in China.
Yabuli International Ski Resort is the most excellent ski destination in China, boasting the country’s biggest and maximum state-of-the-art ski centers. Located in the northeastern Heilongjiang Province, this hotel stands out not only for its scale but also for its contrasts with the United States of America’s extra-normal ski locales. Yabuli’s capabilities in several runs, from amateur slopes to challenging black diamonds, unfold throughout 18 ski trails. The resort is ready with high-velocity lifts and gives a number of present-day amenities. Additionally, Yabuli has hosted numerous worldwide ski events and is known for its properly maintained snow and winter sports activities infrastructure. The far-off region in China’s snowy northeast affords a completely unique and great snowboarding experience, combining both Chinese hospitality and advanced snowboarding technology.
Number 1: Gulmarg, India
Perched excessively within the Himalayas, Gulmarg stands out as one of the world’s highest and most exhilarating ski resorts. Known for its wonderful blizzard—about 26 toes each season—and predominantly ungroomed terrain, it’s a powder haven that draws professional skiers and snowboarders from around the world. Situated deep within the rugged Indian Himalayas, Gulmarg’s breathtaking landscape contrasts with its pretty modest infrastructure in comparison to Western ski resorts.
Access to this mythical terrain is supplied by two gondolas on Mt. Apharwat. The Phase 1 gondola services amateur slopes, even as Phase 2 ascends to 13,000 feet, providing intense in-bounds and stale-piste runs. Adventurous skiers can discover chutes, bowls, and cliffs, with numerous opportunities for hiking to discover fresh turns.
Vital part of skating to protect your body important parts such as wearing Ski Helmet protect your heading during game. Gulmarg boasts a wealthy nearby ski way of life, with skilled Kashmiri publications and patrollers who have an intimate knowledge of the mountain and its snow conditions. Hiring a local guide is essential for appropriately navigating the various terrain and maximizing your snowboarding enjoyment. The huge blizzard here creates deep powder conditions that surpass maximum hotels worldwide, establishing Gulmarg as a real powder paradise.
In addition to global-class snowboarding, Gulmarg offers a completely unique cultural experience with its vibrant markets and flavorful delicacies. However, ability challenges consisting of excessive altitude, occasional political unrest, and confined infrastructure can also make it a chunk rough around the edges. Despite these factors, Gulmarg remains a pinnacle vacation spot for adventurous skiers in search of both interesting terrain and cultural immersion.
For thrill-seeking skiers and snowboarders in search of an extraordinary adventure amid stunning Himalayan landscapes, Gulmarg stands as India’s hidden gem. This bucket-list destination promises unforgettable experiences and tales that will be recounted for years to come.
Conclusion
From the icy expanses of North Korea to the sunlit slopes of Hawaii, and the rugged peaks of the Himalayas, those 12 strangest ski motels provide a diverse array of skiing reviews unlike every other. Each destination brings its personal specific taste to the world of iciness sports activities, whether or not it’s the surreal putting of Ski Dubai inside the desert or the far-off appeal of Gulmarg’s Himalayan heights. These motels now not most effective in undertaking the conventional belief of skiing however additionally provide unforgettable adventures in some of the maximum unexpected locations on Earth. Whether you’re drawn by way of the joys of snowboarding on an energetic volcano or intrigued by means of the cultural richness of snowboarding in a faraway nook of the arena, those lodges are certain to offer first-rate studies that defy the ordinary and push the boundaries of adventure. So, in case you’re equipped to step off the beaten path and explore the maximum uncommon ski locations, those 12 inns are positive to supply memories and reminiscences on the way to final an entire life.