Six Heavenly ‘Poshtels’ for the Perfect Snowy Escape
As the first snowflakes begin to fall in the mountains, many travelers are already fantasizing about perfect powder and the rush of adrenaline as they slide down the slopes. Whether you’re already waxing your skis in anticipation or just planning to tag along for the après ski festivities, you’re not alone. In fact, 20%* of global travelers* actually plan to take a ski trip this year. With that in mind, we have put together a list of six stunning hostels in some of the world’s most incredible ski destinations for those looking for a stunning getaway without breaking the bank.
Not just for backpackers, hostels can also be a great alternative for families or groups of friends looking to have a more communal stay experience as part of their trip. Featuring private rooms and bathrooms with different kinds of shared spaces to hang out and relax, these beautiful mountain hostel getaways enable you to swap stories with your fellow travelers before retiring to the privacy of your own room to cherish some stunning wintry views.
Scuol, Switzerland
With sleek wood interiors and a minimalist aesthetic, the ultra modern Scuol Youth Hostel is located near the skiing and hiking area of Motta Naluns, with something to offer every skill level and taste. Experienced skiers can head directly for the slopes while younger travelers and first time skiers can opt for a ski lesson on the bunny hill. For a different kind of rush, the 3.5 km (2.17 miles) toboggan (traditional sled) run from Prui to Ftan is a must! Whatever your pleasure, after a busy day in the snow, you can relax by the fireplace in the hostel’s cozy lounge and admire the panoramic views of the Grisons Mountains. To soothe and rejuvenate tired muscles, a soak in the pure Swiss mineral water at the nearby Bogn Engiadina thermal baths will have you ready for another day on the slopes in no time.
Whistler, Canada
Established for decades as a base for adventure lovers, Whistler Lodge Hostel is an oasis surrounded by lush pine trees between Whistler Village and Whistler Creekside. Built in 1965, this lavish mountain lodge offers mixed dorms, two-bed options and private rooms to accommodate every type of traveler. It’s also just a short drive away from Whistler Blackcomb ski resort and the breathtaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, one of the world’s highest lifts. If you want to warm up after a busy day outside, the hostel has a sauna, as well as a communal game room where you can have some fun out of the snow with your family and friends.
Niseko, Japan
Just a short drive from Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort, the family run Karimpani Niseko Fujiyama is a great place to spend some quality time with your loved ones on the snowy Japanese slopes. Formerly an elementary school, this simple but stylish hostel features Japanese Minshuku style accommodation (traditional Japanese-style bed and breakfast) with futon bedding on tatami (woven-straw) floors. During winter, the property offers free shuttles to nearby ski resorts, making the property a great homebase for skiers and snowboarders alike. One of Niseko’s best-kept secrets is the opportunity to go night skiing. Imagine carving your way through fresh powder under a starry sky on slopes that are far quieter after dark. As Niseko is also highly endorsed by Booking.com travelers for its hot springs (onsens), travelers should also consider renting a car to visit one of the many hot springs around the Rankoshi/Kombu area for a nice leisurely soak.
Breckenridge, Colorado, USA
Nestled in the woods, The Bivvi Hostel is just a 10-minute walk from the world-famous Breckenridge Ski Resort. With rustic chic decor and free storage space for ski equipment, this inviting hostel is a great place to unwind after a busy day on the slopes. Guests are invited to prop up their skis or snowboard and relax in front of the outdoor log fire. Or savor a glass of wine by the fireplace in the main lounge, admiring the views of the snow-covered peaks before enjoying a night out on the town. For couples looking to spend some quiet time together, this hostel also offers cozy private suites, complete with a fireplace, hot tub and a large balcony overlooking the snowy forest.
Wagrain, Austria
With a ski bus stop right outside and only a short drive away from the Ski Amadé ski area, Wurzenrainer Hotel & Hostel is a great base for those looking for a snowy break. Featuring 760 kilometers (472 miles) of ski slopes, 270 ski lifts and 25 ski resorts, Wagrain is a true ski paradise with all of the winter sport action and mesmerizing mountain views that Austria’s Ski Amadé region has to offer. For those who might need a well-deserved break from these amazing slopes, the après-ski options at this hostel are on point. Guests have the choice between an indoor bowling alley, a trampoline room, a sauna and even a snow tubing track that is lit in the evening. So make use of the free toboggans or just relax by the crackling campfire and enjoy a mug of hot mulled wine.
Manāli, India
Set in the high-altitude town of Manali, MonkVish is an adults-only hostel with a spacious terrace overlooking the breathtaking Himalayan mountains. Each of the traditionally decorated dormitories and rooms have a private bathroom and spectacular views. With snowfall usually starting in early December, Manali is a wonderful winter sport destination, especially the areas around Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley, which are highly endorsed by Booking.com travelers for nature, mountains and sightseeing. If interested in soaking up some local culture beyond the ski slopes, pay a visit to the ancient cave temple of Hidimba Devi or the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery, both of which are just a short drive away from the property.
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*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 53,492 respondents across 31 markets. In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have travelled at least once in the past 12 months and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place between October 16th and November 12th, 2018.