Where to close the ski season? 3 best resorts in Russia according to an experienced snowboarder

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The list of the most popular resorts for snowboarding has not changed for many years: these are the same Sochi, Sheregesh, Dombai, Arkhyz, Khibiny, Elbrus, Abzakovo, Bannoye. All the above mentioned places have conditions for any level of skiing: these are green, blue, red and black slopes, as well as off-piste skiing (freeride). There are also rentals here – you don’t have to buy expensive equipment and try your hand on a rented snowboard. If it drags on – then you can think about buying your own set.

When choosing the ideal resort, you need to take into account the cost of vacation. If you look at the prices for accommodation and ski passes, the absolute “leader” here is Sochi: it is an extremely popular place with good infrastructure and climate, so the demand for snowboarding vacations is the highest. Arkhyz, Sheregesh and Dombai are a bit more budget-friendly, but they are also not affordable for everyone. If you want to relax in the mountains, but are limited in budget, I recommend to look in the direction of the Khibiny, Abzakov and Bannoye.

And if skiing on the slopes for you is a passed stage and you want some freeride freedom, you can recommend the following places: Mamai (Baikal), Kukisvumchorr (Khibiny), Priiskovy (Khakassia), Cheget, Kamchatka and the above-mentioned Sheregesh. It is important to realize that beginners will not be very comfortable here – these are trails for the prepared. To feel all the advantages of such places, you should learn how to ride – freeride does not like mistakes.

Let’s dwell on some places a bit more in detail. If Sheregesh and Cheget have facilities, then, for example, Priiskovoye does not even have elevators, but there is a lot of snow, young people and fun. Khibiny has interesting and difficult terrain for skiing, as well as excellent conditions for skitouring, which attracts riders from all over Russia. You can also go freeriding here.

Finally, I will list my personal favorites.

Prielbrusie (Azau Glade)

Skiing season: from the middle of November to the beginning of May.

Length of slopes: 35 km.

Gondola-type elevators are used (simply put, closed cabins). You can get to Azau from Nalchik (120 km) or Mineralnye Vody (200 km) by cab. There is also equipment rental here, plus an opportunity to hire an instructor for children and adults. Incredibly beautiful places and picturesque area, and during the days of rest I recommend to visit excursions from local guides!

Dombai

Skiing season: from December to April inclusive

Length of slopes: 25 km.

You can get to Dombai from Mineralnye Vody by cab (however, some hotels can provide a transfer from the airport). There are both chairlifts and closed gondola elevators here. Two more “fat” pluses – very, very beautiful views and delicious cuisine.

By the way, there are also instructors for children and adults. Please note: if you are going for off-piste skiing, it is better to have your own equipment rather than rent it. Rental equipment is mostly as versatile as possible and designed for amateur level.

Krasnaya Polyana (Rosa Khutor, Gazprom, Alpika)

Skiing season: from December to April inclusive

Length of slopes: 110 km, and there are places for beginners and experts.

You can ski even at night. There will be no problems with renting and leasing amateur and expert equipment – the skiing infrastructure here is probably the most developed in Russia. You can come here with children – Krasnaya Polyana offers a lot of opportunities for family vacations. Getting to the resort is quite easy: you can take a cab from the airport or take a train from Adler railway station. However, you have to pay for a good vacation: there are quite high prices for ski passes and accommodation.