PISTE UP

Natural highs

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND
Fly to Friedrichshafen from Liverpool, Dublin and London (Stansted)
Self-styled “highest city in Europe”, Davos plays host to quite a few knees-ups over the course of the winter, from the World Economic Forum (a barrel of laughs that one), to the Davos Klosters Ride (end of March). The latter is a great opportunity to experience the cream of British ski and snowboarding talent, as they take on Davos’ steep, difficult terrain. Despite the danger, the event has a nicely laid-back feel and usually ends with a party at which everyone thanks their lucky stars they’re still in one piece. For more information about the competition, including video clips of previous years’ events, check out the website, at www.davosklost ersride.com

Brits abroad

LAAX, SWITZERLAND
Also fly to Friedrichshafen
The British Snowboard and Freeski Championships is the best place to check out the UK’s finest riding, set in one of Europe’s best resorts. But we’re not really bothered about that. Absolutely everyone really goes to “The Brits” for the parties. It lasts a week (29 March–5 April) but, thanks to the fact that there is an incredible gig absolutely every night, it feels more like a year by the time it’s home time again. This year they’re holding a Red Bull-sponsored “last man down the hill puts the kettle on” race, in which everyone, competitor or spectator alike, gets to participate. It’s that kind of week. Even better, it’s ridiculously cheap, so check out www.brits08.com for more info.

Posh choice

BAQUEIRA-BERET, SPAIN
Fly to Pau (Pyrenees) from Bristol, Brussels (Charleroi) and London (Stansted)
Baqueira enjoyed its moment in the sun recently as the place where the Beckhams go skiing. But don’t let that put you off. Instead, think of it as one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, where the night-time pursuits are of a classier bent, the tapas is cheap and plentiful, and there’s a huge Pacha club should you feel the need to really cut a rug. It’s a curious phenomenon, the oversized resort club, but Baqueira gets away with it thanks to the sophistication of the other night owl charms on offer. Stay at La Pleta (www.lapleta.com ) for a ski break with a classy touch.