Snow bored? Make these your first resort; 10; of the best;
Lesley McKennaScotland Scotland is my number one snowboard and ski destination because of the relaxed atmosphere and the friendliness of the resorts. The people snowboarding here have more fun than anywhere else in the world. On a great day the conditions can challenge any resort. With plenty to do off the mountains, there is definitely no place like home.
Whistler, Canada The weather and the area are very much like Scotland, which is perhaps why I rate it so highly. Off the mountain the village of Whistler is a non-stop party town, with numerous pubs, bars and clubs, which only adds to its attraction. Neighbouring Blackcomb Mountain also features an excellent snowboard park and half- pipe.
Val d'Isere, France It's the sheer variety of things on offer at this resort that probably makes it so attractive. There is great free riding and free skiing if the snow is good. And given that I like to be around people and socialise, an added attraction is that there are nice restaurants and good night life here. Well worth a visit.
Mammoth, California What Mammoth lacks off the mountain as far as restaurants and bars go, it more than makes up for in the sheer thrill of the excellent slopes on offer. The jewel in the resort's crown, however, is an amazing snowboard park. The free riding and skiing isn't bad either.
Livigno, Italy This is a great Italian cultural experience. Livigno offers good free riding and skiing (snow permitting, naturally), and great Italian hospitality. The food almost rivals our own. Also, being tax free, it is great for shopping - for snowboarding gear of course!
Villa Roger, France This small, traditional village appeals to my romantic side with its rustic charms. Villa Roger lies on the backside of Les Arcs, near Geneva, where you have peace, tranquillity and some excellent free riding or skiing.
Vail, Colorado Vail is by far my favourite American resort and has a bit of everything that makes me happy - a park, a pipe, well- groomed pistes, good off-mountain facilities, and of course, bars and restaurants. On the downside, the off piste is not as good as others on the list, which is slightly annoying.
Zillerfall, Austria Many other resorts around the world could learn from the way this resort excellently caters for families or groups of friends. There is good skiing and riding too, with a park and half-pipe and a lot of fun off the mountain. They really like the apres-ski here.
St Moritz, Switzerland St Moritz is great for free riding and skiing, as well as being a very swanky, almost decadent place. Definitely one of the main haunts for those with a bit of money at their disposal. If you have some of that spare cash people talk about, they also have a casino to dabble in. This resort also has a some lovely shops, but unfortunately it's a wee bit expensive.
Les Deux Alpes, France Another great resort for families or groups of friends. If there is a decent snow covering the free riding is good, and the park and half-pipe is perfect to practice your 360 grabs. Probably best of all however, it has a good cheesy nightlife and plenty to do off the mountain. Avoid the French holidays in February though - it can get quite busy and crowded.
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