Sochi takes gold as most expensive ski holiday, reveals Skyscanner

Eastern Europe provides best value this winter

Russia’s new Olympic ski resort; Sochi, is named as the most expensive ski destination for Brits this year, following research conducted by leading travel search site; Skyscanner.

Whilst the home of the Winter Olympics 2014 is ranked as the most expensive, research reveals the popular Swiss resorts of Verbier and St Moritz could also leave skiers with empty pockets this year. With accommodation costing up to three times that of the cheaper ski destinations, these resorts rank 2^nd and 3^rd most expensive respectively.

Skyscanner researched 21 ski resorts across Europe and compared the cost of seven nights’ accommodation, return flights, six days’ lift pass, ski and boot hire.

Heading east will cost skiers less than half the price of ski breaks in Russia and Switzerland, leaving Brits more money to enjoy some of the best après ski in Europe. For those looking for great value ski holidays this year, Slovenia’s Krvavec resort; voted the number one ski resort in Slovenia, is ranked as the cheapest ski destination for British ski enthusiasts.

Bulgaria’s oldest resort; Borovets is also a great choice for the bargain hunter this ski season, ranked the 2^ndcheapest resort in Europe. This dynamic ski destination is a popular resort for skiers seeking wide-open pistes and a vibrant nightlife.

Serbia’s Kopaonik, ranked as the 3^rd cheapest resort in Europe. With many new lifts serving beautiful, forest lined runs, coupled with the traditional, thatched huts serving warming snacks and drinks; Kopaonik is proving more and more popular.

Closer to home, Glenshee in Scotland won’t blow the budget, ranking as 4^th cheapest ski destination.

Flights have a significant effect on the overall cost of a ski holiday: Sochi ranked as 4^th cheapest ski destination when the cost of flights was excluded. However, as in-resort costs are lower than many of the most popular ski destinations across Europe, this Olympic venue could be a perfect choice for those looking to ski for longer than one week.

Airport transfers to many of Europe’s ski resorts can also have a significant impact on the overall cost of the holiday with many costing more than the flights. Research by Skyscanner suggests that car hire can often be easier on the wallet, with prices available from £75.00* a week.

Victoria Bailie at Skyscanner comments, “It’s important to consider all costs of a ski holiday, both in the resort as well as flights and transfers as costs can vary significantly across Europe. Skyscanner’s top tip for a good value ski holiday this winter is to head east.”

^* Car hire from 12/01/13 – 19/01/13 from Sofia Airport, searched 25 October at Skyscanner.net

^**Cost per couple includes return flights from a London airport leaving on 12 January 2013, seven nights’ accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis (flights and hotels searched on 18 October at Skyscanner.net), six day lift pass, six day ski and boot hire.