Skiing in March – The Best Time to Go in Europe (Mid-March)

Why Skiing in March is the Best Time to Go in Europe

 

March is a magical month for skiing, offering the perfect blend of reliable snow conditions and longer, sunnier days. Mid-March, in particular, is ideal for those looking to enjoy the slopes without the hustle and bustle of peak holiday crowds. 

In this blog, we’ll explore why mid-March is the best time for skiing in Europe, focusing on the fantastic weather, quieter slopes, and budget-friendly deals. We’ll also provide insights into the ski season’s timeline, the best European resort for March skiing, and more. Read on for all you need to know.

When Does the Ski Season Start and End in Europe?

The ski season in Europe generally begins in early December through until the end of April. In some resorts at an increased altitude, the lifts may stay open until early May. However, almost all resorts will generally be shut within the first couple of weeks in May and you may find that although lifts are open, some aspects of the resort such as some restaurants and bars which are only open during the winter, may have begun to close for the season. 

 

Why Mid-March is the Best Time To Go Skiing

The best thing about skiing in mid-march is the longer days on the mountain. Thanks to the longer daylight hours, you will find that lifts stay open later during this time of the season with lifts in most resorts staying open for around 30 minutes longer on average, with some within Europe even up to an hour later by mid-march! What more could you ask for? 

Aside from longer days on the mountain, you will also be treated to unmatched bluebird days and quieter slopes thanks to the absence of school holiday crowds. 

As for the snow, according to most historical data, despite a good share of long sunny days, you can rest assured there will be good snow coverage across most of Europe. Particularly in resorts over 1,500m like Meribel which ranges from 1,450 to 2,950m. Even in the event that snowfall is lower than average, many resorts will be well equipped with snow making technology to ensure the pistes remain in great condition right through to the end of the season. 

You can also look forward to a lively apres ski scene across Europe during the spring months, a number of music festivals and events taking place in ski resorts during this time thanks to the combination of great weather and snow conditions. Events such as Ronnie Loves Music Festival here in Meribel are always a firm favourite among spring skiing fans. 

Thanks to the quieter slopes, those seeking a more relaxed mid-march experience will also have no problem seeking out idyllic spots to enjoy breathtaking piste-side sundowners after a long and action packed day on the mountain. 

 

A Breakdown of the Ski Season in Europe

When it comes to skiing in Europe, each month brings new delights. From quiet, sleepy slopes bursting with early season snowfall in early December, to magical Christmas and New Year cheer from mid December and into the early weeks of January as snow comes falling down all throughout the month. Come February, the sun sticks around for longer, sunsoaked days as coat collars loosen and goggles and snoods are switched for sunglasses and sun cream. 

The real beauty of skiing in Europe is the consistency of snowfall and bluebird days throughout the season. Whilst weather conditions may vary, you can more than often than not count on excellent piste conditions along with some blue skies sunshine thrown in every month of the season, even in the depths of winter. 

Here’s a top level breakdown of what to expect each month: 

Late November – December

Kick off the season with the first fresh tracks on the early season snowfall. Benefit from inexpensive lift passes and uncrowded slopes before the Christmas rush.

 

Christmas Time

Christmas is a lot less commercial across Europe than in the UK and always promises to be a magical time for a ski holiday. As expected, things can be slightly more expensive but whilst it’s the school holidays, slopes generally don’t become congested and there’s nothing like the magic of a white christmas on the slopes. 

 

New Year Celebrations

Celebrate an unforgettable holiday with family or friends as you ring in the new year a magical winter wonderland. whilst it’s still fairly early in the season, conditions are consistently good with sufficient powder for off-piste enthusiasts. 

 

Early to Mid January

As the holiday cheer settles, early-mid January is another ideal time to make the most of quieter slopes as everyone returns to work. How better to beat the January blues? Plus, you can often benefit from some great deals during this period such as a complementary Meribel Valley Lift Pass (worth approximately £300) for any Ski Basics guests during the 5th and 12th January 2025.  As snowfall increases, temperatures are generally at their lowest at this time of the season but you can still count on some bluebird days along the way. 

 

Late January – Early February

Average snowfall continues to rise towards the end of January and into February with temperatures also slowly creeping up. The ski season is in full swing and the slopes remain fairly quiet in the pre-half term calmness. 

 

February Half Term

Often the busiest time in many resorts, popularity peaks with the deepest average snow levels and half-term holidays for the UK and across Europe. Among the snowfall comes bluebird days as the days become longer and a feeling of spring inches its way closer. 

 

Early March

Early March brings a welcome calm after half term fun and spring is very much in the air! Enjoy longer days and extended lift hours with powder in abundance as the sun shines brightly between the snowfall and temperatures continue to creep up. 

Mid March

As we explored, skiing in mid-march throughout Europe is a joy to behold. Long bluebird days and lift opening hours creeping later and later. Terraces are bustling with apres ski lovers, enjoying long lunches in the sun between the snowfall which also results in incredible conditions on the slopes. 

Late March

Skiing in late March brings more of the same as holiday makers and locals soak up the joys of spring skiing and quieter slopes. 

 

Easter Holidays

Easter is another great time to hit the slopes, particularly for those with kids as the school holidays make for a bustling atmosphere. This popularity means prices can be slightly higher. Despite this, the combination of family-friendly cheer, reliable snow conditions and long, warm days are a recipe for an incredible holiday.

 

End of April

As April draws to a close, while the afternoons might get a bit slushy in warm weather, choosing the right ski resort can mean you enjoy all the incredible things late-season skiing has to offer. Take advantage of enticing last-minute spring skiing deals, quiet slopes, discounted lift passes, and long afternoons of apres ski under blue, sunny skies. Learn more about the top snow sure resorts in April in Europe and beyond.

 

Enjoy the Best Skiing in March

If you’ve made it this far without leaving to go and plan your ski holiday for March, why not take a look at our beautiful Meribel chalets and remaining availability for the upcoming season. 

Whilst every month of the season is ideal for skiing in Europe, March is certainly up there as one of the best. Particularly here in Meribel where you can count on unrivalled conditions and sundrenched terraces around every corner just waiting to be enjoyed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best skiing in March?

We may be biassed but in our opinion (and in the opinion of many others), there’s simply nowhere better for skiing in March than Meribel. Nestled at the heart of the Three Valleys and ranging from 1,450 to 2,950m, Meribel benefits from enviable weather conditions throughout the season and March is no exception. With an average of 7 days snowfall of approximately 60 cm throughout the month, combined with long, warm bluebird days throughout the expansive ski area – you’ll be hard pushed to find somewhere better. 

 

Is skiing cheaper in March?

Skiing in March can result in cheaper prices and the opportunity to make the most of some great deals. While early December and January are also top-value months, March stands out as a perfect time to enjoy the slopes without breaking the bank.