Destinations

Last Resorts

Three Hidden Ski Locales Around the Globe

You could ski the world three times over and still never set pole to powder in one of these overlooked spots: the former Soviet republics. The landlocked African nations. The Catalan mountain states you thought were landlocked African nations. Well, here they are, demystified for ski-calendaring purposes. Mark your ski calendars accordingly.

JULY-SEPTEMBER: KAZAKHSTAN

Glacier Heli-Skiing

You’re picturing: A desolate former Soviet republic, possibly where mountains carve you.
You’re getting: A range of 121 glaciers glistening with champagne powder through August. Plus a vintage Russian military helicopter to drop you off on top of them.
Remember: Your alternative’s nine operational chairlifts in Kazakhstan (two of which meet international safety standards).

DECEMBER-MARCH: ANDORRA

Après High Season

You’re picturing: A rogue desert state in Western Africa.
You’re getting: A well-to-do mountain state in the Pyrenees tucked between France and Spain sporting 900-meter verticals, a number of forested, off-piste runs and a young French-Catalan après crowd occupying four ski resorts.
Remember: Tax-free liquor.

JUNE-SEPTEMBER: LESOTHO

Southern Africa’s Last Ski Resort

You’re picturing: Year-round sandboarding opportunities.
You’re getting: The last vestige of African resort skiing in the highest country in the world, now approaching the heart of bizarro winter; après big-game hunting.
Remember: Things here have gotten so dire, Lesotho’s been pleading South Africa to annex their county. (So look alive out there.)