The 5 Best Snowboarding Destinations Nobody Knows About
Photo by: sc jurgen
Winter getting you all cold and bothered? OTP’s got some remote peaks to heat things up. This season, skip the brand-name mountains and their middle-aged Burberry jacket population. Since the skiing v. snowboarding war still stands at a stalemate, you mountain warriors need to re-focus anyway. Pack your gear, clip your boots, wax your ride and bomb down OTP’s Best 5 Snowboarding Destinations Nobody (except for you) Knows About.
Photo by: spiedog
Wedged between Spain and France, and not to be confused with this ridiculous Angora rabbit, is the tiny gem of Andorra. Well-endowed with some massive mountains, the region of Pas de la Casa has more snow than you can shovel. Translating to “the pass of the house,” this is one house with the roof already raised—with ride-able elevations reaching up to 7,900 feet (2,408 m). Gear can be rented on the town’s website should RyanAir confiscate your boots and board. When your legs start to burn, shack up in a cozy cabin for a couple days and enjoy watching the slopes from your pimpin’ jacuzzi (champagne and bikinis are mandatory). On your way out, take advantage of this entirely-duty-free country. Stocking up on cigarette cartons to replace all that fresh air in your lungs is super satisfying when you don’t have to be at an international gate to do it.
Photo by: The Shutterman
There are two main reasons you should hit up Africa for your next boarding adventure. One: it’s freakin’ Africa. Two: the continent offers some badass boarding all year long. If you’re looking to go in the summer months, head to the Tiffendale ski resort in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Winter owns the best elevation and accommodation, however, and Morocco’s affordable Oukaimeden resort brings it big. If you’re caught between seasons or up for something new, head to Namibia and try out sandboarding for an unforgettable bruise-your-tailbone experience.
Photo by: sagipolley
An easy way to raise a set of eyebrows is to inquire about snowboarding in Israel. The place is known for many things, and boarding isn’t one of them. The lone peak of the country, Mount Hermon, has a storied historical and military background so when the slopes beat you senseless, you can still sightsee instead. Rumor has it that the Syrian government has a multi-billion dollar ski resort in the works for Mount Hermon and a development like that is sure to wipe out the mountain’s classical charm and affordable rates. Get there before the Syrians do.
Photo by: keithroebuck
Turkish winters are often overshadowed by sultry, raki-ladden summer nights. Take advantage of the forgotten slopes and carve your path down some of Europe’s finest mountains, minus the massive crowds or costs. Affordable ski trips leave from easy-to-navigate Istanbul. If you’re looking for a challenge, find your way to the Palandöken ski resort in Erzurum. Here you’ll face the nation’s highest peak, reserved for the softest of powders and sharpest of riders.
Photo by: jayRaz
It’s not totally off-beat, but there’s no better or cheaper way to blaze down the Rockies than lugging your board here. Although New Mexico borders west coast heavyweights, Utah and Colorado, lift tickets and hotel rates are significantly cheaper. Same great mountains at a fraction of the cost, looks like you got yourself a deal. Catch the weather right and dive from Santa Fe‘s 11,800 ft (3600 m) peaks into the unmatchable desert view spanning the horizon.
There’s nothing worse than getting sideswiped by some newbie trying to Flip-cam-record his first run. Now that you know where to go, rip some dents in these beasts and bask in the bragging rights you’ll earn if you make it down alive.
A mind and body traveller who thrives on recollection and anticipation, all the while decorating the crossroads.
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Wow! I never been to Israel. But from your post, I will definitely go and try there. Thanks!