East Midlands Airport (EMA) offers a convenient starting point for skiers and snowboarders eager to hit the slopes.
With its close proximity to major motorways, efficient security processing, and a variety of flight options, EMA connects travelers to some of Europe’s top skiing destinations.
Geneva, Switzerland
Jet2.com operates flights from EMA to Geneva, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. Geneva is a gateway to several renowned ski areas, including:
- Portes du Soleil: A vast area with 308 pistes and 209 lifts, catering to all skill levels. Popular resorts include Les Gets, Morzine, and Avoriaz.
- La Clusaz: Featuring 125km of pistes and a variety of amenities, this resort offers a mix of charm and convenience.
- Chamonix: A family-friendly destination with gentle slopes for beginners and breathtaking Alpine views.
Salzburg, Austria
TUI offers flights from EMA to Salzburg in about 2 hours. Salzburg provides access to Austria’s premier ski regions, including:
- Kitzbühel: Known for the Hahnenkamm World Cup downhill race, it features 92 pistes and vibrant après-ski options.
- Söll (Ski Welt): Austria’s second-largest lift-linked area with 284km of runs, ideal for families and those seeking lively nightlife.
- Alpbach: A picturesque Tyrolean village with a relaxed atmosphere and excellent skiing opportunities.
Chambery, France
Flights from EMA to Chambery with TUI take around 2 hours and 5 minutes. This French city serves as a gateway to:
- Les Sybelles: Offering over 300km of pistes and 71 lifts, it’s perfect for skiers of all levels.
- La Toussuire: Known for its terrain parks and suitability for snowboarders.
- Saint Sorlin d’Arves: A scenic resort with 120km of pistes and connections to the wider Maurienne Valley.
Affordable Alternatives
For those seeking budget-friendly ski destinations, EMA offers options to lesser-known but equally rewarding locations:
- Bulgaria: Balkan Holidays provides flights to Sofia, with access to Borovets, Pamporovo, and Bansko. Bansko, featuring 75km of pistes and vibrant après-ski, has earned recognition as a top destination for 2025.
- Czech Republic: Fly to Prague with Ryanair to explore the Giant Mountains. Špindlerův Mlýn, the largest resort, offers 28km of pistes and easy connections to nearby ski areas.
- Poland: Ryanair flights to Krakow provide access to Zakopane, a resort ideal for beginners and intermediates with five interconnected ski areas.
Unique Options
- Slovenia: Kranjska Gora, accessible via Salzburg, is a charming and affordable resort suited to families and beginners.
- Spain: The Sierra Nevada, reachable through Malaga with Ryanair or Jet2.com, combines a long ski season with the possibility of beach excursions later in the year. It boasts 100km of pistes and excellent facilities for all levels.
