Eastern Europe: Mountain matchmaker
Not sure where to start exploring Eastern Europe's peaks? We've found a resort to suit every taste
If you're seeking... Beginner terrain
Zakopane, Poland: The gentle foothills of the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland, Zakopane is ideal for skiing newbies. Get your ski passes on a pay-as-you-go basis and check out the resort's affordable bars and restaurants.
How to do it: From £389pp, including self-catering accommodation, return airport transfers from Kraków, ski passes and lessons. Flights and transfers not included. whitesideholidays.com
If you're seeking... Scenery
Kranjska Gora, Slovenia: The idyllic Kranjska Gora village, close to the Italian and Austrian borders, has the Julian Alps as its backdrop. Learn the ropes at a top ski school and enjoy outings to nearby medieval villages, churches and lakes.
How to do it: Seven nights at the four-star Hotel Kompas in Kranjska Gora costs from £569pp, based on two sharing, including half-board accommodation, return flights and transfers. inghams.co.uk
If you're seeking... A budget break
Jahorina, Bosnia: Less than 20 miles from the Bosnian capital, Sarajevo, Jahorina is a superb choice for a two-centre break. It's fairly compact but the 12 miles of pristine slopes and small price tag makes this an ideal option for a cheap ski break.
How to do it: Seven nights from £337pp, including half-board accommodation at the Silver Hotel, a five-day lift pass and airport transfers. Flights not included. ski-sarajevo.com
If you're seeking... A family ski getaway
Bansko, Bulgaria: Regularly topping polls as Europe's best-value family ski destination, Bulgaria's leading ski resort offers a bit of everything: 1.5 miles of easily accessible slopes, great local food and a charming old town.
How to do it: Seven nights costs £327pp, including half-board accommodation at Hotel Lion, flights from London Heathrow, transfers and use of the hotel's creche. crystalski.co.uk
If you're seeking... Culture
Poiana Brasov, Romania: Bran Castle, legendary home of Count Dracula, is just one of the perks of this picturesque resort in the Carpathian Mountains. It's just two hours from the capital, Bucharest, so you can ski and city break in one hit.
How to do it: Seven nights costs £736pp, including half-board hotel accommodation and return flights from Luton to Bucharest. igluski.com
Published in the Winter Sports 2018 guide, free with the October 2017 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
