We know a last-minute ski holiday is always a good idea and at Erna Low, we’re experts at turning those spur-of-the-moment "I need a ski holiday!" moments into a reality. If you're keen to hit the Alps at short notice after daydreaming of fresh powder and bluebird skies, then get your thermals back out of the drawer, message your ski group chat and let’s make it happen.
Looking for a spontaneous ski break without the pricey attached tag? We’ve got good news... we’ll beat any competitor’s price, ensuring you get the absolute best value for money. We’ve been sending ski fanatics to the Alps since 1932, so you can always trust us to get your last-minute ski holiday planned and booked – all in one place. We are also here to guide you through the 1000s of options that are available to book, saving you from shopping around and avoiding fuss in resort.
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Why choose Erna Low for your last-minute ski trip?
We get it – planning a holiday months in advance doesn’t suit everyone. Maybe you didn’t think you’d have time for a ski trip but suddenly a trip to the Alps became too tempting to resist (hello, better-than-average snowfall!). With an unbeatable network of industry contacts and a passion for creating unforgettable ski holidays with 5-star customer service from our very own experts, we’re your go-to for last-minute ski holidays. Plus, we’ll sort you out with an epic ski break quicker than you can say “Quick, the taxi’s outside!”
Even when it’s all systems go, we take the time to make sure you have everything you could possibly need for a ski holiday – just like we would for a holiday booked months ahead. At Erna Low, we’re all about making sure your trip not only meets but goes above and beyond your expectations. In short, you really couldn’t be in better hands! Whatever your reason, booking a last-minute ski trip has its perks:
- Expert knowledge: We’ve been in the ski holiday game for over 90 years and know the best places to go for just about every preference.
- Tailored packages: Whether you’re after a budget-friendly studio or a luxury chalet with all those “wow” facilities, we’ll help you find the perfect package.
- Hassle-free booking:From accommodation to transfers, lift passes and even ski lessons, we’ll take care of the essentials so you don’t have to.
- Last-minute deals: Our price guarantee ensures the best last-minute ski holiday deal for the absolute best price possible.
Our recommendations for a last-minute ski trip
Need some inspiration on where to go? Here are some of our top resorts for a spontaneous last-minute ski break:
- Les Arcs
Part of the jaw-dropping Paradiski ski area which offers up to 425km of epic slopes to play on, Les Arcs is well known for its diverse and challenging terrain, incredible alpine scenery and fantastic off-piste opportunities. The resort is made up of several villages, each one with its own unique atmosphere. Arc 1950 and Arc 2000 are great for snow surety, while Arc 1800 is a buzzing hub with lively bars and restaurants serving up unbeatable après-ski vibes. Plus, if you’re planning a last-minute trip with the little ones, we’ve got good news... Les Arcs is a purpose-built pedestrian resort, making it ideal for families with children.
Les Arcs as a whole is also super easy to get to, as it’s only a 2-hour drive from Geneva Airport. You could also hop onto a direct Eurostar to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, and from there, you’ll only need a quick 30-minute taxi ride to the resort. Alternatively, hop on the high-speed funicular, which links Bourg to Les Arcs 1600 in just 7 minutes. You’ll also find regular free shuttle buses connecting Les Arcs 1600 to the surrounding villages. - Val Thorens
When it comes to last-minute ski trips, Val Thorens is the sparkly jewel in the crown of the French Alps. Not only is it Europe’s highest ski resort at an impressive altitude of 2,300m, but snow surety is practically guaranteed throughout the entire winter season. Plus, with incredible slopes for skiers of all levels and an epic après-ski scene (ever-lasting après at La Folie Douce, anyone?), it’s ideal for large groups of mates, multi-generational bookings and solo skiers alike.
The resort is ski-in, ski-out, which means access to the slopes is practically on your doorstep. The skiing is legendary, too, offering access to the vast Three Valleys area – the largest interconnected ski area in the World with 600km of slopes that cut across all its 7 resorts. VT also offers an unbeatable après-ski scene, with iconic party spots like La Folie Douce and Malaysia nightclub providing high energy and vibrant evenings. Add to the mix a buzzing resort centre, high-end restaurants and even tobogganing if you’re feeling adventurous, and you’ve got yourself a perfect last-minute getaway destination. - La Plagne
If you’re planning a last-minute ski trip with friends or family, La Plagne is what can only be described as the trusty friend you can always count on. Like Les Arcs, it’s part of the massive Paradiski area, giving you access to a whopping 425km of slopes to play on across the entire area. Plus, thanks to the resort’s impressive high-altitude, skiable glacier, north-facing runs and reliable snow record, you can almost guarantee excellent ski conditions, even if you’re booking late in the season.
La Plagne is a vibrant and versatile ski resort that provides a great selection of pistes to suit every level and ability. There are loads of beginner-friendly blues as well as a decent selection of green runs for first-timers, while more experienced skiers should head to the summit of the Bellecôte Glacier to experience some of the toughest and most exciting black runs on offer in the area. The vibe throughout La Plagne is more chilled and low-key than party-central resorts like Val Thorens, making it a great choice if you’re after a more quiet and laidback escape. Overall, the resort is really easy to get to, ideal for families and jam-packed with things to do – a no-brainer for any last-minute holiday. - Tignes
Renowned for its jaw-dropping sloes and high-energy party atmosphere, Tignes offers a last-minute ski holiday like no other. With slopes reaching up to an incredible 3,456m on the Grande Motte Glacier, it’s a snow-sure playground that skiers of all levels and abilities will be more than happy to play on. Perfect for those last-minute “I-need-to-ski-right-now” moments, Tignes is linked with Val d'Isère to form the jaw-dropping Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area (formerly known as Espace Killy), which offers year-round skiing as well as 300km of epic runs to explore.
Whether you’re a first-timer learning the proverbial ropes or an advanced skier looking for a fun challenge, the variety here is mind-blowing. Those looking to level-up their abilities can pit their wits and skills against the almost vertical black runs or venture off-piste for some epic backcountry action. Need something more gentle? The spacious blue and green runs are perfect for confidence-building. There are also more “niche” activities to explore, from ice diving in frozen lakes (yep, that’s a thing) to ever-lasting après-ski at places like Loop Bar and the infamous La Folie Douce. So, if you’re craving a last-minute trip with snow you can count on and plenty to do both on and off the slopes, Tignes should be at the very top of your wishlist.
How to snag the best last-minute ski deals
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Booking a ski holiday on short notice might sound daunting, but it’s a lot easier than you might think. At Erna Low, we’re all about making holidays hassle-free, even when the countdown is on! Here’s how to make the most of a last-minute ski holiday:
- Be flexible with dates and the destination
Last-minute trips mean you won’t always get first dibs on the most popular resorts. But don’t let that put you off – being open to different resorts or dates can open up loads of options. Can’t get to Courchevel? Try Méribel or La Plagne instead. They’re just as incredible and might even come with smaller crowds (and better prices!). - Keep an eye on deals
Resorts and travel companies often offer discounted packages to fill up empty slots. At Erna Low, we regularly update our last-minute deals page with incredible offers. Whether it’s a budget-friendly, self-catered apartment in Val d’Isère or a luxurious 5-star chalet in Chamonix, discovering something that fits your taste and budget is easy. - Think all-inclusive
If sorting out accommodation, lift passes and equipment hire sounds like too much hassle, you might want to consider an all-inclusive package deal instead. Not only do they save you save time and money, but you won’t have to worry about a thing when you arrive – except exploring the resort to find the quickest and easiest route to get to the chairlift the next day.
The French Alps: perfect for last-minute ski breaks
When it comes to skiing in Europe, France is the ultimate playground. It’s also an absolute no-brainer for last-minute trips. Here’s why:
- Quick access
With multiple airports like Geneva, Lyon and Grenoble only a short transfer away from major resorts, you can be on the slopes almost as fast as you can clip into your skis. (Ok, maybe not that fast, but you know what we mean!) - World-class resorts
France boasts legendary ski destinations like Val Thorens, Tignes and Les Arcs – all of which offer so much for skiers of all levels and abilities to explore. - Snow surety
The French Alps have some of the most reliable snow in Europe, especially in high-altitude resorts.
Top tips for a smooth last-minute ski trip
- Pack smart
When you’re in a rush, it’s easy to forget the essentials (like your ski socks or even worse, your passport). Make a checklist of things you need to pack and triple-check what’s in your bag before you zip it up, just in case! And absolutely don’t forget your SPF – mountain sunburn is very real, folks. - Sort your ski equipment in advance
If you don’t have your own skis or boots, pre-booking your equipment hire online before you get to resort is a game-changer. You can easily include ski equipment hire as part of your Erna Low ski holiday package; just select the option online and you’ll have everything you need ahead of time. You’ll thank your past self when you don’t need to scramble to hire gear when you arrive. - Travel as light as possible
If you’re flying, keep things simple with a small suitcase and your ski gear. Bonus points if you can squeeze everything into hand luggage – no one likes waiting at baggage claim when there’s fresh powder to cruise. - Download ski apps
From tracking snow conditions to finding the best après-ski spots, ski apps like Ski Tracks or FATMAP are lifesavers when you don’t have time to plot out the perfect itinerary beforehand.
Book your last-minute ski holidays with Erna Low
No matter which resort you choose for your last-minute ski trip, Erna Low has you covered with packages fully customisable for your needs and budget. Cruise over at leisure (we’ll provide you with flights and transfers) then on arrival to resort, enjoy the comfort of hand-picked accommodation options that allow you to enjoy your time away. Everything is done under one roof, leaving you with more time to enjoy an unforgettable fun-filled adventure.
If you cannot find what you are looking for please contact us and we can help you build your package.