The 9 Best Ski Resorts in Europe for Beginners

I have always loved being outside and since I began working in the outdoor industry as a teenager I have been trying to find as many excuses to get out in the mountains as possible. Fortunately, working at Ellis Brigham has given me plenty of opportunity to escape the office and test some awesome gear, from trail running shoes to belay devices. Most of the time I can be found kicking around on my local fells in the Lakes, but I am lucky enough to have climbed and skied in some amazing places over the years, including Morocco, Norway and the Alps.

My love for all outdoor adventures began at a very young age and has led me to work for Ellis Brigham for nearly ten years. Having been an outdoor instructor for several years before that, I’ve seen first hand the importance of the outdoors and why everyone should be able to enjoy it.

We've put in the hours, rigorously testing our selections to bring our top skis for Winter 2026/2027 - broken down into piste, all mountain, backcountry, freestyle and freeride categories.

This guide covers what you need to know to start off-piste skiing safely and confidently.

Buying a pair of ski boots? Here’s how they should feel and what to check before hitting the slopes.

This guide explains jackets, pants, layers, and fabrics so you can select gear that suits your skiing style, weather conditions, and performance needs.