History of Snowboarding
Snowboarding is a relatively new sport. Well, compared to skiing, that is. The first evidence of skiing goes as far back as around 8000 BCE. In comparison, the original piece of equipment that inspired the snowboard was created in 1965.
A Mr Sherman Poppen conceived the idea when he was playing with his daughters. He secured two skis together and attached rope to the ‘board’ so he could help his girls safely glide down the hill. His wife affectionately referred to the contraption as a ‘snurfer’ – an amalgamation of ‘snow’ and ‘surfer’. The snurfer became hugely popular and effectively began the snowboarding craze.
While the craze may have started with Mr Poppen, it was skateboarders from all around the world who took it over and refined it. The 80s brought about the first-ever snowboarding competitions, and by 1998, the sport officially entered the Winter Olympics.
Initially, ski resorts resisted the movement. However, as the sport became more popular, they had no choice but to allow snowboarding on their slopes.
It’s true there was some animosity between skiers and snowboarders back in the day. Thankfully, it’s now nothing more than friendly banter. The winter sports community fully accepts – and encourages – snowboarding around the world.
In fact, snowboarding holidays in Europe are now some of the best winter trips available!
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Why is France the Best Place for Snowboard Holidays?
Now that the winter sports world has fully accepted snowboarding in ski resorts around the world, the options of where to holiday are huge. You may be wondering how to choose where to go. Well, in our humble opinion, the best place to snowboard is the French Alps.
Snowboarding holidays in France capture everything you could possibly want from your snowboarding trip. The slopes are world-famous, and the culture is second to none. And then there’s the incredible après ski (because we know you’re thinking about the après ski)!
There’s a reason the French Alps are famous in the snowsport community (and it’s not just because of how beautiful the views are). In fact, the Three Valleys – a ski area in the Alps – is the biggest ski area in the world. And where you can ski, you can snowboard.
In the Alps, you’ll find both on and off-piste opportunities, challenging snowparks, and glaciers with your name on them. And if you’re planning to travel from the UK, it’s so easy to get to!
Another thing we absolutely love about the French Alps is that it is so welcoming for solo snowboarding holidays. We promise you’ll find like-minded people who will no doubt become friends for life. Singles snowboarding holidays in France are unlike any other.
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Which Resorts Are Best for Snowboarding Package Holidays?
Snowboarding package holidays are a winner for winter getaways, but some resorts are better than others. Aspects like snowparks and off-piste opportunities are high on the criteria for a snowboard holiday. With that in mind, our top resorts for snowboarding are Tignes, Val d’Isère, Reberty 2000, and Val Thorens.
Tignes and Val d’Isère are part of the incredible area formerly known as Espace Killy. And Reberty 2000 and Val Thorens are in the Three Valleys. Both these ski areas are well-known for their exciting and challenging slopes, fantastic atmosphere, and range of snowparks.
What’s amazing about these locations is that one single lift pass can give you access to the entirety of each ski area. That makes these four resorts perfect for snowboarding holiday packages. You get so much more than you expect!
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How To Get Into Snowboarding As a Beginner?
If you’re a seasoned pro at snowboarding, then you already know the thrill of flying down the slopes on one board. But if you’ve only ever skied or if you’re a newbie, snowboarding holidays might feel daunting. We’re here to tell you: you’re going to love it!
There’s a saying in the snowsport world: skiing is easier to learn but harder to master, and snowboarding is the other way around. Especially if you’ve not skateboarded before, the positioning you’ll need for snowboarding will be hard to grasp. However, once you have that down, it’s plain sailing.
Obviously, most of the time, we travel about with two legs or skis. But learning how to navigate yourself with just one can feel restrictive and scary. Luckily, most of the restriction is psychological.
So, if you’re thinking of going on snowboarding holidays for beginners, keep an open mind. You’re going to fall, it will be funny, you’ll master it in no time. Invest in some lessons at a resort that isn’t super crowded, and be patient with yourself. You’re going to smash it!
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How Much Do Snowboarding Holidays Cost?
The great news is that snowboard package holidays don’t cost any more than a ski holiday! In fact, the only difference when booking your snowboarding holiday packages compared to when you book a ski holiday is the equipment rentals.
That means your flights, transfers, accommodation, and lift passes are all the same. For your next trip, simply specify that you’d like to rent snowboarding equipment instead of skiing equipment, and you’ll be well on your way. And it’s the same story if you’d like to arrange snowboarding lessons – just let us know.
At Ski Vertigo, we have some incredible snowboarding holiday deals with discounts on your rentals, lift passes, and lessons. One thing you’ll have to sort yourself, however, is snowboard holiday insurance. This is definitely a must-have – especially if you are new to the sport.
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Where To Stay On Your Snowboarding Holidays?
There are several options available to you for accommodation on your snowboard holiday, but we believe a chalet is the best choice. You could stay in a hotel, hostel, or apartment, but then you won’t get that famous traditional alpine chalet feel.
At Ski Vertigo, we have a range of stunning chalets that overlook mountains. They include balconies, hot tubs, and have everything you need. You and your family or friends will have a room each with the most comfortable bed imaginable – a necessity after a long day on the slopes! Opting for a chalet on your snowboarding holiday will be a little slice of luxury, and we wholeheartedly think you deserve that.
And if you’re looking into solo snowboarding holidays, you don’t have to miss out on the chalet experience! Singles snowboarding holidays are some of the best trips you can take. It’s fun, it’s active, and you’re likely to make some friends for life. So we have the perfect option for you.
Give us a call to tell us where and when you’d like to take your solo snowboarding holiday. We’ll put you in a chalet together with a group of like-minded people. It’s a win-win!
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What To Take On a Snowboarding Holiday?
When packing for snowboarding holidays, the key is layers. It’s going to be cold. Such is the nature of snow. But the nature of exercise is that you’ll get hot. Sweat-wicking base layers, waterproof top layers, a warm jacket, and salopettes are all a must.
Then there are accessories like gloves and goggles. Helmets, boots, and the board itself you can hire, but don’t forget non-snowboarding clothing. You’ll still want layers when you’re off the slopes, and remember to bring boots with good grip.
If you’re planning to play in the snow parks, padding and braces are always a good idea for protection. And if you’re planning on going off-piste, you’ll need a little more. Equipment such as a first aid kit and a transceiver are essential to ensure you are safe when out exploring
Thankfully, if you do forget anything, the shopping areas of each of our resorts are extensive. You’ll be able to pick up anything you need.
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Book Your Snowboarding Holidays with Ski Vertigo Now!
Are you a pro skier wanting to try something new? Perhaps you’ve tried snowboarding a few times but need more practice. Or are you a complete newbie to the world of winter sports?
No matter your situation, snowboarding is an incredible sport to tackle. It’s guaranteed fun, full of tricks, turns, and speed, and once you find your balance, there’ll be no stopping you.
We love snowboarding holidays, and we know you will, too. We’ve organised all our ATOL-protected package holidays to be flexible for either skiing or snowboarding. In fact, your group can be a mix of skiers and snowboarders and still book the same trip!
No matter your plans, we can accommodate them. Simply give us a call on 01252 365490, and we can work together with you to ensure you have the best snowsport holiday possible. Get ready to shred!
