The Best Hotels For Skiers And Snowboarders In Russia

If you’re looking for somewhere new to ski or snowboard this winter, consider Russia. The Caucasus Mountains are dotted with high-end resorts, and we’ve combed through the accommodation offerings to make sure picking a hotel doesn’t become a slippery slope.

Russia is the largest country on the planet and host to the tallest range of peaks in Europe: the Caucasus Mountain in the country’s south – a must-visit for skiers and snowboarders looking for mind-blowing slopes. While the region is indeed wilder than the traditional European chalet-village, there’s no shortage of world-class accommodations for those looking for a perfect balance of comfort and adventure. Hotspots like Krasnaya Polyana, Dombay and the river valleys around Elbrus are perfect launching points.

1. Green Flow Hotel Rosa Khutor

Hotel

Green Flow Hotel is located in the Rosa Khutor complex, the site in Krasnaya Polyana where the 2014 Olympic skiing took place. As such, guests will be able to avail themselves of world-class facilities while relaxing in an upscale setting. This hotel distinguishes itself for its focus on wellbeing, offering packages including access to the pool and spa as well as courses on nutrition and wellness. Check out the selection of tasty, healthy options at the on-site restaurant.

2. Boutique Hotel Nevsky

Boutique Hotel

The Boutique Hotel Nevsky is also located in Rosa Khutor but nestled right on the banks of the glacial Mzymta River. This is a smaller, truly boutique option compared to the large hotel complexes that dot the valley. The Nevsky offers a range of mid-priced rooms ranging from “standard” to “luxe,” along with an exclusive restaurant and bar. Services include transfers to and from the Sochi International Airport, located a 40-minute drive away.

4. Rixos Krasnaya Polyana Sochi

Hotel

An indoor pool at Rixos Krasnaya Polyana Sochi surrounded by sun loungers over two floors

Rixos Hotel is located at a higher altitude than the previous hotels on this list, just further past the Rosa Khutor complex. The Rixos is a five-star hotel with over 100 rooms, complete with a conference hall, pool, spa, bathhouse and fitness centre. This hotel is located closer to the ski slopes with some of the best views of the region, as well as to family-friendly attractions like the Husky Centre, where guests can get to try dog sledging, or to Medvezhye (Bear) Waterfall.

5. Moon Hotel

Boutique Hotel

A spacious room at the Moon Hotel with dark walls, a grey sofa and coffee table, and a cream carpet

The Moon Hotel can be found in the village of Terskol, which is on the road to Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe. Terskol and the surrounding tourism bases appeal to travellers looking to feel more surrounded by nature than in the busier Rosa Khutor or Krasnaya Polyana complexes. Moon boasts a restaurant offering European and traditional Caucasian dishes as well as a hookah lounge, dry sauna and “Siberian barrel” hot tubs. While the nearby slopes are second to none, guests can also enjoy cultural excursions or horse riding.

6. Ozon Cheget

Hotel

This branch of Ozon Hotels is located near Mount Cheget, just a few kilometres from the Elbrus base camp. Guests will be able to visit different ski hills in the region as well as enjoy the confluence of the Terskol and Baksan rivers. The hotel is a mid-range establishment offering standard and junior-suite rooms. It hosts a complex, though, that boasts a conference hall, library, business centre, spa centre with a pool, tennis court, ice rink and games room.

7. Andersen Hotel

Hotel

Andersen Hotel takes inspiration (and its name) from the famous Danish writer, striving to immerse guests in a fairy tale atmosphere. It forms a compelling contrast to the Dombay area, a stunning set of mountains in the Caucasus that was a favourite for Soviet resort birds. The hotel offers a mid-to-high range of rooms and suites as well as a restaurant serving European food. When not hitting the slopes at the Dombay resort, guests can explore the beautiful Amanauz river valley.

8. Altaroom

Budget Hotel

A twin room at Altaroom with two turquoise beds

Altaroom Hotel is also located in the heart of the cluster of Dombay resorts and hotels. This hotel is a budget option, ideal for larger groups, sports teams or young couples – each room has all the essentials for a comfortable stay, with the benefit of stunning views of the North Caucasus range. Guests will be able to enjoy themselves at the Dombay complex or explore the river valley with an assortment of excursions through the Amanauz area, including the Alibek River or Chyortova Melnitsa Waterfall.

Want to keep your Russian excursion going after your time on the slopes? Then, check out great things to do in Moscow during the winter. Alternatively, return when it’s warm using this guide of how to spend a summers day in the Russian capital. Extend your stay by booking one of the most culturally significant hotels in Moscow via Culture Trip, or one of the best St Petersburg hotels. Why not bring Moscow to your own home, with this guide of what to read, eat and more to experience the aura of the city?

This is an updated rewrite of an article originally by Yulia S.

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