With 317 stations skiing and 3,113 ski liftsFrance is positioned as the world leader in terms of infrastructure for winter sports (the United States is 2nd with 2970 ski lifts). This record is the result of a long tradition linked to skiing and a continuous investment in the development of this sector. Iconic resorts like Courchevel, Chamonix or Val Thorens attract millions of visitors each year, thus consolidating the country's reputation as a flagship destination for snow sports enthusiasts.
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A diversity of ski destinations around the world
The report “2022 International Report on Snow & Mountain Tourism” by Laurent Vanat, relayed by HelloSafe, reveals that 67 pays in the world have ski infrastructures. Although nations like France, the United States and Austria dominate this sector, unexpected destinations are starting to make their way into this universe. For example, countries like Turkey, Lebanon and Morocco offer unique experiences thanks to their landscapes and local culture.
Regions like Japan and China in Asia demonstrate a significant growth in the ski market. With respectively 497 et 778 stationsthese countries are highlighting their potential to compete with the traditional leaders in the sector. In Europe, Germany stands out for its high attendance despite a less advantageous topography than its Alpine neighbors.
The universal appeal of winter sports
France, with 40.6 million annual visits in its stations, occupies third place in the world in terms of attendance. It is ahead of the United States and Austria, which record similar volumes thanks to modern infrastructure and an elaborate tourism strategy. However, it is sometimes more modest destinations that surprise with their attractiveness. Lesotho, for example, although having a low reception capacity, attracts a predominantly international audience (95%).
Emerging destinations for global practice
Skiing is no longer just reserved for Alpine or North American countries. Emerging regions, such as Kazakhstan, Georgia and India, offer original experiences in environments that are still little explored. These destinations, often less equipped, rely on their spectacular landscapes to attract customers looking for something new.
In Africa, countries like South Africa and Lesotho show that it is possible to adapt to geographical constraints to offer snow sports experiences. In Latin America, Ecuador and Peru present opportunities with their tropical glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
A promising future for still unexploited areas
Certain regions of the world have strong development potential for skiing, such as Bhutan in the Himalayas or Tanzania in East Africa. Although these destinations are still at a rudimentary stage, they could, in the coming years, become essential places thanks to targeted investments. These initiatives show that skiing is booming, reaching regions previously absent from the winter sports scene.
France, a strategic position for mountain tourism
In summary, France, with 17% of the world's ski infrastructure, remains the world's flagship ski infrastructure, with a diversified offering that attracts both local and international visitors. His leadership is part of a general trend of opening winter sports to a wider audience, allowing regions far from the Alps to position themselves as creative and enriching alternatives.
Sources
The information presented in this article comes from the “2022 International Report on Snow & Mountain Tourism” written by Laurent Vanat, as well as additional data provided by HelloSafe. These studies combine in-depth analyzes and global perspectives on the development of winter sports around the world.
Consult all the figures on skiing around the world: https://hellosafe.fr/assurance-voyage/classement-stations-ski-monde
