Ski holidays aren’t what they used to be, and we have older travellers to thank
Ski holidays are no longer just about hitting the slopes for an action-packed extravaganza. Trips to the snow are now evolving into broader lifestyle trips, with the trend being driven by older generations. Skiing is no longer just about hitting the slopes.
iStock“Older travellers are increasingly drawn to the mountains not only for the skiing itself, but for the scenic environments and wellness experiences that come with a ski holiday,” Michelle Davies - General Manager - Club Med Pacific & New ESAP Markets told nine.com.auShe says this could be alpine walks, spa experiences, relaxed days exploring mountain villages, and indulging in the local food scene.The stats back this up, too. Interest in adventure travel is growing among older Australians, with almost a third of Boomers now interested in adventure holidays, up from 17 per cent in 2024. Beyond the slopes, mountain destinations are evolving to cater to older travellers, particularly those who may not be able to ski like they used to, but still want that ski-holiday feeling. Read moreHow to ski on a budget: This is the cheapest time to go skiing in Australia“Rather than fast-paced itineraries, there’s an interest in experience-led holidays that mix mornings on the slopes with afternoons spent exploring the local culture through village tours, immersive dining and authentic craft experiences,” said Michelle. Japan is the perfect place for this kind of hybrid ski trip. It’s not as far away as resorts in Europe, and many villages make it easy to balance time on the slopes with wellness, food and cultural experiences.Japan offers a mix of everything from skiing to food and cultural immersion. iStockThere are heaps of Japanese ski resorts with slope and terrain options for varying abilities, that also have ski-in ski-out access, wellness facilities, slower-paced villages and plenty of off-slope experiences.Club Med Kiroro Peak even has a premium all-inclusive offering that includes daily French champagne - perfect for warming up after a day in the cold. Empty nesters in particular are increasingly keen to rediscover travel in their ‘golden years’, the data shows. Nearly 40 per cent of Australian seniors had their last ‘big’ holiday in the past year – a significant jump from 18 per cent in 2022, per a study by Australian Seniors.But they’re not interested in stereotypical retirement-aged travel methods. Instead, Boomers want to make up for experiences they may have missed in their youth, with longer, action-packed holidays featuring things like hiking or skiing. Again, Japan presents a great opportunity for a trip like this. Over 90 per cent of international travellers extend their trips beyond the resorts by an average of nine extra days in Japan, exploring cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Chiba once they’re done with the slopes. It’s a chance to develop a deeper understanding for the country you’re visiting. Most skiiers add on extra days to see more of Japan. GettyRead moreThree Aussie cities among the best in the world for older travellers“Ticking off the ‘must see’ sights in 10 countries across Europe in 14 days is not my idea of travel, but it may have been when I was 20,” Lester, a 60-something Australian previously told nine.com.au.Instead, he’s planned longer, more immersive holidays now that he’s done raising kids.“I love the local interaction. I like to research a little bit before I go. Try to understand the correct cultural gestures, a little bit of language, some customs. I like trips where I can immerse myself in one country.”
