I wasn’t interested and thus didn’t start skiing until I was much older than the majority of my friends. In fact when they were getting up for their early Sunday morning ski trips to the local snow field I would usually still be in bed recovering from my Saturday night. It wasn’t until after I had left high school that I even started considering learning to ski – but I’ve got to admit it – once I did start, I really got the bug, and just didn’t want to stop.

Now, as an adult, not a year goes past where I don’t head for the slopes with my friends at least once, and for many of us it really is a great way to have a holiday together while doing something that we all really enjoy doing together while being active. Although many people see skiing as a solitary activity, it’s definitely something that can be widely enjoyed as part of a group and it’s a great way to get the gang together and do something active and healthy at the same time.

It’s not uncommon for groups to go away to the beach, or to other warm holiday destinations – so why should it be any different with skiing or in fact any winter activity? Skiing can be an expensive holiday and for some people or families more so than for others. You have to think about buying or hiring skis, ski boots, bindings, goggles, etc. But you will often find that if you book in groups you are able to keep your costs down and therefore generally be able to afford decent accommodation and ski hire across the board. Nevertheless, if you are still struggling then there are other ways you can try to save money. For example you could look into picking up some second hand gear before you leave, or, considering you have this option, borrowing some off a friend.

When I was younger and after I discovered skiing for myself, I was lucky in that one of my best mates happened to own a ski lodge and each year this would provide us with free accommodation. Most people will not have this option, but there are still plenty of other options available. Throughout winter time Europe plays host to a whole heap of popular skiing destinations – big and well known ones, as well as smaller and lesser known destinations. With so many to choose from you are bound to find one to suit you and your friends needs as well as your budget!

 At the end of the day, if you are looking for adventure, fun and perhaps even something a little challenging at the same time, then skiing could be exactly what you have been looking for. Skiing allows you to really challenge your ability, and to have a great time with your mates at the same time, and after a hard day out skiing, what better way to relax than to return to the hotel for some aprés ski in a warm bar with a drink or the hotel spa?!