What Is the Oldest Ski Resort in the World?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you a skiing enthusiast? If so, have you ever wondered which ski resort is the oldest in the world?

Well, wonder no more! In this article, we will explore the history of skiing and reveal the answer to this intriguing question.

The History of Skiing

Skiing has been around for thousands of years, with evidence of its use in Scandinavia dating back to 4,500 BC. However, skiing as a recreational activity only started to gain popularity in the mid-19th century. Since then, it has become a beloved winter sport enjoyed by millions around the world.

The Birth of Ski Resorts

As skiing became more popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, people began to flock to areas with ideal skiing conditions. This led to the development of ski resorts around the world.

The Oldest Ski Resort in the World

So, what is the oldest ski resort in the world? The answer is..Sälen in Sweden! Sälen first opened its doors as a ski resort in 1904 and has been welcoming skiers ever since. It’s located in western Sweden near Norway and is still a popular destination today.

  • Sälen boasts over 100 slopes for skiers of all levels.
  • The resort also has a wide range of other winter activities available such as snowmobiling and dog sledding.
  • Sälen is easily accessible by car or plane.

Other Oldest Ski Resorts

While Sälen may be the oldest ski resort still operating today, there are several other resorts that claim to be the oldest:

  • St. Anton am Arlberg in Austria opened its first lift system in 1901.
  • Davos-Klosters in Switzerland opened its first ski lift in 1906.
  • Montgenèvre in France opened its first ski lift in 1907.

In Conclusion

Skiing has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a mode of transportation. Today, skiing is a beloved sport enjoyed by millions around the world.

And while there are several ski resorts that claim to be the oldest, Sälen in Sweden takes the crown as the oldest still operating today. So, if you’re looking for a bit of skiing history, why not plan a trip to Sälen and hit the slopes where it all began?