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The 2024/25 winter season promises to be one of the most exciting for British skiers as Scandinavia’s largest ski resorts in Sweden and Norway gear up for a transformative experience. SkiStar, the premier holiday operator in the region, is setting new standards in snow reliability, technology, and direct access. With direct flights from London to vital Scandinavian destinations, British skiers will be seamlessly transported to some of the world’s best ski resorts, offering cutting-edge skiing enhancements.

SkiStar’s destinations, including Sälen, Åre, and Trysil, are undergoing various developments designed to enhance the skiing experience for the growing number of British tourists who flock to these iconic destinations each winter. Last season saw a significant uptick in British visitors, with SkiStar ensuring guests enjoyed consistent snow conditions throughout their stay. This upcoming season, SkiStar is raising the bar even further.

Direct Flights from London to Scandinavia: A Game-Changer for British Skiers

In a significant move highlighting the growing appeal of Scandinavian skiing, SkiStar partnered with SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) to introduce direct flights from London Heathrow to Scandinavian Mountains Airport. This strategic link will reduce travel time and make it easier than ever for skiers to reach the slopes. The direct flights will run weekly from February 2 to March 30, 2025, and offer travellers access to two of Scandinavia’s largest ski resorts: Sälen in Sweden and Trysil in Norway.

Crystal Ski Holidays has also joined forces with SkiStar to announce a new direct flight route between London Gatwick and Scandinavian Mountains Airport from December 21, 2025, to April 5, 2026. These new routes promise unprecedented convenience for British skiers looking for quick and seamless access to world-class skiing.

Stefan Sjöstrand, CEO of SkiStar, expressed his excitement about the growing demand for Scandinavian skiing among British tourists:

“We are committed to offering our guests an unforgettable experience in the Scandinavian mountains, and these new direct flights are a testament to the increasing popularity of our destinations. We are thrilled to bring more British skiers to our resorts and offer them unparalleled snow reliability, exciting new attractions, and innovative facilities.”

Innovative Skiing Technology and Infrastructure Enhancements

For the 2024/25 season, SkiStar is introducing several groundbreaking technologies to improve the guest experience. Among the most notable upgrades is the implementation of real-time queue status updates for ski lifts across multiple resorts. This new technology will allow skiers to plan their routes more efficiently, reducing wait times and maximizing time spent on the slopes.

In addition to technological advancements, SkiStar is making significant investments in infrastructure to ensure snow reliability across its resorts. The enhancements include advanced snow production systems, providing optimal skiing conditions even during unpredictable weather. New family-friendly attractions and AI-driven logistics improvements are set to create a seamless skiing experience for visitors of all ages.

Åre: Sweden’s Alpine Capital Extends Ski Season

In Åre, Sweden’s alpine hub, SkiStar has extended the ski season until May 4, 2025, offering more time for skiing enthusiasts to enjoy the snowy landscapes. Significant investments in snow reliability have been made, particularly in the Björnen ski area, where upgrades ensure that more accommodations benefit from ski-in/ski-out access. The popular children’s area in Rödkullen is being further developed, including the addition of a new ski-cross course designed by the beloved snowman, Valle.

Åre is also seeing exciting developments off the slopes. The renowned Hansson Concept Store at Åre Square will be completely redesigned, and the adjacent ski rental shop will be revamped for improved logistics. Furthermore, Restaurant 720, a hotspot for gourmet dining with stunning views, will reopen, promising delectable meals in a unique atmosphere.

Sälen: A Family-Friendly Paradise with New Attractions

Sälen, a well-known family destination, is adding to its magical allure with improvements to the famous Trollskogen (Troll Forest) in Hundfjället. Guests will be transported into an enchanted world with the help of sound effects and immersive storytelling about the beloved trolls and the popular character, Valle. The enhanced experience will captivate children and adults as they venture through the Trollkyrkan (Troll Church) and other themed attractions.

In Hundfjället, accessibility is being improved with a new weather-proof lift from the square to critical locations, including the top restaurant. Sälen is also ensuring snow reliability with significant reinforcements at Sälfjällstorget in Lindvallen. Additionally, two new restaurants will open in SkiStar Lodge Hundfjället, offering diverse culinary options, from American-Italian fusion to Nordic-inspired dishes. Live family-friendly music will entertain guests after a full day on the slopes.

Trysil: Norway’s Largest Ski Resort Gets a World-Class Snow Park

Norway’s premier ski destination, Trysil, is preparing for one of its most exciting seasons by introducing a brand-new snow park designed to meet World Cup standards. This central park will feature three ski lines—blue, red, and black—and include a high-tech snow production system, lighting, and a 1,100-meter park lift. Night skiing will also be expanded, allowing more time on the slopes under the stars.

In Trysil’s family-friendly areas, Valle’s activities will be enhanced with a new Valle kitchen and an illuminated Valle forest, adding to the magical atmosphere. A new magic carpet lift and tunnel will further improve accessibility for children at Høyfjellssenteret, making Trysil a top choice for families seeking an unforgettable winter holiday.

Hemsedal: Expanding Ski-In/Ski-Out Access and Modern Accommodations

Often referred to as the “Alps of Scandinavia,” Hemsedal is expanding its ski-in/ski-out access with new developments around the Lodge Express lift. Ski slopes are being widened to accommodate more skiers, and a 250-meter-long magic carpet lift is being installed to connect key accommodation areas, including the brand-new Fjellandsbyen apartments.

Hemsedal’s modern, premium accommodations are ready for the 2024/25 season, adding 128 ski-in/ski-out apartments in Fjellnest, Tinden, and Alpin Appartement. This upscale offering ensures that guests enjoy the luxury of direct slope access and stunning alpine views.

Sustainability at the Forefront: Hammarbybacken Goes Green

In line with SkiStar’s commitment to sustainability, the ski facility at Hammarbybacken in Stockholm is transitioning to fossil-free operations. The facility runs on electricity following a successful pilot project, with more efficient snow production and enhanced lighting on the slopes. These upgrades ensure that even during Stockholm’s long, dark winter days, visitors can enjoy a top-notch skiing experience with a minimal environmental footprint.

The Future of Scandinavian Skiing

As the 2024/25 season approaches, SkiStar is set to revolutionize the winter experience across its resorts in Sweden and Norway. From seamless travel with direct flights to groundbreaking technological innovations and snow reliability measures, SkiStar’s dedication to delivering unforgettable skiing holidays is evident. For British skiers, the allure of Scandinavia has never been more potent, and the upcoming season will surely be a highlight in the global winter sports calendar.