Destinations

The capital of alpinism, at the foot of Mont Blanc. Busy ski schools in winter and guiding, climbing and trail work all summer.

A World Surfing Reserve 45 minutes from Lisbon, with surf camps, schools and yoga retreats open most of the year.

Limestone crags and enduro trails above the Mediterranean, with climbing and bike guiding work in spring and autumn.

Arctic surf, granite climbing and ski touring from sea to summit. Small operators, long summer days and the northern lights in winter.

Big, snow-sure terrain and one of the oldest ski schools in the world. A classic first season for ski instructors.

Europe's windiest corner. Kitesurf and windsurf schools run almost all year on the long beaches facing Morocco.