Easter ski bookings rise 76% as search interest hits five-year high | News
With the Easter holidays falling two weeks earlier this year and the recent heavy snowfall in the Alps, 2026 looks set to be a bumper year for Easter ski trips. Current Google Trends and booking data show a dramatic spike in demand.
The latest figures from Heidi, Britain’s second largest ski holiday provider, show that Easter ski bookings have increased by 76% year-on-year, reflecting a rise in online UK search interest.
According to current Google Trends data (captured on February 23, 2026*), UK search interest for ‘Easter skiing’ has increased by 144% year-on-year, and more than tripled for ‘spring skiing’, which is an increase of 335%. Both terms have reached their highest levels in five years, highlighting the growing interest in late-season ski holidays:
Italy benefits from the spotlight at the Winter Olympics
Heidi also reports a shift in Easter destination trends this year, with Italian resorts gaining ground on French favorites – likely a halo effect from the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, which showcased the Dolomites and other Italian ski areas to the British public.
Last Easter, Heidi’s best-selling resorts were largely French favorites, including Avoriaz, Flaine, Val Thorens and La Plagne. This year, several Italian resorts – including Sauze d’Oulx, Sestriere and Selva di Val Gardena – made the top sellers list, joining Austria’s Kirchberg.
While classic high-altitude mountain resorts have traditionally been the safest choice for late-season skiing, recent heavy snowfall has expanded the range of viable destinations, appealing to families and budget-conscious skiers.
Why skiing at Easter is becoming increasingly popular
Easter offers several advantages over the February half-year peak, making it ideal for families and beginners:
Quieter slopes and shorter lines at the lifts
Longer daylight hours
Milder and sunnier weather
Better prices
Marcus Blunt, co-founder of Heidi, comments: “With the Easter holidays earlier this year and exceptional recent snowfall in the Alps, we are primed for a strong spring ski season. The increase in bookings for Easter reflects this, and there is increased demand for Italian resorts compared to last year – likely a halo effect from the Winter Olympics spotlight.”
Top ski deals for families at Easter under £500pp
With five weeks left to book and Heidi’s late season sale has begun, there are great deals available whether you want a full week or a short break:
Montgenèvre, France – 7 nights, £487pp – Includes 7 nights self-catering at the 4-star Résidence Club with Le Hameau des Airelles, return flights London Stansted – Turin and airport transfers. Departure Saturday April 4, 2026
Samoëns, France – 7 nights, £434pp – Includes 7 nights self-catering at Lagrange Vacances Les Fermes de Samoëns, return flights London Gatwick – Geneva and airport transfers. Departure Saturday April 4, 2026
Sauze d’Oulx, Italy – 5 nights, £489pp – Includes 5 nights at Avalanche – Alpine Boutique Hotel, return flights London Stansted – Turin and private airport transfers. Departure Sun April 5, 2026
Avoriaz, France – 4 nights – £474pp – Includes 4 nights self-catering at ski-in/ski-out Résidence Pierre & Vacances Saskia Falaise, return flights London Gatwick – Geneva and airport transfers. Departure Sun April 5, 2026
Alpbach, Austria – 4 nights – £412pp – Includes 4 nights at Das GÄSTEHAUS SCHNEIDER am Dorfplatz, return flights London Luton – Innsbruck and private airport transfers. Departure Tuesday April 7, 2026
