Which International Gay Ski Week Are You?

Photos in order: Getty Images (2); Courtesy Companies (4)

Every winter, gay ski weeks threaten to cause deep existential angst: Are we going to hit the slopes from dawn to dusk, Sporty Spice style? Or, like Posh Spice, will we hit the hot cocoa and roaring fires, appreciating nature from behind a couple of marshmellows?

January 3rd - 9th, 2009
Arosa Gay Ski Week, Arosa, Switzerland
For it's gay ski week, the typically Swiss pocket-sized valley of Arosa wants to have it both ways: As you can see here, Sporty will be happy, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks we only see in professional Ski videos. Likewise, Posh will enjoy the foam party (watch last year's here) and those who like to dress up like Posh will enjoy the drag race.

February 21st - 28th, 2009
Telluride Gay Ski Week, Colorado
Sporty will like this one, not only because of the 13,000-foot peaks, but also because organizer's bill it as an alternative to the party-and-pose atmosphere that other Posh-friendly gay ski week's revel in. Of course, that doesn't mean guests will be deprived of the essentials: luxe resort lodgings, spa treatments, and boutique shops.

February 1st - 8th, 2009
Whistler WinterPRIDE, B.C.
A few of our Out Travelers made it out here last winter and thoroughly enjoyed it -- read their day-by-day accounts here. WinterPRIDE's consideration for women's and lesbian events stands out from many other gay ski weeks. This year, organizers have called in Vancouver-based lesbian party powerhouse, Flygirl, to run take things to the next level. Watch out! The mountain officially opens Nov. 28th, so if you're in the area that weekend, check out their Bizarre Baazar, with 100 artisans selling just about anything anyone would want for the holidays and then some.

March 21st - 28th, 2009
European Gay Ski Week, Tinges, France
Nestled in the French Alps , Tinges' 190 miles of trails -- including extensive off-trail opportunities -- will keep Sporty more than happy. Posh won't even notice, of course, since infamous noble- and celeb-spotting ski town Val D'Isere is right next door and shares trails with Tinges.

Comments

[Mike in London]

I'm heading back to Whistler from London for the third year in a row. Lots of variety -- so suits all, whether partiers or dinner partiers. Fairly international crowd, with all age groups represented. Most of all, FUN and great skiing. Find one of the good volunteer guides, and stick with him/her as they know the mountains like the back of their hands.

[Travelin' man]

Nice tip, Mike. Thanks!