Fresh Frontiers: 3 under-the-radar ski destinations to explore

As the damp winter weather dawdles on at home, destinations around the globe are receiving their annual allocation of snow — from North America to Europe, Australia to Japan. If snow sports make your spirits soar, beating the January blues no doubt means a quick jaunt overseas to get your annual powder fix. And if the idea of another year of packed pistes and endless lift queues rather kills the magic, it could be time to venture beyond the regular routes. Here, Tempus shares three under-the-radar ski spots to explore, where winter wellbeing means vast vistas,  high-end hospitality, and snow-capped serenity.Hotel Hubertus, South Tyrol, Italy
In the South Tyrol’s Dolomite mountains, design-led Hotel Hubertus sits suspended between earth and sky, with its gravity-defying Skypool  and iconic Heaven & Hell Sky Spa promising soaring peaks and snow-strewn horizons. Set high above the Puster Valley, three minutes from the valley station via private shuttle, it combines elevated dining and exceptional spa offerings with seamless access to Plan de Corones/Kronplatz’s pristine slopes. With over 120 kilometers of runs, from gentle greens to the legendary Black Five, the mountains offer experiences for all abilities, as well as the thrill of night skiing under a canopy of stars. For those that tire of the slopes, the spa beckons with its panoramic whirlpools and mountain views, infinity pool, saunas, revitalising rain showers and five further pools. The hotel itself offers a robust program of winter events, including everything from sophisticated wine tastings to alpine hut parties, and ski safaris to energising winter hikes. Das Goldberg, Gastein Valley, Austria
BadHofganstein’s only ski-in-ski-out hotel is perched high above Austria’s Gastein Valley. Rooted in sustainability, Das Goldberg is a family-run five-star design hotel that blends contemporary luxury with authentic nature-inspired living. Take in sweeping mountain panoramas from the geothermal-heated swimming lake or unwind after a action-packed day on the pistes with nature-inspired treatments, a range of saunas, infrared cabin and expansive relaxation spaces at the expansive spa. A sanctuary for wellness and adventure, it also offers hearty yet refined dining, perfect for refueling and recharging. The main restaurant features a panoramic sun terrace and offers customisable five-course evening menus, while The Fire Bar brings seasonal flair, sitting directly on the ski slope, featuring roaring fires, DJ sets and a one-of-a-kind ‘winter BBQ’ experience.Siro, Porto Montenegro
Montenegro might not be your first thought for snow-strewn landscapes, but its mountains offer a wealth of slopes and trails for winter sports enthusiasts and plenty of snow cover at this time of year. Perfect for beginner and intermediate skiers, visitors can expect relaxed Balkan vibes and hearty Montenegrin mountain cuisine. For luxury-lovers, a couple of hours’ drive finds you at Siro Boka Place — a standout spot to base yourself, for cultural exploration combined with a spot of skiing. Located on the coast in Tivat’s Porto Montenegro, the new fitness and recovery hotel is a brand “built for living better”. Geared for active individuals and, at this time of year, snow sport lovers, it offers comprehensive day trips to Kolašin, starting with private transfers and rounded off with comprehensive post-ski recovery spa sessions upon your return. With its heated half-Olympic pool, tennis courts, destination fitness programs, and high-end Recovery Lab, it’s the perfect mix of winter sun, serene seas, snowy slopes and Montenegrin culture.

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