Planning Your Ski Trip from Olomouc

Olomouc serves as a perfect base for winter sports enthusiasts. The city offers excellent amenities and easy access to the mountains. You can reach the first ski slopes in less than an hour. Many visitors prefer staying in the city for its culture and dining. Check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for local events during your stay.

The peak season usually runs from December to March. High-altitude resorts often keep snow until late April. Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Mountain conditions can change very quickly in this part of Europe. Reliable snowmaking systems ensure good skiing even during milder winters.

For those who enjoy summer activities, hiking Jeseníky Mountains from Olomouc is also very popular. However, winter transforms these trails into cross-country skiing paradises. You will find hundreds of kilometers of groomed tracks. These connect the major downhill resorts across the mountain range.

10 Best Resorts for Winter Skiing near Olomouc in Jeseníky

Here are the top picks for your winter adventure. These locations offer a mix of difficulty levels and modern facilities. Check out these quick picks for your trip:

• Best overall: Kouty nad Desnou
• Best for families: Filipovice
• Best for snow: Praděd - Ovčárna
• Best for beginners: Ostružná

1. Name: Kouty nad Desnou Type: Alpine Ski Resort Why go: It is the most modern resort in Moravia with a six-seater lift. Best for: Intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Where: Loučná nad Desnou. Time: Full day. Cost: 800-1100 CZK per day. Getting there: Direct train from Olomouc. Tip: Try the long blue run for a relaxing 3km descent.
2. Name: Červenohorské sedlo Type: High-altitude resort Why go: It sits on a mountain pass with slopes on both north and south sides. Best for: Experienced skiers looking for variety. Where: Jeseník district. Time: 6-8 hours. Cost: 700-950 CZK. Getting there: Ski bus or car via road 44. Tip: Eat at the historic mountain hotel for traditional Czech food.
3. Name: Praděd - Ovčárna Type: Glacial-style high peak Why go: This is the highest ski center in the country with natural snow. Best for: Late-season skiing and nature lovers. Where: Near Karlova Studánka. Time: Full day. Cost: 600-900 CZK. Getting there: Shuttle bus from Hvězda parking. Tip: Learn how to get to Praděd Mountain early to avoid crowds.
4. Name: Ramzová Type: Traditional ski center Why go: It features the longest ski run in the Czech Republic, over 3km long. Best for: Long descents and easy rail access. Where: Ramzová pass. Time: 5-7 hours. Cost: 750-1000 CZK. Getting there: Train stops right at the bottom of the lift. Tip: Take the chairlift all the way to Šerák for amazing views.
5. Name: Filipovice Type: Family resort Why go: It offers a great mix of easy terrain and high-quality night skiing. Best for: Families with children and evening sessions. Where: Bělá pod Pradědem. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: 500-800 CZK. Getting there: 1-hour drive from Olomouc. Tip: Use the heated two-seater lift on cold days.
6. Name: Branná Type: Boutique ski area Why go: It is known for excellent grooming and a very friendly atmosphere. Best for: Relaxed skiing without long queues. Where: Branná village. Time: Half day or full day. Cost: 600-850 CZK. Getting there: Train on the Hanušovice line. Tip: Visit the local castle in the village after skiing.
7. Name: Petříkov Type: Sporty ski valley Why go: Often called the "Moravian Kitzbühel" due to its narrow valley and steep runs. Best for: Advanced skiers and slalom fans. Where: Near Ostružná. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: 700-900 CZK. Getting there: Park in Ostružná and take the ski taxi. Tip: The north-facing slopes stay icy and fast all day.
8. Name: Ostružná Type: Beginner-friendly area Why go: It has wide, gentle slopes perfect for learning the basics. Best for: First-time skiers and children. Where: Ostružná village. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: 550-800 CZK. Getting there: Train from Olomouc takes about 1.5 hours. Tip: Check out the kite-skiing school nearby.
9. Name: Hrubá Voda Type: Near-city resort Why go: It is the closest significant ski area to Olomouc. Best for: A quick afternoon trip or after-work skiing. Where: Hlubočky-Hrubá Voda. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: 400-650 CZK. Getting there: 20-minute train ride from Olomouc. Tip: Try the bobsleigh track which operates in winter too.
10. Name: Hlubočky Type: Urban ski slope Why go: Very accessible for city dwellers with great artificial lighting. Best for: Kids' lessons and short practice sessions. Where: Hlubočky village. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 350-600 CZK. Getting there: Local train or short drive. Tip: Ideal for testing your gear before heading to bigger mountains.

Transportation and Logistics for Skiers

Getting to the Jeseníky Mountains is simple and efficient. The regional trains are the backbone of winter travel. You can board a train at Olomouc main station. Many resorts like Ramzová and Branná have stations within walking distance. This allows you to avoid driving on snowy mountain roads.

If you prefer driving, ensure your car has winter tires. Snow chains are often required for higher passes like Červenohorské sedlo. Parking is usually free at smaller resorts but can fill up. Arrive before 9:00 AM to secure a spot near the lifts. You can also explore nearby towns from Olomouc on your way back.

Ski buses are another great option during the high season. These buses connect Olomouc directly to the major ski centers. They often offer discounts on lift passes if you buy a package. Check the latest schedules on the Visit Czechia website. Public transport is reliable even during heavy snowfall.

Winter Safety and Gear in Jeseníky

Safety should always be your top priority on the slopes. The Mountain Rescue Service (Horská služba) patrols all major resorts. You can reach them by dialing 1210 from any phone. Always wear a helmet, even on the beginner slopes. Follow the FIS rules of conduct to keep everyone safe.

Most resorts offer full equipment rental services. You can rent skis, boots, and poles for about 400-600 CZK. Many shops also provide professional waxing and sharpening. If you plan on best one day hikes in Jeseníky Mountains during winter, bring crampons. The trails can be very icy under the snow.

Stay hydrated and take breaks in the mountain huts. These chalets offer warm soup and hot tea at reasonable prices. Avoid skiing off-piste as it can be dangerous for beginners. Stick to the marked trails to protect the local environment. Respect the boundaries of the Jeseníky Protected Landscape Area.