The southern side of Chopok in Slovakia's Low Tatras, linked over the summit to Jasná on the north. The base villages are small and functional, and the mountains around are national park, which makes this one of the least developed large ski areas in Europe.

The terrain is wide and open above the treeline with forest runs below, and there is freeride ground that Slovaks rate highly. Confident intermediates get the most from it. Weather closes the summit link regularly, so check before committing to a crossing.

Apartments and hotels cost far below the Alps and the lift passes match, which makes it excellent value if you accept simpler facilities. The thermal baths at Bešeňová and Tatralandia are nearby, and the Demänovská caves fill an afternoon.