Quick Picks for New Skiers near Plzeň

Are you in a hurry to hit the snow? Here are our top recommendations for beginners. These spots offer the best balance of easy terrain and good facilities. You can find more info at Visit Plzeň for local city updates.

• Best Overall: Ski Resort Špičák
• Best for Kids: Ski Resort Samoty
• Best for Budget: Ski Resort Alšovka
• Best for Rainy Days: Techmania Science Center (Indoor alternative)

9 Best Ski Resorts near Plzeň for Beginners

The Bohemian Forest (Šumava) and the Ore Mountains offer excellent beginner terrain. These resorts focus on safety and learning. Most have English-speaking instructors for new learners. Here are the top locations to visit in 2026.

1. Name: Ski Resort Špičák Type: Sight/Activity Why go: It is the largest and most famous resort in the region. It features a dedicated "Penguinland" for children and easy blue runs. Best for: Families and adult beginners. Where: Železná Ruda. Time: 1 full day. Cost: 800–1,100 CZK for a day pass. Getting there: Direct train from Plzeň main station. Tip: Check the Špičák ski pass prices today before you travel.
2. Name: Ski Resort Nad Nádražím Type: Activity Why go: This resort is located right next to the train station. The slopes are very wide and gentle. It is perfect for those without a car. Best for: Train travelers and absolute novices. Where: Železná Ruda. Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: 500–700 CZK. Getting there: Train to Železná Ruda-centrum. Tip: Use the renting ski equipment tips to save money.
3. Name: Ski Resort Samoty Type: Activity Why go: Samoty offers a long, flat meadow slope. It is arguably the easiest hill in the Czech Republic. There is very little pressure from fast skiers here. Best for: Small children and very nervous beginners. Where: Železná Ruda. Time: 2–4 hours. Cost: 400–600 CZK. Getting there: Walking distance from Železná Ruda center. Tip: The onsite bistro serves great local blueberry dumplings.
4. Name: Ski Resort Belveder Type: Experience Why go: This resort is often less crowded than Špičák. It has sunny slopes and a relaxed atmosphere. It is great for practicing basic turns. Best for: People who dislike long lift lines. Where: Železná Ruda outskirts. Time: Half day. Cost: 500–700 CZK. Getting there: Short taxi or local bus from the station. Tip: Go on a weekday for almost empty slopes.
5. Name: Ski Resort Alšovka Type: Activity Why go: Located in the Ore Mountains, this is a small community-run hill. It offers a very friendly vibe and low prices. The beginner slope is well-maintained. Best for: Budget-conscious skiers. Where: Měděnec. Time: 3–5 hours. Cost: 350–500 CZK. Getting there: 75-minute drive north from Plzeň. Tip: Try the evening skiing under the floodlights.
6. Name: Ski Resort Nýrsko Type: Activity Why go: This is the closest ski slope to Plzeň. It is a single, easy hill perfect for a quick trip. It is ideal if you only have a few hours. Best for: A quick afternoon escape. Where: Nýrsko. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 300–450 CZK. Getting there: 45-minute drive or local train. Tip: Always check snow reports as it is at a lower altitude.
7. Name: Ski Resort Kašperské Hory Type: Sight/Activity Why go: This resort offers beautiful views of a medieval castle. The slopes are wide and consistently easy. The ski school here is highly rated. Best for: Scenic views and learning. Where: Kašperské Hory. Time: Full day. Cost: 600–800 CZK. Getting there: 1-hour drive from Plzeň. Tip: Visit the castle after the slopes close.
8. Name: Ski Resort Zadov Type: Experience Why go: Zadov is a famous training center for cross-country skiers. However, its downhill slopes are excellent for beginners. The runs are long but not steep. Best for: Building confidence on longer runs. Where: Stachy. Time: Full day. Cost: 700–900 CZK. Getting there: 90-minute drive from Plzeň. Tip: The view from the local lookout tower is amazing.
9. Name: Ski Resort Hohenbogen Type: Day trip Why go: Located just across the German border. It offers long, easy runs and modern lifts. It provides a different cultural experience nearby. Best for: A mini international adventure. Where: Neukirchen beim Heiligen Blut. Time: Full day. Cost: 35–45 EUR. Getting there: 1-hour drive from Plzeň. Tip: Bring your passport even though the border is open.

Planning Your Winter Trip to Plzeň

Success on the slopes starts with good planning. The best snow usually arrives in January and February. Most resorts near Plzeň offer modern snow-making machines. You can find more general travel info at Visit Czechia. Always check the weather forecast before leaving the city.

Renting gear is better than buying for beginners. Most resorts have rental shops on-site. They provide boots, skis, and helmets. Helmets are highly recommended for safety. Prices for full sets are usually very reasonable.

Driving is the fastest way to reach most hills. However, the train to Železná Ruda is very scenic. It is also a stress-free way to travel in the snow. Trains run frequently from the Plzeň main station. Pack some warm layers and enjoy the ride.