Six venues where winter really has the right bite
When the Orlické Mountains dress in white, their big moment arrives. Fog rolls through the valleys and the slopes gleam under the sharp winter sun. At that moment, the snow groomers swing into action and the ski resorts fire up their snow cannons at full blast. Whether you’re a laid-back family skier, a carving enthusiast, a speed lover, or you’re looking for a smaller, quieter resort, you’ll enjoy winter to the fullest in the Orlické Mountains. We’ve put together an overview of six ski resorts that form the backbone of skiing in the region.
1. Deštné in the Orlické Mountains
Deštné is simply a household name. Probably the best-known ski resort in the Orlické Mountains offers wide runs, modern chairlifts, and facilities appreciated by families and sport skiers alike. The main slope has a pleasant width and a more athletic profile that will test your technique. For children and beginners, there are several teaching zones, a ski school, and fun features. In the evening, the resort comes alive once again thanks to regular night skiing. What’s more, you’ll find an excellent ski school, a rental shop, and refreshments right by the slope.
2. Buková hora
Buková hora connects the Červená Voda & Čenkovice resorts, and thanks to that it offers a large selection of slopes and very modern facilities. The unique connection of the two sides of the mountain makes it possible to enjoy long runs, switch up the atmosphere, and move from family-friendly sections to sportier stretches. You’ll also find a children’s slope and the Kid Park beginner meadow, as well as Snowpark Bukovka.
3. Říčky in the Orlické Mountains
The ski center in Říčky is renowned for perfect grooming, elevation gain, and its sporty character. You’ll find three main slopes of varying difficulty as well as a smaller fun zone for children. The resort offers a modern six-seater chairlift, quality facilities in the form of a rental shop and ski school, and the popular Skirest restaurant with a sunny terrace.
4. Peklák
Peklák isn’t just the summer king of trails. In winter, it turns into a popular in-town ski area with pleasant facilities and night skiing. Ideal for quick afternoon or early-evening runs when you don’t want to head into the mountains but still want to enjoy a well-groomed slope. You park a few meters from the lift and ski.
5. SKIOZ Orlické Záhoří
The resort in Orlické Záhoří offers a peaceful setting, one main wide slope for children and adults, and an exceptional location in the heart of the mountains. There’s a ski school, rental service, refreshments right by the slope, and a Ski Arena for cross-country skiers with a 4.5 km loop and illuminated trails free of charge.
6. České Petrovice
A smaller but very popular resort in České Petrovice offers clear, easy-to-navigate runs and friendly facilities. The slopes and lifts for adults are complemented by a children’s area with teaching aids and kids’ lifts. Add to that a ski school with quality instructors, and you’ll know where to go skiing with the very youngest so that the whole family can enjoy a relaxed day on the slope.
Tips for enjoying skiing to the fullest
1. Head out early in the morning
The snow is firmest and the slopes are emptiest.
2. Keep an eye on the forecast
Ridges can be windier, valley resorts calmer.
3. Match your skis to the terrain
Depending on the type of resort, choose the right skis and the appropriate tuning. For evening skiing, don’t forget your ski goggles.
4. Don’t underestimate the journey
Winter weather in the Orličky changes faster than you’d expect.
5. Alternate between resorts
Each has a different character and a different atmosphere. And that’s exactly the region’s charm.
6. Buy your ski pass online
Avoid queues and save money. Check whether the selected ski resort offers a better deal when purchasing a ski pass online.
