The centre with the largest ski lift system in the UK is Glenshee, it offers an amazing diversity of natural terrain for all ability skiers. Some people may be hesitant about booking a snowsport trip to Scotland due to unpredictable weather but that does not rule out Glenshee, even if there is just a sprinkling of snow, artificial snow making can cover 20, 000 squared meters making some slopes available. Glenshee is also easily accessible from Edinburgh and Perth making a weekend getaway or last minute day trip an attractive option when those good weather reports arrive.
This is the most extensive skiing area in Scotland. The slopes are located either side of the main A93 road which links Perth and Blairgowrie with Royal Deeside. There are 26 lifts which comprise 18 pomas, 5 t-bars, 2 chairs and l trainer tow.
With 38 runs, the longest of which is 2 km (1.25miles) and a maximum vertical descent of 1,500ft (457m). There is the famous "Tiger Run" for those who like a challenging black piste but there are also plenty of red and blue runs as well.
Glenshee is becoming as popular as Aviemore.
Facilities at the ski centre are very good. Many of the lifts start at the car park level and cover 25 miles of downhill runs over three valleys. There are 3 mountain restaurants and snow making to ensure most runs are kept open. There are 26 red and blue runs so Glenshee is well suited to the novice and intermediate skier.
The advanced skiers have not been overlooked as the challenge of the "tiger" mogul course will test the best of you. The first-ever British championships were staged at Glenshee and snowboarders will find huge snowbowls with steep mogulled slopes. Expert tuition for both skiers and snowboarders is always available.
The car park is on either side of the main road directly by the Glenshee ski centre so walking is kept to a minimum.
Accommodation can be arranged through the Braemar Tourist Centre on 013397 41600, or through packages from the Scottish Tourist Board.
For further information, please contact The Glenshee Ski Centre on tel: 013397 41320 or www.ski-glenshee.co.uk
If unsure about snow sport locations or the best times to travel visit www.ski-scotland.com for information on lift passes for all centres or accommodation. Ski Scotland is the umbrella organisation made up of the five ski centres, VisitScotland and Snowsport Scotland. In 2007 the organisation launched an SMS weather alert giving an early heads up for all those enthusiasts looking for a quick getaway. Just log on to the website and sign up to receive free alerts.