In short. In winter the Almaty mountains offer the Shymbulak and Ak-Bulak ski resorts, the Medeu rink, walks in the park and the Kok-Zhailyau trail with a sled. What to pack: warm layers, gloves, a thermos. You can stay at the sauna cabin Country House at 1500 m.
Where to ski in winter
Almaty is one of the best cities for a winter mountain holiday. Several spots operate within half an hour to an hour of the centre.
Shymbulak
The region's main ski resort: slopes for all levels, rentals, a school and cable cars.
Ak-Bulak
Another resort with slopes and lifts — good for family skiing.
Medeu rink
A high-altitude rink for mass skating — an atmospheric spot in winter.
What to pack
- Warm, layered clothing, gloves and a hat;
- A thermos with tea and a snack;
- Sunglasses — the mountain sun is bright;
- A sled if you're heading to Kok-Zhailyau.
Where to warm up in the evening
After a day on the slopes, the best finish is a sauna. At Country House at 1500 m the sauna runs year-round: you can step straight out onto the snow. A quiet cabin for a family or a couple, with underfloor heating and a fire pit.