Spanish travel magazine spotlights Almaty: Skiing steps from the city

Photo: Shutterstock, photo editor: Adelina Mamedova

Prominent Spanish travel magazine Viajar featured Almaty among five destinations located at the foot of the mountains, offering easy access to ski slopes directly from the city center. The outlet placed Kazakhstan’s largest city alongside Innsbruck in Austria, Chamonix in France, Whistler in Canada and Zermatt in Switzerland.

Describing Almaty as a «vibrant surprise in Central Asia,» the magazine highlighted Shymbulak Resort as one of the region’s best facilities, with some slopes reaching as high as 3,000 meters above sea level. It also noted the high-altitude Medeu complex, home to the world’s highest skating rink (currently under renovation), from which tourists can take a gondola lift up to the resort. The article emphasized the spectacular Tien Shan mountain range, which is impressive in every season.

In addition to its mountain attractions, Viajar recommended exploring Almaty’s museums, bazaars and local restaurants to get a fully rounded travel experience.

Founded in 1978, Viajar focuses on cultural, active and educational tourism.