Discover top spots for winter sports around Rotterdam, including year-round indoor skiing and snowboarding, plus seasonal ice skating events.
Whether you are a skiing novice or an experienced snowboarder, the area around Rotterdam offers a plethora of options to enjoy winter sports. From the extensive facilities at SnowWorld Zoetermeer and De Uithof in The Hague to the local charm of Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam and Alpine Sports in Den Hoorn, there's something for everyone. Plus, with Schaatsbaan Rotterdam and the Ijsvrij Festival, the city transforms into a winter paradise, providing plenty of opportunities for fun and recreation. So, gear up and hit the slopes or the rink this winter!
SnowWorld Zoetermeer: the ultimate indoor ski destination
SnowWorld Zoetermeer is a prime spot for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, featuring four slopes, ten lifts and the steepest indoor slope in Europe. With temperatures inside kept at a brisk -5°C, you can experience perfect snow conditions year-round. SnowWorld’s ski school runs year round, with hundreds of certified instructors delivering tens of thousands of hours of lessons every year across its Dutch locations. Whether you're a beginner looking for trial lessons or an experienced skier seeking to refine your skills, SnowWorld has a course for you.
De Uithof, The Hague: a multifunctional sports centre
De Uithof in The Hague is another excellent destination, boasting facilities for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more. Snow temperature is kept around -5 to -10 °C. The centre features a 211-metre ski slope with real snow, ensuring a realistic skiing experience. De Uithof also offers a range of lessons, from beginners to advanced levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the slopes safely and confidently.
Ski and snowboard schools
Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam
Located conveniently within Rotterdam, Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam is ideal for those looking to take lessons without travelling far. The centre provides a range of courses for both skiing and snowboarding, catering to all ages and skill levels. With its modern facilities and experienced instructors, it's a great place to start your winter sports journey. Note that this is a roller-slope centre rather than a snow dome.
Alpine Sports, Den Hoorn
Just a short drive from Rotterdam, Alpine Sports in Den Hoorn offers a variety of training programs for skiing and snowboarding. Known for its friendly atmosphere and expert instructors, Alpine Sports is perfect for those who prefer a more personalised approach to learning. They provide individual lessons as well as group courses, making it easy to find the right fit for your needs.
Ice skating in Rotterdam: seasonal highlights
For ice skating enthusiasts, Schaatsbaan Rotterdam is a must-visit during the winter months. Schaatsbaan Rotterdam usually runs from late November until late February, with exact dates varying slightly each winter, providing a festive atmosphere with various skating events and activities. It's a fantastic place for families, friends, and even solo skaters to enjoy a day out on the ice.
The Ijsvrij Festival in Rotterdam is another highlight of the winter season. This festival combines ice skating with cultural events, food stalls, and live music, creating a vibrant winter wonderland. It typically takes place during the holiday season, offering a unique way to celebrate the festive period in the heart of Rotterdam. In recent years the IJsvrij Festival has taken a break, and there was no 2024-25 edition. At the time of writing, no dates have been announced for winter 2025-26, so be sure to check the official channels before you plan a visit.
For more detailed information on ice skating locations, prices, and events, have a look at our article on ice skating in Rotterdam.
