Shymbulak Mountain Resort

Shymbulak is Central Asia’s best-known ski resort, set in a high valley of the Trans-Ili Alatau, a short drive from central Almaty. A modern gondola carries you up from Medeu, with the ice rink shrinking below and the peaks opening up ahead.

In winter there are groomed runs for every level, ski and snowboard schools and equipment hire. Non-skiers can ride further chairlifts towards the Talgar Pass for views across the range, play in the snow or sit in a sunny café. In summer the slopes turn green and the resort is popular for walks and fresh mountain air.

It is much colder at the top than in the city, so dress in layers and bring sunglasses and sun cream. Weekends are busy; weekdays are calmer.