Where to ski in China

Nanshan Ski Resort, Beijing

Just half an hour from Beijing, though, Nanshan is the home of China's largest snowboarding park. Its six jumps, half-pipe and range of rails will challenge even the most hardcore boarders and are set to put the pros to the test when the park hosts the Red Bull Open next month.

Runs are short and the snow is often machine-made, so this park is best suited to those who like tricks, beginner skiers or ski-bunnies who just need a quick, cheap fix of the white stuff. If you're bringing the kids along, they'll love perks such as a snowmobile route, 1,318-metre toboggan run and sledding. And there are plenty of good dining options on-site including the newly expanded Alps Café, which serves decent coffee and cake.

Where to stay Nanshan is easy to reach and small enough to cover in a day trip if you're an advanced skier. But if you want to make a weekend of it, within walking distance of the ski area is the Shirton Inn, an Alps-style log cabin that has 24 rooms, each with its own fireplace, starting from 580RMB. Alternatively, if you're going with a group, the Norwegian Villa has two separate ski chalets, each with six double bedrooms, a living room, fireplace, kitchen and multiple bathrooms, costing 3,880RMB. To book, call 8428 6688.

Season December to late February

Getting there Take bus 980 from Dongzhimen Public Transport Hub and alight at West Bridge (Xidaqiao), then take a taxi to Nanshan Ski Resort (around 20RMB). Or book a place on the shuttle buses, which depart daily at 8.30am from Sanyuanqiao and Wudaokou subway stations (35RMB; call 8909 1909 at least one day in advance).

More info www.nanshanski.com