Welcome the one place where you are likely to see more boarders than skiers. Laax is considered one of the most snowboarding friendly resorts in Europe. Competitions are regularly held here thanks to the fantastic combination of slopes, off-pistes and parks that make Laax a haven for boarders.
The main park hosts a colossal 140m pipe which is kept in mint condition, an experience not to be missed by any budding freestylers, as well as plenty of kickers and rail lines that you can try your hand at. For the true beginners, who need something slightly smaller than a gigantic pipe to start off with, there is a beginner's freestyle area next door where you can build up your confidence.
You can take your pick of off-piste sites, varying from the tree filled to any amount of drops. Be careful to learn the area before you go completely off-piste as snow slides can be triggered easily in some parts.
If you are keen to hit the slopes, there are beautiful open stretches for you to run free on; these are great for beginners and pros alike.
Whenever a big competition is town it's not only the pro riders that show up, but DJs and singers. For example, the current line up for the Brits Music & Winter Festival in March includes Pendulum and The Correspondents. For regular après-ski nights you are still spoilt for choice with plenty of clubs and bars scattered around the centre of town.
Laax is approximately a 10hr drive from Calais, the hotels and guest houses tend to provide free parking but check before you arrive – there are also large parking lots dotted around the resort that are available for use.