Shymbulak Ski Resort Ranked Top Five Winter Destination by Condé Nast Italia
Shymbulak Mountain Resort Named Among Top Five Winter Sports Destinations in the World
ASTANA – The Shymbulak Mountain Resort has been recognized for its tourist potential in the prestigious Condé Nast Italia, the Italian edition of the renowned magazine. The resort was ranked among the top five places in the world that winter sports enthusiasts should visit, reported the Ministry of Culture and Sports’ press service on Jan. 16.
The list includes the Troll Peninsula in Iceland, Mount Denali in Alaska, Kazbegi in Georgia, and Zao Onsen Ski Resort in Japan.
According to the publication, the Shymbulak Ski Resort, situated just a half-hour drive from Almaty city, is renowned for its legendary atmosphere and modern comfort. The editorial strongly recommends not to miss the après-ski experience.
The Shymbulak Mountain Resort, located in the picturesque gorge of Trans-Ili Alatau at an altitude of 2,260 meters above sea level, was established in 1954. Since the mid-1950s, Shymbulak has served as the training base for Soviet skiers and has hosted championships in the USSR and Kazakhstan.
The resort underwent significant reconstruction in 2011 in preparation for the Winter Asian Games. The total length of the tracks nearly tripled, and snow cannons were installed to extend the season, allowing for an earlier start and later end. Nowadays, operating year-round with ten lifts, the resort boasts a track length of 25 kilometers.
It features seven dining establishments, two hotels (one directly on the mountain slope), a ski shop, and a service and repair workshop. To reach the highest point of Shymbulak, visitors can take a modern cable car starting 800 meters from the Medeo rink.
Another notable feature of the resort is limited transportation access. Private vehicles, unless electric, are not permitted to reach the place. Visitors have the option of using an eco-bus, eco-taxi, or cable car to access Shymbulak. Hiking enthusiasts can also reach the ski resort on foot. Despite the steep ascent, the walk rarely poses challenges for tourists.
Overall, the Shymbulak Mountain Resort offers a unique blend of history, modern amenities, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With its recognition in Condé Nast Italia, the resort is sure to attract even more international visitors in the years to come.
