UK set to welcome a brand new ski resort with slopes, cosy lodges and an indoor waterpark

Wales could soon become home to a huge indoor snow centre and ski resort, offering skiing all year round and possibly acting as a training base for Britain’s winter Olympic teams.

The planned project would be built in Merthyr Tydfil, chosen because it is easy to reach and has strong transport links.

The Welsh Government has now handed the final planning decision back to Merthyr Tydfil Council, with a decision on whether the ski and leisure complex will go ahead expected in early 2026.

Image of Rhydycar West - Johnny Cohen

The project website says the snow centre would use modern technology to create perfect snow conditions all year. Its 400 metre ski slope would be one of the longest in Europe and has been described as a major boost for British winter sports.

The centre could be used by Britain’s Olympic ski team and other winter sports athletes for training, while also being open to the public for skiing, snowboarding and other snow based activities.

Winter sports would not be the only attraction on site. Plans also include an indoor waterpark kept at warm, tropical temperatures, with water slides and even a man made beach, giving visitors a summer style experience all year round, according to Wales Online.

The plans also feature indoor and outdoor adventure parks with attractions such as a mountain coaster, clip and climb areas, zip wires and other exciting activities.

If visitors want more time to enjoy everything, they will be able to stay overnight and turn their visit into a longer break.

Three different hotel wings are part of the proposal. One would be a high end option with a spa, another would offer more affordable rooms, and a third would be aimed at business guests, with conference and co working spaces.

There would also be a selection of woodland lodges to help create a real ski resort feel. Developers at Rhydycar West have said these lodges would suit both luxury guests and those on a smaller budget.

The development has been discussed for several years and has support from groups such as Snowsport Cymru Wales and GB Snowsport.

The project is expected to cost around £300 million and developers say it could create 1,500 construction jobs, with around 800 permanent roles once the resort is up and running.

Remember - LeaveNoTrace!

As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!

Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.

Download the official APP!

Gain access to over 1,600 hidden gems and their co-ordinates all over the UK when you download our app. Add gems to your bucket-list and tick them off as you go along, as well as earn rewards/badges when you visit a certain amount.

Users will also have acess to over 9,000 parking spots across the UK as well as over 1,600 staycations in the UK.