Can't wait until winter to go on the ultimate skiing holiday? If you prefer winter powder to the soft summer snow of a European glacier, you can hear the satisfying crunch under your skis sooner than you think with one of our summer skiing destinations.

ARGENTINA

Skiing in Argentina during the country's winter months will be a memorable holiday. The Andes is your playground and the ski resort of Cerro Catedral, near Bariloche, features over 60 miles of groomed pistes to explore. The idyllic scenery of the resort is also perfect for hikers if you want to hang up your skis for the day.

CHILE

Skiing in Chile also takes advantage of the Andes ' spectacular slopes and the resort of Portillo has a reputation for the finest powder snow. Combined with wide open pistes and long descents, the resort attracts professional skiers looking for an off-season training ground. Set beside a lake in a tranquil setting, perfect for ice-skating, Portillo only has one hotel, making it a relaxed and exclusive resort. Portillo is also spiced up with the option of affordable adrenaline-boosting heli-skiing.

NEW ZEALAND

Queenstown offers skiing in New Zealand for all abilities and the stunning mountains provide magnificent slopes for those looking for heart-pounding heights and relaxed beginners' courses. With access to a choice of ski resorts, including The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Treble Cone, Queenstown offers an excellent choice of bars, restaurants and clubs. Known as t he 'adventure capital of the world', Queenstown is also famous for adrenaline-filled activities such as bungee-jumping, sky diving and jet boating.

THE ULTIMATE SKI HOLIDAY

If you're taking a ski holiday in the southern hemisphere, you may take the opportunity to combine it with other incredible destinations. South America skiers can add a taste of the sun in Brazil 's Rio de Janeiro or the USA, and those staying in New Zealand may want to combine their holiday with tropical destinations across the Far East .

Read more about skiing in South America, skiing in New Zealand and other ski destinations.