On the other hand - isn't there less of a tendency for avy mitigated steep, ungroomed terrain? I like that stuff.
That is true. Most of what we would enjoy, ungroomed, steep terrain, is also not controlled for avalanche except where a natural slide might affect piste.
Anything NOT piste is out of bounds in Europe. You are welcome to ski it, but if the ski area doesn't post it as in bounds you are on your own should you require assistance.