InTheSnow (Issue 46 – Dec 2015)

SKIER: MATLIDA RAPAPORT | PHOTOGRAPHER: OSKAR ENANDER, PEAK PERFORMANCE

INTHE SNOW ISSUE 46 | DEC 2015

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IN THIS

FEATURES

037 ANDY PARANT

HOW TO BOOK  A LOW-COST SKI HOLIDAY Our editor, who is a master at getting on the slopes by all

055

means possible and at minimum cost, provides his top tips on

INTHESNOW @INTHESNOWMAG INTHESNOW INTHESNOW

046

SHUTTERSTOCK

how to pay less for more slopetime this winter (or any winter).

A FAMILY XMAS IN THE SNOW  THERE’S STILL TIME TO BOOK! Christmas is nearly here, but it’s not too late to bag a bargain (there are lots this year) or do something very special with all the family in the mountains where the resorts are pulling out all the stops.

SECURE THE PISTES  AT SERRE CHEVALIER We all head off down the slopes at the end of the day without thinking much about what happens next. But now at Serre Chevalier you can join the team that does the end-of-day “mountain sweep”.

REGULARS

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018 ALPE D’HUEZ  BEST OF ALL WORLDS 5-PAGE BOOT ROOM 059–063 

Big, snowy, full of great bars, restaurants, shops and accommodation; home to the world’s longest black run and even located on the sunny side of the Alps; what’s not to like about Alpe d’Huez?

Our regular monthly collection of the best in gear selected by the experts at Ski Bartlett. This month you’ll find helmets, beanies, boards, jackets, skis, boots, bags

FISCHER SKI BOOTS 015

and even a knee brace should you need one.

patrick@inthesnow.com Wow! What a start to winter 2015/16! After autumn 2014’s warm-dry start to last season, things were getting pretty tense as November this year rolled to its midway point warm and dry once again in the Alps, but then the snow arrived big time, putting down a great base for the ski season that is now upon us.

10 MINS WITH SAM FAVRET 070

West Coast at least, as massive snowfalls began at the

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COMPETITIONS 024 / 050

The picture was less nervy across the Atlantic, on the start of last month and just kept coming. You’ll find full

TEAM PUBLISHER

DOMINIC KILLINGER dom@inthesnow.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

MATT NICHOLSON matt@inthesnow.com

patrick@inthesnow.com OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

DEBBIE GABRIEL debbie@inthesnow.com SALES MANAGER

Matterhorn, but what tips do the locals have to make your stay in Zermatt go that bit more smoothly and feel even more special?

first three weeks of last month, and that was before it 24 hours, and on one occasion Kicking Horse said it had

PATRICK THORNE

It’s one of the world’s greatest ski resorts, located beneath the mighty

phenomenal – Revelstoke had over 3m of snow in the even opened. Areas were posting up to 60cm of snow in

EDITOR

 MY SLOPES ZERMATT

details in our main report within, but the numbers were

GIANCARLO GAMBARDELLA giancarlo@inthesnow.com

SUB EDITORS

NICK JONES MARION ADAMS CONTRIBUTORS

SAM THORNE OLIVIA PARRY-JONES ANDY BLEAKLEY ANDY TAYLOR DANIEL ELKEN

ROSS WOODHALL

received 10cm of snow in just one hour. Dozens of resorts in Canada and the US opened early, crediting the “El Niño

Printed in the UK.

effect” for the great snowfall which looks to have finally

No part of this publication

put an end to the four seasons of drought in the region.

may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored

Indeed, that third week of November must have been

in a retrieval system or

the snowiest week I can remember in the Northern

transmitted, in any way or

Hemisphere – it’s pretty rare for it to snow so much on

means, either by recording or otherwise, without permission

both sides of the Atlantic simultaneously.

SALLY BARTLETT ANNA BARTLETT

of the publishers in writing.

It could be because of last year’s poor Christmas snow

COLUMNISTS

INTHESNOW LTD

Boxing Day morning, but, as we went to press at least,

THE SNOW STUDIO

there seem to be a lot of great deals still around for

EQUIPMENT EDITOR

JON WEST PHIL SMITH JACK STEELE JENNY BLETCHER DESIGN BY

PICTURE EDITOR

© Copyright 2015

ROCKET BASE rocketbase.co.uk

conditions, or the fact that a lot of ski flights are early on

KINGS LANE, BUCKS HP16 0QY

Christmas week skiing and in some cases big savings even over the traditional peak week of the season, the

+44 (0)1494 862 423 DOM@INTHESNOW.COM INTHESNOW.COM

first week of the new year. So if the snow conditions continue to look as good as they do as I’m writing this and you can plan a trip at short notice, it could be a good time to grab a bargain.

Hopefully our latest edition has plenty of inspirational ideas for you to choose from for your next trip, along with some of the best gear to kit yourself out in! We’ve got features on two of Europe’s best resorts – St Anton and Alpe d’Huez – as well as family travel advice for Christmas and our usual wide-ranging news on all things ski and board. Enjoy, and have a great season!

Follow us @inthesnowmag

005 // DEC15

DARE TO BEAT

WWW.SINNER.EU

VAIL RESORTS AND ANDREWTAYLOR

2015 SONY PICTURES RELEASING GMBH

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

SNOWTASTIC START TO WINTER 2015/16 t has been a sensational end to

and ski areas started opening en masse.

riders to the slopes nearly two weeks before

travel agencies and tour operators.

autumn and an equally sensational

That mid-November week turned out to

our scheduled opening day.”

“Bookings saw a big upturn as soon as the

start to the 2015/16 ski season in

be one of the snowiest in ski history. Back

It was a similar story in Canada to the north.

forecasts of snowfall in the Alps started to

western North America.

in North America, resorts were recording

“We were extremely excited to begin our winter

percolate through social media,” said Richard

Huge snowfalls continued throughout

astonishing accumulations.

operations for the 2015/16 season earlier than

Sinclair of SNO.co.uk. “Then when the snow

November leading to amazing

Lake Louise, for example, reported 150cm in

expected this year,” said Aidan Kelly, Director

powder conditions and many resorts

seven days, whilst Kicking Horse and Nakiska

of Sales and Marketing at Sun Peaks. “We were

opening early.

both posted 60cm in 24 hours. At the greatest

very fortunate to receive significant snowfall

It was a dream come true for ski

snowfall intensity, Kicking Horse in fact received

which led to some fantastic snow conditions

areas in the region, many of which

more than 10cm of snow in one hour alone.

on the mountain. We are eager to pass this

had suffered from four seasons of

Kicking Horse’s Mountain Safety Manager

excitement along to our guests.”

drought, the worst of which was

described the snowfall as a “nuclear snowstorm”.

South of the border, the heavy snowfall and

“I would call this an epic storm. In just

last winter. This winter is, so far, looking very

Meanwhile another BC resort, Revelstoke,

early opening was also particularly good

under 24 hours we have received 56cm

different, and the “El Niño” weather system

passed the 3m snowfall accumulation in that

news in the US where the end-of-November

from the Pacific is taking the credit for the

same week, when there were still 10 days to

Thanksgiving holiday can be a big date in the

of snow. For multiple hours it was snowing

already abundant precipitation.

go before its planned opening date on the last

ski calendar if the snow arrives soon enough

It was a more nervous first three weeks of

weekend of November.

and resorts can open enough terrain to attract

November in the Alps. There had been four

Although Revelstoke decided not to open

destination skiers.

decent snowfalls at regular 10–14 day intervals

early, a large number of Western US and

The big snowfall in the Alps initially caused an

from early September (when it was still

Canadian resorts did, right from early

unusual situation when Val Thorens, which a

Operations, Kicking Horse Mountain Ski

technically summer!) to the end of October on

November – the list was a veritable Who’s Who

week before during the “warm spell” had said it

Resort, speaking on 18 November 2015.

high slopes in Europe, but then the weather

of great US resorts including Aspen, Big White,

would definitely open even if there wasn’t much

fronts stalled and temperatures rose.

Heavenly, Mammoth, Snowbird, Squaw Valley,

snow, was later forced to announce it would

Fortunately for the start of the ski season, that

Sun Peaks and Whistler.

delay its opening by a week, as the snowfall

all ended in the Alps on the weekend of 21/22

“The rumours were true,” said Rich Burkley,

forecasted was so heavy that it would make

started it went off the charts, and we booked

November when huge snowfalls turned the

Vice President of Mountain Operations, Aspen

road access to Europe’s highest ski village

close to five times the normal daily bookings

summer-like conditions to mid-winter in just a

Skiing Company. “Given the recent series of

difficult, swamp non-ski activities planned with

for November, just in one day.”

few hours.

storms, the cold weather and the hard work

snow and be too much snow too late for slope

As it is, it’s too early to say whether winter 15/16

Temperatures dropped from double digits

of the Aspen Mountain crews, it should come

crews to be able to make safe and prep for use.

will be an epic one or not, but certainly many

above freezing point to double digits below,

as no surprise that we welcomed skiers and

The snow was also good news for British

areas couldn’t have hoped for a better start.

AN EPIC STORM?

2cm per hour, there were two hours when we got 5cm per hour, one hour that we got 8cm and one hour that we received 10.6cm!” Mike Rubenstein, Director of

007 // DEC15

AVOID BOXING DAY TRAVEL Christmas transfer day this year falls on Boxing Day for many tour operators, a Saturday, which may mean getting up early not long after Christmas Day has finished for some in order to make an early flight. Ski Talini (skitalini.co.uk), which runs catered chalets in Les 3 Vallées, is one of the companies offering Sunday transfers, so they’ll do a full Christmas dinner and you ski Boxing Day. Prices for Christmas week from £965pp.

SHAUN FLANNERY PHOTOGRAPHY

NEW USER-FRIENDLY LIFT ON CAIRNGORM CairnGorm Mountain above Aviemore in Scotland has replaced the Sheiling Platter Poma with a brand-new user-friendly Sunkid Mega Star lift that is particularly well suited to those who are less confident on the slopes. The new lift is height-adjustable, so snow-lovers can use it from a young age, and the lift’s haul ropes can be raised to allow for improved pisting of the uptrack and surrounding piste.

VILLARS OFFERS 20 FRANC LIFT PASS

JUSTIN’S SLOPESTYLE CHARITY JAM

A

“GOURMET GETAWAY” IN MORZINE, FRANCE

with the support of family and friends,

set on an Olympic gold medal.

he decided to stage a Slopestyle

Justin was blessed enough to

Charity Jam to raise money.

spend the winter season out in the

Justin’s home training slope, Stoke

mountains training with JT Freeski

Ski Centre, offered slope time

Academy and his coach Joe

during their opening winter season

Tyler, but this was only achievable

day, and lots of sponsors came

Great British Menu chef James Sommerin will be

with funding, and one of the

on board so that in the end Justin

leading a “Gourmet Getaway” this January in the

Foundations that funded him was

raised £800 for the charity!

French ski resort of Morzine.

the Rob George Foundation, who

“We are happy that so many

The three-night packages, running from 24–27

t 15 years old, Justin Taylor-Tipton

saw Justin’s need to train on snow

competed and had fun, and that was

and 28–31 January 2016 in Morzine’s Chalet des

(or JTT as he is known) has already

and improve and work towards his

what Justin wanted, an event where

Amis will include a series of dining experiences

racked up a healthy haul of gold

goal of an Olympic gold medal.

everyone could come and compete,

including cocktails and canapés with James

and silver medals at national and

Justin wanted to do something to pay

pressure free, throw down their best

Sommerin, followed by a three-course dinner;

international level on indoor and

back the kindness of the foundation

tricks and win something in return,

a five-course tasting menu with wine flight by

and former teammate Rainer Schönfelder are

outdoor snow in his career to date.

and to help another young person

no matter if you were just starting

James Sommerin; a special meal in an exclusive

opening a new hotel in St Johann in Tirol this

Now on the GB Park and Pipe

like him who needed help to pursue

out in freestyle or been doing it for a

mountain refuge, and a champagne brunch

winter. The new hotel, scheduled to have its

Performance Pathway National

their dreams and pathway, and so

few years,” said Helen Taylor-Tipton.

hosted by the Michelin-starred chef who is

Swiss resort Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets is offering a lift pass for 20 francs a day when you visit on low season dates and book to stay in one of 10 selected 2★ to 5★ hotels direct. The offer applies for bookings until 18 December 2015, then from 4 January to 5 February and from 7 March to 10 April 2016.

SKI STAR OPENS HOTEL The great Austrian ski racer Hermann Maier

HUW JONES

Academy, Justin has his sights firmly

grand opening on 15 January 2016, is the first

famed for his innovative and flavourful food.

of several the duo have planned throughout

James Sommerin obtained his first Michelin star

Austria, with the stated aim of making skiing

in 2007, a particular achievement considering

more affordable to everyone, especially families. adeo-alpin.com

POWDER SKIING IN ST ANTON

his “non-Michelin” background, which includes cooking at the opening of the Scottish Parliament during a period living and working in Scotland.

He currently runs his own restaurant in Penarth.

VONN PLANS YEARROUND DRY SLOPE

in January when international

more than the lift pass price alone.

Chalet des Amis is located in an exclusive hamlet

freeriders get up early to ride

The ski pass covers the entire

located on the Retour des Nants piste, with unique

Arlberg’s enticing virgin slopes,”

Arlberg ski region, with 340km of

ski-in/out access to Morzine and the vast Portes du

said a resort spokesperson.

marked runs, 200km of backcountry

Soleil which includes 650km of ski runs stretching

Many of the resort’s hotels and B&B

terrain and 97 state-of-the-art cable-

across the Swiss border and inter-connecting the

accommodation providers offer

car and lift systems.

skiing of more than a dozen ski villages.

one-week packages during this low-

For even lower prices even sooner, St

Prices start from £995 per person and include

St Anton is offering special deals

season period which also include

Anton also offers Wedel Weeks until

three nights’ accommodation, return transfers,

of the centre, Don McClure, and his new

during what it hopes will be

your ski pass. Seven nights in a B&B

19 December 2015. Pre-Christmas

three-day Portes du Soleil lift pass and three-day

business partners are aiming to make the

Powder Snow Weeks from 9–30

with a six-day lift pass are available,

atmosphere packages drop as low as

ski/snowboard, boots and equipment hire as well

January 2016.

for example, from as little as €420

€370 per person for the same seven

as all the dining experiences. chaletfinder.co.uk /

“It’s all about making the ‘first line’

per person – only about a third

nights in a B&B with a six-day ski pass.

jamessommerinrestaurant.co.uk

The new owners of Minnesota’s little Buck Hill ski area, where international ski star Lindsey Vonn first learned to ski, have announced plans to add a year-round dry ski slope. The long-time General Manager

resort a less seasonal business.

008 // DEC15 // INTHESNOW.COM

@INTHESNOWMAG

TVB PAZNAUN-ISCHGL

Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices

50% OF THE TIROL’S BEST EATERIES ARE IN ISCHGL

LAAX: THE RICHEST PRIZE IN BOARDING

Ischgl – a ski village with a permanent population of just 1,600 – has

The LAAX OPEN next January will signal a new era in the Swiss resort

been awarded 13 new toques (the chef’s hat symbol awarded by

after nearly 30 years of freestyle events.

gourmet organisations) across five restaurants in next year’s editions of

Competitors will once again be competing to win the richest prize in

Austria’s most influential guides, Gault Millau 2016 and Guide A La Carte

world boarding with a $500,000 (US) prize fund during the contest,

2016. This means that it is home to three of the six best-ranked Tirolean

which runs from 18 to 24 January 2016.

gourmet restaurants.

Up to 300 contestants are expected to battle it out in the half-pipe

The five to receive the awards are Martin Sieberer, chef de cuisine at the

and slopestyle competitions, both top international riders and young

Paznauner Stube in the 5★ Hotel Trofana Royal; Benjamin Parth, chef de

challengers, all in front of a big crowd. During OPEN week, up in the

cuisine at Restaurant Stüva in the 4★ Hotel Yscla; Restaurant MAD in the

mountains and down in the valley, inside or outside, the freestyle

4★ Designhotel Madlein; Gunther Döbler from the Schlossherrnstube in

feeling takes over with a full programme of cultural and culinary

the 4★ superior Schlosshotel Romantica; and Klaus Brunmayer, chef de

delights with something for everyone, besides the world-class boarding

cuisine at the restaurant Lucy Wang.

and the huge ski domain. Participants so far confirmed include Olympic

“We think it’s great to be represented with five restaurants in Austria’s

gold medallist in the half pipe Iouri Podladtchikov (Switzerland),

leading gourmet guides, and we have managed to make the culinary

slopestyle rider Ståle Sandbech from Norway (Olympic silver medallist,

theme an integral part of the services and attractions we offer to

BEO 2015 LAAX champion), Canadian rider Tyler Nicholson (ranked

visitors,” said Alfons Parth, Chairman of the Paznaun-Ischgl Tourist Office.

number 2 worldwide) and Christy Prior from New Zealand (BEO 2015

paznaun-ischgl.com

LAAX slopestyle champion). laax.com/open

EUROPE’S GAY SKI WEEK RETURNS to the superb skiing and boarding offered by Avoriaz and the Portes du Soleil, and in part to the sensational parties, fun events and spa sessions organised through the week.

For the 2016 Gay Ski Week, participants can look forward to “signature nights” themed on Erotica, Snowball, Wig Party and the Pool.

High Quality Catered + Self Catered Accommodation

Artists scheduled to perform include “Crazyvores” and “Bear Drop” from France, “Beyond” from the UK and “Revolver” from Germany, who will all be hosting nights of their own.

On the decks, the crème de la crème of DJs CHRIS GEARY

are promised including Pagano, Dani Toro, Oliver M, Gonzalo Rivas, Paul Heron, Daniele D’Alessandro, DJ RV and Manue G. Cabaret artists catering for every taste are also in the line-up with themes including Seductive Europe’s largest gay winter sports and music

grown from 150 participants at the first event

Burlesque, Broadway Legends, House Music

festival will return to Avoriaz in the French Alps

in Sölden, Austria in 2008 to around 1,000 last

Divas, Comedy Queens, Magicians and

next spring from 19 to 26 March, 2016.

winter, flying in from their homes in more than

Spectacular Drag Acts.

The Festival, which has been running for eight

50 countries around the world.

“You name it, Europe’s Gay Ski Week has got it,”

years, keeps getting bigger and bigger, having

The event’s popularity is being put down in part

say the organisers. europeangayskiweek.com

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

009 // DEC15

French and Swiss Alps Snow Sure Resorts On / Near Piste locations No Hidden Extras Financially Bonded

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FREERIDE

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N O . 9 S N O W D I S P L A C E M E N T, D E V E L O P I N G B R A K E S the disk or rim of the wheel. The

Next time you go skiing, practise

when snow is difficult to move

more friction you create, the slower

moving snow with the edges of

(deep, heavy or slushy), awkward

you go; the less friction you create,

your skis. Practise moving more

to move (bumps) or there appears

the faster you go – simple.

snow or less snow, practise

to be no snow to move (ice). These

Now let’s take skiing. First of all,

spraying snow or pushing snow

are the times when you have to

you need two surfaces to create

with your edges, and you will soon

realise there is no magic solution

activity. These two surfaces

that anyone can teach you

are a) snow and b) the edges

that will leave you effortlessly

of your skis. You need to use

skiing bumps, ice or deep

the edges of your skis in a

snow. You have to knuckle

similar way to how you use the

down and use your edges to

sk almost any skier how they

brakes on your bike or your

create the braking action.

control speed or slow down, and

car. You need to create activity

Deep snow is moved with the

99.9% of responses would be

between your edges and the

base of your skis rather than

“turn”. Now get ready to change

snow.

the edges, but it’s still exactly

that concept completely and finally

This activity is what we call

the same theory: move more

give yourself more control than

“snow displacement”, or in

ever over your skiing speed.

simple terms the ability to

Let’s take some examples of

move snow. Every skier that

other forms of transport and their

skis down the hill is moving

methods of controlling speed. You

snow. Some more than others.

don’t turn a car to slow down. You

It’s the moving of snow that

don’t turn a bicycle to slow down.

controls speed. Move more

You have brakes that you can

snow, you go slower; move

accurately use and control. Imagine

less snow, you go faster.

having the same kind of control on

Simple.

your skis as you do in your car or

Watch any skier skiing down a

on your bike. Well, the good news

slope and as they turn you will

is you can.

see snow spraying out from the

Let’s look closely at how brakes

edges of the skis. Now imagine if you

begin to realise that it is the snow

So now you have brakes.

icebreaker.com

work. Brakes work by creating

could accurately control the amount

you move that controls your speed.

Understand, practise and use

activity between two surfaces.

of snow you spray out, the amount

On a piste, snow is generally pretty

“snow displacement”, and the

On your bike and in your car, this

of snow you displace or move. If you

easy to move, so most people do

next time you go skiing you will

Icebreaker is sustainable, renewable, merino clothing from the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

activity is friction between the

can do this then you have complete

not have any problems controlling

have more control than you ever

brake pads and the other surface,

control over your speed.

speed. People begin to struggle

thought possible.

INSULATES BREATHES RESISTS ODOUR

For stockists information telephone 01572 772437

010 // DEC15

PHIL SMITH SNOWORKS Phil Smith is founder of Snoworks All-Mountain Ski Courses. Snoworks run Off-Piste and Backcountry courses throughout the winter along with Off-Piste Adventure trips to destinations around the world. info@snoworks.com

snow and you go slower, move less snow and you go faster. You can use one ski or both skis to move snow.

Another mistake is to dig the edges of your skis in. Of course, this might result in not moving much snow at all, so to move snow the sensation is a scraping action when the snow is hard or icy, and a pushing action when the snow is soft or deep.

SNOWORKS.COM

ANTHONY UPTON

BIGGER BAQUEIRA-BERET OPTS FOR DIAMONDS

JOHN BISHOP TO HEADLINE ALTITUDE

NEW SNOWSPORT EQUALITY CAMPAIGN

One of Spain’s leading ski areas, Baqueira-Beret, in the Pyrenees,

John Bishop has been named as the headline act for the 2016 Altitude

Snowsport Scotland, the governing body for winter sports north of

which is in a constant battle with its neighbouring resorts like Formigal

Comedy Festival.

the border, is launching an equality campaign focusing on females,

to claim “biggest in Spain”, has announced it is adding 9km of new

The festival, back for its tenth season, returns to the Austrian Tirol

the lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) community and those living with a

runs to its terrain tally this winter, increasing it to 155km of piste spread

resort of Mayrhofen but with an earlier staging in the season, from 11 to

disability in a bid to prove that snowsports are for everyone.

over ​​2,166 hectares.

16 January 2016, than its traditional early-spring week.

Dubbed #IAMSNOWSPORT the campaign will involve Snowsport Scotland

Nearly half (4km) of the new piste has been created by “remodelling”

Currently one of the UK’s best-known comedians, John has been

hosting a number of different events with each one focusing on a different

existing terrain using heavy machinery, according to the resort

blazing trails both on the live circuit and on the TV, presenting the

demographic group. The first event, at Bearsden dry slope in Glasgow in

publicity. The other 5km are newly marked “mountain routes” which

Royal Variety Performance and with his own prime-time BBC One spot

late November, was a fun and social occasion aimed solely at females.

were previously just open off-piste terrain, now included in the tally.

for The John Bishop Show.

Its purpose was to introduce more females to snowsports, keep existing

There are now 103 marked pistes and the extensive freeride area

“Seriously in demand, John can sell out arena tours at the drop of a

women and girls taking part in snowsports and also to produce more

which the resort claims to be “unique in southern Europe”.

hat, but this is your chance to catch him up close and personal in the

female high-performance athletes – all regardless of age and discipline.

The new tracks are in the resort’s Beret sector, and the most

intimate venues of Mayrhofen. Whatever you do, don’t miss out,” said

One of the biggest problems in all female sports is the teenage drop-

challenging has been christened “La Gallina” (“the hen”) and has been

an Altitude spokesperson.

out rate. Snowsport Scotland plans to gather female athletes together

rated very steep.

Also added to the line-up, which already includes a long list of top-

regularly to ski and snowboard together so that they have peers and

In fact it has been officially rated “double black diamond” as

notch comedians including Sean Lock, Marcus Brigstocke, Andrew

friends involved in the sport. Snowsport Scotland will next be scheduling

Baqueira-Beret say they have decided to adopt the North American

Maxwell and Steven K Amos, is “London-based Canadian” Katherine

a further calendar of events for the #IAMSNOWSPORT campaign to

measurement system, grading their steep slopes at black diamond or

Ryan, who is currently host of BBC Two’s Hair and who has come to

focus on the LGB community and those living with a disability.

(for very steep runs like La Gallina) double black diamond. Off-piste

wider public attention with a string of acerbic appearances on Mock

“We want snowsports to be sports for everyone to take part in and

routes are marked as black diamond with yellow boundaries.

the Week, 8 out of 10 Cats, QI and Have I Got News for You.

enjoy, whatever their sex, sexual orientation or disability. We know

However, rather than go for the North American blue circle and green

Altitude Festival wristbands cost from £155 (plus booking fee) for the

that females, people in the LGB community and those living with a

square easier-level categories, Baqueira-Beret is keeping the red

Early Bird Full Week Festival Wristband, or a VIP version with numerous

disability still face certain barriers in sport, and we want to break down

category but making this “red diamond” – believed to be an all-new

perks and bonuses costs from £225.

those barriers and show that snowsports are for everyone,” said Jane

classification in the world of skiing. baqueira.es

altitudefestival.com

Campbell Morrison, CEO at Snowsport Scotland.

Thinking of a short ski break - Think ski weekends the experts in short break skiing for more than 30 years

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The resort is working with

more intimate evening events to

The Snowgether package costs

European dating website Meetic on

strengthen bonds (hopefully) formed

approximately £299 (CHF455) for

the event, which will run from 22 to

during the previous evening.

three nights and four days, and

25 January 2016.

Finally, on the Sunday night,

the price includes three nights’

“Forget the dull and sometimes

everyone will come together for

accommodation with breakfast in a

tedious speed-dating evenings; this

an amazing Pool Party to end the

3★ hotel in the centre of resort with

packed and varied programme will

weekend with a flourish.

a later check-out on the last day,

keep you busy,” Jenny added.

“The Snowgether package is on

event wrist band, access to included

Along with group skiing, numerous

sale in the UK, Switzerland, France,

activities, a free “après-ski” drink

activities will be on offer during

Italy, Spain, Portugal, Kingdom, the

each evening, meals and drinks for

rans-Montana in Switzerland has

your stay, including an introduction

Netherlands, Belgium, Germany,

three evenings, welcome pack and

announced it will be staging a special

to figure skating in pairs, snow

Austria, Sweden, Norway and

entry to “Party Time” each evening,

festival for singles in January.

biking, snowshoeing and even

Denmark; however, the only

but it excludes travel.

“Snowgether will be four crazy

gastronomic cooking classes.

language of the trip will be the

crans-montana.ch/hiver/en/

days packed full of encounters,”

On the Friday, singles from all

language of seduction!” said Jenny.

snowgether

said the resort’s Jenny Mesot. “It’s

over Europe will dive into their first

an all-inclusive package including

evening in resort with an Ice Disco

accommodation, meals and a wide

on the brand-new outdoor Crans-

choice of activities that has been

Montana ice rink.

put together specially for singles

Then on the Saturday evening,

from all over Europe.”

guests can choose between three

SUMMIT RESTAURANT HEADLINES SNOWBIRD’S $35M SPEND spend has gone on a stunning

serve a fresh, healthy and hearty

new mountain restaurant at the

daily menu. The interior dining

top of the slopes, The Summit.

area can accommodate up to 400

Located 3,350m up, the new

guests within its two-storey design.

building will greet Aerial Tram

In addition to the luminous

riders atop Hidden Peak and

interior, a 10,000ft2 deck will

offer unmatched 360° views of

provide additional outdoor

the resort and the surrounding

seating on blue sky days. Year-

mountains through its largely

round services will also include

Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort

this season. Along with more

glass walls.

restroom facilities, a retail

is investing approximately £20

snowmaking and a high-tech lift

The Summit will house an upscale

outlet and a guest service kiosk.

million into all improvements for

ticket system, a big chunk of the

cafeteria-style restaurant that will

snowbird.com

012 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

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LEARN HOW TO KITE SKI IN ST MORITZ

LATE-NIGHT SKIING AND BOARDING AT MADESIMO

The British Bobsleigh & Skeleton Association (BBSA) has announced

The Kulm Hotel St Moritz (kulm.com) has launched a new two-day

Italy’s Madesimo ski area have announced that their Larici gondola will

that they have a new sponsor in the run-up to the 2018 Winter Olympics

package for the coming winter, allowing participants to try kite skiing

stay open until 10.45am on Saturday evenings this winter (the evening

in South Korea. Their agreement with BioCare®, a leading professional

on the Swiss resort’s famous frozen lakes which host events including

lift pass costs €13) allowing people to tackle the floodlit Pianello and

nutritional supplement brand, to be the team’s performance supplement

the White Turf horse races each winter.

Montalto pistes or simply tuck into a moonlit dinner at the Larici restaurant.

supplier lasts until after the next Olympics.

Kite skiing is a fairly recent development in the snowsports industry,

It’s a much later opening for night skiing than is usually offered by resorts

“We are really looking forward to the start of new season, given the

having been developed by explorers in the noughties as a wind-assisted

providing this opportunity.

talent and depth within our squads,” said BBSA Performance Director

way to reach the South Pole that much faster. It shares similarities with

To add to the fun, the resort is also launching a new music library with a

Gary Anderson, who added:

cross-country rather than downhill skiing (as it is usually practised on

collection of over 20,000 albums provided by Sony Music to listen to with

“We have come a long way in a short space of time and are now taken

fairly flat surfaces), apart from the fact that participants can use boards

sophisticated equipment for free.

seriously and considered a major contender by the heavyweight teams like

as well as skis to glide across the snow and get air when they hit a bump

During the daytime, Madesimo has earned a reputation for attracting alpine

Germany, Canada and the United States. Having finished fifth at the last

(making it comparable to water skiing and wakeboarding).

adrenaline junkies with one of the most challenging black runs in the region

three global championships in the four-man competition – including the 2014

Guests will have their first kite skiing session on the more protected

– the 3.5km off-piste Canelone, which includes a 1km vertical run.

Winter Olympics in Sochi – we are determined to kick on this season and

Lake Bianco, before testing their new-found skills on Lake Silvaplana.

The nearest airports to Madesimo are at Milan (138km) and Bergamo

continue our progression, with the ultimate aim of winning a medal at the

The latter provides ideal conditions for kite skiing, as it is located at the

(119km), with direct flights from the UK from a range of operators, including

next Games in PyeongChang in 2018. I genuinely believe we can do that.

southern end of the Engadin, allowing the kites to really pick up the

easyJet and British Airways. There are bus and train connections and a

“We have real competition for the number-one slot among our drivers,

wind as it whistles through the valley.

taxi-share programme direct to the village which offers free transfers in

with John Jackson and Lamin Deen both having secured top-five

The package includes two nights’ half-board accommodation (with

December and January.

finishes in the World Championships and Olly Biddulph coming within

dinner in one of the Kulm’s five restaurants); two 3-hour kite skiing

Packages are available from Momentum Ski (momentumski.com), who

three-tenths of a second of a gold medal at the last Youth Olympics,

lessons (on separate mornings), a 50-minute Aktivital massage

offer a tailor-made option with prices starting from seven nights’ half

while our pool of brakemen is growing every year.

treatment to ease those tired muscles and a lunchtime fondue after the

board at the 4★ Hotel Andossi with private transfers from £718, or three

“The addition of Summer Olympic gold medallist Mark Lewis-Francis

first lesson. It costs from approximately £850 (CHF1,240)pp sharing a

nights’ B&B at the 2★ K2 hotel with flights from Gatwick and car hire from

shows that we are attracting high-calibre athletes to the programme.”

double room.

£348pp, both based on two sharing.

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and integrating the latest technologies.

allows pressure to be optimally regulated in the

Fischer’s ski boots are distinguished by their

ankle and forefoot area separately, providing a

use of the patented, revolutionary VACU-PLAST

previously unattainable and exact adaptation

material and technology, which makes it possible

to the individual foot anatomy! VACUUM FIT is

to adapt the shell of the ski boot completely to

now available at 25 locations in the UK.

the anatomy of your foot. It’s a process that’s

So you see, ski boots from Fischer Sports are

used successfully by Alpine Ski World Cup racers

indeed different.

but is also available to any skier. Get your ski boot fit right and everything else – especially comfort and control – follows on.

A special Fischer High-Tech Polymer is used for

ith ski equipment, a bit like with cars or mobile

the Fischer VACUUM boots. It was developed

phones, it can get complicated when it comes

exclusively for the ski-boot sector and can be

to choosing what you want. Unless you’re a

moulded to fit any individual foot when it is

full-on ski-kit nerd, spending your nights scouring

“thermoformable” at 80°C.

catalogues and reviews, it can be very hard to

Fischer has developed the VACUUM FIT station

determine the difference between the various

especially for this purpose. You step inside the

manufacturers, or “brands” as they’re now known.

heated boot wearing a protective boot liner, a

And indeed some once famous

Cooling Pad and Compression Pads are put on

manufacturers are now just “brands” of giant

and the stand position is fixed. Compressed

corporations, but not all. Fischer Sports,

air is used to perfectly shape the entire boot

founded more than 90 years ago in Austria,

to bring it in line with the foot – retaining its

is still headquartered in the country’s Ried im

shape once it cools down. It all takes just 20

Innkreis (Austria). Ever since its foundation

minutes with the latest version of the VACUUM

the company has been known for innovation

FIT station, TWO ZONE. This latest version

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FABIAN WESTER

ASPEN SKIING CO

PANORAMA ADD 60 ACRES OF TERRAIN

ASPEN ANNOUNCES “KIDS SKI FREE” PROGRAMME

YOGA ON THE SLOPES IN THE SKI WEEK

Panorama Mountain Resort in BC have completed a major glading

To encourage the next generation of winter enthusiasts, Aspen

The Ski Week – a gathering of party people from around the world that

project ahead of the coming season and say there’ll be an additional 60

Snowmass has announced it’s lowering teen rates next winter to

launched last year in Obertauern, Austria and sold out its 400 places,

acres of skiable terrain available as a result.

match that of children 12 and under, as well as offering a new “Kids

equally balanced between girls and guys, in 45 minutes – is back with

Following completion of the $210,000 terrain work project, three main

Ski Free” programme.

more weeks and more locations in 2016.

areas of the 750-acre bowl have been gladed, including Kinbasket,

Aspen previously offered teen pricing for children aged 13 to 17, but

These include two Ski Weeks back in Obertauern in March (the first of

Ktunaxa to Devil’s Drop, Heli High, Lower Stumbock’s and White Room.

the child rate will now run from age seven to 17 on most package deals.

which was already sold out as we went to press), and the organisers

A new access trail has been built from the Summit Hut to Never Never

Children aged six and under continue to be able to ski free at Aspen

have announced that Hotpod Yoga will be taking their transportable

Land along Taynton Bowl’s ridgeline. Ski patrol will now have greatly

Snowmass (no strings attached).

cocoon-like pods to the slopes in Austria to offer hot yoga directly on

improved access to scope out the area, complete their safety control

To qualify for the free child lift pass, children (aged seven to 12, not up

the pistes to the Ski Week guests.

work and open it sooner on powder days.

to 17) need to rent children’s ski or snowboard equipment from Four

The hot yoga will add to a long list of fun activities which also

“We’ve made a major change to the way people access the backcountry-

Mountain Sports to receive their free lift ticket. There is no limitation on

include sundeck parties, on-mountain Jacuzzis, pond skimming and

style terrain of Taynton Bowl by widening the ridgeline significantly. The

the amount of days children can receive free lift tickets when renting

torchlit descents.

result will be a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience for

from Four Mountain Sports. However, these must be booked as part of

All Hotpod Yoga classes are inclusive within The Ski Week which costs

guests by eliminating the need to clamber over ridge crests and obstacles

a package through the travel trade.

€900–€1150 per person, including: accommodation, ski pass and

to access our powder,” says Steve Paccagnan, President and CEO of

In addition, children receive 30% off Child Group Lessons with Aspen

wristband enabling access to all TSW events, ski/board instructors, TSW

Panorama Mountain Resort. Formerly accessible only to heli-skiers,

Snowmass’ Ski & Snowboard School when purchasing seven or more

guides, pond skimming, welcome dinner, night skiing, Oktoberfest and

Taynton Bowl is controlled for avalanches and is patrolled so guests can

days on most low-season dates – so long as they book before 28

on-mountain Jacuzzi.

ski or ride down the Bowl’s full 1,250 vertical metres without needing

February 2016, or book by 30 January for arrivals after 1 March 2016.

Ski Week participants also qualify for a five-class pass to Hotpod Yoga’s

specialised backcountry equipment or guide services.

The offer is valid all season, including over Christmas, except the two

Hackney HQ studio in London, valid throughout the month of February,

In addition to the work in Taynton Bowl, Panorama’s trail crew also

peak weeks of 26 December 2015 – 31 December 2015 and 7 to 13

so that they can get into the hot yoga state of mind in preparation for the

completed glading in the Extreme Dream Zone on the front side of the

February 2016. Again these must be booked as part of a package

Ski Week the following month.

mountain. panoramaresort.com

through the travel trade.

theskiweek.com

+33 (0)4 79 06 18 88 RESERVATION@HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM EN.HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM

For stockists information call: 01572 770900

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

018 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

size-of-vert) – crowned by snow-sure glacier skiing and one of the very biggest in the world.

But the Sarenne run is one of many different long, long runs that are possible, and most are accessed by fast, modern lifts. Many options take you down through those little villages on long blue or red runs where you might stop for a beer or for lunch before heading back up.

There are plenty of black options too, with 17 marked trails along with endless off-piste routes that a guide would be happy to take you to. The ominously named “Tunnel” is the most infamous pisted descent (although it only has that name because you access it through a tunnel), but there are many more.

At the base of the slopes there is also a vast beginners’ area in a huge area of gentle slopes served by multiple lifts. The any people believe France is the world’s best ski

full-featured terrain park and a fun sliding zone with toboggan

destination. Certainly more Brits head there than anywhere

runs are also here.

else, and not just because it’s the closest ski nation.

The resort of Alpe d’Huez itself is built on a gentle slope

Off the slopes you can find charming villages with a

and in a roughly triangular shape with the hub of the lifts up

traditional ambience that makes them a delight to visit, or

at the apex, but with pistes and lifts running along each side

you can find high-altitude resorts with no-hassle skiing on

of the triangle so you can ski down or get a lift up from most

your doorstep.

accommodation.

And what skiing! The world’s biggest ski areas, huge

The village, which has grown up above the old village of

lift-served verticals, something for all abilities – every box

Huez, is relatively compact with everything within walking

ticked on the wish list.

distance, although it is also one of the bigger resorts so

But then there are the detractors, particularly of those giant

there’s a regular shuttle service to get you to the slopes or

high-altitude ski resorts, saying that they lack soul and

around the resort if you don’t want to walk at all.

that famous French ambience; that they are just seasonal

“Vibrant” and “eclectic” could be used to describe the

money-making machines where you feel you are part of

atmosphere and the ambience. There’s a swimming pool

a city on the slopes, paying

and ice rink in the heart of the

inflated prices but getting

resort surrounded by shops,

lacklustre service like you are

bars, cafés and restaurants.

trapped in a motorway services for the week.

Over the years I have enjoyed some of my best ski trips in France, but I have also endured some of the worst. Through trial and error I’ve discovered I love the big areas, but am one of those that doesn’t much like the big city feel of some resorts, so I had mixed feelings

Alpe d’Huez 250km piste 135 runs 79 lifts 1,860m altitude 3,330m highest lift Vertical 2,230m

categories and, although most are locally run, you’ll find sushi bars and a modern supermarket alongside those traditional boulangeries and patisseries we love, plus plenty of crêperies and traditional Savoyard restaurants (even though this is actually the Dauphiné-Isère region).

when I headed out to one of the

Whilst some of the better-known

country’s top resorts (in several

French resorts have been

respects), Alpe d’Huez.

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There’s a big choice in all

adding 5★ hotels and Michelin-

Alpe d’Huez sits somewhere between those big resorts

starred restaurants with prices to match, Alpe d’Huez has been

that have been built at altitude since the 1960s and those

busy keeping it real and keeping it affordable.

traditional villages down nearer 1,000m. It is an altitude

That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of great places to eat ...

resort, and it has been largely built for skiing above a

Accommodation is mostly in 1–3★ hotels and apartments,

traditional village, but it dates back the best part of a

but Alpe d’Huez does now have a nice 4★ apartment

century so has bags of character as well as a snow-sure

complex option, Le Cristal de l’Alpe, about 100m from the

altitude and a huge ski area. Triple prizes. The resort was

nearest lift and right on the edge of the resort centre.

first developed in the 1920s and its first lift, opened in 1936,

Along with spacious, well-equipped apartments which also

was one of the first in France (or anywhere).

boast an excellent wi-fi signal (how can we live without

Besides its spectacular skiing, Alpe d’Huez is famed as a

that?), there’s an excellent swimming pool area complete

key stop on the Tour de France, thanks to its famous (or

with sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, as well as a separate

infamous) 13.8km-long hill climb up to the resort with an

spa centre – Le Centre Ô des Cimes – where you can sign

average gradient of 8.1% and 21 hairpin bends – it’s much

in for a relaxing post-ski massage or just take a day off and

easier in a comfortable transfer by coach, car or taxi.

indulge in the full spa menu.

The skiing above (and below) Alpe d’Huez is quite special.

One more box tick for Alpe d’Huez is how painless it is to get

The resort lies at the heart of the Grande Rousses area

there. If you fly in to Grenoble (a pleasantly uncrowded airport

which also contains smaller traditional villages below

compared to most options for the French Alps), you can expect

including Vaujany and Oz-en-Oisans, a truly vast ski region

to be in resort in little over an hour on a good day, perhaps 75

with some 250km of fully inter-linked pistes, including, most

minutes on average – it’s less than 40 miles away.

famously, the remarkable Sarenne run, officially the world’s

It all adds up to the complete picture of Alpe d’Huez as a

longest black run and certainly a glorious descent whether

very “real” snowsports destination boasting both a true ski

you feel it is steep enough for its black grading or not. It

heritage and relaxed atmosphere that help you get in the

descends 16km from the top to bottom of the slopes, a lift-

holiday mood and really enjoy the best of French skiing

served vertical of 2,230m (that’s world top five, no less, for

without any of those possible downsides.

0844 576 0175 | SKICOLLECTION.CO.UK

019 // DEC15

BEAT MUELLER

I

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F or over 150 years, Mammut have been

making clothing, footwear and equipment

O

N

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E

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S

A

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and construction of world-class climbing

to working with sponsored climbers. No

ropes back in the “Golden Age” of

two days are ever the same.

alpinism in the Victorian era. Today,

I

O

N

I had worked with the MD of Mammut UK in a previous role several years ago.

W

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and ski in incredible surroundings – I don’t believe that there’s anywhere like it.

Then when the opportunity arose to work

thanks to their commitment to innovation,

Do you have a favourite Swiss ski resort?

with Mammut I was actually working with

How long have you been going to

Mammut have outgrown their Swiss roots

It would have to be Grindelwald. I’ve

another outdoor clothing brand, but jobs

Switzerland?

and are a global leader in the design

visited there in both winter and summer,

like this one don’t come along very often

and manufacture of everything alpine

and it is an area that never fails to take my

so I jumped at the opportunity.

– including some extremely nice and

breath away. I love taking the train up to

incredibly functional ski and board kit.

Kleine Scheidegg, Europe’s highest railway

What do you like most about

working for Mammut I used to go to ski

Rob Sykes is Mammut UK’s Marketing

station, and the view when you arrive is

Switzerland?

and board in the Jungfrau staying in

and Retail Manager, and he’s also

utterly mind-blowing. A few years ago, I was

#InLoveWithSwitzerland. We asked him

lucky enough to be part of Mammut’s 150th

travelled to Switzerland for both work and

about his job and what’s so special about

anniversary celebrations where we had a

pleasure many times. I like the fact that

Finally, why do you think holidays to

Switzerland (besides Mammut).

party and slept in tents in the shadow of the

wherever you go in Switzerland, travelling

Switzerland are better than to other

Jungfrau – it was a great night! I love skiing

around the country by public transport

countries?

in the area – there are some classic runs.

is so simple and hassle-free. In addition,

What does your work at Mammut involve?

It’s a very varied role and on a day-to-

Well in the five years I’ve been with Mammut I’ve visited Switzerland several times a year, but even before I started

Working for Mammut has meant I’ve

Lauterbrunnen and Wengen.

I think it’s a combination of things –

I’ve always found Swiss people to be very

loads of great activities to do, delicious

for mountain adventures. The company

day basis it can involve everything from

How did you first get involved with

kind and helpful. Away from work, I’ve had

food and great weather – pretty much

actually began as pioneers in the design

advertising to social media; from events

Mammut and what did you do before?

the opportunity to climb, mountain bike

everything you need for a great holiday.

020 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

MATTHIEU PINAUD

SKI RESORT IN PYRENEES NOW OPEN FOR WINTER 2015/16

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all opening for winter 2015/16.

Cauterets in the French Pyrenees

keen for the season to get off to a

Resorts had been urging their fans

(pictured) reported beautiful weather

good start each winter, as there are

to “keep the faith” for the planned

conditions and a turnout of around

two public holidays, Constitution

end-of-November opening date, the

2,000 skiers and boarders for

Day and Immaculate Conception

traditional start of the season in the

opening day on 28 November.

Day, known together as “Purisima

region, despite unnervingly warm

Baqueira-Beret, the largest

weekend”, on the first Monday and

temperatures through much of the

resort on the Spanish side of the

Tuesday of December, meaning

month, which set back early snowfall

mountains, reported that snow

many families book a long ski

and snowmaking efforts that had

depths had reached 90cm by

weekend in the mountains – so

taken place back in late October.

opening day, allowing it to open

long as there’s plenty of snow.

The resorts were proved right with

more than 60 runs totalling 89km

Baqueira-Beret say that more snow

heavy snowfall the weekend before

of piste initially in all three of

combined with the efforts of their

he ski season got underway on

opening weekend, when up to

its sectors. This equated to the

technical teams means they are on

schedule in the Pyrenees on the

50cm accumulations were reported.

largest area open in the Alps or the

target to open 103 pistes spread

last weekend of November with ski

Subsequently snowmaking systems

Rockies in late November 2015.

over the 2,166 hectares of the resort

resorts in Andorra, France and Spain

went into full-time operation.

Resorts in Spain are particularly

for that big weekend.

THIS BEAST HAS GRAPHENE IN ITS DNA. GRAPHENE IS THE THINNEST AND LIGHTEST ELEMENT EVER DISCOVERED

BY MANKIND. GRAPHENE IS ALSO THE STRONGEST MATERIAL ON THE PLANET, STRONGER THAN DIAMOND AND 300 TIMES STRONGER THAN STEEL. HAVE NO FEAR, THIS MONSTER WILL CHEW UP AND SPIT OUT ANY TERRAIN THAT COMES YOUR WAY.

MONSTER 88

NEW LIFTS COMING TO MÉRIBEL Table Verte chairlift will also then

redesigning its Mont de la Challe

be removed.

sector. The aim is to offer more

This new chairlift will have an

attractions – including a new

intermediary station providing

beginners’ ski area, night skiing

access to the Méribel-Mottaret

and a toboggan run, whilst at the

runs on the Mont de la Challe

same time offering faster and

mountainside. These will include

more comfortable ski access to Le

a new green run which will leave

Hameau and Tougnète.

from here and which will also be

The detachable quad Les Combes

used for night skiing.

chairlift is being replaced by a

A new ski tow will also be installed

longer six-seater detachable

in the beginners’ area at the

chairlift which will arrive just

junction of the Hermine and Furet

Verte chairlift departure point,

Verte magic carpet, next to the Les

above the Tonia chalet. The old

runs, arriving close to the Table

and there will also be a new Table

Arolles ski-tow starting point.

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JM GOUEDARD MERIBEL TOURISME

Méribel-Mottaret is totally

021 // DEC15

monster.head.com

RENT A FATBIKE You can now hire a brand-new fatbike from the village of Montchavin at La Plagne then board the last gondola to the top of Plan Bois (1,800m) and speed down the groomed tree-lined runs. The thick, under-inflated tyres are designed to grip the snow, and the disc brakes mean that, even in the wettest conditions, the descent is still controlled. evolution2-montchavin.com

NEW LIFT AND RUN AT SOLITUDE This winter, Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah, now run by Deer Valley, will have RACER READY

a new ski run and a new high-speed quad, the Summit Express chairlift, to give skiers quicker access to Honeycomb Canyon. Other developments include the remodelling of Solitude’s Moonbeam Lodge menus at all resort restaurants. skisolitude.com

KAZAK SKI AREA OPENS NEW RUNS Anyone heading to Kazakhstan for some skiing this winter will be pleased to hear that the country’s leading ski area of Shymbulak has announced two new pistes will open there. The new runs are an easy green named “Snake” and a more challenging black-graded piste. Along with these new runs there’s also an all-new and all-natural terrain park, modelled on facilities like The Stash in Avoriaz.

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE? A new guide book to 60 of the toughest and most brutal challenges on earth has

GLASGOW WINNERS IN DRYSLOPE CHAMPS

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at Hillend earlier this autumn,

winning both the Under 21 and the

showcasing a host of highly

overall category in both disciplines,

skilled talent on the technically

and Nicole Ritchie, also Glasgow

challenging Slalom and Giant

Ski Racing, replicated his success in

Slalom runs.

the female category.

The competition – hosted by

“It’s been great to come back

Scottish national governing body,

and ski like I know I can. A lot of

Iglu-Dorf GmbH, the Swiss-based creator of

Snowsport Scotland – proved

the competitors here are those

igloo holiday villages in ski resorts across

as popular as ever with 113

that I train with every Thursday,

Europe, celebrates its 20th winter this season

competitors in total across the two-

which made me push myself that

and has announced big plans to celebrate:

day event with the majority taking

little bit more and it paid off. I

by building the biggest igloo in the world at

part in both competitions on the

always enjoy coming to Hillend

Zermatt in January.

he Scottish Alpine Dryslope

Hillend Ski Slope.

and noticed a lot of young and

Having started with one igloo for two people

Championships took place at

Euan Kick from Glasgow Ski Racing

upcoming competitors standing

20 years ago, the company’s igloos are now

Midlothian Snowsports Centre

dominated the male category

out this year,” said Nicole.

created afresh every winter high above seven top ski resorts. Each resort uses more than 2,000 tons of snow and expands over 600m2 of snowy living space including artfully adorned

been published by Dog ‘n’ Bone Books.

Up For The Challenge lists several snowy challenges including the Ultra, Vasaloppet, Patrouille des Glaciers and the Haute Route. Written by UK-based sports and

IGLU VILLAGE PLANS WORLD RECORD

IGLU-DORF.COM

restaurant and the complete revamp of

A NEW BLACK IN TRENTINO

walls, ice sculptures, romantic lounges and even an island igloo.

Zermatt’s igloo village, the company’s highest, has already opened this winter adorned with

black-graded trails.

African snow art. More igloos will open at

The new 810m-long ski run starts

Davos-Klosters, Gstaad and Engelberg-Titlis on

from the top of Mount Vigo at

Christmas Day, on the Stockhorm on Boxing

2,179m with its upper section

Day, in Andorra on 27 December and finally on

running through a natural canyon

the Zugspitze in Germany on New Year’s Eve.

above the treeline with gradients of

The Gstaad igloo village will have an

up to 69.4%.

Australian theme whilst the “world of the

The run then enters thinly wooded

minute” is the theme at Engelberg-Titlis. In

ski boot features, the company says, the

slopes typical of high-altitude

the southernmost igloo village in Andorra,

first fully integrated heated liner in a ski

pastures running parallel to

five artists from the principality have been

travel journalist Dominic Bliss, the book retails at £14.99.

WEAR YOUR SKI BOOTS FOR 18 HRS Salomon’s new Quest Access Custom Heat

boot. Thanks to the heater, the anatomical design and the thermic material surrounding the foot, feet will be kept warm for up to 18 hours! Retail price is £380. salomon.com

022 // DEC15 // INTHESNOW.COM

A new black-graded ski slope will

to Madonna di Campiglio, Pinzolo

the existing “Bear” run before

commissioned to design Andorra-themed

open at the ski area above Marilleva

and Folgarida, has been named

ending on the gentle slope of

snow walls, and at the Zugspitze there’s

in Trentino this winter.

Little Grizzly. It is now quite rare

Malga Panciana where it joins the

a Tibetan-themed experience with yaks,

The slope, which is in the large

for new pistes to be created in

“Sghirlat” piste 250 vertical metres

Buddhas and mandalas fashioned from snow

ski area also shared by and linked

Western Europe, particularly

below the start point at 1,929m.

and ice. iglu-dorf.com

@INTHESNOWMAG

PORTABLE SPEAKER FOR SNOWSPORTS Californian company Fugoo (Fugoo.com) has launched a new super-tough Bluetooth speaker like no other. It can cope, the company promises, with life in the snow.

The suitably named “Fugoo Tough” has been designed to work in low temperatures and when sat in snow. In fact, it is also completely waterproof and can cope with being dropped up to three metres on to a surface as hard as concrete, if you want to give it a go, so ice shouldn’t be a problem.

The speaker delivers high-quality 360° audio and has an industryleading 40-hour battery life.

Its changeable jacket design and IP67 rating also mean it is 100% shockproof, dust-proof and snow-proof too.

The Fugoo comes with a range of accessories to strap it to almost anything, giving stunning crystal-clear sound on the go, and connects to any Bluetooth-enabled device effortlessly.

The Fugoo Tough retails at around £175 and is available from amazon.co.uk.

LECH ZUERS AND MATTHIAS+JAKISIC

FANTASTIC GONDOLAS Lech Zürs am Arlberg in Austria’s Vorarlberg region is not a resort known to do things by halves, and as the 2015/16 season gets underway there in a few weeks’ time, it underlines its special status with the return of the amazing “Fantastic Gondolas” show.

Staged on the evening of Saturday 12 December, the amazing event takes place at the Rüfikopf where the snowy-white mountain scenery and the gondolas hanging within it are the backdrop for a remarkable medley of visual art and spatial and sound installations.

Patrick Pulsinger will be among the DJs playing at this, the fifth edition of the Fantastic Gondolas event – which has been given the special name the “Love Edition” (after last winter’s focus on cinema, “Cineastic Gondolas”) and kicks off at 8.30pm. Tickets cost from €28. lech-zuers.at

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023 // DEC15

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other services other than what is noted above, and may not be used in conjunction with any offers. Use is subject to availability.

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024 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

ZERMATT

Edward Mannix gives us his insider tips on Zermatt, where his company Matterhorn Chalets (matterhornchalets.com) provides wide-ranging holiday accommodation options.

Lunch

of the three ski departure points around the

however, is that on Saturdays, under-16s can ski

village, the chances are that getting to and from

for free in the Zermatt area. This means that if

Eliminate the last-lift panic of dining in Italy.

the lifts will require either a walk, a taxi ride or the

your week’s holiday is in accommodation with a

One of the features of Zermatt’s skiing area is

bus – fine in the morning when your energy levels

Sunday changeover, you could save at least 25

that it links with the Italian resort of Cervinia,

are high, but not great at the end of the day.

francs on the price of the kids’ passes by only

which has brilliant skiing and even better lunch

There is however a solution: at the Matterhorn

buying a five-day pass for Monday to Friday.

opportunities. Whilst going over there is a

Express, Sunnegga and Gornergrat, there

wonderful morning’s excursion, getting back up

are very good hire shops which also provide

and over to Zermatt after lunch can be fraught,

overnight storage. You may find a marginally

especially earlier in the season when the lifts

cheaper rental deal elsewhere online, but it’s

close early. Avoid this and lunch at the quaint

worth paying a little extra just so you can leave

restaurant in the refuge at Testa Grigia, right

your gear next to the lifts and make the journey

more convenient.

on the Swiss–Italian border. The service is

home in comfortable shoes.

Access to Zermatt from the valley is by train, with

Getting there

If you have a lot of luggage, a taxi is

chaotically Italian, but the staff are very friendly

cars banned, but there is in fact a road linking

and the food is excellent. And when you want to

Kids

Zermatt to Täsch, and some of the local taxi firms

Up to 16 kids can ski for free.

Whilst the price of a return ticket on the Zermatt

Even though Zermatt is high-end in most

shuttle train is currently 16.40 francs, a week’s

Equipment

respects, the lift company is very generous with

parking in the main Matterhorn Terminal public

its discounts on ski passes for younger people.

car park will cost over 100 francs. For just 5

Children under nine ski for free, under-16s get

francs more, a group of four can leave their car

Rent, but don’t carry it about.

half-price passes and young adults under 20 get

for the week with the taxi company, who’ll drive

Unless your accommodation is right next to one

a discount of 25%. What is less widely known,

them and all their kit up to Zermatt.

get back to Zermatt after lunch, there are no lifts to worry about – just an uninterrupted ski from 3,400m all the way down to the village.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

offer a package combining parking with a return taxi transfer up to Zermatt.

025 // DEC15

 PROMOTION

SAVE MONEY AND CUT OUT THE HASSLE

H

when you arrive at the resort, but is still fitted by mountain professionals so that you can be sure you’re happy with it.

Founded nine years ago by a small team based in Paris who wanted to take advantage of new technology to improve the ski rental system, Ski Discount have grown to become the leading ski ebooker in France, working with 400 shops across Europe –

ave you ever had to queue

simply by being the best at what

outside a ski shop in the cold at

they do. This winter, they are very

the start of your holiday after a

enthusiastic about the launch of

long journey to the resort?

Ski Discount UK!

You just want to get on the

To use the service, simply visit

snow, but instead you have to

skidiscount.co.uk and select

stand and listen to screaming

your dates, resort and the most

children and angry tourists for

convenient ski shop. Then pick

an hour or so. When you finally

your gear (none is more than three

get your turn, you’re told that the

years old and the whole family

shop has just run out of stock

can be catered for, from age three

in your size. So you go trailing

upwards). Accessories like helmets

around other ski shops, before

can also be rented. If needed,

finally paying a fortune for some

support is available by live chat

leftover equipment.

online or by phone. When you

If that all sounds horribly familiar,

make your payment, you’ll save up

it’s time to switch to

to 60% on walk-in rates, with extra

skidiscount.co.uk.

group discounts and the seventh

Skidiscount.co.uk let you book

day free on a six-day booking.

your skis and snowboards

You’ll receive a voucher, valid

take your voucher to the ski shop,

refund if your resort is closed

online at discounted prices. The

from 5pm on the day before you

where your gear will be ready for

through lack of snow.

equipment is then waiting for you

ski. When you arrive at the resort,

you. Simple! PS You’ll get a 100%

(skidiscount.co.uk)

+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 reservation@heliopic.com

CHARLOTTE DALE

RENT A MICRO-CHALET IN MORZINE the active couple,” said Rhiannon

mountain lifestyle.

Cook of Adventure Base.

“Freshly baked croissants and

“Whether it be for honeymoons,

coffee at the Kinkerne are

marriage proposals or just simply

available to start the day off,

time away ‘a deux’, the charming

then guests can enjoy a full

Mazots provide secluded self-

day’s skiing with après-ski on the

contained units with all the

Kinkerne’s sunny terrace, ending

necessary amenities close by.”

the day with a warming dinner

Uniquely positioned just a stone’s

and drinks in the restaurant then

throw from the new Prodains lift,

a peaceful night’s sleep before

and next to the Adventure Base

starting it all up again the next

New this winter, Adventure Base

miniature chalets, to couples.

Kinkerne bar and restaurant, a

day!” added Rhiannon.

will be offering little Alpine gems

“The Mazots sleep two, allowing

week’s stay in a mountain Mazot

adventurebase.com/la-kinkerne-

in the form of mountain Mazots, or

the perfect romantic getaway for

allows complete immersion in the

mazots/

heliopic-hotel-spa.com 026 // DEC15

Polartec® is a registered trademark of Polartec, LLC. ©Polartec 2015

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Polartec.com

BY PATRICK THORNE

SOLAR THE WAY AHEAD FOR SKI CENTRES? way forward by ski resorts looking to generate sustainable energy on site to cover their energy requirements, or at least a chunk of them. Of course, many were already powered by hydro electricity from regional power plants, but if they were investing themselves it would most likely be in wind turbines. These included the mighty 1.5-megawatt Zephyr turbine at Jiminy Peak on the East Coast of North America as well as Eye of the Wind at Grouse Mountain above Vancouver on the West.

That era seems to have ended, to some extent at least, with some of the biggest new projects unveiled at ski resorts on both sides of the Atlantic this autumn being big solar farms.

The latest is back at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Massachusetts, which must be the world’s most dedicated ski area when it comes to the percentage of its turnover it is pumping into making itself self-sufficient in green energy,

NORQUAY AT 90

A

SKI & SUN HOLIDAYS WITH SKI SAFARI

It’s a special season for Banff’s local

The new run, Wiegele’s (50), is a

“ski hill” as it’s celebrating 90 years

moderate blue run accessible from

of operations.

the Mystic Chair and is named

Norquay is unveiling an updated

after the founders of the Banff

trail map, opening a brand new

Alpine Racers, an organisation

ski run, expanding its Tube Town

instrumental in developing

tubing park and offering 90 cent

competitive skiing for local kids.

(45p) lift tickets on select dates.

The run is just a portion of a

Ski Safari, a ski holiday company which has a

The resort is also partnering with

10-acre plot of newly accessible

long-standing reputation for creating innovative

Banff Ave Brewing Co. to create

terrain at Norquay.

ski holiday packages, has created a selection of

a 90th anniversary craft brewed

The 90-cents lift tickets will be offered

packages that feature a week on the slopes at one

lberta’s Norquay ski area was the

beer, the Norquay 90 Kolsch

once a month through Norquay’s six-

of the world’s most popular ski resorts, followed

first to open for the season on

– perfect for a toast honouring

month-long season with all proceeds

by a week chilling out on an exotic beach.

Bonfire Night.

Alberta’s oldest ski resort.

going to local charities.

Package possibilities include Tremblant in

SHUTTERSTOCK

Time was, nearly a decade ago now, when wind power was most commonly seen as the

Quebec, Canada, then on to Antigua in the

and it is the largest community-run solar power

Caribbean; or stick in one country and ski Vail,

plant in the region.

Colorado, then head to Miami, Florida, or Park

The Nexamp Peak Solar Project covers 12 acres and includes 7,500 precisely aligned solar panels arranged in 682 rows with a

VERBIER ELECTRONIC MUSIC FESTIVAL

2.3-megawatt solar-energy-generating capacity.

City, Utah, then San Diego, California, or you can ski in Winter Park, Colorado, then head south to the Mexican Riviera.

Going further west you could head to Whistler,

Combined with the Zephyr wind turbine, as well

day electronic dance and music

BC, then head out across the Pacific to Hawaii,

as other green energy projects at the resort, the

festival to be staged on Verbier’s

which the company says is by far their most

new solar array will enable the resort to offset

largest on-piste sun terrace.Sets

popular ski and sun combination.

90% of its energy needs from local renewable

will be performed by leaders of

After your stay in Whistler you could head

the Swiss and internal electro

for the white sandy beaches and tropical

scene – Laurent Garnier, Luciano,

sunshine of Hawaii, staying on the second

In addition to the resorts being largely self-powered

Seth Troxler, and Carl Craig.

largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui, known

by green energy, local home owners benefit from a

Festival goers will be able to drink

to locals as “no ka ‘oi” (the best) and it is easy

15% saving on their electricity costs.

and dance to the freshest electro

to understand why.

The new solar plant at Jiminy Peak follows the

beats whilst enjoying panoramic

Ski Safari (skisafari.com) has a 15-night holiday,

decision by three other ski areas in the region

valley views and delicious cuisine

staying seven nights at the 5★ Fairmont

to commit to buying 100% of their energy from

from two exceptional restaurants.

Chateau Whistler, an overnight stay at the

local solar plants for many years to come and the

Events will take place on the Main

5★ Rosewood Hotel Georgia in Vancouver,

resources, making Jiminy Peak one of the greenest ski resorts in the world.

news that the Pitztal glacier, Austria’s highest ski area, has also opened its own super-efficient high-altitude solar power production facility.

028 // DEC15

Le Mouton Noir mountain

Electronic Music Festival next

Stage at Le Mouton Noir from

followed by seven nights in Maui at the 4★

restaurant at 2,200m above

month. To be staged on 11 and 12

2pm–10pm on both days. Festival

Honua Kai. Prices start from £2,995 per person,

Verbier has announced it will be

December, Le Mouton Noir will host

tickets cost 69 Swiss francs (£45).

based on two sharing, and includes flights and

hosting the brand-new Polaris

music and ski lovers for the two-

lemoutonverbier.com

airport transfers.

@INTHESNOWMAG

BIG SKY RESORT

RESORT ADDS THREE NEW TERRAIN PARKS Big Sky Resort in Montana, USA, has opened three new terrain parks this winter, as well as three new ski runs.

Big Sky was already one of the three largest ski areas in North America, with more than 5,800 acres of terrain, and the new terrain increases that further.

The new terrain parks include The Cache, an advanced new natural -style park positioned to also allow easy access to and from the newly revamped Swifty Terrain Park that has received increased acreage and an improved jump line.

The Cache replaces the traditional Freestyle Forest in the Moonlight area, which has been redeveloped into a family-friendly kids’ adventure area named The Lost Frontier.

The other two new parks are advanced park Peacemaker and intermediate park Maverick, both located on the Wagon train run.

The three new runs include two new intermediate-level glade runs, White Magic and Short Stack, accessed via the top of the Derringer chairlift on the skier’s left.

The third trail is a new beginner glade run, Playground, which opens an additional five acres of terrain.

NEW SWISS HALF PIPE Grindelwald will add a half pipe to its terrain park this winter. The number of half pipes is on the decline worldwide due to the high cost of maintaining them, so this will become one of the few available in Switzerland. The White Elements Snowpark at the Jungfrau Region resort is one of the largest in Switzerland and offers freestyle fun on all levels. With a length of 650m, it has several lines with plenty of rails, obstacles and boxes for different grades of difficulty. The new half pipe will be approximately 130m long and 5.7m high.

There’s also been further investment in providing slopes shared by Grindelwald and Wengen with more artificial snowmaking facilities.

The ski slopes between Kleine Scheidegg and Wengernalp will have their snowmaking cover extended, and snowmaking coverage will increase to 60% of all of the Jungfrau’s pistes.

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029 // DEC15

 PROMOTION

threevalleetransfers www.3vt.co.uk | +44 (0)1323 351964

PRIVATE & SHARED TRANSFERS TO LES 3 VALLÉES

CALL A SKI SPECIALIST 07827811477

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SKI THE FRENCH PYRENEES

T

easyJet and Ryanair flying into Tarbes Lourdes,

hospitality and abundant skiing opportunities.

Toulouse and Carcassonne, the French

Cauterets is one of the region’s best-known

Pyrenees are great for a short break or long

resorts, with its classic architecture and location in

weekend as well as full weeks.

the heart of the French Pyrenees National Park. It’s a spa resort with a great ski area and an enviable snowfall record, plus lots to do off the slopes.

Grand Tourmalet – located at the foot of the famed

COMPETITION

Pic du Midi de Bigorre – is the largest ski area in

Every month Erna Low are giving away

the French Pyrenees, with over 100km of runs.

a fabulous skiing holiday at a French

Stay in the traditional Pyrenean village of Barèges

Pyrenean resort – visit

or the purpose-built ski-in/ski-out La Mongie.

ernalow.co.uk/french-pyrenees

Peyragudes is the most high-tech resort in the

for more details and to enter.

French Pyrenees and boasts a brand-new spa.

The slopes run east–west, so you can ski all day in the sun.

Erna Low offer French Pyrenees ski holidays

he French Pyrenees are home to several excellent

Compact Saint-Lary, meanwhile, features all the

from £23 per person/per night.

ski resorts and renowned for their friendly,

amenities of a large resort and boasts a ‘Family

traditional atmosphere and spectacular natural

Plus’ label as well as another great spa.

beauty. But it’s less well known that they also get

Easy to reach from UK airports, with BA,

great snow, often better than the Alps, thanks to

moist air blowing in from the Atlantic. Last season depths peaked at 3.5m in February at 2,300m.

There’s a wide choice of ski resorts here, including traditional villages, purpose-built resorts and spa centres. These provide skiing for all standards on the piste, plus exciting terrain parks and off-piste freeride opportunities for advanced skiers and boarders. But whichever you choose, for sheer value for money the French Pyrenees are hard

info@codatravel.com

www.codatravel.com

to beat, with their fantastic skiing, unparalleled

030 // DEC15

020 7590 1703 | ERNALOW.CO.UK/FRENCH-PYRENEES

NEW TEMPORARY ROUTE TO LA GRAVE OPENS

WORLD’S LARGEST NATIVITY SCENE AT ITALIAN RESORT Val Gardena is not only home to

the sweet smell of Christmas

a famous World Cup Downhill

cookies wafting through

race each December; the run-

the crisp mountain air, and

up to Christmas also sees the

admire the village’s festive

famous village in the Dolomites

decorations while savouring a

hosting the world’s largest

steaming mug of mulled wine.

nativity scene, which is perhaps

They can then gaze in awe at the

not surprising as this region is

surrounding spectacular snow-

renowned for its wood carving.

clad mountains, a true winter

The nativity scene is unveiled

wonderland, then go skiing or

four weeks before Christmas,

boarding on them. Val Gardena

then every day during advent a

is piste- and lift-linked to the Sella

new life-sized statue is added

Ronda circuit of around 500km

to it, so the scene changes and

of runs, which form one of the

continues to grow in the run-up

world’s largest ski areas and are

to 25 December.

included in the 1200km of piste

Though it is one of the main

on the Dolomiti Superski ticket.

attractions, the nativity scene

The Adler Dolomiti, a family-

in the village of Santa Cristina

orientated hotel which is

is not the only reason to visit

part of a group of hotels in

this picturesque part of the

the valley run by the local

Italian Alps. Ortisei, the main

Sanonener family for more

town in Val Gardena, is simply

than 200 years and through

magical in December and will

seven generations, offers

delight all the senses.

December stays from €179

Visitors can also listen to live

per person per night sharing a

outdoor performances and

double room on a half-board

Christmas carol concerts,

basis. The hotel has a great

visit the traditional Christmas

kids’ club and the largest

markets, be guided to the

wellness facility in the region.

doors of bakeries and stalls by

adler-resorts.com/en/

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031 // DEC15

A new temporary road to access the cult

although they were less severely affected.

and has cost €6 million to build. Traffic using

French ski resort of La Grave has opened in

With the main road sandwiched between

it will be limited to vehicles up to 12 tons in

time for the ski season, according to French

a lake and the steep mountainside, there

weight and less than 8m long – which is too

media reports.

was no easy alternative access route, and

light and too short for most buses although

The main road into the resort was closed at

supplies had to be helicoptered and brought

minibuses should be OK. Two-way traffic

the end of last season after cracks were found

in by boat through the summer, or via a very

should be possible on the road although the

in the roof of the tunnel the traffic needs to

long circular route to the north.

speed limit will be 30kph.

pass through to reach the famous ski village.

The new temporary road has been created

A new tunnel is expected to be completed

The road is also the most direct access to

on the south side of Lake Chambon, across

in time for winter 2016/17, and the tendering

bigger resorts including Les Deux Alpes,

from the closed RD 1091. It is 5.3km long

process is due to start this month.

T

gear, right up until that first slide on snow!

Alternatively, you can time your indoor ski

But this needn’t be the case, as real-snow indoor

or snowboard demo session with a centre’s

ski and snowboard centres up and down the UK

speciality demo night. The Snow Centre invites

offer you the chance to demo kit before you buy

various brands along to most of their Friday

it! Make sure you find the right setup for your

Freestyle Nights, and you don’t even have to

park, piste or powder needs by trying the latest

leave the slope to try a whole range of the

skis or snowboards from Snow & Rock at The

current season’s equipment. From Nitro to

Snow Centre Hemel Hempstead or Ellis Brigham

Faction Skis, the guest brand set up a demo

at the Tamworth, Castleford, Milton Keynes and

stand at the bottom of the slope, so you could

Braehead snow domes.

swap your snowboard or try a new pair of skis

As long as the board or skis you want to try

on every run!

are available in the store’s demo pool, you can

Or keep your eyes peeled for the indoor

usually try as many different models as you like

centre’s demo brand weekends! Usually held at

for FREE, so you only have to pick up the cost

the start or end of the winter season, often the

of your time on the slopes! Snow & Rock charge

real snow slopes invite a snow load of big name

£15 per demo, but if you buy the board or skis

brands along to offer free demos of their new

afterwards, you get the £15 off the price of your

kit in celebration of the beginning or end of the

here’s nothing worse than eagerly taking your

new equipment! Much better than spending

snow season. A great opportunity to get a feel

brand-new skis or snowboard up the mountain

hundreds of pounds or more on a setup before

for your future board or skis! Watch the events

on the first day of your winter break, only to

finding it doesn’t quite suit your on-slope style!

pages on the centre’s websites to be sure you

find it’s not quite the smooth ride you were

What’s more, Ellis Brigham will happily refund

won’t miss out!

hoping for!

your one-hour slope time if you actually buy the

Now there’s really no need to blindly buy that

You can read the board write-ups, study all the

board you demo! That’s some free indoor riding,

board because it has a spectacular graphic or

latest skis and feel certain you’ve made the right

plus brand-new skis or a board you can’t wait to

those skis because everyone’s raving about them

choice from the moment you unwrap your new

hit the slopes on!

– make sure you try before you buy this season!

032 // DEC15

THESNOWCENTRE.COM

RECHTE TVB WILDSCHÖNAU

TO

A CHOICE OF TRADITIONAL VILLAGES

each offering numerous benefits and discounts.

You no longer have to choose between staying in a little

These include the use of the local buses and the

village with a little ski area or a giant soulless village to be able to ski a big area. Thanks to the creation of Ski Juwel you can enjoy the best of

ded All intchleu price: in

both worlds. The choice is yours. You can opt to

village facilities.

base yourself in one of the beautiful Wildschönau resorts, like Niederau, Oberau or Auffach, for

NOT JUST SKIING

some of the best entry-level skiing in Tirol, or you

VAL THORENS, CHAMONIX, VAL D’ISERE & SERRE CHEVALIER

£569

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT! The UCPA holiday packages are absolutely perfect if you find yourself travelling alone.

You simply select which level ski or snowboard course you want to do and we will look after the rest. The friendly atmosphere, group instruction, evening entertainment and communal dining makes socialising with likeminded people super easy.

For more information and to book:

www.action-outdoors.co.uk THE UK PARTNE

can stay in Alpbach, a long-time British favourite

There’s lots to do in the Ski Juwel region

which has also been voted the most picturesque

besides all the downhill skiing and boarding.

in Austria, and opens up some more challenging

Tobogganing on a number of runs is popular, as

runs. Wherever you choose to stay, there is no

is ice-skating and other après-ski activities.

shortage of good-quality accommodation in any

Cross-country skiing also makes for an

of these authentic mountain villages.

exhilarating alternative to downhill, amidst

BIG SKI AREA, WIDE CHOICE

delightful winter scenery. The Wildschönau

SKI JUWEL FURTHER INFO

valley has over 50km of cross-country trails whilst the Alpbach Valley boasts a network

The Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau was

of close to 100km of well-maintained and

created three years ago when Inneralpbach in the

Two of Austria’s most beautiful ski

Alpbachtal valley was linked, via a gondola up the

regions, Alpbachtal and Wildschönau,

Schatzberg, with Auffach in the Wildschönau.

which include villages such as Alpbach,

There is plenty of skiing and snowboarding for

Auffach and Niederau that you’ll find in

all abilities on wide, open slopes, and freestylers

British tour operator brochures, linked

The human scale and traditional values of

will enjoy the action in three snow parks. Night

their ski lifts and runs a few years ago to

Ski Juwel villages, as well as the beautiful,

skiing is also available, and ski school guides will

create one of the ten biggest ski regions

be able to show the most advanced skiers and

in the Tirol region – Ski Juwel.

boarders the exciting local freeride terrain.

Ski Juwel has 109km of runs, and a lift

If Mother Nature decides to be mean with delivering

pass costs €122 for three days or €217

the white stuff, you can relax because 85% of the

for six days. Transfers from Innsbruck

slopes are covered by snowmaking facilities.

Airport take just 45 minutes.

prepared routes.

FAMILY FAVOURITE ALPBACHTAL SEENLAND TOURISMUS

n commodatio 7 nights ac All meals Lift pass hire Equipment struction in s ur ho 12

Prices from

chance to take part in a local activity and events programme, as well as providing discounts on shopping, restaurants and entry fees to

family-friendly slopes and friendly local service providers, make it a great place for families to learn to ski or board together.

There are dedicated children’s areas on the slopes and local valley lifts so you can ski close to home if you wish in Reith, Alpbach and Kramsach as well as in Oberau and Niederau.

Good-humoured English-speaking instructors

GREAT GUEST CARD

and Bobo the Penguin and the Dragon

Depending on which side of Ski Juwel you stay, you will receive either a free

Club are ready to teach your little ones, and there are family lift pass

Alpbachtal Seenland Card or a Wildschönau Card from your hotel or pension,

discounts offered.

R FOR

034 // DEC15

SKIJUWEL.COM

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kickinghorsepowdertours.com

JAPAN POWDER AND CITY SKI TRIP

SNOWPARK ADDS NEW FUNZONE

GRANDMASTER FLASH FOR GROOVE CAIRNGORM

A new two-week ski trip combining an introduction to Japan’s ski areas

One of the biggest developments in the Alps for freestylers this winter is

March 2016 will see what’s being promoted as a first for the UK with

with a stay in the city of Sapporo has been launched by Skilas Tours,

continuing development of the snowpark at the Lake Annecy ski resort

the launch of Groove CairnGorm, a resort-based snowsports and music

a company with vast experience of Japan’s north island of Hokkaido,

of La Clusaz in France, which has added a new Fun Zone.

festival that will take place on British snow.

famed for its deep powder-snow conditions.

Over the last five years, La Clusaz has continuously invested in

The festival, which will take place over the weekend of 11–12 March

The holidays are targeted at recreational skiers who have some

improvements to its facilities. These cover not just the uplift – adding

2016, will be hosted in conjunction with Natural Retreats CairnGorm

experience in off-piste and powder-snow conditions or who might

five new highly efficient lifts in the last three years – but also the

Mountain Ltd, in the town of Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands.

want to try it for the first time whilst at the same time sampling Japan’s

development of its ski area.

The event takes place over the same weekend as the Scottish

fascinating culture.

Last winter, the resort chose to concentrate on the layout of the

Freestyle Championships at CairnGorm, so as well as regular

“We wanted to create a new trip where skiers experience the very

snowpark and separated the “expert” lines from the “amateur” lines.

snowsports, expect to see some of the country’s top riders grabbing

best of Hokkaido, not only in the more famous resorts of Niseko and

This season a whole new area has been redeveloped that aims to

some big air during the day.

Rusutsu in the second week, but also in the smaller areas surrounding

provide thrills for all ages.

Following the snowsports and entertainment each day up on CairnGorm

Sapporo,” said Skilas Tours partner, Lionel Hackett. “Staying in a city

Dreamed up by experienced resort professionals and developed by a

Mountain, there will be après-ski with live music and world-class DJs until

in the first week might seem strange if you’re used to European-style

team of well-known shapers, the brand-new La Clusaz Fun Zone, located

the early hours on Friday and Saturday in a Big Top down in Aviemore.

ski resorts, but Sapporo offers so much to do in the evening including

in the Mini Loup sector, offers the chance for all ages to safely discover

Headliners for the après-ski Big Top are the legendary hip-hop DJ

some of the best seafood restaurants in Japan. We want people to

the joys of freestyling. The Family Run is comprised of two separate

Grandmaster Flash and renowned musical tastemakers Hot Chip (DJ

experience the real Japan and enjoy the skiing at their ability level.”

sections separated by a green run, each developed around modules to

set). The Cuban Brothers, DJ Yoda and Glasgow synth-pop act Prides

The holidays cost from £1,145 per person including 13 nights’ B&B

encourage “freestyle” techniques. The green-graded XS Circuit includes

are also in the line-up. A limited number of early bird tickets including

accommodation based on twin occupancy in a 3★ hotel, airport

XS-sized “Box” and “Woops” modules while the S Circuit (blue) to M (red)

two-day mountain snowsports passes and two-night Après-ski Big

and resort transfers, 10-day ski passes, guided tours of the ski

includes air-type modules such as “table tops” or small “big airs” and S

Top Entertainment (Fri 11th/Sat 12th) are available for £100; otherwise

areas and a welcome dinner party meal. Contact info@skilastours.

or M level “boxes”. A green run between the two lines allows parents to

standard tickets are priced at Two-Day – £115 (Fri/Sat) and Three-Day –

com for more details.

watch their children on the course.

£140 (Fri/Sat/Sun) via skiddle.com. cairngormmountain.org

adv inthesnow 300x120.pdf

1

16/10/15

15:31

ANDY PARANT

WORDS: SALLY BROOKES

037 // DEC15

Book those flights as early as you can. If you can grab your seats as soon as flights are announced, they are often very affordable.

038 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

ANDY PARANT

I

t’s the eternal battle of man and

budget airlines,” said Amelia Warner of Ski Collection

womankind against our bank balances.

(skicollection.co.uk).

We all want to ski or board more, but

You can save further costs by avoiding the motorway

we also all want to pay less.

tolls and perhaps diverting via Luxembourg for some

Here are our top 12 tips on how to pay

of Western Europe’s cheapest fuel, but you’ll need to

less for your ski holiday.

do your maths again to work out if the longer route and

Go Low The biggest difference in prices across

travel time is worthwhile.

. . Or Take The Bus

the board will obviously depend on

Coach holidays consistently offer the lowest prices for

what point in the season you travel.

ski packages, and it’s also worth factoring in the fact

Before December, prices for everything

that most can offer connections from close to your

from flights to accommodation and

home and will deposit you at your accommodation. So

lift passes will typically be lower, and

there’s none of the hassle of unloading and reloading

sometimes considerably lower – less

bags about six times in the flying process, nor the

than half the price of peak weeks over

additional costs (and further hassle) of shuttles and

New Year and in the February school

connecting services. A further argument in favour of

holidays. Prices can also be low in mid

taking the bus is that many companies offer overnight

to late January and after the Easter

services, so you arrive in resort ready to ski the next

holidays. Of course, the important thing to be wary of

morning and can sometimes fit up to eight days’ skiing

if you travel early or late season is that snow cover is

into your weekend-to-weekend ski trip – 33% more than

likely to be good at your chosen destination.

your average trip, and all for less money. Result! Oh and

Be Lift-Pass Savvy The lift pass can be a big part of your holiday cost – in fact, in the more extreme cases, it’s possible that your lift pass will actually cost more than your flight and accommodation combined. But lift ticket pricing has

it’s one of the most environmentally friendly ways to travel too. Ski Weekends, for example, were offering a week half board in Les 3 Vallées from £239, a saving of £100, at the time of going to press (skiweekends.com).

Fill An Apartment

never been more “fluid” as the pricing model gets ever

OK, it’s not rocket science but simple maths again – if

more like that for flight or hotel booking. This “dynamic

you fill an apartment for four, six or eight people, the

pricing” is being led by US resorts, inevitably, but it is

total cost divides up into a lower cost per person than if

also being increasingly seen in Europe, particularly in

you are sharing the cost of empty beds on top of your

the French Alps. A rising number of areas, including

own cost.

the huge Portes du Soleil, have offered discounts of 10–20% on tickets if you buy them online and in the autumn before you travel. Others offer “flash sales” and other promotions.

Other points to be aware of include very different age

Rent Savvy Too

bands for children from one resort to the next. Some

Ski rentals have also gone in a similar direction. If you

resorts charge 70 or 80% of the adult ticket price from

roll up in resort to buy your rentals, you’ll pay whatever

age 3 or 4, then the full adult price from age 10 or 11,

the maximum is that the shopkeeper can ask, but if you

whilst Zermatt for example does not ask children to

look at the competing deals offered if you reserve your

pay at all until age 10 and then only half price until

gear and pre-pay online, your perfect kit should be sat

adulthood. But then their adult price for Mum and Dad

there waiting for you at perhaps half the price of the

is the most expensive in the Alps – so it’s a matter of

walk-in cost.

doing some maths if you’re a family group.

Self-Drive . .

Book Early /Travel Midweek It’s an obvious one, but if you do plan to fly you need

Self-driving to the Alps is normally one of the cheapest

to book those flights as early as you can. If you can

ways to get to the slopes – so long as you fill the car so

grab your seats as soon as flights are announced, they

the fuel costs are divided up.

are often very affordable indeed with companies like

“It’s easy to drive to the French Alps from the UK – it’s

easyJet, but those costs skyrocket on peak dates very

all motorway. Going by Eurotunnel or ferry is cheaper,

quickly. You can still find bargains closer to departure

and you don’t have all the hidden extras with flying like

date if you’re prepared to travel midweek and early or

UK airport car parking charges and luggage, and skis

late in the day, but that can cause transfer complications

carriage is getting pretty expensive with many of the

so is rarely ideal (probably why they’re cheap …).

039 039// //DEC15 DEC15

ANDY PARANT

Avoid Staying At A Big Resort Consider Where You Spend The Most (But you can still ski at one)

Pick the right holiday for you! Beginner skiers don’t

because they’re all paying, and you may find yourself

that there are “no longer any late booking deals”, there

paying for your free place in other ways – by taking all

are in fact both early and late booking deals to look

the flack if something doesn’t go well, such as travel

out for.

delays or poor rooms in the hotel, for example.

The early deals often include savings on lift passes,

need a big resort and don’t want to be spending their

rentals, ski school or childcare – often a buy-one-get-

We’re all tempted to book in to a well-known resort

money on expensive lift passes for runs they’ll never

one-free deal which helps bring overall costs down.

for our ski holiday, but to a greater or lesser extent

ski, so choose somewhere small where the ski school

you are often just paying for the name. As most

has a good reputation and a fair price. Big groups of

big resorts are located in big ski areas, to which

friends can end up spending a fortune on food and

smaller villages are also connected, you can often

drink in large resorts, so a trip to a duty-free or low-cost

Resort websites are a good place to sniff out a

stay more cheaply in a “satellite village” near the

destination such as Andorra, Italy’s Livigno or perhaps

bargain. Most run promotions through the season (and

famous name destination, but not quite actually

Eastern Europe might be a good choice if you’re more

particularly early and late season) which often include

in it. Sometimes, quite often in fact, doing so has

interested in partying than snowsports (although, to be

your lift pass, and sometimes other holiday perks too,

practical advantages as well as cost savings – a

fair, Andorra and Livigno have plenty of both!).

for little more than the cost of the accommodation if

Your insurance policy – make sure everything you’re

you book direct.

going to want to do on the slopes including freeride

usual one being that the lack of crowds means you can get on the slopes more quickly and earlier than those struggling through the bottlenecks at that big name resort next door. Some holiday companies, most notably Peak Retreats (peakretreats.co.uk)

Organise A Group Ski Holiday

Check Out Resort Deals Online

Late bookings, if you’re not too bothered about where you’re going, are just cheaper.

Finally, What Not To Scrimp On and the park are well covered.

Don’t Write Off Tour Operators

Your equipment – be safe, comfortable and warm, or what’s the point?

Your food and drink – you are on holiday, after all!

which specialises in smaller, unspoilt villages in

One way to get a free or discounted holiday yourself

the giant French ski regions, have grown up to

is to organise a group trip and grab the “free place”

Although it’s generally assumed that tour op packages

… and don’t forget to follow InTheSnow on our website

specialise in this very area.

offered by most tour operators. Of course, for this to

work out to be more expensive than booking the

and social media feeds. We try to get the best deals

work the people you’re travelling with need to not know

component parts of your ski holiday yourself, that’s not

we hear of out there as soon as they come in, and we

(naughty!) or not care that you’re getting the free place

always the case, and while tour operators will argue

separate out the ones we know aren’t really THAT good!

040 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

ANDY METTLER

THE SANTA CLAUS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS The Appenzeller Powerchlaus team were the big

(although quite a few, including the “Young and

unusual ones such as snowmobiling and karaoke.

winners in the 15th annual international Santa

hungry Norwegian Santas” and the “Norwegian

Duty-free Samnaun stages the Santa Claus

Claus World Championships (or “ClauWau” for

Viking Santas” seemed to have come down from

World Championships on the same weekend that

short) staged in the remote Swiss ski village of

Scandinavia) competing for the coveted title of

Ischgl, across the border in Austria but linked to

Samnaun on the final weekend of November. The

the best Santas. We’re not sure where the “Three

it by ski lifts and pistes, opens for its ski season

Powerchlausers took home the CHF2,000 first

Santas and a Confused Troll” team were from.

too. Both events attract great media attention,

prize, which they’ll no doubt be investing in more

As every year, the 2015 Santa Claus World

with Ischgl hosting a Beach Boys concert, and

presents for good boys and girls everywhere.

Championships saw teams do battle in a wide

highlight the fact that the ski regions are open

This year’s contest attracted the maximum-

range of disciplines requiring skills that most good

earlier than most, for a five-month season

permitted 32 teams of four from around the world

Santas should be able to master, as well as more

through to May 2016.

BEAR GRYLLS’ SURVIVE IN THE SNOW COURSES

PEAK RETREATS ADD AURIS-EN-OISANS

The Bear Grylls Survival Academy has announced it will be running

Specialist tour operator to smaller traditional French ski villages in big

survival courses in the French ski resort of La Clusaz this winter.

ski areas, Peak Retreats, has added the resort of Auris-en-Oisans, a

La Clusaz has a reputation as a warm and welcoming traditional

quiet, family-friendly village linked to Alpe d’Huez and the huge Grand

Savoyard resort lined with cosy bars and cafes, but participants in the

Domaine ski area, to its 2015/16 winter programme.

Bear Grylls camp will be unlikely to see any of that.

The announcement follows news that the village has made significant

Instead they’ll have to survive 24 hours in the snow and freezing

improvements for the coming winter. Firstly, its slopes have been

temperatures with their team. Activities on the agenda include learning

remodelled to make them easier to access, particularly for families with

how to make a fire on the snow without matches, how to build an

children, who also have lots of evening activities including tubing and

emergency shelter, how to find food in the inhospitable environment

night skiing laid on. Then there’s also a newly built 4★ ski-in/ski-out

and how to cross difficult winter mountain terrain. The course costs €310

residence complete with a leisure centre with heated indoor swimming

per person excluding travel and dates are 19/20 December 2015, 30/31

pool, spa with hammam, sauna and fitness room.

January and 27/28 March 2016. The company also does winter camps.

Peak Retreats offer accommodation from only £137pp for a one-bed

It is not thought likely that Bear Grylls himself will turn up at the camps.

apartment, based on four sharing and including return Eurotunnel

beargryllssurvivalacademy.com

crossing for a car and passengers.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

041 // DEC15

Follow Les Menuires

lesmenuires.com

KIDS SKI FREE TO AGE 12 AT JAPANESE RESORTS for their kids at a younger age than that, but

These include Furano on the northern

they often only ask for a third of the adult

island of Hokkaido which has managed to

over the past five years. Many resorts offer

price, compared to a more common 60–80%

expand its appeal to all members of the

special packages with free child lift ticket

of the adult cost.

family by not just cutting the family lift pass

pricing in low season but in Europe Swiss

However, families will need to travel a

bill but by becoming one of the few resorts

resorts in particular have led the way on

little further still to get the best deal for

in Japan to actively support and promote

season-long free skiing for kids right up to

kids we’ve found so far in the ski world. A

off-piste powder skiing. They’ve even

age nine in more than 50 of the country’s

number of leading resorts in Japan are now

tackled the après-ski bill with an “all you

resorts (or up to 10 in Zermatt). Across the

offering free skiing all season to children up

can drink” deal at 2000 yen (about £11) for

Atlantic, Canadian resorts ask parents to pay

to 12 years of age.

two hours.

KITZBÜHEL

InTheSnow has been pleased to witness ever more generous child pricing deals

DOUBLE-DIGIT PRICE DROPS IN A THIRD OF RESORTS

RIDES FREE CARBON CORE TECHNOLOGY. LIGHTNESS AND SENSITIVITY, FOR PERFORMANCE AT THE HIGHEST LEVELS. Freedom RS combines maximum performance downhill along with a smooth and natural walking phase, thanks to the 25° range of motion.

WWW.SCARPA.CO.UK

An annual survey carried

the cost of skiing as well as

out by the Post Office using

meals and drinks noticeably

data supplied by Crystal Ski

cheaper this winter,” said

Holidays has found that prices

Andrew Brown of Post Office

are down in three quarters of

Travel Money.

the 27 resorts surveyed – with

As usual for ski resort price

double-digit percentage falls in

studies, Eastern European

over a third.

resorts came in as cheapest.

The ninth annual Post Office

Among 10 resorts studied which

Travel Money Ski Resort Report

the Post Office considers “world-

credits the powerful pound as

class”, Zermatt in Switzerland

the main cause for the price

proved to be the most expensive

drops which were reported

in Europe and over twice as

across the board, from resorts

expensive as Italy’s Sestriere,

the report’s compilers found

which was rated cheapest for

more expensive, to cheaper

the third consecutive year.

destinations.

The study also found that Canada

The 10 resorts showing the

and the USA are poles apart for

biggest price falls came from

ski costs. Sterling is the key factor

six countries, with Kitzbühel in

in the results of the Transatlantic

Austria down the most at -15.2%,

Ski Resort Report because the

Whistler in Canada down the

Canadian dollar has continued to

second most at -13.9%, Les Deux

fall against the pound, while the

Alpes in France third, down by

US dollar is stronger.

13.5%, and resorts in Finland,

This means the three Canadian

Italy and Slovenia also down.

resorts surveyed – Tremblant,

“Skiers heading to many

Banff and Whistler – will cost

resorts in Europe will benefit

UK skiers less than last year

from sterling’s increased

and are much cheaper than the

strength. This means that

US trio of Winter Park, Vail and

even where local prices have

Breckenridge, where prices

edged up, UK tourists will find

have risen by up to 14% for Brits.

042 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

13-19

19

TITLIS Xpress Opens, Engelberg,

Transition Festival, Avoriaz, France

Teton Lift Grand Opening, Jackson Hole,

Switzerland. An open-air concert will mark

The famous French car-free resort adds

Wyoming, USA. Jackson Hole’s new

the official dedication and opening of the new

more music festivals this winter including

Teton Lift, its 50th birthday present to

TITLIS Xpress gondola which will dramatically

this new season started and organised

its guests, officially opens today. The

improve uplift on Engelberg’s huge vertical

by the Snowbombing team. A first-class

detachable high-speed quad accesses

climbing – all 1,425 vertical metres of it.

dance line-up is promised.

200 acres of new ski terrain.

11-12

16

Ski Opening Party, Ski Juwel, Austria.

75th Birthday Party, Snowbasin,

It’s season opening party time in the Alps,

Utah, USA. One of America’s oldest ski

and Ski Juwel throws some of the best at

areas, Snowbasin, home of the 2002

its resorts in Wildschönau and Alpbach

Olympic Downhill, celebrates 75 years

with music, DJs and 2016 gear testing.

in operation. The celebrations include a signature beer and whiskey launch today.

December DIARY

20

13

18 Andros Trophy, Alpe d’Huez, France. The

24

Lucia Day, Åre, Sweden. The Ladies’ Slalom and the 100th World Cup race

annual ice driving competition is back for

Hemel Hempstead, England. Meet Santa

are to be organised in Åre, Sweden.

its 27th edition. The popular contest has

on real snow at The Snow Centre on

Also the official opening weekend of

welcomed racers including Lafitte, Prost

Christmas Eve only. thesnowcentre.com/

Scandinavia’s largest resort, with free ski

and Villeneuve in the past and now has

snow-fun/christmas2015

and snowboard testing.

electric vehicle races. tropheeandros.com

World Snowboard Day. Celebrating its 10th anniversary with ambassadors: snowboarding pioneer Lei Wang for Asia, Olympic gold medallist Gian Simmen for Europe and former half-pipe champion Rob Kingwill for The Americas. world-snowboard-day.com

Santa on the Snow, The Snow Centre,

STOCKNROLL

NUTS.FR/OT ALPE D’HUEZ

@PERRET

11

LES 2 ALPES FIRST RIDE !

1 WEEK

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BOOKING : reservation@les2alpes.com Tél. : +33 (0)4 76 79 24 38 www.les2alpesreservation.com

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BANDION

TOMAS ZUCCARENO

“LAST TRACKS” ON OFFER IN ASPEN

DIDIER DÉFAGO, FAMILY DAY AMBASSADOR

CORTINA FASHION WEEK BACK FOR 5TH YEAR

Booking in for “First Tracks” is an increasingly popular option at ski

Father of two and former downhill ski champion Didier Défago has

Cortina d’Ampezzo not only boasts one of the world’s best ski areas but is

resorts around the world. You usually pay a bit extra to be allowed on

signed up as “ambassador” for a special “Family Day” that Swiss resort

also, famously, one of the planet’s most stylish resorts – many visitors roll

the slopes 30 minutes or an hour before everyone else and have the

Adelboden will be including as part of its World Cup week celebrations

up just to shop and enjoy la dolce vita, taking in the stunning scenery that

freshly groomed slopes, and possibly perfect pristine powder if you’re

in January.

surrounds “The queen of the Dolomites” without indulging in snowsports.

very lucky, all to yourself.

Adelboden says everything is included in the special package aimed at

Fortunately it’s perfectly possible to do both, and Cortina celebrates both

But what about “Last Tracks” – getting the slopes to yourself after

making the Men’s World Cup slalom races on Sunday 10 January 2016

of these aspects of its identity with the Cortina Fashion Weekend, which

everyone has gone home for the day? Well, you may not get the

both easy to see and lots of fun for families.

is back for the fifth time this season. In fact it’s proven so popular it is now

pristine smooth slopes you do at daybreak, but it still seems to

Didier Défago told organisers that when he saw the beaming faces of

the Cortina Fashion Week running up to 9 December.

be a pretty cool idea, and it’s being offered as a guest perk this

children on the spectator platform last year he decided to accept the

This year the most glamorous event in the Dolomites will be devoted to

season at Aspen by several of the famous Colorado resort’s top

offer to become ambassador for Family Day 2016.

Outdoor Fashion as Italy’s top mountain destination pays homage to the

hotels: The Limelight Hotel, The Little Nell and Residences at The

“A family offer which brings kids closer to skiing and promises them

outdoor style which is currently also trending in the city.

Little Nell. Actually it’s one in a long list of special perks offered by

an unforgettable day is a great idea and something I want to support,”

Every year, the December bank holiday weekend (of the Immaculate

these properties.

said Défago, who will be signing autographs and also be back

Conception) in Cortina features an ever-growing number of Italian and

Guests are invited to participate in the unique offering of “sweeping”

competing as one of this year’s Swiss competitors.

international events, including exhibitions, fashion shows and previews.

Aspen Mountain with the ski patrol. The programme offers an

The family package, tickets for which are 29 Swiss francs for children aged

True to tradition, Sunday evening (6 December) will feature Fashion Night

experience where guests have the mountain to themselves for one run

4 to 15 and 70 francs for adults, includes everything required on the day,

with late-night shopping, music, DJs, apéritifs and special events in Cortina’s

at the end of the day and also gain the rare chance of a behind-the-

from travel to the venue, food and drink and a full supporting programme

shops, boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, museums and nightspots.

scenes tour learning how the ski patrol ensures skiers/boarders are

especially for families. Both slalom races can be followed in comfort from a

In addition, this year the Barbara Cappochin International Architecture

safely off the mountain at the end of each day.

special family zone located right in the heart of the action too.

Prize brings a special guest to Cortina, the Olympic figure skater Carolina

Last Tracks with Ski Patrol meets at 4pm by the fireplace in the Sundeck

The Adelboen World Cup weekend also includes a men’s giant slalom

Kostner, who is set to thrill audiences with her performance on the ice at

every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday until 2 April 2016.

race on Saturday 9th January. weltcup-adelboden.ch/familyday

the Olympic Ice Stadium.

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045 // DEC5

WORDS: SALLY BROOKES

046 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

I

t’s that magical time of the year again

750 guests this Christmas – a third of them excited kids!

when we all hope for a white Christmas

The company recently published some Christmas stats

and many of us wish we could escape the

including the fact that their guests will be pulling 800

stress of organising Christmas at home.

crackers and gazing in wonder at 72 Christmas trees after

The good news for Christmas 2015 is that

staff have untangled 90 sets of Christmas lights. Around

there’s been quite a lot of snow already,

375 bottles of Champagne and 100 of port will be quaffed,

so unlike last year it’s looking like a white

and another 2,500 bottles. Meanwhile the festive food

Christmas in the Alps at least.

intake will include 250 turkeys, a dozen big salmon and a

The other good news is that we’ve never

precise 2,726 roast potatoes and 3,496 sprouts.

seen quite so many Christmas bargains

vip-chalets.com

being offered by tour operators and many resorts have also put together family Christmas packages which combine value with festive fun activities.

HIGH-VALUE CHRISTMAS IN SERRE CHEVALIER

Christmas Day falls on a Friday this year,

which means you can get to resort well ahead of the final

Serre Chevalier Vallée has a special family package this

Christmas frenzy and enjoy four days on the slopes as

winter for just £937 (€1,336). The price includes seven nights

your special week builds up to Christmas Eve, then spend

self-catering accommodation for two adults and two children

Christmas Day in resort. As an extra treat for grown-up boys

aged under 18 with six-day lift passes for all included!

and girls, Santa has made the pound much stronger against

“Serre Chevalier has excellent skiing, friendly locals and

the euro, so you can buy more Christmas treats for the kids,

reasonable prices. It’s home to the sort of restaurants you

and indeed yourself, for less.

hope to find in a French ski resort but seldom do,” Felice Hardy wrote in The Guardian. serre-chevalier.com

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS IN LES MENUIRES

CHRISTMAS SKI WEEKEND

The family-friendly resort in Les 3 Vallées is pulling out all

If you don’t fancy the usual full Christmas ski week, there

the stops this year to make Christmas week extra special

are lots of options to go for different durations. One of the

for families. Father Christmas will be around for photos on

experts in this area is SkiWeekends.com who offer four ski

the snow front at La Croisette all week, and Les Menuires is

day breaks from Christmas Eve right through the holiday

throwing on free children’s entertainment, chocolates and

weekend to 28 December, so you may not need to take any

goodies plus a torchlit descent and fireworks.

time off work to get two-thirds of a ski week in. Or at the

An all-inclusive, limited-edition stay for two adults and

other extreme, if you want to indulge, why not enjoy seven-

two children in ski-in/ski-out apartment accommodation

and-a-half days’ skiing with a 21 December departure and

including a six-day Les 3 Vallées family pass, as well as a

really make the most of Christmas!

Christmas tree and decorations delivered to your apartment, costs from €1,699 (£1,195) per week for the family.

Les Menuires Réservation +33 (0)479007979.

ALTA BADIA’S CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

CHRISTMAS FAMILY CHALETS Ski Famille is a chalet company that specialises in families for holidays, so they can reasonably argue that no company is better set up than them for dealing with a family Christmas in the mountains.

Stunningly beautiful and family-friendly all year round, Alta

“While your family enjoys a day on the slopes, your chalet chef

Badia in the Italian Dolomites takes on an extra level of

will prepare a traditional Christmas meal; Father Christmas will

attraction in the run-up to Christmas when the pedestrian

make a special visit and the Ski Famille team will tackle the

area of San Cassiano is transformed into the Paisc da Nadé,

Christmas washing-up while you curl up by the fire with another

a winter Christmas village, which brings you the traditional

glass of wine!” said Company Director Chris Thompson.

atmosphere of the South Tyrol valleys at Christmas.

Current Christmas week deals can be found in the “Offers”

There are wooden huts, glittering lights and cosy lodges which

section of skifamille.co.uk.

offer a wide range of culinary delights and traditional regional products. This year for the first time ever, visitors can try the “Star of Christmas”, a sweet temptation especially created for

CHRISTMAS SKI GUARANTEE

the occasion by Michelin-starred Norbert Niederkofler.

Altabadia.org

If you’re nervous about Christmas snow cover a new “ski guarantee” from Club Med may reassure.

FULLY CATERED IN MERIBEL

For holidays from 20 December Guarantee promises a 50% refund on the price of each day that the Ski School cancels lessons due to insufficient snow. clubmed.co.uk

One of the big stresses of Christmas can be organising the catering, so a chalet holiday when the chalet staff cook all the key meals for you leaving you free to just enjoy looking

MEET SANTA ON HIS HOME TURF

As we went to press, Meriski the Méribel specialists still

Everyone wants to meet Santa in his true home and everyone

had Christmas-week availability in their brand-new prestige

wants to see the Northern Lights, so why not do both and

Chalet Kashmir situated in the charming hamlet of La Gittaz

enjoy some skiing too on empty, powdery snow slopes, floodlit

from £699 per person per week.

in the dark northern winter. Various tour operators have a

“Enjoy the most relaxing Christmas ever, without having to

range of packages available, but Crystal Ski’s Santa Adventure

lift a finger!” said a company temptress. Meriski.co.uk

Week based in the top resort of Ruka includes taster sessions

SHUTTERSTOCK

at the decorations and eating the food is the answer!

of snowmobiling, dog sledding and reindeer visits, as well as

A VIP SKI CHRISTMAS

the all-important visit to Santa’s Secret Cottage, a 25-minute drive from the resort. Santa’s elves will welcome you, followed by hot drinks, before you meet Santa in his cottage where you

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

VIP Chalets is one of the biggest players in the chalet market

will hear stories, be taught a traditional Finnish Christmas song

with 70 properties to choose from, and they’ll be catering for

and enjoy cookies and drinks.

047 // DEC15

TOM HUPAGE

The Perfect Family Ski Holiday Independent & Fully Bonded | Flexible & Caring

01684 540333 | familyski.co.uk

TRUSTED BY 2015 WORLD CHAMPION & X GAMES MEDALLIST FILIP FLISAR

MS TRUST’S MONSTER SKI CHALLENGE RETURNS

T

raise funds to help people with

the three days of the challenge,

The MS Trust will provide lots of

multiple sclerosis.

participants will attempt to ski

support and advice to help you

The charity is looking for around 20

30,000 vertical feet – that’s the

raise your sponsorship, as well

skiers and snowboarders to take

equivalent of the height of Mount

as putting you in touch with other

part in this 90,000ft ski challenge

Everest every day!

Monster Skiers so you can share

from 14 to 18 March 2016.

This will be the MS Trust’s eighth

fundraising ideas.

This season, for the first time,

Monster Ski challenge and

Ben Rogers, who took part in

Monster Ski will take place across

previous events have raised over

the last Monster Ski, said, “For

two countries with two days’

£426,000. If you would like to get

me the whole experience of

skiing in Chamonix, France, and

involved, you can register now for

fundraising and learning about

one day in Courmayeur on the

just £150, plus a pledge to raise

MS has been a truly humbling

Italian side of Mont Blanc.

£1,420 in sponsorship.

experience and will stay with me

This unique event will be raising

Included in the cost are flights

for the rest of my life. To those of

he MS Trust’s Everest-a-day

funds to help the MS Trust train

and transfers, accommodation

you who are thinking of taking on

Monster Ski challenge is back

specialist nurses and provide

(B&B), a three-day lift pass and

the Monster Ski challenge in the

for 2016 and will be taking place

information for people living with

ski guides who will lead small

future, DO IT!”

in Chamonix and Courmayeur to

multiple sclerosis. For each of

groups during the challenge.

mstrust.org.uk/monsterski

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PASCAL LEBEAU

RENT-A-SLOPE IN LAKE ANNECY announced that its night skiing

for a seminar, a birthday party,

area – the largest in the entire

or just family time with mulled

Savoie Mont-Blanc region – is

wine and even entertainment

available to rent privately.

if required!” said a resort

The options range from renting

spokesperson.

your own drag lift and blue run for

Work was carried out this autumn

an evening for €290 (about £220),

to enlarge the ski area, meaning

to the more expensive renting-a-

even better value. Even if you

chairlift option at €1990 for the

don’t want to rent it yourself,

night, or you can take the entire

you can still visit for public night

ski area – a total of seven slopes

skiing every Friday and Saturday

The intimate French ski area of

(lakeannecy-skiresorts.com)

and four ski lifts – for €4,500 for

evening from 4.30pm to 9pm until

Manigod Labellemontagne, one

which also includes La Clusaz

the evening.

19 March and every day during

of the Lake Annecy ski resorts

and Le Grand-Bornand, has

“You can ‘privatise’ the ski area

the French school holidays.

048 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

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DRIVE & SKI IN ANDORRA Top price: £4,578

Six-night “Full Speed Ahead” package (hotelmajestic.es)*

Bargain price: from £406

Seven-night Soldeu ski holiday – no driving (crystalski.co.uk)

T

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all you need is a Bond girl to complete the

Leaving Barcelona behind, you’ll be

ultimate drive and ski holiday.

transferred to your suite in the Sport Hotel

New this winter, the aptly named “Full

Hermitage & Spa in Soldeu, the only 5★ hotel

Speed Ahead” package embraces sybaritic

located at the foot of the Grandvalira slopes.

excess in all its glory. First stop is the plush

From here, you can ski straight out onto the

Majestic Hotel & Spa in Barcelona’s old town,

Love the Mountains advert (100x175).indd 1

where you can get comfy in your junior suite overlooking the grand Passeig de Gràcia.

With three nights in town, there’s ample time to enjoy Barcelona’s treasures and to suffer at the hands of a personal trainer, who’ll whip

blazewear heated clothing powerful controllable heating to keep you warm!

you into shape for your imminent jaunt to the slopes of Andorra. However, the undisputed highlight of your time here will be a day spent

his one has Bond written all over it: swanky

at the legendary Barcelona-Catalunya race

hotels, Michelin-starred food, ragging a

track. After a recon lap in the reassuring safety

Ferrari on a Formula 1 track and, of course,

of a Hummer, you’ll step into a rather niftier

skiing. (Fortunately, wearing Roger Moore’s

Ferrari F430 F1 for 23 laps of the 2.892-mile

canary-yellow Bogner onesie for the last

circuit: 66.5 miles of driving joy. Reaching top

210km of pistes that make up one of Europe’s

is optional.) Throw in a sultry Spanish

speeds in excess of 196mph, you should do

largest ski areas or, if that’s not enough, go for

backdrop, a personal trainer to prepare you

better in your Fezza than a Top Gear “Star in

heli-ski gold and bag yourself a chopper for a

for hitting the slopes and a spa with its own

a Reasonably Priced Car” although we don’t

couple of days. Après-ski comes in the form

lagoon in which to recover afterwards, and

advise trying to better Kimi Räikkönnen’s

of afternoons whiled away on sunny terraces,

record lap time of 1:21.670 …

chill-out time in the hotel’s impressive spa

Celebrate your driving prowess with a three-

and deliberating which of the hotel’s six

course dinner at Barcelona’s acclaimed

restaurants, including Koy Hermitage, run by

restaurant, Petit Comitè. Located within

Hideki Matsuhisa, to dine in … Just remember

stumbling distance from the Majestic on

that you’re sorted for one night already, with

Passatge de la Concepció, the so-called

a three-course dinner and paired wines at

Gastronomy Alley, Petit Comitè is the

Nandu Jubany’s Alpine outpost, Origen.

brainchild of Nandu Jubany, leader of the

So, grab your Bond girl and your best

Spanish culinary avant-garde. You don’t

swagger, and book yourself in for a “Full

even have to think about navigating the wine

Speed Ahead” break. Because sometimes,

list – each course is accompanied by a wine

the only thing better than skiing is skiing and

selected by the sommelier.

driving a Ferrari in the same week.

The UK’s leading supplier of heated clothing

*Travel dates apply from 1 December 2015 to 31 March 2016, excluding 29 December–2 January and 22–25 February, and are subject to availability

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049 // DEC15

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InTheSnow brings you the chance to WIN either the woman’s Fischer Koa 84 ski with binding or the man’s Fischer Ranger 84 ski with binding.

46 years

of world class Canadian Heli-Skiing Canada’s Highest Heli-Operation

The Fischer KOA 84 is a perfect ski

perfect variation ski: stable and

for the advanced to expert skier who

manoeuvrable, it makes every off-

will spend most of her time on the

piste detour an enjoyable experience.

groomed trails, but spend plenty of

Thanks to its rocker technology it is

time off-piste. If you are looking for a

easy and smooth to ski on the slopes.

ski that will perform on-piste and offpiste terrain equally well, the Fischer

See online for full terms and conditions.

KOA 84 is the perfect ski.

Competition ends 8 January 2016.

The Fischer Ranger 84 Ski is the

To enter visit InTheSnow.com/competitions and simply enter your name and email. Good luck.

www.rkheliski.com

050 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN MAKES REACHING THE ALPS EASIER

D

longest-established airports and the cradle of

resorts including Davos, Laax and St Moritz

the country’s aviation industry. Yet its importance

as well as western Austrian choices including

as a route into the northern Alps continues to

Ischgl and the Pitztal glacier.

grow. More and more airlines are adding more

easyJet say they expect to carry 10,000 people

departures from the UK airports to this increasingly

in their first winter of operation, with Saturday

popular airport on Germany’s southern border,

and Sunday flights from Gatwick each weekend

close to ski resorts in both Austria and Switzerland.

commencing on 12 December 2015.

This winter easyJet are launching a new route

“We are excited to add Bodensee Airport at

from Gatwick, joining established operators to

Friedrichshafen to our network,” said Neil

the airport, BA and Monarch.

Slaven, easyJet’s UK Commercial Manager. “It

More than 50 leading ski resorts in Austria,

is a gateway for some of the best ski resorts

Germany and Switzerland are a short transfer

in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy with

away from Friedrichshafen airport. The

more than 250 ski resorts within a three-hour

famous Austrian Arlberg area, including the

drive, and for this reason we are sure it will

resorts of Lech and St Anton, are among

prove a popular service for both skiers and

espite its modern facilities and efficient operations,

the closest, less than 90 minutes away, but

snowboarders looking to explore the region.”

Friedrichshafen is actually one of Germany’s

the airport is also close to numerous Swiss

(bodensee-airport.eu/ski)

BASI VS BUTLER BATTLE TO CONTINUE IN 2016 The legal battle between the

his MoU, which would have

through the French courts. Mr

8 to 11 March 2016. If this

British Association of Snowsport

allowed him to teach in France

Butler is seeking damages from

finds in BASI’s favour then the

Instructors (BASI) and ski

under existing French regulations.

BASI of £507,500.

question of compensation will

instructor Simon Butler is set to

Mr Butler does not believe the

At a court hearing in Edinburgh

not be relevant unless Mr Butler

continue into next year.

regulations are legal in any

on 18 November 2015, it was

appeals the decision. If it finds in

Mr Butler is challenging BASI on

case under European equal

decided that the question over

Mr Butler’s favour, a further date

a number of issues including their

employment law, and he is also

the MoU should be considered

may then be set to consider the

alleged decision to “withdraw”

challenging this separately

at a further court hearing on

amount claimed.

052 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

TOURISM WHISTLER AND MIKE CRANE

YVES GARNEAU

HAMISH MCKNIGHT

BRIT WINS PLEASURE JAM

THE ULTIMATE TRIP IF YOU HAVE SKIED IT ALL

WHISTLER TO TRIAL SNOWMAKING ON GLACIER

GB Park and Pipe snowboarder Katie Ormerod got her 2015/16 season

No black slope steep enough? Adroit on-piste and off? Luxury chalet

Whistler Blackcomb has announced a new snowmaking pilot project

off to a great start when she won the Pleasure Jam, which took place

operator Bramble Ski has launched a special holiday package of

aimed at preserving the Horstman Glacier on Blackcomb Mountain. The

on the last weekend of November in Dachstein, Austria.

experiences to exhilarate and inspire even the most intrepid alpine

project will involve the testing of four low-energy snowmaking guns

The invitation-only World Snowboard Tour event attracts the best

explorers who have “Skied there, done that”.

to determine if a full-scale snowmaking system is an option to prevent

snowboarders in the world, and this win for Katie Ormerod sends a

The trip includes a spot of ice diving along with some paragliding,

further recession of the glacier.

huge signal out to the snowboarding world about her return to form.

heli-skiing, remote glacier picnics, ice driving and night tobogganing,

“The goal of this project is to preserve the high-quality product we currently

After having reconstructive surgery on her knee following an ACL injury

all while being pampered to the max at Bramble Ski’s Chalet Opale,

offer in both the winter and summer months,” says Dave Brownlie, President

in summer 2014, Katie returned to snow this summer and has come

Tignes and The Backstage Loft in Zermatt.

and CEO at Whistler Blackcomb. “A snowmaking system on the Horstman

back stronger than ever. Katie qualified for the finals in top position

To kick off an adrenaline-pumping adventure, guests at The Backstage

Glacier could assist with preserving our summer glacier experience for

with teammate Rowan Coultas qualifying third in the men’s. The finals

Loft will be met by helicopter at Zurich or Geneva international airport

guests to enjoy in the future, as well as improve the early-season access to

were run in tricky conditions, but despite the weather challenges, Katie

and whisked away to the ultra-contemporary-designed chalet in

glacier skiing and snowboarding during the winter.”

took a huge win with a cab 5 to backside 7.

Zermatt while parties who venture to Chalet Opale in Tignes get a

During the summer months, the Horstman Glacier is one of two glaciers in

Rowan unfortunately fell in his finals run but still brought home a top 10

private helicopter tour of Mont Blanc.

North America to offer skiing and snowboarding, and serves as a training

result. Katie Ormerod famously made snowboard history last year when,

The seven-night experience for 10 people costs from £22,855

area for ski and snowboard national teams from all over the world.

aged just 16, she pulled off the world’s first ever women’s double cork

(€32,480) at Chalet Opale, Tignes, or from £37,807 (CHF 58,390) at

“Snowmaking on the Horstman Glacier has been a discussion at Whistler

1080. Double corks were previously only achieved by the very top male

The Backstage Loft, Zermatt. The package includes return helicopter

Blackcomb for several decades,” says Arthur De Jong, Mountain

riders in the world, requiring so much strength to initiate and control the

transfers from Geneva international airport; a professional chef;

Planning and Environmental Resource Manager at Whistler Blackcomb.

rotation that prior to Katie’s achievement some doubted women would

hosting/housekeeping team to serve breakfast, afternoon tea and five-

“If the pilot project is conclusive, this unique project will become a

ever be able to perform them. To stay up to date with the action from

course evening meal on six nights; a selection of fine wines, beers and

significant addition to Whistler Blackcomb’s list of adaptations to ensure

the GB Park and Pipe team this winter, you can “Like” the British Ski and

soft drinks, plus champagne and pre-dinner martinis in front of the fire

long-term resilience against climate change. We will use the data we

Snowboard Facebook page or follow @GBParkandPipe on Twitter or

on six evenings; and a selection of the activities listed above (a slightly

obtain from this one-year pilot project to determine if an expanded

British Ski and Snowboard on Instagram. teambss.org.uk

different selection at each chalet). brambleski.com

snowmaking system could assist with preserving the Horstman Glacier.”

CHAMONIX

AS YOU LIKE IT! For professional advice, best choice & best rates

booking@chamonix.com booking.chamonix.com +33 (0)4 50 53 99 98

n

new2015_Esope_office_pubwebhiver_shoes_300x120_eng_PRINT.indd 1

13/11/2015 12:46

6

MOUNTAIN DROP-OFFS’ BUSIEST WINTER YET

A

Geneva to Chamonix, Morzine and a host of

online, but what makes the service difference

other destinations for more than a decade.

is a skilled office team who are on call 24/7

This winter they anticipate running over 50 trips

every day of the year, and professional

per day at the weekend. The company will have

drivers who will greet you at the airport with

a fleet of more than 25 vehicles and a staff team

a friendly smile. The result has been happy

in excess of 50, all with one mission in mind:

clients, recommendations and all-important

delivering the first-class customer service that

repeat business.

Mountain Drop-offs has built its reputation on.

Its pricing structure is refreshingly transparent,

Whilst companies may come and go and ticket

with no hidden charges. It also has transfer

pricing remains hugely sensitive in this market,

options to suit all budgets, from super-saver

the added value that complete reliability

fares to exclusive VIP transfers.

and five-star personal service brings is what

“Our customers tell us it’s our attention to

continues to differentiate Mountain Drop-offs.

detail and the willingness of our friendly and

The key to its continuous growth has been

dedicated team to go the extra mile which sets

irport transfer specialist Mountain Drop-offs is

to put customer service at the very heart

us apart,” explains Mountain Drop-offs’ founder

predicting its busiest winter to date.

of the business and instil that ethos into all

Simon Hills. “With more vehicles, an even

The Chamonix-based company has been

its employees along the way. As you might

bigger team and the pundits predicting a great

operating year-round airport transfers from

expect, lots of its business takes place

winter, I’m anticipating our busiest winter yet.”

ENGELBERG SPENDS ON NEW GONDOLA Engelberg will add a new eight-seater gondola which will take visitors directly from the valley station to the mountain at Stand, a vertical ascent of nearly 1,400m, in just 16 minutes – a considerable time-saving compared to having to take a three-stage lift ascent previously. It connects to the new Rotair cable car, which climbs a further 600 vertical metres to the top.

054 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

E R U C SE E H T S E T S I P

insurance and tax. After a while, the cost

This winter, Serre Chevalier Vallée is organising

actually seems to feel like quite good value!

special daily afternoon sessions in which

But there are in fact many more things

both adults and children can participate in

that our lift pass costs cover, and this

programmes focused on showing what’s

winter the huge French ski region of Serre

involved in keeping the slopes safe for all.

Chevalier Vallée in the southern Alps is

Kids aged 8 to 16 can sign up free of charge

giving its visitors the chance to join in

for the Pisteur Prudent course every afternoon

and find out a bit more about just what’s

from 2pm. This great initiative allows children

W

involved behind the scenes.

to find out what’s involved in keeping the pistes

!

R E I L A V E H C E R R E S AT

WORDS: DOMINIC KILLINGER

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

safe and teaches good practice on the slopes

of the Ratier gondola and get the chance

for the kids themselves. Each receives a Pisteur

to work with Serre Chevalier Vallée’s safety

Prudent badge to wear during their holiday and

professionals and learn what’s involved in the

becomes an ambassador for good behaviour

process of “sweeping” the ski area to check

on the slopes.

everyone is safely down at the end of the ski

The sessions meet daily by the first aid

day. You’ll also enjoy some great skiing. The

post at the top of the Ratier gondola in the

sessions are available daily right through to

huge ski area’s Chantemerle sector. The

24 April 2016 at the end of the season.

only thing that can stop classes happening

For the full piste staff experience, Serre

is if the staff are too busy working on

Chevalier also offers the option to sign up

Serre Chevalier is a huge ski area, indeed

safety management that day.

and ride on the pistes in a specially adapted

one of the world’s largest, with more than

For adults, Serre Chevalier Vallée is also

snow tractor, either at dawn before the

3,900 hectares of terrain under its control;

organising the Cols’porteurs package for

slopes open or at dusk when they’ve closed.

hen we grumble about the cost of our lift

and with more than 100 groomed slopes

good skiers (you’ll be on red or black runs).

The dawn experience, from 6am to 9am,

pass each winter, we perhaps give little

alone, it’s a big job keeping on top of it all.

Again you meet at 2pm every day at the top

includes breakfast in a mountain restaurant

thought about where the money goes.

There are more than 60 lifts transporting

and costs €33 (£23), but the evening

There’s the capital cost of building the lifts

up to nearly 80,000 skiers per hour up the

experience from 5.30 to 11pm €29 (£20),

themselves, and the buildings around them

slopes, and at night an army of 21 piste

also includes a tour of the snowmaking

of course, along with all the snowmaking

groomers smooth the slopes once again.

‘factory’ at Aravet and an introduction to the

systems and those big piste-grooming

The resort takes its work very seriously and

work each night of Serre Chevalier’s pisting

tractors to smooth the runs out.

has independent international accreditation

machine drivers and snowmakers.

Then there’s the cost of the energy used to

and certification ISO 9001 for overall quality,

You’re sure to come away with a much better

power them all, the staff needed to make

ISO 14001 for environmental practices and

understanding of what’s involved, and just

everything work, and of course things like

ISO 18000 for health and safety management.

what great value your lift pass is!

SKIPASS-SERRECHEVALIER.COM

MEETS MERINO

GEORGE TITUS PHOTOGRAPHY

URS HOMBERGER AROSA SWITZERLAND

MERINO NATURETEC LIGHT SWISSWOOL DO YOU FANCY A FONDUE BURGER?

INGHAMS’ FIRST ‘XTRA CHALET’ IN VERBIER

The Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa, Switzerland, has just opened a

In another sign that the perception of Switzerland being too expensive

new restaurant below stairs with some exciting menu options including

for mainstream ski holiday companies to operate is waning, leading

the all-new Swiss Fondue Burger.

operator Inghams have announced they are unveiling a new “Xtra

The Basement offers a range of innovative dishes, shared tables and fuss-

Chalet” in Verbier this winter, one of three the company is giving this

free hospitality. The menu has been created by award-winning chef Tobias

new classification to.

Jochim and features high-quality locally sourced Swiss ingredients.

“An ‘Xtra Chalet’ offers all the benefits enjoyed in a chalet with a few

Besides the novelty burger served with a glass of Swiss kirsch, you

welcome added extras included, such as a full residents-only bar run by

can also try fish and chips with perch fillets from Lake Constance and

friendly Inghams bar staff, a hearty hot and cold skiers’ buffet breakfast,

cheesecake made with local Arosa cheese. There is also a “Slow

cakes and savouries for afternoon tea, a rosé wine as an additional wine

Corner” with a selection of perfectly grilled steaks.

choice at dinner, as well as a local cheeseboard to top off the chalet

“The Basement marks another step towards the future and is integral

dining experience,” explained a company spokesperson.

to the culture of innovation that we have been fostering for some years

The Verbier property is the company’s “Chalet de Verbier” which they

now,” says Leo Maissen, Director of the Tschuggen Grand Hotel.

have given an Inghams “four diamond” rating to.

That culture of innovation has led to the hotel becoming arguably the

The company is offering seven nights there from £564 per person

world’s coolest ski hotel. It features a spectacular spa with iconic “sails”

(based upon a max. occupancy of four people) for departures on 2

above that bring light down to it, and guests are whisked from ski room

January 2016. Price includes return flights from London Gatwick to

to slopes via a remarkable private funicular lift.

Geneva and resort transfers. inghams.co.uk

THERMALS FROM SPACE TO THE SLOPES which makes the clothing great for worldclass adventurers and regular skiers and snowboarders alike.

Hansi Heckmair

Manufactured from extremely lightweight 190gsm 100% pure merino wool with a bodyhugging fit and no potentially irritating seams, the company claims its base layers’ near

PHOTO

weightlessness and the comfort they provide actually help you stay fresh and active longer.

The natural “odour-eating” properties of Armadillo NASA

Merino® even mean garments shouldn’t need washing as often as synthetic equivalents, but they can be laundered in a regular wash at 40°C

Our new NATURETEC LIGHT series combines high functional merino wool with warming swisswool.

Learn more about the origin of our wool on ortovox.com

A company that produces thermal base layers

constructed for demanding environments using

and are then very quick drying, retaining their

used by professionals including special forces

a range of performance fabrics that deliver

shape without needing ironing.

is now selling its ultra-high-performance

superior protection, performance and comfort

Armadillo Merino®’s 2015/16 Elite range uses

products, as tested on the International Space

to wearers by exploiting the unique attributes of

superfine 17.5 micron wool in a compact yarn

Station, for use by recreational skiers and

merino fibre.

knit structure which creates a fabric that is

boarders on the slopes.

The company uses 100% pure merino wool,

significantly stronger and more durable than

Armadillo Merino® design and manufacture

which has the ability to thermoregulate in

regular merino garments. Products includes the

next-to-skin protective clothing for

variable temperatures, as well as naturally

Python Elite long-sleeved crew neck (£110) and

professionals, and their garments are

killing off all odour and sucking away moisture,

Elite long johns (£85). armadillomerino.com

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

0056 // DEC15

AGENCE ZOOM

MAURICIO RAMOS

MORE FEATURES AND EVENTS FOR QUEBEC PARK

FRENCH FOLLOW US MEASUREMENT EXAMPLE French ski areas appear to be

en/ski-area-total-surface).

starting to adopt the US model

Again, they talk about North

of measuring their ski slopes by

American-style area stats with

area rather than piste length.

acres and hectares, rather than

The new development seems

piste length. They say they’ve

to be a response by French

had their ski area dimensions

ski area operators to adopt a

independently verified by third-

standard measuring system,

party specialists.

several years after the issue

It will be interesting to see how

was first brought to the

many more French resorts do

headlines by the German

the same. France is famous for

ski writer and cartographer

having the biggest ski areas in

Christoph Schrahe. He has

the world by total piste length,

now launched his own official

so switching to only an area

ski area size measuring and

measure might be a marketing

verification service (pistelength.

step backwards for some.

com). It has been adopted by

Ski areas tend to be measured

Kitzbühel, Saalbach and other

in three different ways around

leading and so far primarily

the world. In North America and

Austrian resorts.

in the southern hemisphere,

The latest French move was

they’re measured by area, with

first noted in late summer when

the amount of easy, moderate

Les Deux Alpes announced

and difficult terrain divided into

it would be publishing the

percentages. In Europe, they’re

hectares of area of its ski

measured by total trail length,

slopes, but (apparently) not

but on the French-speaking

piste-length figures any more.

side, resorts tend to say how

Now Serre Chevalier has

many green, blue, red and

followed and created a page

black runs there are, while on

on its website explaining how

the German side, they go for

it has measured its slope

the kilometres of blue, red

area (serre-chevalier.com/

and black.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

057 // DEC15

Stoneham Mountain Resort’s 418 Snowpark in

In January, Stoneham, the closest ski area

for the youngest learning how to balance, on-

Eastern Canada has got better still this winter,

to Quebec City and one of the most easterly

snow contests, some pro riders to meet and

adding two additional jumps this season, for

major resorts in North America, run jointly

some entertainment at the end of it all.

a total of six – and all in such a line that it’s

with larger neighbour Monty Sainte Anne, will

The same weekend, on 24 January, the

possible to hit all in one run.

host its first Burton Mountain Festival on the

“Empire Games” will give amateurs the

The park also has four new features created

weekend of the 23rd/24th.

opportunity to show off their skills. This friendly

in the factory by Stoneham’s own obsessive

The event will include free product testing,

race course features obstacles, and the fastest

Snowpark Manager! There’s also a new “initiation

an expert panel where a pro will answer

rider is crowned. As a get-together event, the

zone” at the bottom of the Bunny Hill with

questions and give some tips on what to try,

Empire Games want to include riders of all

freestyle learning features – for children only.

a women’s ride day, the Burton Riglet Park

generations and levels. ski-stoneham.com/en

JAMES CATTANACH

W

HE

T I N TO WA

InTheSnow columnist Jack Steele has been a keen skier from an early age and has been living in Whistler for the past two years, working as a liftee during the ski season and making the most of the renowned BC powder fields and world-class terrain parks in his time off. He’ll travel to more BC resorts and the Alps this winter.

N

Of course there are times when

made it this far by investing in the

lift queue and asks me to wait at

waiting for people on the slopes

knowledge and equipment for safe

the top. This means missing the

is essential. I’m sure fledgling

backcountry skiing, and they’ve

best lines of the day and can be

relationships have been tested

hauled themselves up a mountain

to their limits on ski holidays. It is

together. Staying as a group in

probably good to employ some

backcountry situations is also

patience with a potential husband

essential for safety reasons.

or wife on their trip to the snow!

Whistler is one of the busiest resorts

very frustrating!

3. If someone wants to stop skiing for coffee or food at any time in the morning. Hunger can wait!

4. If someone wants to stop for

Maybe treat them to some lessons

in the world and the competition to

a toilet break to go inside a

o friends on a powder day” is a

if waiting is too much to bear;

get first tracks on powder days is a

restaurant – such actions can

common mantra shared on repeat by

also remember that beginners

bit of a race. This is why “no friends

be performed out in the open to

Whistler locals throughout the winter

rarely enjoy being the one at the

on a powder day” is so applicable

save precious time!

months. To an outsider, who doesn’t

back flailing down the slopes and

here and it can make for some

ski, this phrase might suggest that

sweating to keep up. I’m sure that

slightly selfish decision making! To

Of course it is important not to

skiing is a pastime better enjoyed

people learn best with others in a

put this into perspective, I have made

let these scenarios ruin your

in solitude, or perhaps that skiers

tangible ski range. So it is good to

a list of scenarios when waiting for

friendships, and nobody wants

are so annoyingly excitable about

ski with friends who are at a similar

someone is not an ideal option:

to be skiing alone! So it’s best

skiing powder that nobody wants

level. Employing this logic surely

to be friends with them. In fact, its

results in the most progression and

meaning, to me at least, is more

helps to avoid arguments!

This is a weak excuse, especially if

those who may be faffing around

about having the right friends who

Waiting is also crucial in the

they are too hungover. Good snow

more than necessary. Overall this

share similar levels of energy and

backcountry, where you are relying

is always a priority over drinking!

should help with progression and

ability in order to make the most of a

on those around you to survive

powder day.

the elements. These friends have

058 // DEC15

to use “no friends on a powder 1. When a friend wakes up too late.

2. On the first chairlift of the day, if a friend is at the back of the long

day” as a friendly jibe to hurry up

ensure that the best powder days are enjoyed by all!

@INTHESNOWMAG

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060 // DEC15

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INTHESNOW.COM // DEC15 // 061

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062 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

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063 // DEC15

ALTITUDE-VERBIER.COM | ALTITUDE-FUTURES.COM | FREERIDE-VERBIER.COM

CARVING INITIATING THE TURN

BALANCE

ALIGNMENT

GO BIGGER

JON (AKA WESTY)

For most people the hardest part of

As with most of our piste skiing,

While trying to bring in the

Once we have built good alignment

Jon holds the top qualifications from

Carving is one of the most fun

carving the turn is the start. At first,

how we balance from side to side,

angulation motion, a common

and are well balanced on the

France, Switzerland and Britain,

things you can do on-piste. Thanks

rather than cleanly carving, many

or laterally, is key to staying in

mistake is for clients and trainee

outside ski, it’s time to take our

and we can say firsthand that he is

to modern shaped carving skis,

people will skid or rotate their skis

control of our skis. We want our

instructors to “break” at the hips.

carving to the next level. If you

a great ski instructor! Jon heads up

feeling like a world-cup racer is

to commence the turn. To avoid this

balance to be towards the outside

This means twisting at the hips so

are ready, try heading to steeper

the team at Altitude Ski School –

now easier than ever. But what

we can have a very simple focus:

ski, especially through the second

that your pelvic bones no longer

terrain, though not too steep too

Verbier’s most established British ski

exactly is carving? In short, it is

take your time. Do not be tempted

half of the turn. To do this we

follow the skis. As you can see in

fast. See if you can stay in control,

school. Each month Jon or one of

using only the shape of the ski to

to rush the turn. At first we may

create an angle with our bodies,

the pictures, our instructor’s hips are

leaving clean tracks on a more

his team will provide us with a few

turn. With modern shaped skis

need to use a very wide slope and

bending at the midriff and knees to

aligned with the skis and follow the

challenging slope. Or, see if you

tips and words of wisdom to help

which are bigger at the tip and tail

do huge turns to keep our skis

keep our shoulders flat as you can

direction they move. This a strong,

can get your skis to tip over at an

improve our understanding of skiing.

than underfoot, if we simply tip

cleanly carved.

see in the picture.

stable and more balanced position.

even bigger angle.

the ski to the side a little and do

Try this drill. When you finish one

Practise trying to lift up your inside

It is very hard to build awareness of

Remember: the more we tip our skis

nothing else, it will trace out an

turn and roll your skis flat, pause

ski through the end of the turn

what your hips are doing in the turn.

over, the smaller our turns become.

arc. This is the basic idea behind

at this point and hold it. Then

while still clean carving. At first you

A good drill to try is to hold your

The trick is keep good alignment

carved turns. However, there are a

begin the next turn. You can try a

may only be able to quickly pick up

poles at your sides so they point

and lateral balance, trying to move

The Altitude winter company portfolio

lot of other technical aspects too.

clap or a stamp at the pause for

your inside ski, but with practice

forwards from your hips and do

further into the turn. You can see

includes the ski and snowboard

This month we will look at how you

exaggeration. Be patient and trust

it will become a more stable and

some carve turns. If you see that

from our picture of Harry how far

school, the Futures instructor

can improve your carved turns.

that even with a very small angle,

controlled movement.

your poles end up pointing downhill

you can go. It’s a lot of fun – give it

training programmes, and FREERIDE

most of the time, try to pull them

a shot!

VERBIER, a new school dedicated to

the skis will do the turn.

back in line with your skis.

ALTITUDE

off-piste coaching in Verbier.

info@altitude-verbier.com +41(0)27 771 6006

064 // DEC15

RACING If you think your child might be looking to push their skiing a bit harder, then perhaps trying some ski racing is for you. But how do you introduce your kids to racing? There are two main ways to sample racing when on holiday.

First, in some resorts there are open races that anyone is welcome to enter. These are usually giant slalom courses on a blue slope to make sure it’s safe and fun.

The atmosphere is welcoming and there will be a range of abilities from first time to the local race club. Most races will also let the adults try it too. This can be a great way to test the water and see if your child enjoys the experience.

The other introduction to racing can be through a ski school. Many schools now offer a race camp experience. This will normally be a full day of coaching on the mountain combined with some off-snow training.

While there have been local race clubs in resorts for many decades, ski schools around Europe are starting to offer a more introductory experience, especially in the peak holiday weeks.

At Altitude a normal day for race camp might include a dynamic warm-up before some technical training outside of the gates. After a break for lunch, there would be some training in the gates to make sure the course difficulty is set to the right level. This would be followed by a cool-down and some off-snow work, looking at tactics and racing lines or doing some basic physical training.

Always remember that skiing in a race course and flying past gates can be a daunting experience. While it’s great to challenge our kids, we want to make sure that the experience is always positive and enjoyable. If we do that, who knows – perhaps your child could be the next Hermann Maier or Lindsey Vonn.

/INTHESNOW

@INTHESNOWMAG

/INTHESNOWMAG

DISCOUNT SKI EXTRAS AIRPORT TRANSFERS FLEXIBLE HOLIDAYS

TO

Much more that a ski resort, the Chamonix Valley

THE TREASURES OF THE ALPINE CLUB

is a legend! For over 250 years, visitors have been inspired by the glaciers and the dramatic mountain scenery. But the beauty of Chamonix is also in its diversity,

Chamonix has a long history as the Mecca of mountain

with something for everybody, skiers and non-skiers alike.

sports that actually pre-dates the arrival of skiing, even if it has come to be regarded by many as the world’s best ski resort over the last century or so. But from 19 December 2015 to 17 April 2016, an

TAKE A BREATHTAKING STEP INTO THE VOID!

outstanding exhibition of British heritage in Chamonix will be on display to visitors who want to learn more about the Valley’s history. Here

At more than 3,840m, amidst Europe’s highest

you can discover talented amateur and

Alpine peaks, the Aiguille du Midi far surpasses

professional 19th-century mountaineering

the definition of a ski lift! The cable cars lift you

artists’ works, on loan from the prestigious

from central Chamonix up more than 2,800

Alpine Club collection.

vertical metres – the biggest vertical lift on earth in fact. Some take it to access the world’s

GASTRONOMY RHYMES WITH CHAMONIX

longest lift-served ski run, the 22km-long Vallée Blanche, but some don’t ski at all and instead bravely Step into the Void – an amazing clear

From Michelin stars to Asian fusion, from

glass box sticking out more than 1,000m above

Scandinavian flavours to Savoy specialities, the

the nearest ground below.

Chamonix Valley offers the most astonishing

MUCH MORE THAN A LIFT PASS! The Mont-Blanc Unlimited lift pass is one of the world’s most remarkable tickets. Not only does it provide access to a total of 900km of worldfamous ski terrain throughout the Chamonix Valley and even on the other side of Mont Blanc at Italy’s Courmayeur, it also provides unlimited access to some of the world’s most remarkable locations, whether you take your skis or board

CHAMONIX FURTHER INFO Chamonix – it’s easy to reach, hard to leave. To ensure you get the best out of your stay, Chamonix Tourism has opened a made-to-measure booking service for both individuals and groups. Contact their professional staff for friendly advice and the best rates. booking.chamonix.com

gastronomic choice, reflecting the diversity of a very cosmopolitan population, alongside a French flair for fine dining!

NOT ONE BUT FOUR SKI AREAS It’s no secret that the Chamonix Valley is considered a Mecca for freeriders, particularly in the Grands Montets ski area. But there’s plenty for all abilities, and Balme and Les Houches offer wonderful family skiing and

with you or not. These include the Aiguille du

fun terrain parks, while Brévent-Flégère has

Midi, the Mer de Glace, the new Funivie Monte

a variety of south-facing intermediate slopes

Bianco (Italy), the valley’s panoramic views and

with breathtaking panoramas. Around 90% of

even resort facilities such as ice rinks, swimming pools, the mountain

the Chamonix Valley’s skiing is located above 2000m, making it the perfect

coaster luge ride and the Alpine Museum.

choice for early and late skiing.

066 // DEC15

CHAMONIX.COM | COMPAGNIEDUMONTBLANC.CO.UK

ED BLOMFIELD / OT CHAMONIX

www.andorraresorts.com

CRYSTAL FOCUS ON SELF-GUIDING SERVICE APP

T

all levels created by Crystal’s resort teams.

spokesperson, who added:

Customers can independently rate the runs and

“Our mobile tools will mean they are always on

track how far and fast you ski through the day.

hand to offer tips on where to ski and resort

A “My Friends” feature answers that eternal ski

information. For instance, we all know that the

resort problem of finding your friends wherever

hardest choices to make in the morning are

they are on the mountain (or in the bars …).

how much clothing to take and which slopes

Ski hosting, or social skiing, involves tour operator

are going to have the best conditions. We will

staff taking clients on orientation tours of easy

be discussing with our in-resort teams how

slopes to introduce them to the ski areas they’re

they can best liaise with mountain patrol and

visiting. The service has been offered for decades

ski schools to provide customers with the best

by many tour operators but has proved ever

morning briefing possible and provide them

more controversial in some countries, particularly

with valuable updates during the day through

France, where ski schools have claimed tour

the app and even into the après-ski.”

WIRELESS HEADPHONES

MICROPHONE

WIRELESS TRACK CONTROLS

WIRELESS VOLUME CONTROLS

operator staff do not hold adequate qualifications to offer the service. Crystal is currently part of a group of leading tour operators backing tour operator Le Ski in a “test case” with the French

he UK’s biggest ski holiday operator, Crystal,

authorities over the legality of the service,

has decided to end its ski hosting service at

currently working its way through the appeals

all of its resorts this season and will instead

court process. However, in the meantime there

offer its customers an ever-improving digital

have been signs from other countries, including

app guide service, which its customers actually

regions in Italy, that they’ll follow the French lead.

prefer, according to its research.

Crystal says that despite its changing priorities

The company surveyed more than 2,300 of its

with its own ski hosting service, it will continue

customers at the end of last season and found that

to support Le Ski in its case.

take-up of the once popular ski-hosting service

“Crystal will continue to invest in mobile tools

had dropped to only 4% while its self-guiding app

for the winter season 2015/16. Social skiing will

was being used by 15% of its customers, and that

no longer be offered, and our expert in-resort

that number was, by contrast, growing.

teams, who live and breathe the mountains,

The company’s Ski Explorer (iOS and Android)

will continue to help customers get the most

app includes recommended ski routes for

out of their time on the slopes,” said a Crystal

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CRYSTALSKI.CO.UK/SKIEXPLORERAPP

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to Antoine Santiard of h2o

being room to swing a cat but

one, the resort took an existing

architects, “we didn’t try to bring

still enjoyed great holidays,

compact living space of just 55m²

the furniture into the apartment,

comparatively low prices and

and shaped it into a space that

more to bring the apartment into

being straight out onto the slopes

sleeps eight people.

the furniture”.

each morning.

The Aravis 520 apartment in

The refurbishment project

Then as those concrete buildings

the heart of the resort has been

has already won several

of the 1960s and 70s began to age

entirely redesigned to still provide

prizes, including The National

and we got a bit pickier, the advent

the practicality we know and

Wood Construction Prize –

of the more spacious French ski

love from French ski apartments,

Interior Design 2014, Mention

apartment was nigh. Spaces got

complete with two bathrooms,

Aménagement Intérieur 2014 and

bigger, quality of fixtures and fittings

kitchen and living room, but with a

the ArchiDesignClub Award for

he affordable French ski apartment

higher and additional facilities like a

new level of style and comfort.

Residential Interiors.

has been at the heart of the boom

small spa might be added to these

popularity of snowsports over

new developments. Some older

the past 50 years and the fact

complexes were remodelled, with

that ski holidays have become

two old apartments being made

accessible to ordinary families, not

into one more spacious living area.

just the wealthy.

Now the resort of Les Menuires in

Through much of the late 20th

the huge Les 3 Vallées ski region

century, we all stayed in tiny

has come up with the idea of a

apartments where settees

space-age remodelling of the

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ambassadors. Eider will select someone that they feel “reaches beyond sporting exploits and performance and has a personality and a lifestyle capable of illustrating our ‘Wide Angle Life’ ethos,” said a spokesperson for the company.

Eider currently supports the likes of French athletes Yann Gobert, Lionel Daudet, Adrien Coirier and Bruno Garban.

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LA MARMOTTE LES GETS

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Located on a sun-soaked plateau above the lake of St Moritz, the hotel boasts captivating views from all of its 60 suites and junior suites. A complete refurbishment now showcases the historical values of the property, built a century ago, with a contemporary re-interpretation. The hotel exhibits the signature unconventional style of interior designer Carlo Rampazzi and a colour palette affording the hotel an unrivalled self-assured luxury.

Located in the heart of Serre Chevalier the hotel Plein Sud is situated only 200m to the slopes, lifts & village centre making it easy. Serre Chevalier offers over 250km of pistes with a varied amount of skiing and a fantastic tree line. Super fast lifts with panoramic views to get you to the heart of the ski area

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Located slopeside in central Les Gets, in the giant Portes du Soleil ski area, La Marmotte is perfectly placed for snow-sports fans. With a friendly atmosphere and attentive service, here you will find the ambience of a traditional chalet. There’s beautiful antique furniture, a spacious lounge with open fire, and each guest room has a really cosy atmosphere and modern amenities.

It is now possible to stay in one of the world’s classic ski resorts, in a luxurious hotel, and still be kind to the environment, thanks to the efforts of Domenico and Miriam Schiavon, owners of the beautiful Hotel Chalet del Sogno in Madonna di Campiglio. Gourmet cuisine prepared by expert chefs is the norm too. There’s also a wonderful spa complete with pool, gym, hammam, biosauna, and treatment rooms.

Kandersteg is an ideal family ski resort and cross-country paradise.

The idyllic and cosy village is in the heart of the Bernese Oberland and can easily be reached by train or by car. The Hotel Victoria is centrally located and offers a beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains. You will find a cheerful and familiar atmosphere combined with Swiss hotel tradition. The ideal place to relax and enjoy oneself.

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Located in the very heart of the old village of Val d’Isère, this hotel is among the most fashionable in the region. Perched at 1850m altitude, it is superbly located just a few steps from the snow, meaning you can be on the slopes straight from your front door. The 109 rooms are spacious and comfortable, seamlessly blending wood and natural colours. It has all the equipment and services of an international hotel with a world-class reputation.

4 hotel with spa in central Chamonix, by the Aiguille du Midi lift, offering a new level of comfort including a 500m2 spa (with pool, onsen, hammam, banya, ice cave and tepidarium), restaurant, bar, ski shop, four conference rooms, take-away shop, free wi-fi and a covered car park.

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069 // DEC15

SAM FAVRET Sam Favret, who stars in the latest Rip

from Chamonix, I’m used to skiing big

Curl movie, grew up skiing the legendary

lines, so I had experience which was

slopes of Chamonix, which he claims is

reinforced in Alaska.

the world capital of freeriding. As well

So I haven’t stepped out of my comfort

as being a key member of the French

zone, but obviously there is pressure

freeride team, the 27-year-old is one of

before I drop, considering we’re never

the most versatile skiers of his generation.

completely free from avalanche danger or

A decade of ski racing gave him a

a fall, so those dangers bring pressure, but

very good technical base to ride in

as soon as you’re in, it’s real pleasure.

every condition and land pretty much everything and then perform in freestyle

Do you have any specific training to keep

competitions worldwide.

you on top?

But Sam left the competitive world to

SF: I am very sporty so I skateboard,

focus on freeriding and expeditions –

surf, climb, and these different practices

the simple pleasure of gliding on snow.

complete my training on top of ski

This is what Rip Curl highlighted in its

sessions. I am not the type of guy who

backcountry movie The Search – Revel,

does indoor training; I need to be outside.

filmed by PVS. Alaska was your big dream. What’s next?

How did the Rip Curl project start?

SF: Well, we only skied three or four days

SF: Rip Curl produces a movie every

during a month-long stay there, which is

year, with the whole team, skiers and

very little for such a huge area, so I’ll return

snowboarders. We decided to film a part of

to Alaska for sure. I also want to go for

the movie in Alaska, and I was very keen to

different kinds of projects, more “search”

go there, along with Victor de Le Rue, who

oriented, like expeditions. I’m thinking of

is also involved in the project and familiar

perhaps Antarctica or Greenland.

with the terrain.

What are you up to next season?

What were the best things about making

SF: I’m definitely going to film with

the movie?

Rip Curl. Work is in progress. I’m also

SF: The atmosphere. The strength of Rip

currently working on my own movie called

Curl is to mix skiing, snowboarding and

Backyard’s Project. We started to film last

surfing. We share the same passion; it’s

winter and will keep going on next winter.

not all about the performance but about

There will be a bit of surf and skateboard.

the search for the right spot and fun.

We were off to Bali in November to film

Skiing really gets its value when shared

the surf parts. I want to do things well and

with friends.

allow the necessary time to do so.

Through this project I want to show what I’m concerned about. It’s something

zone when filming?

personal; it shows what really matters to

SF: Alaska was impressive, but coming

me, and what I’ve lived for since day one.

COLIN ADAIR

Were you pushed out of your comfort

070 // DEC15

@INTHESNOWMAG

THE UK’S NUMBER 1

SNOW SPORTS R E TA I L E R S N O WA N D R O C K . C O M

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