InTheSnow | Issue 59 | Sept 2018

SKIER: WILLIE NELSON | LOCATION: ALTA, UTAH | PHOTOGRAPHER: NOAH WETZEL

INTHE SNOW

ZOOMJPG

016 SERRE CHEVALIER: THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE ALPS  Serre Chevalier Briançon in the Southern French Alps, a quick 90-minute transfer from Turin, is one of the world’s

0I0

biggest ski areas and deserves to be better known in the British market. Boasting more than 3,900 hectares of skiable terrain, more than 80 individual runs and nearly 60 lifts, for all tastes and ability levels and served by no less than 59 fast ski lifts, with 80% of the area’s ski runs sitting above 2,000 metres high, the fact that the old walled town of

03I

CRYSTAL

Briançon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site is just a bonus.

WHAT’S YOUR WINTER MOMENT?  It’s time to think about more than just where we’re going to go skiing this year. What is it about our ski holidays we really enjoy? What is the feeling or sensation we can’t wait to experience once we’re back in the

THE PERFECT SKI DESTINATION?  A great snow record, a long ski season running from

026

November to May, fast and comfortable lifts, lots of exciting terrain, great slopeside accommodation, magnificent views and even a short airport transfer, could Obertauern be the perfect ski destination?

INTHESNOW @INTHESNOWMAG

TIROL’S TOP TEN FOR BRITS  Tirol is chock-full of great ski areas, easy to reach

INTHESNOW

via Innsbruck airport, which will have more flights

INTHESNOW_MAGAZINE

province’s ski areas are better known than others.

than ever from the UK this winter. But some of the Here’s the top 10 most popular with the British skiers.

© TVB INNSBRUCK / KLAUS POLZER

mountain. In short, what’s your winter moment?

04I FEDERICO MODICA

VAL DI FASSA: THE SNOWY FAIRYTALE WORLD 

EDITOR

One of the great ski valleys of the Dolomites, Fassa offers a great selection of accommodation options from busy villages like Canazei, linked into the famous

PATRICK THORNE

Sellaronda circuit, to quieter settlements with their own intimate ski areas along the valley.

A new season is upon us and with it lots of wonderful new ski gear for winter 2018/19. Feast your eyes on our extended collection of kit from skiwear to the latest skis, boards and boots. All selected by our expert team who know their gear better than anyone.

GEPA PICTURES/RED BULL CONTENT POOL

022

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

020

BUYERS GUIDE  051–059

BC NO SKI  Go on a winter holiday to Canada’s famous ski region of British Columbia … but don’t go skiing.

It sounded like a rather cruel challenge at first but it turned out to be remarkably easy as there’s so much ELSE to do. Still can’t decide if dog sledding

048

PORTES DU SOLEIL - SYLVAIN COCHARD

or zip wiring is more fun though?

SKI WEEKENDS: BE HAPPY SKI MORE 

SLALOM STAR MARCEL HIRSCHER  With 58 World Cup wins, nine World Championship medals, two Olympic medals and a record seven World Cup overall titles – something no one else has achieved – many believe Marcel Hirscher is the greatest skier of all time. He doesn’t though, as he told Megan Hughes when they met up.

EDITORIAL TEAM PUBLISHER

SUB EDITORS

Dominic Killinger

Nick Jones Marion Adams

dom@inthesnow.com EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS

Patrick Thorne

Emmanuelle Châtel Megan Hughes Sega Fairweather

patrick@inthesnow.com OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Why do we stick to old-style ski holidays where we use a day at each end of our seven-night trip getting to

Debbie Gabriel debbie@inthesnow.com

EQUIPMENT BY

Ski Bartlett Sputnik

BRAND & DIGITAL MANAGER

our destination and another day on the return leg. Ski

Emmanuelle Châtel

Weekends argue that with a bit of ski holiday savvy you

SOCIAL & DIGITAL MANAGER

can ski a half or full day on transfer day. No brainer?

Megan Hughes

DESIGN BY

Tom Showler Rocket Base tom@rocketbase.co.uk

© Copyright 2018 Printed in the UK. No part of this publication may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any way or means, either by recording or otherwise, without permission of the publishers in writing.

I’m not sure what’s been getting me the most excited about the coming ski season. Firstly there were the reports of fresh snow falling on high slopes in the Alps while it was still summertime in late August and early September; now there’s the almost daily news of one high glacier ski area or another opening already for the start of their 2018/19 season, and then there’s the ever-increasing intensity of emails from tour operators telling us about their first “deals” for the season and gear manufacturers plugging their latest kit – which, as every year, has lots of allnew, must-have features.

But perhaps what really brought the imminence of the new season home to me was a series of pictures of hundreds of sheep being gathered from high Alpine pastures and marched down the mountainside through the first snow to safety in the valley. Their time on the slopes is over for another summer, and ours is beginning once again!

Regular readers may notice a few small changes with InTheSnow this season as we return to print for the autumn and winter while continuing our year-round daily updates at inthesnow.com, our weekly email newsletter and our social media channels.

We’re investing in even higher production quality and more pages of great news and features so there’s even more to take in and in a format that’s even easier to read and hold on to. So I hope you enjoy it.

Whether you’re just in the early stages of planning your annual escape to the mountains or you’re heading to one of those early-opening high Alpine ski areas this weekend, we wish you a great trip, and here’s to a snowy winter 2018/19 – it’s nearly here!

InTheSnow Ltd The Snow Studio, Kings Lane, Bucks, HP16 0QY +44 (0)1494 862 423 dom@inthesnow.com inthesnow.com

patrick@inthesnow.com OCT18 // 03

MAREK OGIEŃ / RED BULL CONTENT POOL BARTEK BARGIEL / RED BULL CONTENT POOL

MAREK OGIEŃ / RED BULL CONTENT POOL

A SUMMER OF INCREDIBLE SKI ACHIEVEMENTS While most of us were soaking up the rays during the long, warm summer of 2018, some exceptional human beings were out skiing.

They weren’t on indoor snow, an Alpine glacier summer ski slope or even down in the southern hemisphere; instead they were carrying their skis on their backs up above 6,000 and even 8,000m to ski some of the world’s most extreme terrain.

went to press with this issue.

K2 since at least 2001, with at least

The first of these, and one of the few

one person, Swedish ski-mountaineer

remaining great achievements in skiing,

Fredrik Ericsson, dying in the attempt.

was the first successful descent of

But it’s not the only great achievement

K2 on skis by Polish ski mountaineer

this summer. French skiers Carole

Andrzej Bargiel, who completed this

Chambaret, Tiphaine Duperier and

remarkable feat at his second attempt.

Boris Langenstein have skied what

At 8,611m, K2 is just a little lower than

is popularly regarded as one of the

Everest, which has been skied and

world’s most perfect ski slopes from top

snowboarded down multiple times over

to bottom for the first time.

the past two decades, but for climbers

After several years of planning, the

and skiers alike K2 is regarded as the

trio from Val d’Isère who work as ski

much greater challenge.

instructors or mountain guides struck

When the 30-year-old reached the

lucky on their expedition dates to

peak he simply strapped on his trusty

Pakistan’s 6,096m-high Laila Peak in

skis and started back down the iconic

May with perfect conditions for their

mountain. He is reported to have

ascent and their ski down its northwest

The challenge at these altitudes is not

navigated under huge seracs (blocks

face with a near constant slope of 45

just the danger of skiing exceptionally

of glacial ice) via the daunting Messner

for more than 1,500 vertical metres.

steep slopes in what’s known as “the

Traverse to the arête (narrow ridge

“Good weather, no wind, a great

death zone” (you fall, you die), where

of rock) on the Kukuczka–Piotrowski

moment of happiness at the top, then

there’s high avalanche danger and

route, then battled past snow fields full

an incredible descent of 1,800 metres in

completely unpredictable ice and

of dangerous crevices leading back to

fresh snow!” said Chambaret.

snow conditions; it is also being able to

base camp and a place in the history

The achievements may not yet be

breathe and muster the energy to make

books, making the full descent on skis

complete either; as we go to press an

the turns in this thin atmosphere.

non-stop.

American team is attempting to ski the

Yet two great skiing achievements have

The magnitude of Bargiel’s

incredible 2,000m vertical “Dream Line”

been made in the past few months with

achievement is difficult to understate.

from the top of the world’s fifth-highest

further attempts being made as we

People have been attempting to ski

peak, Lhotse (8,516m), in the Himalayas.

005 // OCT18

ASPEN TOPS UP MINIMUM WAGE Aspen is hoping to entice more people to work there by paying them more. The company needs to hire 1,200 winter staff but has problems filling vacancies. The minimum hourly wage is $13.50 (around £10), about a third more than the Colorado minimum wage CAMARA PHOTOGRAPHY

of $10.20 (around £8) and up 12.5% from last season.

MORE NEW SLOPES FOR SAMOËNS Improvements and expansion of the Giffre skiing area by Samoëns in the French Grand Massif region have continued with another

THIRTY NEW RUNS AS COLORADO SKI AREA ALMOST DOUBLES IN SIZE

two ski runs due to be added Arapahoe Basin in Colorado, one of

Beavers will be served by a new fixed-grip

the most challenging skiing at Arapahoe

chairlift was installed there last

the world’s highest altitude ski

quad chairlift. Terrain in The Beavers will

Basin. All skiers using that terrain will

season, but only two of the new

areas, with a season that typically

range from intermediate (blue square)

be required to hike back to the bottom

runs from October to June, will

groomed runs to the most difficult and

of the Pallavicini Lift, a hike that takes

add 34 new runs over 468 acres for

extreme (black and double-black diamond)

approximately 20–30 minutes.

ability levels from intermediate

tree skiing. The runs include two new

The new terrain is located to the west of

to expert to its Beavers and The

intermediate groomed runs, Loafer and Davis.

the current ski area boundary and will add

Steep Gullies area this winter.

The extreme terrain of The Steep Gullies

about 50% more terrain to the ski area,

Approximately 137 hectares of terrain in The

(52 hectares ) is for experts only and will be

increasing its total area to 578 hectares.

this winter. A second detachable

ski runs announced then were ready in time.

WORLD’S LONGEST LIFT OPENS Doppelmayr have completed construction of the world’s longest lift, a 3S gondola. With a length of 7,899.9m, the Hòn Thơm 3S links three islands across the sea and beats the record previously held by another 3S lift in Vietnam, the Fansipan Legend, by almost 1.5km.

EDDIE THE EAGLE’S SKI JUMP FACING DEMOLITION The 90m ski jump on which Eddie

TOMORROWLAND HEADING TO ALPE D’HUEZ

the Eagle valiantly jumped at the

The latest big summer music festival to

reports indicate that during the festival

“This edition of Tomorrowland was created

1988 Calgary Winter Olympics is

announce a winter edition in a ski resort is

the ski area will be open exclusively to

by our own dedicated young team in

facing demolition. The jump, one

Tomorrowland, which says it will run from

Tomorrowland Winter ticketholders. A

Antwerp and we will be 100% in control of

of several at the Canada Olympic

9 to 16 March at Alpe d’Huez in the French

main stage will be built specially for the

its execution. We couldn’t imagine a better

Park near Calgary, hasn’t been

Alps. Around 30,000 people are expected to

event and located at the foot of the ski

way to celebrate our 15th anniversary with

used for many years, the centre’s

attend “Tomorrowland Winter”, making it one

trails, and four-day and seven-day tickets

the People of Tomorrow, and we just can’t

operators say, and it will be

of the biggest music festivals in the Alps.

will be available, which will include

wait to welcome them to this enchanting

demolished later this year.

The theme of the inaugural festival will

access to the festival, accommodation

winter wonderland,” said Michiel Beers,

be “The Hymn of the Frozen Lotus”, and

and a lift/ski-pass.

creator and organiser of Tomorrowland.

006 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

ANTONY SPENCER

MARK BADER

OFF-PISTE IN ICELAND

Tour operator Neilson is celebrating 40 years in

Snoworks has launched a new ski touring trip to

business and has announced its continued focus on

Iceland aimed at experienced off-piste skiers with

its Mountain Collection portfolio of properties, adding

a good level of fitness who can ski tour all day

four more this winter. The Neilson Mountain Collection

long for six full days.

offers three property types: hotels, chalet hotels and

“Iceland is an absolute paradise for ski touring:

chalets, and whichever accommodation option guests

perfect spring snow, long daylight hours and

choose, it will always be exclusive to Neilson guests

stunning skiing above the sea. The Troll Peninsula,

and offer free ski guiding and coaching sessions as

in the north of Iceland, is an off-piste skier’s

part of the Neilson Mountain Experts service, all run by

dream, with mountains cascading into the sea

fully qualified instructors local to the resort. The new

along with larger mountains further inland,” said

properties include a flagship hotel and two chalets in

Phil Smith, Director of Snoworks. Ascents can

Les Menuires, France, and a chalet hotel in Arinsal,

last up to five hours but the rewards include long

Andorra. The company operates in 24 resorts across

descents among spectacular scenery, and options

Andorra, Austria, France, Italy and Spain.

include heli-assisted touring to access remoter

“We’ve spent the last few years fine-tuning the Mountain

terrain. The trip costs £2,122pp including six full

Collection service, and its continued growth is testament

days’ backcountry skiing with Snoworks instructor/

to the positive feedback we’re receiving from our

mountain guide, full-board accommodation and

guests,” said David Taylor, Neilson’s Managing Director.

transfers. snoworks.co.uk

DAS BILD/ STADLER&&USTER

BIG 4-0 FOR NEILSON

WORLD’S FIRST “MUSIC-CENTRIC SPA”

THERE ARE TWO SECRETS TO G R E AT B A C K C O U N T R Y SKIING. A RIGHT ONE AND A LEFT ONE.

The first step is to build a boot from the lightest materials available. The second step is to design it to perform effortlessly all day long.

The Hard Rock Hotel Davos has

facilities including a 57m2 main pool, a

patterns, as the foundation of its

unveiled a new 1,000m2 wellness facility,

Kneipp Walk Pool, a whirlpool, several

treatments. This groundbreaking

their Rock Spa®. A hotel spokesperson

saunas, steam bath, ice room and six

experience takes guests on a rhythmic

says the new facility aims to “… bring

treatment rooms where guests are

massage journey – bass vibrations

together elements of spa, fitness,

encouraged to choose from the Rhythm

ripple through the massage table

dance and yoga, encouraging guests

and Motion signature treatments.

as treble beats come from above,

to maximise their physical and mental

“It’s the world’s first fully immersive

sending pulses through the body and

potential in a fun and creative way.”

music-centric spa menu utilising

leaving guests feeling energised and

The spa features a series of thermal

amplified vibrations, pressures and

invigorated,” a hotel statement explains.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OCT18 // 007

KORE BOOT 1G

BY PATRICK THORNE

A project to make one of the world’s largest indoor snow centres almost self-sufficient in their renewable energy needs has gone live.

JAMES NORTH

SNOW CENTRE GREEN ENERGY SELF-SUFFICIENT

LONDON SKI & SNOWBOARD SHOW BACK FOR 45TH YEAR

SnowWorld Landgraaf in the The UK’s only remaining large-

explains: “With even more attractions and

demos from the British Ski and Snowboard

scale ski and snowboard festival

entertainment, this year’s event has truly

Team, gear retailers and a number of

long, has had 10,000 solar panels

will return to its current location

evolved from a show into a ‘festival’ for all

stands from ski resorts around the world.

installed on its huge roof by green

at Battersea Park in London from

ages to celebrate the winter season ahead.”

New attractions will include dog sledding,

power company Indi Energie,

Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 October

As in previous years, the festival will feature

a climbing wall and indoor conveyor ski

working with the Dutch full-service

2018, which is during the English

après-themed street food and bar areas,

slope Chel-Ski.

schools’ half term.

live music and entertainment, Travel Genius

The festival will run 12pm–7pm on Thursday,

A second, smaller SnowWorld

Now re-christened a “festival” rather than

Bar for expert destination advice, an ice

11am –10pm on Friday, 10am–8pm on

centre at Zoetermeer had 3,000

a show, a statement from the organisers

rink, the “Mount Battersea” snow slope with

Saturday and 10am–5pm on Sunday.

Netherlands, which has a number of indoor ski slopes up to 550m

solar company KiesZon.

panels added to its roof last year.

Overall the project, described as “the most complex solar panel project in Europe” has taken two and a half years to complete.

On very sunny days the solar panels on Landgraaf’s roof will produce more energy than is FAIRMONT HOTELS && RESORTS

needed to meet the energy needs of the indoor ski slope, at which point surplus energy will be delivered to the local community.

Altogether the two SnowWorld locations will generate approximately 2,500,000kWh of green energy every year.

“Eventually,” said Wim Moerman, CFO at SnowWorld, “the goal is to

FEWER FLIGHTS TO CALGARY TO PUSH UP PRICES?

become completely self- sufficient.”

A tour operator with a long-standing

Calgary serves a number of world-famous

However, BA have pulled out of the

in Germany and the Netherlands

reputation as a North American ski

resorts in western Canada including Banff

Calgary route for the winter, which

also have solar-panel-covered roofs

specialist has warned that reduced

Lake Louise and Jasper in Alberta as

means that only Air Canada now offers

meeting much of their energy needs,

capacity on direct services between the

well as Kicking Horse, Fernie, Panorama

a direct service from the UK. The good

including one German centre built

UK and Calgary airport in Canada could

and others in BC. The resorts are usually

news is that Air Canada has confirmed

on a former coal mine. Ski Dubai has

drive up the price of ski holidays to the

easy to reach (weather permitting) from

it is one of the few airlines to offer free

also committed to cutting its energy

region. Ski Independence is advising

the airport, and holiday prices here are

ski and boot carriage on all transatlantic

needs and says these are now down

skiers wanting to head to the region this

often among the lowest for western North

routes in addition to the regular 23kg

winter to book early.

American destinations from the UK.

luggage allowance.

Several other indoor snow centres

to the equivalent of a small hotel.

008 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

ALL PICS: DAS BILD/ STADLER&&USTER

To enter simply visit: InTheSnow.com/competitions Prize includes: A minimum four-night half-board stay for a minimum of two people plus two ski passes

Win a four-night luxury stay for two at Hard Rock Hotel

and Motion® treatment menu, the world’s first fully

Davos and indulge after an exhilarating day of winter

immersive music-centric spa menu utilising amplified

sports in the comfort of the stylish music-infused hotel.

vibrations, pressures and patterns. Guests can also

Just metres away from the slopes, located in the heart

take part in Rock Om®, an in-room, video-lead yoga

of the highest situated town in Europe.

experience, energising the body and soul through the

With an exciting new link providing access to the

power of music.

neighbouring ski resort of Klosters, there has

Winners can live like rock stars in carefully curated

never been a more interesting time to visit the

rooms surrounded by alpine beauty, relaxing on

destination. Discover the unbeatable slopes with two

hanging chairs on the spacious balconies of the

complimentary ski passes included in the prize.

South Balcony rooms, or taking in the views from the

Guests can unwind in the new state-of-the-art

North Side rooms which look out onto picturesque

Rock Spa® and choose from Hard Rock’s Rhythm

mountains and the charming town of Davos.

Terms & Conditions apply. The prize is valid for travel six months from the date the winner is announced. The following blackout dates apply: 26 Dec 2018 – 1 Jan 2019, 20–26 Jan 2019, and 16–19 Mar 2019. The prize is offered strictly subject to availability and may not be available in high season. The winner is responsible for all additional expenses (phone calls, room service, minibar, laundry, excursions, bar tabs, meals and drinks not included in the half board plan) not specifically included in the prize.

BANFF AND LAKE LOUISE THE SKI MILES ARE WORTH THE AIR MILES

If you are looking for a ski holiday that brings a new adventure every day, then Banff National Park is right for you. Immerse yourself in the stunning Canadian Rockies whilst you ski the vast variety of terrain across Banff Sunshine, Mt Norquay and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Banff and Lake Louise is so much more than a ski holiday; it is an unforgettable winter escapade.

BOOK BEFORE 30th NOVEMBER TO GET UP TO

25%

OFF

www.skiworld.co.uk | 0330 102 8004

WHAT YOUR WINT MOM 010 // OCT18  PROMO

@INTHESNOWMAG

T'S R TER MENT?

Back in the day, a ski holiday was about only one thing: skiing.

We’d obsess all year long about our next winter holiday and where we’d go for our week in the snow, agonising over the many attractions of the various wonderful resort choices.

or perhaps it’s just the sheer pleasure of getting the gang together to make new mountain memories with a fun-filled snowball fight.

Of course, skiing or boarding remains the main attraction for many, but it’s not just about that wonderful sense of freedom as you slide down the slopes. There’s that first moment when all the planning, travel and exercising you’ve been doing to get there come together and you’re finally grabbing your goggles and setting off to catch your first lift.

Then you’re up there standing tall and feeling on top of the world for a few glorious moments before you’re

Once that wonderful day of departure finally arrived,

whooshing down the slopes, floating through the

we’d look forward to being first on the slopes in the

fresh knee-deep powder once more and everything

morning, taking as brief a break as possible for lunch,

feels right in your world again at last.

then skiing all afternoon until the last lift of the day

Lunch on the mountain brings more wonderful winter

stopped turning. Not a lot else mattered – we’d do the

moments. Going from the crisp outside air to the snug

same again for all six days of our holiday then spend

warmth of the old mountain hut, stripping off layers

the next 51 weeks waiting for the next one!

as you watch the steam rising, looking out at the

Of course, for many of us skiing remains the key

snowy wonderland, watching others having fun on the

attraction of our winter holiday, but these days we

slopes while you indulge in a scrummy tartiflette with

also recognise that our escape to the mountains is

perhaps a slice of apple strudel afterwards if there’s

about so much more.

space, and maybe a hot chocolate to wash it down

We take time to stop and breathe in the clean, cool

with. Can you make it out of the door and back on the

mountain air and look at the spectacular scenery

slopes for a few more hours now you feel so relaxed

that surrounds us. We enjoy the wonderful tastes

and full of good food? Yes!

and smells of the ski resort we’ve chosen to visit, its

Après-ski remains a big part of any winter-sports

unique cuisine and its special, magical atmosphere.

holiday (even if you choose to skip the skiing part!).

In fact, every aspect of the whole winter holiday

It can be a full-on party from mid-afternoon with an

experience in the mountains.

ice-cold beer, dancing on the tables in your ski boots in a slopeside bar and exchanging tales of the day’s highs with old friends, or new friends you’ve just

So, what’s your winter moment?

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

into the night to feel the snowflakes on your cheeks,

met. Alternatively, you might prefer snuggling up with a loved one in a cosy chalet, supping on a vin chaud. How long can you go before you head to your comfortable bed with the impossibly light fluffy duvet

What makes our special winter moment may not

in your snug wooden chalet, hotel room or apartment?

even occur on the ski slopes. It might come during

The best way to find the moments that matter to you

an evening’s snowshoe excursion, crunching out

is to look at the huge choice offered by Crystal, the largest ski holiday operator in the UK. Crystal recognise that every winter-snow holidaymaker is different and that not everyone wants to ski all day long anymore.

Some of us may not even want to ski or board at all but enjoy different special moments on the mountain that make it special to us, in our own unique way.

These days there is so much more on the mountain in winter which can again create the perfect winter moment for you – long, fun toboggan runs, dog sledding or snowmobiling, zip wiring above the snow, a sleigh ride or ice skating on a frozen lake – the list of options goes on and on.

Crystal have the biggest choice of winter-sports destinations with more than 120 ski resort destinations to choose from in 13 countries, so there are tons of opportunities to hit the slopes and make new mountain memories this winter.

TO GET MORE WINTER VISIT CRYSTALSKI.CO.UK

MAKE YOUR WINTER MOMENT IN FINLAND Northern Finland, also known as Lapland, is a very special place in the winter-sports world. A land of pristine beauty with its ski resorts located at the heart of areas and lakes and forest that continue north to a region where very few people live, or even visit, there’s just a real sense of freedom here.

and Ylläs, which are international ski destinations,

adventure on a dog-sledding excursion or a reindeer

opening from as early as October right through

safari, or perhaps to just pop in and visit Santa Claus

to May as they are so snow-sure at this northerly

at his home address.

latitude, to smaller, completely unspoilt communities

Daylight hours are short here in winter, so villages

with little skiing but a wonderful atmosphere, such

and ski slopes are lit by twinkling lights, and you’ll

as Salla, or, new for British holidaymakers for the

spend time in cosy cafés and restaurants tasting

coming winter, Suomu.

Lappish delicacies created from local berries,

There’s a great choice of accommodation, too, from

mushrooms and deer. But there are also larger

snug log cabins through to comfortable hotels and

resorts with some great modern facilities such as

spacious apartments – there are even glass-roofed

indoor water parks and sports centres.

igloos in which you can stay and look up from your

You can do it all in a single trip, although beware that

bed to see the stars and the aurora. An unusual

once you visit in winter you’ll want to return.

feature for most is that you are likely to find your own

Crystal has a choice of seven wonderful ski resorts

on-site sauna in your accommodation, a daily ritual

Skiing and snowboarding are popular but are

in Finland where you can make your winter moment

for the Finns and yet another winter moment you’ll

definitely not, for most, the main attraction that they

this ski season. The selection ranges from some

quickly grow to love. In fact, that daily sauna could

go to the Alps for. Instead people visit to see the

of the country’s larger ski resorts like Levi, Ruka

become your winter moment!

LIGHTPIX

incomparable Northern Lights, to feel a true sense of

012 // OCT18  PROMO

SEARCH FINLAND AT CRYSTALSKI.CO.UK

ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL CONTENT POOL

SKI RESORT TO RE-OPEN AFTER 7 YEARS CLOSED A small ski area in New York State

KAESTLE GMBH

is set to re-open this winter, seven years after it shut down following a major fire in 2011. Its new owners hope the centre will be able to re-open on 1 December with 15 different slopes available.

VONN AIMS TO BREAK WORLD CUP RECORD

LECH STAGES THIRD SKI IN YOUR DIRNDL DAY

The International Ski Federation has “indefinitely tabled” a

The Austrian ski resort of Lech, with sponsorship from

proposal by the most successful female ski racer of all time,

Kastle skis, staged their third dirndl ski day at the end of

American Lindsey Vonn, to race alongside men in the Men’s

last season.

Downhill World Cup opener in Lake Louise, the decision as to

The event has become so popular that participation is

which they had previously postponed . The FIS said they had

limited to a maximum of 300 skiers and boarders dressed

received “no renewed proposal”.

in the traditional Austrian dresses.

Posting on Twitter, Vonn said, “I haven’t given up on this, just

The day kicks off at Lech Schlegelkopf with a mass ski

delayed it one more year.”

down of all the skiers wearing dirndls, and this year men

Jesse Hunt, the Alpine Director of the US Alpine Ski Team,

in lederhosen were also welcome to take part.

appeared to confirm in an interview that Vonn currently has

Kastle’s 2019-season skis were available to test on the

season. Cocaine users in resorts

other things on her mind. He said Vonn, who already has more

day, and besides skiing there was a Käsespätzle party

are nicknamed “snow sniffers”, the

World Cup victories than any other female racer, with 82 wins,

with live music in the Schneggarei. Other Austrian ski

report stated.

is currently prioritising breaking the record of 86 World Cup

areas are also organising “Dirndl Days” but Lech believes

victories, currently held by Sweden’s Ingemar Stenmark.

theirs is the largest. The event will be back next April.

RESORTS STEP UP FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS USE French ski resorts are reported to have stepped up their fight against drugs use. A report claims that a total of 500kg of weed, cocaine, ecstasy and other drugs were confiscated in one recent

BOLLYWOOD WEEKEND ON THE SKI SLOPES Australian resort Mt Baw Baw celebrated all things Bollywood recently. A spokesperson said the weekend was about “… celebrating our vibrant Indian community.” It included Bollywood dancing on snow by skilled performers, followed by Indian dance workshops for anyone who wanted to try themselves.

SECOND BASE VILLAGE OPENING AT RUKA

IMMIGRANTS BOND OVER IGLOO BUILDING A group of 80 African asylum

Ruka in Finnish Lapland has announced

resort base, named RukaValley, built on

RukaValley Resort will ultimately contain

plans for a second base village, along with

the east side of the resort. The existing

1,700 new ski-in/ski-out beds, 400 of them

at a small and currently unused

a gondola connecting this to the existing

development, on the west side, is known as

in the new RukaValley hotel which will be

Italian ski area last winter found

base. Some of these developments will

RukaVillage.

built in the first construction phase at a cost

common ground building igloos.

already be complete for the start of this

The two will be linked by a new “Village-2-

of approximately €20 million, part of a

A local restaurateur had the idea

season in October while other upgrades

Valley” scenic gondola which will traverse

€100 million investment in RukaValley.

of building the igloos as a venture

will take place over future years.

over the top of the fell between the two

Ruka is also building a new VillageExpress

to try to bring overnight guests

The resort is working with Canada-based

bases in around six minutes and feature

chairlift to the front slopes in Ruka Village,

to the village after operating the

Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners on the

a mid-station on top of the Saarua fell so

a fast, six-seater chairlift with pull-down

new development, which will see the new

skiers can use it to get up the slopes too.

weather protection covers.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

seekers who stayed in a hotel

ski lifts was deemed no longer economically viable.

013 // OCT18

SHUTTERSTOCK

FIVE

REASONS

TO

VISIT

LES GETS

Brilliant for Beginners & Families

Skiing for All Abilities

Traditional Mountain Village Charm

Convenience

A Wealth of Accommodation Choice

Les Gets is arguably one of the

More advanced skiers are sure

Les Gets is a beautiful mountain

Another benefit of the small-

Though Les Gets is a small

best areas in the world to learn

to enjoy the skiing here as much

village with a traditional charm

town charm of Les Gets is

resort, you are by no means

to ski, with gentle, accessible

as their children, with the vast

that larger, more purpose-built

that the entire resort is easily

limited in accommodation

slopes and highly qualified

650km Les Portes du Soleil ski

resorts often lack. For families

accessible, with all amenities at

choices. Independent, family-run

instructors. So whether you have

area at their fingertips. You can

after that true chocolate-box

your fingertips. Many chalets are

chalet operators Chalets1066

never stepped on snow before or

even replicate the famous ski

Alpine setting that will fuel

within a few minutes of the slopes,

specialise in the Les Gets area

already have a few weeks’ skiing

test, which must be passed by

festive adventures and inspire

meaning none of those dreaded

and have a vast choice of

under your belt, you’re sure to

French instructors and often

youngsters’ imaginations,

lengthy walks with heavy skis

chalets. They also offer a tailor-

find Les Gets the perfect place to

takes place on the slopes from

there’s nowhere better. Here,

and tired children. You are also

made holiday service so that you

help your skiing progress quickly

the Pleney into Morzine. In the

small-town ambience and quiet

never far away from a cosy bar,

can choose exactly the levels

and effectively. With a fantastic

local area, a number of blacks

tree-lined local slopes combine

great restaurant or well-stocked

and details of service you want,

festive calendar, dedicated

will entertain advanced skiers,

with the added benefit of easy

supermarket here, with everything

from economy to highest luxury.

children’s skiing areas and

including the respected Yeti run

access to the huge Portes du

you might need within walking

You can work around your

entertaining non-skiing activities,

in Les Gets “bowl”.

Soleil ski area for a perfect

distance. This convenience

needs, your budget and your

winter getaway.

extends to the journey from the

preferences to create your truly

UK, with Les Gets only a short

perfect holiday.

it’s an ideal place for youngsters (and adults!) to learn to ski.

NICOLAS JOLY

transfer from Geneva Airport.

014 // OCT18

CHALETS1066.COM

016 // OCT18  PROMO

@INTHESNOWMAG

NILS LOUNA/AGENCE ZOOM

© LUKA LEROY

THIBAUT BLAIS/AGENCE ZOOM

DAVID GOUEL

AGENCE ZOOM

CHRISTOPHE PALLOT/AGENCE ZOOM

If you fancy a little sunshine alongside your deep snow this winter it might be time to travel to visit the largest ski area in the Southern Alps, Serre Chevalier Briançon – which boasts 300 sunny days a year!

Côte Chevalier lift will mean getting from Villeneuve to Chantemerle will be much easier and much faster (3,000 people per hour instead of 1,800pph on the old lift it replaces).

Guests visiting Serre Chevalier Briançon this winter will also find the new 4 hotel has opened in Monêtier les Bains. The Hotel Le Monêtier offers a choice of

NILS LOUNA/AGENCE ZOOM

21 spacious rooms, each with a south-facing terrace Although one of the less well known of the giant

and balcony. The hotel is decorated in the spirit of

French ski areas in Britain at least, “Serre Che” – as

a charming mountain lodge and also has a well-

it’s known to its friends – certainly has the stats that

being area and a restaurant, Le Stabatio, with terrace

stack up alongside the biggest of the rest, with 3,901

providing 180° view of the slopes.

hectares of skiable terrain (the largest in the region),

Finally, an interesting new attraction is a cryotherapy

divided into more than 80 runs for all tastes and ability

centre, GoCryo, which has opened in Briançon.

levels and served by no less than 59 fast ski lifts.

Cryotherapy, long used by top athletes, is well known

There are four play zones on the slopes including

for its effectiveness in the fields of sports, health and

a huge terrain park and a boardercross course and

well-being and is increasingly recognised by the

those concerned about snow reliability wherever they

medical profession. It is great for athletes for optimal

book these days will be reassured to know that 80%

recovery and increased physical performance.

of the area’s ski runs sit above 2,000m high.

It is well known for its ability to reduce symptoms in joint

But having given you those world-class stats I have to

and neurological diseases such as polyarthritis, multiple

tell you Serre Che is not actually about the stats; it’s

sclerosis and osteoarthritis. It is also useful in helping

all about the resort itself.

post-surgical and post-traumatic recovery. It can also

Serre Chevalier is made up of a number of hamlets and

help skin diseases, sleep problems, depression, and

villages spread along the Guisane Valley floor from the

vascular problems.

old walled town of Briançon, itself a UNESCO World

Following extensive research, GoCryo have installed

Heritage Site. The resort has a long history (the first ski

an electric chamber, which, unlike liquid nitrogen used

school in France was established here in 1902) but over

in some centres, enables whole body immersion. The

the years has tried hard to avoid the “concrete-monolith-

temperature is between -80°C and -100°C and a session

mentality” of some of the other big French resorts, and

lasts around three minutes.

there is a good proportion of traditional buildings and

The GoCryo centre has been opened by Leo Meyer,

authentic architecture in the villages, despite Serre

an osteopath with 20 years’ experience, to enable

Chevalier’s success and inevitable growth.

sportsmen and women and the general public to benefit

So in other words, if you want a real community in

from this innovative and highly effective treatment.

beautiful natural surroundings as well as great snow and plenty of sunshine, Serre Chevalier Briançon is the resort for you.

THIBAUT BLAIS/AGENCE ZOOM

This winter the resort will be open for the weekend of

Your Holiday in Serre Chevalier Briançon

7–9 December 2018 and then non-stop 15 December 2018–22 April 2019 – taking in the late Easter holiday.

Lots of leading ski holiday companies offer package

Special events this season include the Altitude Jazz

holidays to Serre Chevalier Briançon including Club

Festival back from 19 January to 1 February 2019 with

Med, Crystal, Inghams, Lagrange, Peak Retreats, Ski

concerts all over the valley and the third edition of

Independence and Zenith, among others.

Serre Chevalier’s Grand Prix which looks set to be

It’s also easy to book direct with the best deal from

crazier than ever when it takes place on 16 March

€225pppw (around £200pppw) including your

2019. Over 1,500 skiers/snowboarders participated in

apartment for seven nights + a six-day ski pass! Book on

the last edition!

serrechevalier-reservation.com

What’s New This Winter?

You can reach Serre Chevalier Briançon by flying to Turin airport (Italy) then Linkbus shuttle or car (1.5 hours), or Grenoble airport then Linkbus shuttle or car (2 hours)

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

Regular visitors to Serre Chevalier Briançon will be

or Lyon airport then Linkbus shuttle or car (3 hours).

excited to discover a brand new 6-person high-

You can also arrive by rail from the UK in to Briançon’s

speed chairlift in the Villeneuve area following a €10

own station or to Oulx station in Italy then taking the

million (around £8.9 million) investment. The new

connecting shuttle (45 min).

SERRECHEVALIER-RESERVATION.COM

ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL

ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL

I9 JAN I9 ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL

I9 JAN I9

I2–I3 JAN I9

Ladies Downhill World Cup

79th Lauberhorn Men’s World Cup

Ladies Downhill World Cup

St Anton, Austria

Wengen, Switzerland

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

Four weeks after the annual Criterium de Neige

Downhill: The men’s tour ramps up with the Wengen

After the Arlberg, there’s no rest for the speed queens as

competition in Val d’Isère, the world’s fastest women are

classic, the Lauberhorn, known among other things for

they head to the iconic “Queen of the Dolomites”, which will

back in action, hopefully none the worse for Christmas

seeing the highest speeds achieved on the circuit (up to

itself be hosting the World Championships (in Åre in Feb) in

and New Year excesses. arlbergkandaharrennen.com

163kph) and being the longest at 4.4km. lauberhorn.ch/en

two years’ time. cortinaclassic.com

I–I0 FEB I9

GRAEME MURRAY/RED BULL CONTENT POOL

2 FEB I9

SAMO VIDIC/RED BULL

ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL

26 JAN I9

79th Hahnenkamm Men’s World Cup

Garmisch Men’s World Cup Downhill

Freestyle, Freeski & Snowboard Worlds

Kitzbühel, Austria

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

Utah, USA

Downhill and Slalom: The Grand National of the ski

A little overshadowed by Lauberhorn and Hahnenkamm,

Britain will be hoping to bring home some medals

racing world, the Hahnenkamm is the race everyone

the annual Garmisch race on the famed Kandahar course is

in some of our strongest disciplines, including

wants to win as much as, or perhaps more than,

the final test for the world’s fastest men ahead of the World

slopestyle and big air, staged across three resorts.

Olympic gold. hahnenkamm.com/en

Championships. skiweltcup-garmisch.com/en/race

2019worldchamps.com

THE

BIG 2 MAR I9

20I9

II–I7 MAR I9

ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL

FRODE SANDBECH/RED BULL

5–I7 FEB I9

RACES

The FIS Alpine World Champs

Men’s World Cup Downhill

World Cup Finals

Åre, Sweden

Kvitfjell, Norway

Soldeu, Andorra

The biggest event in the alpine racing calendar

The last speed competition for the men before the

Staged for the first time in Andorra, the finals see

besides the Olympics, this time they’re back in

finals in Soldeu. No doubt some will be wanting to

the 25 best men and women skiers in slalom, giant

Sweden, only 12 years after they were last at

prove themselves after failing to perform as hoped in

slalom, super-G and downhill compete in the World

Åre. Britain will want to build momentum after

Åre, while those who did do well in Sweden will want

Cup for the title in each discipline. grandvalira.com/

Pyeongchang. are2019.com

to build on their success. worldcup.kvitfjell.no

en/fis-ski-world-cup-finals-andorra-2019

018 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

KURT MÜLLER

LA ROSIÈRE TO OPEN NEW MOUNTAIN

ANOTHER 8KM OF PISTE IN THE PYRENEES

WORLD’S HIGHEST 3S LIFT TO BE ONE OF TWO

The French ski resort of La Rosière has announced it

Baqueira Beret ski resort in the Spanish Pyrenees

The new Matterhorn glacier ride lift, which opened at the

is opening a new mountain face for the coming winter,

will reach a total of 160km of piste with the opening

end of September, is just the first phase of a multi-resort

meaning it will have more slopes with more vertical

of a new area to skiers and boarders this winter.

cross-border lift-link between Italy and Switzerland.

drops.

The new runs, covering around 2.27 hectares, will

Work on the new lift, which has 25 cabins, each containing

Two new six-seater chairlifts and resulting new terrain

be created in the resort’s os Baciver area, close to

28 seats, including four “Crystal glide” cabins encrusted with

will have a significant impact on the Espace San

the Saumets zone.

Swarovski crystals, has involved three 100-day construction

Bernardo ski area that the resort shares with La Thuile

A new mile-long surface lift with a capacity of 800

periods over the past three summers due to the extreme

on the Italian side of the border.

people per hour will provide access to the new

weather conditions at “Europe’s highest building site”.

Firstly, it will take the height of the resort’s highest lift up

area. The new lift will take the resort’s hourly uplift

Now the lift company is keen to start work on the

from around 2,640m to 2,800m, increasing the skiable

capacity to 61,024 people.

second lift, instead of dismantling the cranes that have

vertical by 160 metres to around 1,350 vertical metres.

“It really is a beautiful area where the freeriding

been built at around 3,800m which will be needed for it.

Secondly, the five new red runs that will be created will

will be the main draw with lots of off-piste areas to

“The construction of the world’s highest 3S cableway

increase the amount of skiable terrain by nearly 40km

enjoy easy and safe free skiing,” said Commercial

is just the first stage in the realisation of a much more

to just under 200km. There will also be access to lots of

Director Xavi Ubeira.

far-reaching vision: to create a continuous connection

freeriding terrain.

Baqueira is also improving its snowmaking system

between Zermatt and Italy, the so-called Alpine

The news of the “new mountainside” was first

and adding two new grooming machines to its fleet.

Crossing,” a spokesperson said.

announced in the UK by tour operator Peak Retreats.

One of the biggest international events at the

The crossing will be completed via a lift between the

“With a limit on beds, the plans will expand La Rosière

resort this winter will be a Snowboard Cross World

Klein Matterhorn and Testa Grigia (3,479m), a rocky

while maintaining its family-friendly atmosphere that

Cup on 1–2 March, with the best riders from around

prominence on the Swiss/Italian border above Cervinia.

brings loyal families back time and time again,” said a

the world competing.

Some reports in the Italian media have suggested the

spokesperson. peakretreats.co.uk

second new lift could be completed by 2020.

20,000 HAPPY SKIERS CAN’T BE WRONG IN 2017, WE TOOK OVER 20,000 BOOKING ENQUIRIES FOR CHALETS, APARTMENTS & HOTELS. WE HAVE THOUSANDS OF PROPERTIES ACROSS THE WORLD AT YOUR FINGERTIPS FOR YOU TO BOOK DIRECT.

SKI THE GLOBE www.chaletf inde r.c om

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

@INTHESNOWMAG

SUN PEAKS / KELLY FUNK

Head to one of the world’s great skiing wonderlands in the ski season but don’t actually ski? Why would you? Well, it seems perfect powder is no longer enough, and more and more of us seek winter holidays that offer other activities. And being BC, the activity providers have to do things XL, better than all the rest.

the 40-second elevator ride up the 168.6m-high

sit in with one of the team whose job it is to smooth

Vancouver Lookout tower for 360° views of the city

the slopes each night. We were picked up from the

before heading down to Spokes bike rentals, from

base lodge by a couple of piste-bashers (which was

where we headed off for a ride around the 8km-long

pretty special in itself) and headed up the mountain

Stanley Park Seawall, a popular excursion providing

soon after the lifts had closed for the day.

more great views back towards the city.

Suffice to say grooming a slope is not as easy as you might think, so every night’s grooming is

Whistler

meticulously planned for maximum efficiency.

It takes 100 minutes on the Sea-to-Sky Highway to

Next morning was dog sledding with Mountain Man

reach Whistler where we booked in to the wonderful

Dog Sled Adventures. You have the choice of just

Fairmont Chateau Whistler, a resort in its own right

riding along or taking a turn at being a “musher”

Anyway, the idea of going to BC last Easter on a family

with great restaurants, shopping and a swimming

yourself with expert instruction from the team. Dog

road trip and not skiing was pure madness, obviously,

pool and spa. We could rent our ski gear in the hotel

sledding is always a wonderful way to explore the

but it was a challenge I was up for (well, so long as it

and board the lift steps from the rental shop.

back country when you get the opportunity, and this

didn’t matter if I sneakily broke the “no ski” rule).

The highlight of our 48 hours’ not skiing in Whistler

was no exception and the perfect way to round off

was undoubtedly the zip lining.

our BC-(almost)-No-Ski trip.

Vancouver

Nerves aren’t completely allayed by the

Had we had time we might also have tried

Eight time zones west of the UK, Vancouver is

comprehensive induction before you set off, and the

snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ski biking, a sleigh ride

probably not top of the list for most Brits’ weekend

custom 4x4 over snow ascent to the start of the first

or one of 101 other activities now available in Sun

city break, yet when you are travelling across the

parallel cables – the ends of which disappear in the

Peaks, Whistler and Vancouver – besides skiing or

Atlantic and across North America, it makes sense

mist across the valley – doesn’t ease the fear either.

boarding that is. Alas we didn’t, but I can confirm it

to stop over in one of the world’s most vibrant cities

But then the sheer joy as you fly out on some of the

is definitely possible to go on a winter holiday to BC,

before heading into the mountains.

world’s highest (nearly 200m above the ground) and

not ski (if you must) and still have a great time.

We made the smart move of starting our trip by

longest wires travelling at speeds of up to 100kph

staying at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport. Going

feels very special indeed.

BC Info

so far and not leaving the airport on arrival may seem a little mad, but it was wonderful to just go a

Sun Peaks

short distance through the airy terminal and check

It was a fabulous drive over from Whistler through

Vancouver: tourismvancouver.com

in. The big guest rooms, spa, great staff and many

spectacular scenery, which is really what a visit to

Fairmont Vancouver Airport: fairmont.com/

other positives mean it was no surprise to read

BC is all about.

vancouver-airport-richmond

that the hotel has been voted the best in any North

I first visited what is today Canada’s second biggest

Whistler: whistler.com/uk/

American airport for five years straight.

ski area around 15 years ago and was delighted

Whistler Zip Lining: SuperflyZiplines.com

Next morning we headed into downtown

to see that while it had certainly grown since, it

Fairmont Chateau Whistler: Fairmont.com/whistler

Vancouver early (the upside of the jetlag is you’re

remains a wonderful family-friendly resort with a

Sun Peaks: sunpeaksresort.com

raring to go at 5am!) .

compact centre, with everything you need steps

Sun Peaks Cat Trax Groomer Rides: CA$49pp

First stop were the cobblestone streets of Gastown,

from your hotel-room door.

(around £29pp) (min 14 years old)

the city’s most historic neighbourhood now lined

The first non-ski activity was a groomer ride-along.

Sun Peaks Mountain Man Dog Sled Adventures:

with enticing cafés and boutiques. Next we took

This is not so much a scenic tour, but the chance to

mountainmanadventures.ca

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

Tourism BC: hellobc.com

READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE AT INTHESNOW.COM

GEPA PICTURES/RED BULL CONTENT POOL

a

c r

l e

@INTHESNOWMAG

h c

s r i

H l

r e N GA ME : S RD WO

ES GH U H

with a bad setup for the day,” he admits happily. “That is really sometimes the difference.”

He is also very aware of the advantages he has had as an Austrian, growing up surrounded by mountains. “In Austria we have everything – a team, a federation, ski clubs, normal snow, perfect

Hirscher, Marcel Hirscher” begin to

conditions, you can ski here everywhere,”

filter through to our ears, a crowd of

he acknowledges.

young skiing fans having gathered at

So what does he make of fellow

the entrance to the restaurant where we

competitor and GB’s top slalom skier

are sat. Austrian fans are renowned for

Dave Ryding, who began his skiing

being some of the most passionate in the

career on Pendle Dry Slope? “I saw on

world and Hirscher is their hero. It’s an

the TV a documentary of Dave Ryding,”

adulation that provides both incredible

Hirscher says. “I was close to tears. I had

elation but also immense pressure. The

goosebumps. That was unbelievable.”

have been running rife about Hirscher’s

expectations to perform are as high as

Admitting he has only ever skied on a

future. Is he retiring? Not quite. But he’s

can be – failure is not an option.

dry slope once, he laughs, “Usually in

definitely rethinking his priorities.

“Second place is already a big disaster,”

Austria we use these mats for our shoes

“The last 15 years, they were 100% about

he says. “For me personally, if I have

and our feet!” before turning serious. “To

being a professional athlete,” Hirscher

done my best, fifth place can be

ski there on dry slopes, it is really hard.

explains. “Now a lot of other positive things

wonderful. But it is the people, the

I mean really. If you really want it, I think

are coming into my life and I can’t manage

expectation is already that high that

everything is possible, and Dave’s story is

both of them. But I’m not ready to quit

there’s no feeling anymore. That is what

telling us exactly this.”

racing, so my dream is to bring everything

I feel sometimes. The people are not

Indeed, in 2017, Dave achieved the best-

together but to make a little compromise

thinking anymore what’s normal and

ever finish for a British skier in a slalom

with family, especially with ski racing.”

what isn’t; they always think this winning,

race, finishing in second place at Kitzbühel,

Hirscher’s decision to take a step back

winning, winning performance is normal.”

behind none other than Hirscher himself.

comes after one of his most successful

Yet if there’s anyone who makes

Was Hirscher surprised to see him there?

seasons to date. After fracturing his ankle

winning look normal, it’s Hirscher,

He shakes his head. “Not really. I saw Dave

during pre-season training, hopes for

whose record includes 58 World Cup

years before training next to my course; his

Hirscher’s 2017/18 season weren’t high,

wins, nine World Championship medals

technique is one of the smartest we have

but Hirscher actually believes that this

and two Olympic medals.

on the tour”. Then, the words us Brits long

The last few years have been pretty good

injury took the pressure of him, allowing

Despite this though, Hirscher doesn’t

to hear: “I’m sure he will take his chance to

to Marcel Hirscher. The 2017/18 season saw

him to enjoy his racing. “It hurt like hell

actually believe he is the best slalom

win a World Cup race”.

him claim two Olympic gold medals and

but at the end of the day, it was sort of a

skier in the world. “I’m not the better

However, this may be difficult while

three FIS World Cup titles, meaning that

free season for myself,” he says. “It was

skier, no, no,” he shakes his head. “But

Hirscher is around. Even though he may

he now holds a record seven consecutive

wonderful, it was so unexpected that I

95% of the races we are really on board

be toning it down this season, he still

World Cup titles and is regarded by many

was able to win already the early races.”

with the equipment.” Indeed, Hirscher is

believes he can win races and improve on

as the best alpine skier ever.

However, the pressure that comes

a self-confessed “gear geek” and wholly

his performances. “If I stop thinking that

However, following his recent marriage

with being a top athlete soon returned.

believes an athlete’s gear is what makes

there is an opportunity to get better every

and news of a baby on the way, rumours

Indeed, as we talk, chants of “Marcel

the difference. “I will never win a race

day, then it is better to stop right now.”

The first skier to win seven overall titles but he insists, “I’m not the better skier”. We speak to the slalom star about pressure, perfection and what the future has in store.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE AT INTHESNOW.COM

P A K I S T A N Like India or China, your first thought of Pakistan might well be of a hot country, with a dry season and a rainy season, and you wouldn’t be far wrong. But flat it isn’t, and the country’s Northern Highlands are home to five of the fourteen “eightthousanders” (mountain peaks over 8,000m), which attract adventurers and mountaineers from all over the world, notably the world’s secondhighest peak, K2 (8,611m).

most illustrious resort, Malam Jabba, has a

lift. The Taliban were driven out two years

years had a primitive drag lift, but a new

very checkered history, but it is now back

later in 2009. In 2014/15 a rudimentary

chairlift donated by the Swiss ski resort of

in business. Malam Jabba, Pakistan’s only

cable lift was installed followed by a

Villars allowed for the main ski run to be

international-standard resort, is located

Chinese-made chairlift, and the hotel is

extended to a mile long and uplift capacity

more than 2,600m up in the country’s

being rebuilt.

multiplied tenfold from 50 to 500 skiers

picturesque Swat Valley. Originally built

The resort gets 1–3m of snowfall on

per hour.

three decades ago in 1988 it has been

average annually and is very popular with

The President of the Ski Federation of

able to operate in total only 10 years out

thousands of people clogging the roads

Pakistan, Air Marshal Khan, declared

of the past 30. The resort was created

up to it just to enjoy the snow.

the project as being “… of strategic

in cooperation with Austrian specialists

The other side of Pakistan’s ski business

importance for development and

but remained “mothballed” for a decade

is linked to its military with the country’s

promotion of skiing in the country,” at the

before finally being opened by Pakistan’s

army in particular running half a dozen

time and predicted Naltar would become

then president in the late 1990s. It was

small ski fields themselves.

an international-standard ski facility and

originally equipped with two chairlifts, a

But in recent years the country has been

help attract national and international

hotel, restaurants and a coffee shop.

trying to open these up to a wider skiing

tourism, helping the area’s economy.

In 2007 it was taken over by the Taliban,

audience. There was, for example, a small

He said that the Pakistan Air Force would

Organised ski areas with lifts are, it’s true,

who destroyed most of the facilities,

ski area at Naltar, formerly a preserve of

continue to support the Federation to

few and far between, and the country’s

setting fire to the hotel and destroying the

the Pakistan Air Force, which for many

promote ski sport in Pakistan.

024 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

VALENTIN LUTHIGER

TSCHUGGEN UNVEILS PRIVATE SKIERS FUNICULAR

HOW MUCH SNOW IS THERE ON EARTH?

NEW BIG CENTRAL SWISS SKI AREA COMPLETE

There’ll be a new attraction for skiers at the Tschuggen

NASA is reported to be spearheading an attempt

The Andermatt–Sedrun ski area will be fully linked in both

Grand Hotel in Arosa’s “Private Mountain” opening

to ascertain exactly how much snow there is in the

directions for the coming season, completing the ski area

event this November.

world. The US space agency’s SnowEx project has

development part of a project that had been described as

A new improved version of the hotel’s remarkable

initially focused on research areas in Colorado and

the biggest construction effort in Switzerland.

private mini-funicular railway, used to whisk guests the

California, trying to accurately measure how much

The connection of Andermatt and Sedrun to create the

short distance to the slopes, has been installed, and

snow cover there is at any one time.

largest ski resort in Central Switzerland, with 120km of

which a spokesperson says is even faster and more

It is known that at its peak each winter, snow

runs, has been planned for many years and is linked to

comfortable than the original.

covers around 31% of the earth’s land surface, but

a 5 resort development by Egyptian billionaire Samih

The lift comprises two linked six-seater cabins, a little like

accurately measuring volume has proved much

Sawiris in Andermatt following the CHF130 million

luxurious gondola cabins, but on rails. A special lift pass,

more problematic, especially as around half the

(around £102 million) spend on ski area upgrades.

for hotel guests only, calls the lift to its mini station by the

snow is “hidden” by tree cover. The SnowEx answer

There are a total of 10 new and upgraded ski lifts (mostly

hotel, if it is not already waiting there, and guests board

is to use a number of different measuring systems,

large, high-speed chair and gondola lifts) completing the

for the two-and-a-half-minute ride up to the ski slopes.

including detecting radiation in different parts of the

two-way connection between the formerly separate ski

The lift travels a little over 500m on an undulating rail

electromagnetic spectrum, from the visible to the

areas. A kilometre-long chairlift, with pull-down weather

line, climbing 154 vertical metres from the hotel, at

microwave, to provide a solution.

protection shields and an uplift capacity of 1,600 people

1,850m above sea level, to deposit skiers and boarders

Accurate water-content-of-snow data is seen as a

per hour, was completed in March. Its upper station is

upon the slopes, at 2,004m.

“holy grail” of global data collection because of the

housed in the same building as the mountain station of the

Guests of the Tschuggen Grand have exclusive use

value of the water for agriculture around the world.

new 10-passenger gondola “Schneehüenerstock-Express”,

of Arosa’s ski slopes for a preview weekend known

The data is also important in recording a key factor

which has been completed over the summer and will run

as “Private Mountain”, which this year runs from 29

in climate change, with more extensive snow cover

from the Oberalppass to the Schneehüenerstock this

November to 2 December.

believed to be more likely to slow global warming.

season, the final step in the project.

ori eseason!

Do M This sk 97pp Ski apts from £

Save £££’s on self-drive

Save £££’s on hotels

Chalets from £119pp

Call us on 0203 137 7678

• Italy • France • Austria • Switzerland • The Pyrenees • Norway • Sp ain • Andorra • Slovenia & Slo vakia

% Save a further 5 using the code t S5 at checkou

IT

www.zenithholidays.co.uk/2019 Terms and conditions apply

@INTHESNOWMAG

© TVB INNSBRUCK / KLAUS POLZER

THE AUSTRIAN TIROL REGION IS HOME TO MORE THAN 80 SKI AREAS AND THEY COME IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES, BUT SOME ARE MORE POPULAR WITH US BRITS THAN OTHERS ARE.

Tiroler Zugspitz Arena is made up of seven picturesque villages, each perfect for family ski holidays together.

Altogether, there are 139km of runs, and while the majority of the terrain is easy or intermediate level, there are more challenging slopes too, along with freeride opportunities. Or you might prefer to just kick back and soak up the amazing natural beauty of this region.

When you think of Tirol, your first thought may be of cosy villages with lights twinkling invitingly from their traditional chalet-style buildings while up above there are endless kilometres of piste carved down through the wooded valley scenery.

That’s all very true of course, but there are other types © TIROL WERBUNG

of ski resorts in Tirol too. Do you fancy a city break with access to high-altitude glacier skiing on your lift pass? Well, you could base yourself in the province’s capital, Innsbruck. Or do you want to party all night as hard as you have skied all day? Then there are several options here, but perhaps Ischgl is the most famous. How about some legendary steep and deep

3 SÖLDEN & OBERGURGL-HOCHGURGL

powder? That would be St. Anton.

A nine-month ski season at the resort where James

The list goes on and on, but for now here are 10 of the

Bond lives.

most popular with Brits.

If one snow-sure high-altitude ski resort isn’t enough for you, how about two? Neighbouring Obergurgl and Sölden in the Ötztal Valley both have strong individual personalities but also complement each other perfectly. Obergurgl-Hochgurgl is the highest traditional resort in Austria and has one of its longest ski seasons, opening its 110km of runs

TVB PAZNAUN - ISCHGL

for the ski season from mid-November each year.

Sölden meanwhile has twin glaciers and stages the first races in the annual World Cup calendar in late October. It’s home to the stunning glass ice Q restaurant, which featured in the James Bond film Spectre. A new permanent audiovisual 007

1 ISCHGL

exhibition is here too: 007 Elements.

Open from November to May, partying every night.

Ischgl boasts one of the world’s longest ski seasons, from November to May. The season always starts and ends with a big music concert – stars like Elton, Kylie, Robbie and many others have headlined Ischgl.

The long season is in part thanks to lifts rising up CHRISTOPH JORDA

to 2,800m above the village, and there’s a mighty snowmaking arsenal as well. It’s big too, with 239km of runs stretching over the Swiss border to duty-free Samnaun. Throw in an amazing après-ski scene, some designer shopping and a Michelin-starred restaurant and you have a very special resort indeed.

2 TIROLER ZUGSPITZ ARENA

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

4 INNSBRUCK The stunning city in the Alps that’s surrounded by ski areas.

A hidden gem of natural beauty with cosy villages,

Innsbruck is a vibrant and bustling small city with a

beautiful panoramas and wonderful skiing.

compact centre. The mountains tower up all around

027 // OCT18  PROMO

BERGBAHNEN SOELDEN RUDI WYHLIDAL

this cultural metropolis, which has twice hosted

dimensions, with 284km of piste served by 90 fast,

cosmopolitan mix of accommodation, shopping and

the Winter Olympics. It’s only a short drive from the

modern and comfortable ski lifts. Of course, that

dining, Kitzbühel is a popular destination all year

city’s hotels to more than half a dozen great ski

means that if you like to whizz around seemingly

round. But it remains a ski resort in its DNA and sits at

areas, or you can hop on the cable car from the city

endless slopes clocking up the kilometres, it’s

the heart of a great ski region that extends for almost

centre and reach the top of the Nordkette within

perfect. Even if you prefer to take things at a more

160km of ski slopes, open from October to May. Every

minutes. All these areas are included on a regional

leisurely pace, there are 77 mountain huts available.

January, the world’s bravest and best skiers tackle the

pass, which also includes a bus connection from the

The ski area interconnects the skiing above nine

most famous downhill run on the World Cup circuit:

city centre to the ski slopes. You’ll want to save time

Tirolean villages, so wherever you choose to stay,

the Hahnenkamm. Skiers reach up to 140kph as they

to explore the university city itself, with its historic

you can access it all, and it’s easy to get to – just an

almost fly down the technical, extremely challenging

buildings, great shopping, excellent restaurant

hour from Innsbruck, Salzburg and Munich airports.

course, as they have done for 80 years now.

choices and lively nightlife – all just a short hop from the airport too, of course.

5 SKI JUWEL

7 ST. JOHANN IN TIROL A long-time favourite with plenty to do on and off the slopes.

St. Johann in Tirol has been drawing British skiers to

ski areas into one of the best.

its friendly ski slopes for more than 70 years. Today,

Ski Juwel was created when two of the most

there are 43km of runs served by 17 modern lifts,

picturesque valleys in the region, Alpbachtal and

making it perfect for beginners and intermediates

Wildschönau, decided that after 50 years of operating

(with some tough terrain and freeriding opportunities

separately, they’d join their ski areas together to

too). You can also buy a regional pass for a few euros

create one of the 10 biggest regions in Tirol. There’s

more that provides access to dozens of neighbouring

109km of piste offering lots of family-friendly terrain

ski areas. St. Johann’s visitors can also enjoy the

but also some challenging black runs and exciting

historic town centre, with its enticing shops and cafés.

10 MAYRHOFEN

freeride opportunities too. Add to the offer some highly

The beautiful countryside surrounding the resort is

One of Austria’s most popular choices for Brits in a

regarded ski schools, fun off-slope activities and a

also great for winter hiking, cross-country skiing or

famous skiing valley.

strong heritage of producing great local cuisine and it’s

snowshoeing.

State-of-the-art lifts and terrain for every level have

easy to see why Ski Juwel is so popular.

made Mayrhofen a firm favourite with Brits for

8 ST. ANTON AM ARLBERG SKIWELT WILDER KAISER BRIXENTAL

C. JORDA

Two beautiful villages combine their

generations. Easy to reach and filled with lovely family-run hotels, along with great restaurants and

Ski by day, party by night.

bars, all set in the stunning scenery of the Ziller

Part of Austria’s biggest ski area, St. Anton is where it

Valley – what’s not to love? The local ski area is part

all began – the first downhill skiing in the style we use

of the bigger Zillertal Valley ski pass, which extends

today was perfected here more than 100 years ago. It’s

to 515km of piste. There are groomed pistes to suit

most famous today for its challenging off-piste terrain

all tastes, right up to the steepest groomed run in

and also for the full-on après-ski party scene that

Austria, Harakiri, along with terrain parks and plenty

accompanies it. But there is a softer side to St. Anton,

of freeride terrain too.

with a whole separate mountain of predominantly easy

6 SKIWELT WILDER KAISER-BRIXENTAL

and intermediate-level terrain. Après-ski is big here,

Both easyJet and British Airways now offer regular

with the slopeside bars busy from 3pm.

flights from London (Heathrow and Gatwick) to Innsbruck all year round – perfect for an earlyseason ski on the glaciers. From December

So big you never need ski the same run twice!

9 KITZBÜHEL

Most areas in Tirol offer enough skiing to keep you

One of the most cosmopolitan resorts in the Alps,

Gatwick, starting at just £28 one-way, while British

entertained for at least a week, but with the SkiWelt

with a great ski-racing heritage.

Airways flies eight times a week from Heathrow,

Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, the ski area has really XL

With its ancient heart, picturesque scenery and

alongside its regular Gatwick service.

028 // OCT18  PROMO

onwards, easyJet runs double daily flights from

VISITTIROL.CO.UK

ROGER MOSS

Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices

5% DISCOUNT

QUOTE CODE 'ITS'

Arêches-Beaufort Peak Retreats, which specialise in off-the-beaten-track (for Brits) French ski resorts, often located in or close to the country’s bestknown giant ski areas but offering a quiet “back door” in at a much lower cost, has found another choice unknown to the UK market: Arêches-Beaufort.

With Mont Blanc as its backdrop, Arêches-Beaufort itself has 50km of pistes and a top resort height of 2,320m, but it is also within easy driving distance of Les Contamines (with 120km of pistes) and Les Saisies (which has 192km of pistes). There is about 1,200m of vertical, more than a dozen lifts and runs for all standards plus a terrain park locally.

Peak Retreats offers self-catered apartments at the brand new 4★ La Clé des Cîmes residence in the village, due to open this December 2018. La Clé des Cîmes sits 400m

Described as “a typical Beaufortain village resort in the

from the resort centre and a three-minute shuttle bus ride

heart of the Savoie” by Peak Retreats, from whom it is

from the nearest lift and ski school meeting point (there is

their 57th resort choice, Arêches-Beaufort is located

a bus stop outside the residence).

20km from the town of Albertville, base for the 1992

Facilities are to include a reception, lounge, kids/

Winter Olympics. Skiing here dates back to the 1930s.

teenagers clubs, indoor heated pool, wellness area,

The authentic, traditional resort, known for its cheese

Jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, ski lockers and underground

(Beaufort!), is a year-round working village with

parking with a restaurant also planned.

independent local businesses including ski-hire shops

Seven nights self-catered cost from £181pp including

and restaurants. There is also non-ski childcare available

a return Eurotunnel crossing with a free upgrade to

as well as a ski school.

FlexiPlus.

High Quality Catered + Self Catered Accommodation French and Swiss Alps Snow Sure Resorts On / Near Piste locations No Hidden Extras

ROGER MOSS

Financially Bonded

0151 625 1921 mountainheaven.co.uk FB.COM/LTMOUNTAINS FB.COM/INTHESNOW

PEAKRETREATS.CO.UK

a Chalet in the Time Zone of Your Choice Price from: €22,800 (around £20,300) to €137,800 (around £122,650)

030 // OCT18

Booking an expensive luxury chalet in the Alps usually comes with many perks. Gourmet food and free-flowing unlimited champagne is a given, as is a team of staff ready to meet your every need, including a concierge service to ensure the skiing bit goes seamlessly and (for you) effortlessly. These days you can find lots of additional services available too – perhaps a “dog nanny” for example?

Discreetly set back from the main road, Chalet Marco Polo features a large living area set around a central fireplace opening on to a large balcony with outdoor kitchen and heated seating, offering panoramic views of the notorious La Face piste.

The chalet features its own indoor swimming pool with Jet Stream tiles and gold leaf design by Christian Lacroix, an indoor hot tub, hammam, three massage and treatment rooms, one with a hydromassage bed, and can accommodate up to 10 adults and four children sharing six rooms.

But how about giving you the power to

The chalet also includes a fully equipped

control time itself?

gym with two of each machine so there’s

That was the challenge faced by staff from

no squabbling over who uses what when,

Consensio Chalets last season when a

a games and entertainment room with pool

guest from Asia requested his chalet in the

table, a bar and a wine and cheese tasting

French Alps was run on Hong Kong time,

cellar and two bars.

that’s seven hours ahead of European time,

New this year is a retro 8 car racing game

so that it was easy for him to stick to his

(think Scalextric for grown-ups) and a

business timetable.

biathlon laser shooting game.

It wasn’t as simple as just switching the

The chalet’s ski room is actually a

whole chalet to Hong Kong time either, as

reconstructed cable car cabin rebuilt in the

while the party leader wanted to work on

chalet’s basement, and ski fitting is done

his local Hong Kong time, his family wanted

inside this.

to ski so needed to be on French time.

Consensio offers Chalet Marco Polo from

To successfully achieve this request

€22,800 (around £20,300) to €137,800

Consensio had two teams working on

(around £122,650) per week (depending on

different schedules to accommodate the

dates), based on up to 10 adults and four

whole party.

children sharing six rooms. This is on a fully

This miracle of having guests living in two

inclusive basis, and includes two hours of

time zones in one building was achieved in

complimentary spa treatments a day, use of

the luxurious Chalet Marco Polo in the heart

all chalet facilities and an in-resort chauffeur

of the French ski resort of Val d’Isère.

driving a 4×4 Caravelle.

CONSENSIOCHALETS.CO.UK

What do you look for when you’re choosing your ski holiday destination each winter?

nice, as well as nice slopeside accommodation so it’s

you get a traditional village oozing charm but where

only a few steps from your bed to the slopes in the

you risk the ski slopes being green grass when you

morning, and vice versa. Lots of exciting terrain, bags

visit, as they’re just too low.

of character, great views and a short airport transfer

But it is possible to find that skiing El Dorado, as

would be the icing on the cake for most of us.

the Austrian resort of Obertauern manages to

You want value of course, but, whatever you’re

Trying to find a resort that ticks all the boxes is always

tick all the boxes. Located only 90 minutes from

paying, you want to be sure that there’ll be snow.

a challenge though. You get high snow-sure resorts

Salzburg Airport, it’s so snow-sure that it is open from

Somewhere with fast, comfortable lifts would be

that are soulless and a long way from the airport, or

November to May.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

031 // OCT18  PROMO

ROHRBACHER18

Snow REALLY Guaranteed

A Quick Bit of History

and tastes. Beginners have some excellent nursery slopes

An increasing number of ski areas are offering, or at least

Obertauern is sometimes referred to as “Austria’s only

around the valley – again, the high altitude of the village

claiming, guaranteed snow, thanks to their snowmaking

purpose-built resort” (although you wouldn’t realise that if

means that resort-level snow isn’t a problem, so no need

systems. At 1,740m up at the base of the ski slopes though,

you weren’t told) because it grew up as the popularity of

to struggle up the mountain on a lift to reach the slopes on

Obertauern has hard data from over 100 years of snow

skiing grew from the 1940s, and even then local people

day one here.

measurements that it has by far the deepest natural average

realised just how reliable the snow cover was in the high

Intermediate-level recreational skiers are really spoiled for

snow depth in Austria.

Tauern Pass where it is located.

choice, with plenty of fast blue and red cruisers to whizz

Ski-tourism researcher Günther Aigner studied about

The first lifts were installed from the edge of the road

around the slopes on and a superb high-speed chairlift

100 years’ worth of snow depth measurements

through the valley and the first hotels were built. Over

network so you are back at the top in no time, clocking up the

gathered by Austrian State Hydrographic Services;

the past 75 years or so, many more have followed, and

kilometres. For a special treat, there’s the option to access the

comparing data from the past 30 years, he determined

Obertauern has become a world-class ski resort.

slopes before everyone else with an 8.30am start possible on

that the snowiest spot in Austria by some distance

But it has stayed true to the values that made it so

the freshly groomed runs each Wednesday morning.

was Obertauern, with a mean maximum snow depth

popular in the first place, with door-step skiing and

For advanced skiers, there are some great challenging

of 264cm, well ahead of the second-placed ski area at

reliable snow cover still its top attractions.

runs too and a reputation for off-piste freeride

197cm – a whole 25% less.

Surprisingly, Aigner’s research also found that, despite

opportunities as well. The groomed runs include the infamous Gamsleiten 2 run, a testing black piste that

climate change, snow depths in Obertauern have not

On the Slopes

changed much in 108 years, and there’s no indication that

The snow-sure ski slopes of Obertauern extend to a

moguls. Ski touring is another option offered by the ski

the snowfall in Obertauern might decrease over time.

huge 100km of runs, with something to suit all standards

schools, including special groups for first-timers.

032 // OCT18  PROMO

features downhill gradients of up to 45° and huge

@INTHESNOWMAG

ROHRBACHER18

To make getting around easy for new arrivals, there are

There are a great range of establishments, from small, cosy,

key pieces of information.

a number of signposted routes around the mountain you

traditional family-run huts serving up home-cooked cuisine

For freestylers, The Spot is one of the great terrain parks

can follow. The Tauernrunde circuit is one of the most

using locally sourced ingredients and cooked to recipes

of the Alps. A full 3km long and chock-full of around 40

popular, while the S7 (Super Seven) route is a tour of the

handed down through families for generations to big party

features divided into three lanes of varying difficulty, it’s

seven highest points of the area.

bars where you can kick back and dance the afternoon and

accessed via the Kehrkopf chair.

Whatever level you’re at, getting on the slopes is easy,

evening away, so long as you have the energy!

And if you’ve not had enough of snowsports during the

with lifts ascending from at least nine points along the valley floor, so there’s no start-of-day bottleneck as

day, night skiing is offered until 10pm weekly from the

everyone tries to board one key access lift at the same

Freeride or Freestyle?

time, as at many resorts.

Freeriding is very popular at Obertauern – not

Cosy Huts

Edelweissbahn, with 1.5km of slopes open.

surprisingly when you consider that its altitude means

Obertauern & The Beatles

that the snow conditions are usually lighter powder

While much of Salzburgerland is associated with Julie

than elsewhere. There’s plenty of great terrain just a

Andrews and the Von Trapp family in the movie classic

There are more than 40 restaurants and mountain huts

few minutes’ walk from the groomed slopes, but it’s well

The Sound of Music, Obertauern has a more remarkable

on the slopes above and in Obertauern, so there are

worth hiring a guide to ensure that you find the best on

claim to fame. The fun-filled snow and ski scenes that

plenty of places to sit down and enjoy a great lunchtime

the day of your visit and ski it with maximum safety. The

appeared in The Beatles movie Help! were shot here.

meal with spectacular views or to stop off at the end of

resort has lots of information and services for freeriders:

It may now be more than five decades since the Fab

the day for some après-ski drinks and perhaps a little

look out for the freeride Checkpoint information boards

Four and a film crew some 60 people strong were in

boogie while the music plays loudly all around you.

showing the current avalanche danger level and other

resort back in 1965, but the locals have never forgotten

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OBERTAUERN.COM

ROHRBACHER18 ROHRBACHER18

034 // OCT18  PROMO

@INTHESNOWMAG

their visit, and there are pictures, monuments and other

ghost train and a wave-riding track encourage the young

memorabilia to be found in many of the village’s hotels

guests to share their Obertauern experiences under the

and restaurants, and even out on the slopes. You may

hashtag #LOVEOBERTAUERN.

even be lucky enough to visit when a Beatles tribute

Bobby’s Ski Adventure is available in the spring as the

band is in town.

weather warms up, with special tours for children up to

The Das Seekarhaus hotel is just one example. Here

the age of five and for those aged 6–14 to experience

you will find a dedicated “Beatles Bar” full of signed

the natural wonders of the region.

photographs, skis worn by the band, a jukebox and even

One unusual attraction is the scarily fun Geisterbahn

a cocktail menu with Beatles-themed drinks. The hotel is

Fairytale Park – a recent addition to the ski area’s long list

owned by a gentleman named Gerhard Krings, who can

of attractions located at the Schaidbergbahn. This features

not only claim to be the proprietor of a very nice hotel

a 30m-long wooden tunnel where a lot of (nicely carved)

but was also George Harrison’s stunt double for the Help!

scary figures await, and there’s also an igloo to visit.

shoot. He’s one of several gentlemen in the resort who

In the ski-hire shops, children aged up to 10 years old

were just young men when The Beatles stopped by but

receive free rentals when their accompanying adult hires

who now own hotels, restaurants, ski lifts and more and

their gear, and it’s also possible to rent any equipment

are big players in the village.

your child may need – from a buggy to skiwear – in the

The Beatles stayed in the Hotel Edelweiss during their

resort at a very reasonable price. Babysitting services are

stay in Obertauern and hosted a wrap party for the film’s

also available if needed.

cast and crew there on the evening of 20 March 1965.

ROHRBACHER18

Speed and Comfort from Hotel to Snow

Après-Ski There are a great range of places to eat, drink and be merry in Obertauern, with more than 100 bars and

One aspect of your ski holiday in which Obertauern really

restaurants to choose from.

excels is the quality of its ski lifts. Almost all of the resort’s

As the lifts close, there are a host of slopeside après-

hotels are located steps from a lift, and the vast majority

ski venues to slide into as bars like the Edelweissalm

of the village’s two dozen or so lifts are fast four-, six- or

Chalet in the Lürzer Alm get the party started with a DJ

eight-seater chairlifts to whisk you straight up the slopes.

performing as skiers start dancing on the tables.

This essentially means more of your holiday is spent

You’ll find a great choice of dining options, with all tastes

doing what you came to the mountains to do – ski!

catered for and many different international cuisines

You’ll reach the lift more quickly, the capacity is so good

on offer, albeit with wholesome and hearty Austrian

that any possible queues are quickly gobbled up even

mountain dishes the most popular, of course.

at peak times and you’re whisked up the slopes more

Later on, establishments like People, Mundwerk and

speedily, so there’s time to get more laps in.

Römerbar stage live gigs and DJ sets while serving

New for the coming 2018/19 season is Obertauern’s

drinks from a vast menu of more than 250 different

latest lift, the Plattenkarbahn, which will feature a

cocktails and some 300 international spirits.

combination of eight-seat chairs and 10-seat gondola cabins on one cable. In a world first, it will feature warm, wool-covered seating.

When Not Skiing There’s plenty more to do in Obertauern when not skiing

Families

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

or boarding – even for people who don’t actually want to ski or board, who just want to enjoy a snowy holiday

Families are made especially welcome in Obertauern,

surrounded by beautiful nature.

with special nursery facilities, children’s menus and many

Outdoors, there are some great cross-country ski routes

other family-friendly facilities in the resort’s hotels.

if you prefer to ski at a slightly gentler pace and incline.

One of the resort’s big advantages for families is that

There is an unusual oppurtunity to try out the exciting

everything is close at hand and easy to see from

sport of biathlon – combining cross-country skiing with

wherever you are at the resort base, so it all feels, and

shooting a rifle on a firing range. Getting the balance

is, easily manageable. On the slopes, there’s a choice

between the exertion of the skiing and the calm needed

of great ski schools offering kids’ lessons and several

to shoot straight is very challenging, but it’s a lot of fun

special areas reserved just for youngsters, including the

trying to get it right.

wonderful Bibo Bear family ski park.

Another on-snow activity not often offered is snow –

An exciting recent development for families on the

kiting, which is a lot like kiting on the water, but on the

slopes of Obertauern is two brand-new marked routes

snow, and there’s a special snow kiting school to teach

around the ski area known as the “Tauern rounds for

you the basics. Snow-biking – a kind of cross between

kids”. These are based on existing routes that have been

cycling and skiing, using skis instead of wheels – is also

popular for years in the area, but the new routes have

popular and great fun.

been especially tailored to the ability and stamina of

Besides biathlon, you can also try another Olympic sport

children and teens.

not offered by many ski resorts here: ski jumping, with a

Smaller children will love the new “Bobby round”, named

special introductory course.

after Obertauern’s local mascot Bobby, while more-

Of course, you can also sign up for a guided winter hike

advanced kids and teens will be hitting “My Track”. On

through the snowy scenery or join a snowshoeing group.

both of the rounds, a fun park, a timed race track, a

There are also some wonderful long toboggan runs (one

OBERTAUERN.COM

CHRISTIAN-SCHARTNER.AT

1.5km and one a full 5km long – that’s more than three

runs from 30 November until 2 December. The indie pop

Austria sees hundreds of people digging in the snow on

miles!), or sign up for a scenic sleigh ride. Airboarding

band Wanda will be on stage on the Saturday evening,

Gamsleiten 2 – one of the steepest ski slopes in Europe

(sledging on an inflatable sledge) is also offered, and the

giving their utmost and getting all the Obertauern fans

and Obertauern’s unofficial landmark – searching for

village has its own ice rink.

going. The traditional Krampus parade of hundreds of

some real treasure! A total of 30 chests are hidden, all of

Indoors, the resort’s sports centre offers a fitness centre,

Krampus figures and the Ö3-Party will be held a week

them containing prizes, and all of them exciting reasons

bowling, a pool table, darts, table tennis and a multi-

later on 8 December.

to participate in the quest. But the star prizes are two

purpose hall for football, volleyball, tennis and basketball;

Obertauern’s #Sheskis Day, which the resort runs in

keys to new BMW cars!

mountain yoga classes are offered at the end of the ski

partnership with Atomic, has proven very popular over

Traditionally, the last day of the ski season is 1 May.

day in the Haus des Gastes. In addition, many of the

the past two seasons, and this very special event is back

rest’s hotels have their own indoor swimming pools, as

for the third time on 30 March 2019. The event promotes

well as spa and wellness facilities.

active networking among leading women, and indeed all women on the and off the slopes,

Where to Stay & How to Get the Best Deal

and is part of a wider approach that will see Obertauern

Obertauern has a great range of accommodation choices

sponsoring more women’s projects that, alongside winter

to suit all budgets, from warm and welcoming B&Bs or

Obertauern’s great snow record means that it has one of

sports, highlight relaxation, deceleration and recreation.

comfortable apartments right through all categories of

the longest ski seasons in the Alps, and scientific findings

The season starts winding down in April with the biggest

hotels up to luxurious five-star establishments.

confirm this: Obertauern is Austria’s snowiest winter

treasure hunt in the Alps: the Gamsleiten Criterion, 5–7

Look out for special offers throughout the nearly six-month-

sports destination. The main season really begins with

April 2019. Back for its 13th staging next year, what’s

long ski season if you book direct via obertauern.com.

the resort’s famous Ski-opening festival, which this year

probably the funniest and largest treasure hunt in

These often include low-cost accommodation combined

Obertauern’s Winter 2018/19

036 // OCT18  PROMO

@INTHESNOWMAG

Getting There Obertauern is 90km from Salzburg Airport – about an hour’s drive and easy to reach. Salzburg is a small, pleasant airport to travel though.

It’s easy to book everything direct, but if you prefer to have your ski holiday to Obertauern packaged for you, a number of leading UK ski holiday operators offer packages to Obertauern, including the

ROHRBACHER18

biggest: Crystal and Inghams.

with packages including lift passes, rental and ski school at one inclusive high-value price.

For example, look at the Opening Weeks from 21 November to 22 December 2018 and the Powder Snow Weeks from 12 January to 2 February 2019.

Then, as the season winds down, there are the Sun & Fun Weeks from 22 March to 13 April 2019 and from 24 April to 1 May 2019.

There are special weeks for families too, known as Bobby´s Snow Adventure Weeks, which offer similar savings and more, extended to include children, and can include discounts on airport transfers, as well as the ski holiday costs. Bobby’s Snow Adventure Weeks also include extra entertainment and activities for children. They run each week between 12 January and 2 February 2019 and finally the week 6–13 April 2019.

Whatever type of winter holidaymaker you are, Obertauern offers you the complete package.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OBERTAUERN.COM

o d . . . n i a t n u o m e h nt

o 038 // OCT18  PROMO

@INTHESNOWMAG

ow lovers, , for many sn The fact is the most of ant to make it’s import . Skiing the mountain your time on and, dy g on your bo is demandin a cheap t no nest, it’s ho be s t’ le who don’t go those of us r Fo y. bb ho ungsters y (unlike yo out regularl ght out can s), a big ni in their 20 es: waking s consequenc have seriou , tired, morning haze ading up in a late and slow … le ed us nf co weary, es and on the slop to lost time g to that in lf for go se ur yo g in kick ead be u could inst last bar. Yo d those an ft e first li th ng yi jo en h tracks. fabled fres that t way to ensure rts are a brillian to e du Smaller ski reso ly re s out, pu o mad on night r fo lue you don’t go to va r tte often be htlife. They’re , er ick the lack of nig qu a ide d prov e big names an eas. ar i money than th sk ain m e sam y to get to the o we queue-free wa are asking: “D le op pe of rs be m nu ing as re Inc too?” ll-on night life e really need a fu n be a welcom red chalets ca joy en to Staying in cate ey allow you a night out. Th th wi y hindrance to all ends, norm g meal with fri feeling a great evenin , leaving you e) m lco (very we mint e m wine included so r te r bed af cosy, ready fo day. ng all warm and wi llo fo e th do it all again to y ad re d ul tea an iing in beautif y is all about sk an uj Va , lly ica d “Bas pted views an with uninterru ilysurroundings m fa a of e er laxed atmosph e enjoying the re of great off-pist but with loads t go friendly resort it’s . In short, d freeride type e on for the bearde pt for exce you could wish l EVERYTHING rkhardt of loca Pu ie m Ja life,” says e lag vil e thing – night th in en , who have be ak Pe i Sk s ist hing special ne and everyt d know everyo d quirky an for 30 years an ol co w fe a ds: “There are g in about it. He ad if you are stayin st, ne ho be to , ich .” wh , rs ba you really need modation, is all have u yo catered accom n doesn’t mea ying in Vaujany ly. te ple Of course, sta m ki scene co a livelier après-s La at to give up on rt sta you can go for it early, If you want to

rt that the main reso Alpe d’Huez, in e uc Do lie 50km of Fo ge ski area (2 into, with a hu ks lin y an ts of up uj en Va vertical desc to 123 pistes, the in n runs divided in est black ru s and the long your rt sta to 2,200 metre kplace to kic ). It’s a great ing a be world at 16km es bl ta ing on king, with danc n’t ca u afternoon drin yo ... es people of all ag th wi d ar nd daily sta r! uc, at get any bette e’s Le Petit Tr lage itself, ther vil e th to ere er wh , Clos ujany ski area ontfrais, the Va M of se a ba e th th day’s skiing wi ns see off the the young gu ish skiing demi in hand. re ready to fin elf, once you’ rive at In Vaujany its ar u on as yo r the day, as so e de la bl or boarding fo Ta e d by th you are greete the on the lift station, de tsi ink ou ct spot for a dr the sky d Fare: the perfe an wn do go tching the sun school deckchairs, wa local ESF ski e th d fin ll u’ yo re He d. re turn nding down. ’ Sports instructors wi tion is Arsens e of the lift sta . It tin e On the other sid at it says on th es exactly wh ha tc Bar, which do wa – perfect to owing sports e. ttl has four TVs sh ba Nations match or a Six ds Premier League at among frien ch a r fo t are grea is th l Both venues al do n you ca g others. And et and or for meetin Ski Peak chal ur yo at ck ba g in riv ar re befo ard dinner. r that gourmet-stand willpower afte e energy and th ve ha do bars u e yo or If e are a few m nner, then ther a s wa sensational di t year and tch opened las r Tom, to visit. Le Scra care by owne th wi d renovate ery ev huge success, nd ba sts a live music and ho g in ilk m who loves his d te er conv e building is a cs. sti ou Wednesday. Th ac t ea gr some u can expect y hot if parlour, so yo : it gets might ed rn wa be t bu n fu t ea It’s gr shoes on. their dancing p of everyone has Resto at the to n is Stiefs Bar tio op r he ot bottled e of Th ge selection boasting a hu table ol the escalators, po nepi and a homemade Ge Belgian beer, t. aire hangou a great season any downstairs … ghtlife in Vauj ni e m ere IS so So perhaps th after all!

Vaujany: et holidays in k.net Ski Peak chal k.net | skipea | info@skipea 70 80 60 8 42 01

? t i d e e n y l l a e r u o y FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OCT18 // 039

VERBIER PARTNERS WITH LIVERPOOL FC The famous Swiss ski resort Verbier has announced a four-year partnership deal with Liverpool Football Club, which it believes will help position it as a leading Alpine destination among new markets. To launch the partnership, Liverpool FC legend Robbie Fowler recently took to an indoor snow slope to show off a Verbier Liverpool shirt. Laurent Vaucher, CEO of Téléverbier, said, “It is important to distinguish between sponsorship and commercial partnership. Our operation aims to make our station known and to entice LFC fans through new experiences.”

DRY SLOPE PLANS FOR CORNWALL

CHALETFINDER APPROACHES THE SEASON ON A HIGH WITH US ACQUISITION Accommodation portal ChaletFinder

resorts around the world from France and

and we are fully confident in continuing this

Plans have been unveiled for a

is heading towards the new ski

Italy, to America and Andorra, one of which

relationship into the future.”

new dry ski slope for St Austell

season on a high, having secured the

is based at Mount Baker in Washington

Giving avid skiers and holidaymakers

in Cornwall. If built, the slope is

Northern America chalet market.

state, a world-renowned ski area. Elliot

looking for a picturesque break the option

believed to be Cornwall’s first;

Not only has ChaletFinder secured over

Moritz, onboarding specialist from Mt Baker

to book luxury chalets all year round,

however, there have been several

100 chalets in North America and Canada,

Lodging, said: “We are very excited to

ChaletFinder offers a range of catered or

other dry slope proposals for the

but it has already signed hundreds of

now have our full portfolio of 80+ privately

self-catered accommodation for groups,

county, over the past decade,

renewals and new properties across

owned vacation homes listed through

families or smaller parties.

none of which have been built.

Europe. ChaletFinder now has over 1,000

ChaletFinder. We have long been happy

For more information or to find a chalet

properties on its portfolio across 140

with the services ChaletFinder provides

visit: chaletfinder.com

DELAYED SNOW CENTRE TO OPEN An indoor snow centre built in the USA around 2008 is set to finally open in March 2019, hopefully.

Work on the mega mall known as The American Dream in New Jersey started 15 years ago, but after about $6 billion and three owners it is yet to open.

BLABLA LANGUAGE NIGHT Every Thursday at the Bec Jaune

ASPEN USES DRONES TO AID IN MOUNTAIN RESCUE

micro-brewery in Morzine, a table is reserved for those who’d like to

Over the past few years, most of the news

and particularly of the best skiers and

Rescue team is now implementing drone

improve their French or English. A

regarding drone use in ski resorts has

boarders doing their stuff, either for

use as part of their slope safety operations,

fun evening is ensured swapping

focused on the banning of the recreational

movies or in competitions.

using a Matrice 210 drone fitted with an

stories and learning a language

use of them due to concerns about safety,

It seems that drones are now increasingly

infrared camera and a second powerful

including the potentially catastrophic

being used by resort workers to improve

zoom camera to help find lost hikers in

results of a drone colliding with a ski lift.

the way they carry out tasks that previously

summer and skiers in winter. The drone has

However, the professional use of drones

required a helicopter or extensive hiking to

apparently scored its first success, locating

has transformed filming of resorts

reach remote areas. The Aspen Mountain

a lost hiker this summer.

over a beer brewed on site! becjaunebrewery.com

040 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

FEDERICO MODICA

o f

V a l

d i

F a s s a

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

041 // OCT18

FEDERICO MODICA

If you want more from your ski holiday than just great slopes, the Italian Dolomites are hard to beat. There are the spectacular pink mountains, sometimes referred to as “rocky cathedrals”, towering above you; then there is the rich culture that still exists in the ancient towns and villages of the valleys.

cuisine is strong here and comes to the fore for visitors

boasts a first-class children’s area.

in delicious traditional cuisine to satisfy even the

Moena is the gateway to Val di Fassa, surrounded by

most demanding palates. It can be served up to you

the mountains of Catinaccio, Latemar and Monzoni. The

in a gourmet restaurant in the valley or in a simple

main town of the valley has a reputation for its beautiful

mountain hut high on the slopes – the result is the

architecture, housing elegant boutiques, cafés and

same great taste.

gourmet restaurants in a pedestrian area between its

Alba is just an outlying part of one of six different

two squares. Up above, Moena is in the heart of the

resorts where you can stay in Val di Fassa. Perhaps

Alpe Lusia-San Pellegrino area, where this winter the

best known to the British market is Canazei, of which

black La Volata piste has been broadened, again for the

Alba is one of four outlying parts. Located at the heart

ski competitions that will take place in February 2019.

of the Sellaronda ski tour and Dolomiti Superski, the

The valley’s other settlements include Mazzin, the

This, in ski holiday terms, translates into authentic food

ski areas of Belvedere, Ciampac, Col Rodella and

smallest municipality and a great cross-country ski

and drink to enjoy, and very reasonable prices too.

the famed Marmolada glacier are all easily reachable

centre with ski bus connections to the Alpine areas,

The good thing is that, these days, visiting an unspoilt

from the town. The resort has a great choice of shops,

and Soraga, one of Val di Fassa’s oldest settlements,

ski destination no longer means putting up with aged

restaurants and pubs, as well as sports halls, the Eghes

with many of its typical Ladin features intact. Again,

ski lifts. On the contrary, resorts in the huge Dolomiti

Wellness Centre and other attractions, making it an

cross-country skiing is popular here, and it’s a short

Superski region, with its incredible 1200km of runs on

ideal place to spend a great holiday in the Dolomites.

distance to the Moena-Lusia and Vigo-Catinaccio

the one lift ticket, have been adding state-of-the-art lifts

Campitello, dominated by the impressive mass of the

downhill ski areas.

season after season.

Sassolungo and by the Col Rodella, reached directly from

One of these, Val di Fassa, unveiled its brand-new D-line

the village with a quick cable car ride to reveal some of

gondola in its Clampac sector earlier this year. D-Line

the most spectacular views in the Dolomites, is another

technology from the famous Doppelmayr/Garaventa lift

popular choice. The Col Rodella/Belvedere ski area is

company provides an even faster and more comfortable

connected to the Sellaronda, meaning you can be over

Always Full of Life Besides the timeless magnificence of

ride up from Alba to the

in Val Gardena or Alta Badia

its awe-inspiring scenery and the

Ciampac ski area.

in minutes. Down in the resort,

daily joy of great skiing and

The innovative panoramic

there’s the modern Ischia well-

wonderful food, Val di

equipped sports centre and plenty

Fassa offers numerous

of excellent bars and restaurants.

weekends of music and

Pozza di Fassa and Pera are also

sports events through the

have an increased hourly

Facts

capacity of 2,000 people.

Ski Area: 1,440–2,950m

connected to the Sellaronda

ski season.

It will greatly improve

Piste: 210km

ski tour. They are located in the

Weekends in

lift will carry gondola cabins for up to 10 people and will

connections to the famed Sellaronda ski circuit – a great day trip with some 40km of runs and lifts to enjoy in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction.

The Ciampac ski area has

1,200km w/ Dolomiti Superski pass Terrain Parks: 7

di Fassa and are home to the

Lifts: 86 Season: 6 Dec 2018 – 7 April 2019 Nearest airports: Venice 175km, Verona 180km, Innsbruck 190km, Milano-Bergamo 280km

also recently seen the Sella Brunech and Roseal

widest and sunniest part of Val Buffaure-Ciampac ski area, known for its gorgeous scenery and highquality runs. Pozza will be a key host for this winter’s FIS Alpine Ski Junior World Championship, and the Skistadium Aloch has been upgraded ahead of this major

chairlifts upgraded to a detachable quad.

event in February 2019. Night skiing is also offered

Val di Fassa is one of Italy’s leading ski destinations

here on the Aloch ski slope, and cross-country skiing is

in its own right, with 210km of ski slopes served by

possible, with access to both the Marcialonga circuit and

86 modern lifts (including a section of the Sellaronda),

the Ciancoal ring. Again, the village itself can satisfy all

links to four other ski tours and several snow parks.

ski holiday needs and also boasts a lovely spa complex:

The slopes, divided into nine areas interconnected

the QC Terme Dolomiti.

by ski lifts and runs or an inclusive ski bus, are almost

Pozza’s neighbour, Vigo di Fassa, sits on a wide terrace

entirely covered by state-of-the-art snowmaking

in a dominant position in the valley. From the village

systems. Altogether, Val di Fassa stretches over

centre, a cable car takes you up to Ciampedìe, the

about 20km as the crow flies, surrounded by some

heart of the local ski area and from where there are still

of the Dolomites’ most-famous peaks: Catinaccio,

more stunning vistas, this time from Catinaccio as far

Sassolungo, Sella group and Pordoi, over which

as the Marmolada glacier. For the coming winter, two

Marmolada stands undisputed.

chairlifts here from Pera to Pian Pecei have also been

But, as mentioned earlier, the region is about much

upgraded to detachable quad chairs, further improving

more than skiing and spectacular scenery. The Ladin

the area, which is especially popular with families and

042 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

December will be all about sport, music and wellness, all made even more appealing thanks to the Dolomiti Super Ski Première offer available through the website, which brings special savings and great events.

What’s more, while families, mums and dads are more than welcome in Val di Fassa all winter long, January is the perfect month for some quality family time with Fassa Family Weeks, 6–20 January, and again there’s more information available online.

Then, in March and April, sports and entertainment will be the flavour of the month, with concerts at the mountain huts with Panorama Music Ski Weeks (details online) and their very appealing offers.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

DOLOMITISUPERSKI.COM | FASSA.COM

NEW BLUE PISTE IN PORTES DU SOLEIL It’s been announced that a new blue ski run for intermediate skiers will open on the slopes of Les Gets this winter. The new run will be served by the Perrières Express chairlift and is located in a sector that’s very popular as a result of day skiers using the large, conveniently located car park at the entrance to the village.

FROZEN OWL RESCUED A frozen owl was rescued by lift staff from the ski slopes at Mt Buller in Australia. “The owl has been warmed up and is set to be released somewhere a little less frosty,” a spokesperson

LONGEST INDOOR SNOW SLOPE IN UK AT 500M+ MOVES FORWARD

commented, adding, “Just a reminder it is chilly on the slopes

Long-standing plans to build one

freestyle park, a fitness centre, shops and

“If Team GB want to achieve their goal

today – layer up folks!”

of the world’s longest indoor snow

various cafés and bars.

of being one of the top five snowsport

slopes in Wales, nearly three times

Its longest slope at more than 500m would

nation in the world by 2030, many of our

longer than the UK’s existing longest

be around three times as long as the 180m

future elite athletes haven’t started skiing

slope at Chill Factore in Manchester,

slope at Chill Factore and one of the five

or boarding yet. It’s about finding the

have had their public launch.

longest in the world.

next generation of talent by getting more

The snowsport centre is part of the

Robin Kellen, Chief Executive of Snowsport

new people involved,” said Mr Kellen,

Rhydycar West leisure destination project

Cymru Wales, has identified the site as the

who added, “I am reaching out to the UK

lifts, closed for the past six years,

in Wales and will resemble an authentic

preferred location to develop a National

snowsport fraternity, asking them to show

has been renovated. The Téléski

Alpine resort incorporating ski and

Centre of Excellence and training centre for

huge support as it moves to the formal

des 3000 drag lift in the resort’s

snowboard schools, competition runs, a

TeamGB Snowsports elite athletes.

planning process.” rhydycarwest.com

LIFT TO RE-OPEN AFTER SIX YEARS One of Val d’Isère’s iconic ski

Solaise sector permits advanced skiers to reach the Leissières ridge that separates Solaise from the Le Fornet ski area and the Pissaillas glacier.

MONICA DALMASSO

ANOTHER FOUR RESORTS FOR VAIL Vail Resorts have bought four more ski areas – including their fifth in Colorado – in their latest spending spree. The company has bought Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont, Mount Sunapee Resort in New Hampshire and

NEW LIFT & BEGINNERS’ AREA IN €10M CHAMONIX SPEND

Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Colorado, as well as Stevens Pass

The Compagnie du Mont-Blanc, which

fast, comfortable Leitner-built six-seater

canons. The area will be accessible for all

Resort in Washington state – its

operates the ski lifts around Chamonix as

chair, also named Tabé after its predecessor,

ages from early December to early May.

first in that state – for a total spend

well as other leading French resorts, has

which has the capacity to transport more

The new lifts were installed before a fire

invested €10m in upgrading the Plateau de

than 3,000 people per hour. At the mid

in September left the cable cars at Grand

Lognan at the resort’s Grands Montets ski

station of Lognan (1,900 metres) a dedicated

Montets unable to operate; however, the

area. The old Marmottons and Tabé chairlifts

beginner’s area has been developed to

resort is emphasising that it’s business as

have been removed and replaced with a

include two drag lift and additional snow

usual in all other respects.

of $304m (£229m).

044 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

MICHAEL WERLBERGER

RESORT:INSIDER

KITZBÜHEL One of the best-known resorts in Austria, and indeed the skiing world, Kitzbühel lies at the heart of a mighty winter sports empire that encompasses about 180km of linked slopes around the town (and linked by lots of fast, comfy lifts) but extends to a still bigger area on the regional lift pass, which spreads out across the surrounding Kitzbüheler Alps.

Coffee and Cake

The Best Snow is at Resterkogel

Pano, in the heart of the town within the cobbled

The resort’s high slopes on Resterkogel have the

central area, is a wonderful café-bar that’s highly

reputation for having the best snow, usually, in the

rated for its coffee and cakes. There’s a huge

whole region. It’s here that the resort manages to

selection of pastries and wonderful ice-cream

open a few runs before any other non-glacier resort

milkshakes, and all in all it’s just yum.

in Europe in early October each season, using snow

With its delightful walled centre, cobbled streets and

farmed from the previous winter.

Ski the Streif Without Skiing the Streif

A Kitzbühel Institution

The Streif ski run (21A on the piste map), where the

Rosi’s Sonnbergstuben is a resort institution. The

infamous Hahnenkamm race is run every January,

famous Rosi is as well known for her singing and

enticing shops and restaurants, the town is also the

is one of the most terrifying in the skiing world. It

guitar playing as she is for her cuisine. Rosi’s famous

location for the biggest event in the winter sports

features pitches of up to 85%; around race day, it is

Schnitzelparty takes place on the evening after

calendar each January – the Hahnenkamm World

sheet ice. You can, however, ski the adjacent Streif-

the Hahnenkamm race, and here you can taste

Cup race. Here are some insider tips from the town.

Familienabfahrt, which runs next to it and gives you a

“probably the most famous schnitzel in Austria”.

great view of the course.

The Kitzbühel Ski Run You Didn’t Know About While the most-famous run in Kitzbühel may be the

Hit the Casino, but You Don’t Have to Bet

Streif (see below), there are many other wonderful

Kitzbühel’s small casino is located in the heart of the

descents. The Schwarzkogel off-piste route is

resort. Although it has a reputation for its friendly

something special; starting from the top of the D6

atmosphere and great staff at the gaming tables, it’s

chair, it offers a kilometre of great cruising down to

also known for having some of the most reasonable

Aschau with spectacular views all the way down.

drinks prices in the town and some of the best steaks.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OCT18 // 045

It may seem like summer is only just over, but it’s never too early to get excited about the next ski season, and most of us have been counting the days until the runs are snow-covered again, the lifts are turning and we can hit the slopes!

The good news is that there are already a dozen or so glacier ski areas open in the Alps, so if you’ve got a weekend free this autumn, why wait? Lots of them will be running season-start festivals with new

046 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

Booking Trends To Be Aware Of

gear testing so you can get a jump on the

after the Olympics, is back for 2019, this

preceding three winters had brought little

rest of us.

time taking place in Åre, Sweden, on

snow cover at the start of the season.

For those of us planning a holiday in the

5–17 February.

The start of last winter, however, was very

main season from December to April,

The other big event of note is the World

snowy indeed; tour operators are reporting

Ski Independence, one of the largest

though, here’s a quick overview of how

Cup Finals when the male and female

a surge in bookings for Christmas week,

independent ski holiday companies

winter 2018/19 is shaping up.

World Cup tours come together to thrash

with prices going up, of course.

covering more than 60 ski resorts in

out the final results and crown the greatest

For some it is a sell-out, the most popular

Europe, North America and Japan, say

achievers. In 2019 that event is set for

week of the season, although for most this

they had a 10% jump in business last

Grandvalira in Andorra and will take place a

is February half-term week when prices

winter and they noted several booking

month later on 13–17 March 2019.

are often four or five times higher than the

trends they’ve witnessed recently.

We hate to mention it as the very word

preceding week as parents are forced to

There are more regional departures using

In terms of big events in the mountains,

tends to evoke a nervous twitch in many

choose that one week only, and with many

low-cost flights to choose from, so we

all the big music festivals are back, and

of us, but you may wish to factor into your

other European nations sharing the same

don’t need to travel through London as

we’ll be running a planner for them all

thinking Brexit Day, and the uncertainties

week it makes demand for space intense.

much as we did. easyJet have announced

shortly. Perhaps the biggest news is that

it brings to international travel and the

However, 2019 looks a little different to

a new service from Bristol to the Swedish

Snowbombing, the biggest of them all, will

rights of British resort staff in the Alps,

other years.

airport serving Åre in Sweden this winter,

be celebrating its 20th anniversary when it

which will happen at the end of March, just

The good news is that Christmas and

for example, two years after it first

returns to Mayrhofen in April.

before the Easter holidays.

New Year’s Day fall on Tuesday, so even

introduced a route there from the UK out

After South Korea earlier this year there

with the conventional Saturday or Sunday

of Gatwick.

are no more Winter Olympics until Beijing

change-over you can be in resort before

They say that there’s an increase in

festivities commence, and then have four

demand for hotel accommodation (as

or five days to recover afterwards before

compared to self-catering), a continuing

having to brave the flight home.

increase in demand for properties in high-

A year ago we were reporting that there

Easter on the other hand is very late in

altitude resorts – particularly Val Thorens

were bargains to be had at Christmas as

2019 – towards the end of its possible

and Val d’Isère – and that the average

bookings then were very slow after the

date range in March–April, meaning that

length of stay has continued to decrease

the Easter holidays, even with Easter

as more clients look for short breaks.

Sunday itself at the end for many, won’t

However, average spend has risen.

start until well into April for most. So the

So, to sum up, we’re spending more to

usual advice to aim for a snow-sure resort

fly from a local airport to a higher-calibre

if you’re travelling this late in the season is

accommodation in higher-altitude ski

more important than ever.

resorts and staying for less time.

Dates for Your Ski Season Diary

in 2022, but the biannual World Alpine Ski

AVORIAZ 1800

Championships, the second-biggest event

Key Winter Dates FOR 2018/19

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OCT18 // 047

048 // OCT18  PROMO

@INTHESNOWMAG

W OR DS :P AT RIC KT HO RN E

B E SK H I A MO PP Y RE

The problem with most packaged ski holidays is that, from a skiing perspective, they’re not time-efficient.

the slopes; that’s 25% more than your regular ski week!”

can take a long weekend and just a couple of days off

How do they do it? Well, the company has been

work and still squeeze in almost four days of skiing. Do

mastering the art of combining good flight times

that two or three times and you have enjoyed up to 12

with short transfers via efficient and direct private

days on the slopes – the equivalent of two normal ski

connections (no waiting around for the group bus and

weeks – for just four to six days off work in total.

How many times have you got up before the crack of

going around the houses before it reaches your hotel)

dawn, trudged to the airport, made your flight, waited for

to get you to the closest resorts as quickly as possible.

other flights to come in, finally got your transfer coach,

Lift passes are pre-booked and handed to you, so no

visited half a dozen different properties in a few resorts

queuing. Ski hire, likewise, is pre-booked so the hire shop

en route then finally arrived at your destination late

know you are coming and have your details – you won’t

afternoon – just too late to get on the slopes in fact.

have to shop around and fill in forms when you get there.

Courchevel 1650 can deliver 4.5 days’ skiing on a four-

Then at the other end of your holidays it’s no better –

The company, which offers holidays to hand-picked

night weekend chalet or hotel break. Leave the UK

you still have to leave too early for it to be worth going

accommodation in more than 60 specially selected

on a 7am flight and arrive in resort by 1.30pm. The ski

out skiing on travel day.

resorts across Europe, also makes sure your

rental shop is opposite the chalet, the lift two minutes’

accommodation know when you’ll arrive and will be

walk away. Ski until 4pm on departure day and land

leaving, meaning they will be expecting you to want to

back in the UK at 10.15pm.

get ready for skiing.

Flaine can deliver 4.5 days’ skiing on a four-night

“Don’t waste time eating on arrival in resort – get a

weekend chalet or hotel break. Leave the UK on a

snack to eat on the plane then straight on the slopes

6.10am flight and arrive in resort by midday. The ski

There are companies that really look at the logistics

when you arrive,” advises Dan, adding, “you can of

rental shop is a one-minute walk from the chalet en

from a skier’s perspective, finding ways to make travel

course plan this yourself, like any holiday, but how long

route to the slopes, which are a three- to four-minute

possible so that you’re rewarded for that early start by

are you going to spend sorting it all out? What happens

walk away. Ski until 5pm on departure day and land

getting at least half a day on the slopes on your arrival

if everything doesn’t go to plan? How will you be

back in the UK at 10.05pm.

day, and so you can ski all day on your departure day

transferred there? Who will sort it out?”

La Clusaz can deliver 3.5 days skiing on a three-night

Well, the good news is, it doesn’t have to be that way!

and still make it home in the evening.

Ski Weekends has over 30 years of experience organising ski holidays, and despite its name it sells as many week-

Good choices when you want to ski more:

mid-week hotel break. Leave the UK on a 6.10am flight

Why ski just once a year?

long and mid-week breaks these days. And when they say

and arrive in resort by 11.30am (just a one-hour transfer).

The ski rental shop is en route to the slopes. Ski until 5pm on departure day and land back in the UK at 10.05pm.

“week-long”, they mean a week actually on the slopes, not

The same technique, to squeeze more skiing days out

Morzine can deliver 3.5 days skiing on a three-night

two days of travelling and six on the slopes,

of your holiday time, is applied by Ski Weekends to

mid-week chalet or hotel break. Leave the UK on a

“Be happy, ski more isn’t our strapline, it’s our mantra,”

enable their clients to be happy and ski more on short

6.10am flight and arrive in resort by midday. The ski

explains company director Dan Fox. “We simply offer

breaks too. After all, that’s how they started out. So you

rental shop is opposite the chalet. Ski until 5pm on

more flexi-ski options than anyone else, and with Ski

departure day and land back in the UK at 10.05pm.

Weekends a 7-night break actually gives you 7.5 days on

EXAMPLE HOLIDAY PACKAGES Ski Weekends will tailor your holiday to suit your needs and offer flights from 15 UK airports, but here are some example packages, including transfers, with flights from London Gatwick or Luton: Early season:

January:

Later in the season:

Morzine chalet from 13 Dec and ski for 4 days

Verbier with 4.5 days’ skiing and a 10 Jan

for £510pp, or a Reberty chalet at £596pp.

departure, staying in a hotel on a B&B basis

Half-term in Morzine skiing 4.5 days from 21 Feb in a hotel on half board from £582pp.

Start the season with fresh tracks in a

from £766pp.

Spend Christmas in Courchevel, departing La Clusaz from 17 Jan with 4.5 days’ skiing in a hotel on a B&B basis from £735pp.

Ski with Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards in Courchevel from 10 Jan with 4.5 days on the

Les Gets from 28 Jan skiing 3.5 days and

slopes, staying in a chalet for £635pp.

staying in a chalet from £375pp.

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

March in Åre, Sweden, skiing for 6 days in a hotel on half-board from £737pp.

March in Andorra skiing 4 days at Pas de la Casa and staying in a hotel with B&B from £506pp.

SKIWEEKENDS.COM | 02380 983503

PORTES DU SOLEIL - SYLVAIN COCHARD

24 Dec, and ski 3.5 days in a chalet for £427pp.

March in Avoriaz departing 4 March for 3.5 days skiing staying in a chalet from £454pp.

BAUSE.AT

PUT AWAY SMARTPHONES ON THE SLOPES

VAL D’ISTANCE WITH MIKE TINDALL

WHEN CHAIRLIFT PROPOSALS GO WRONG

The senior vice president of the Big White Ski Resort

Former English rugby captain Mike Tindall,

A marriage proposal made on a chairlift at Snow

in BC, Canada, is urging people not to use their

the husband of Princess Anne’s daughter and

Summit ski area in California went badly wrong

smartphones while skiing or boarding.

the Queen’s granddaughter Zara Phillips, has

when bachelor Sean Strickland opened the box

Michael Ballingall told Canada’s Global News that

announced he’ll be staging the first ever Val

containing the engagement ring and it promptly

resort staff were receiving an increasing number of

d’Istance Challenge in aid of three charities The

fell out dropping around 15m into thick scrub

reports, from safety-conscious skiers, of other skiers and

Matt Hampson Foundation, Wings For Life and The

below the chair.

boarders texting, talking and filming on smartphones

Cure Parkinson’s Trust.

His intended fiancée Karen Yeoman initially thought

while they are in motion.

The event, to be staged on the 300km of ski

the event was a joke and told Strickland not to tease

Ballingall also said he believed an increasing number

slopes served by 78 lifts at the Val d’Isère–Tignes

her but eventually realised he had genuinely tried to

of people were skiing or boarding without helmets

ski area, one of the largest and most popular ski

propose and that the ring had really fallen. The pair

compared to previously, and that more were opting

areas in the world, will take place 24–28 March

spent several fruitless hours underneath the lift trying

to ski alone, which increases the risk of remaining

2019. Teams of four skiers or snowboarders will

to find the ring.

undetected in the event of an accident.

compete to see which of them can cover the most

After two separate searches by resort teams who

“The reality is, if a skier or snowboarder is operating

terrain over three gruelling days.

turned out to help when they heard what had

a smartphone, they’re not paying attention to where

Based in Val d’Isère, this challenge will test skills

happened, there was eventually a happy ending

they’re going and it can pose a safety hazard,” Ballingall

and stamina, and along with the skiing there will

to the tale when Snow Summit’s lift operations

was quoted as saying.

be plenty of additional first-class entertainment,

supervisor Shannon White finally found the ring

Mr Ballingall was commenting generally on safety issues

the organisers say, adding, “The event will bring

under a branch, having continued the search in her

after a 21-year-old snowboarder from the nearby town

together celebrities, skiing enthusiasts and, most

spare time. Karen and Sean are now considering

of Kelowna died on the slopes at the resort, apparently

importantly, some amazing people while charities

Snow Summit as their wedding venue, with Shannon

hitting a tree while boarding alone.

will benefit from the money raised.”

definitely on the guest list.

CHALE TS IN LES GE TS Where you can ‘tailor your holiday’ from economy to luxury…

A SELEC TION OF OVER 30 PROPER TIES

www.chalets1066.com

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

VIDEO REVIEWS AVAILABLE ON THE INTHESNOW YOU TUBE CHANNEL

 Head

 Dare2B ROAMER JACKET

 Schöffel

Nexo LYT 110G

This men’s ski jacket is made of seam-sealed waterproof/ breathable ARED VO2 20 000 fabric with high-warmth, low-bulk insulation. Four-way stretch fabric mapped with AEP Kinematics technology provides superb mobility on the slopes.

Packed with ski-defined features and a detachable snow skirt. £200 | dare2b.com

Already touted by fashion editors as a top pick of the season, this beautiful ski jacket offers four-way stretch for easy movement on the slopes. Both the faux-fur trim and the hood are detachable, allowing for different degrees of practicality and glamour. £570 | snowandrock.com

A revolution in lightweight performance. Nexo combines graphene-infused plastics with a new Smart Frame to deliver the perfect balance of performance, comfort and lightweight design. Also featuring Liquid Fit technology. A 100% flexible upgrade in fit and performance. £350 | head.com/en-GB/home

Keystone2 Jacket

 Elan Ripstick 106

Ripstick 106 is the ultimate one-ski wonder for all of the variable terrain from the boundary line to base lodge, peak to car park and trail to tailgate. No wonder it’s Glen Plake’s favourite ski from the Elan quiver! £575 | ellis-brigham.com

 Black Diamond Route 95 Skis

A daily backcountry driver that stands up to season after season of ski touring in mixed terrain.

Built in Austria with a 95mm waist, fibreglass layup, poplar wood core and flat construction for increased torsional stiffness.

The rockered tip aids flotation in the deep snow and on the ski track. £525 | ellis-brigham.com

 KJUS Men’s BT (BlueTooth) 2.0 Glove

No more fumbling with zips only to reach your phone just as the caller hangs up. KJUS’ Bluetooth Gloves enable you to make and receive phone calls without getting your smartphone out. This version has an integrated OLED caller display. £299 | kjus.com | snowandrock.com

 686 WMS DREAM INSL JKT

A luxe and cosy coat that seamlessly goes from bootpack to city block and back again. £180 | 686.com

 Bollé INSTINCT MIPS

Instinct MIPS offers the ultimate level of protection and performance and features a dual shell, AVID Progressive EPS construction, adjustable ventilation and MIPS technology, which adds more protection against rotational forces to the brain caused by angled impacts. It also features the BOA 360° fit system for precise size adjustment. £149 | bolle.com

 Elan Amphibio 84 XTi

They say that 40 is the new 30, but don’t believe it: 40 is still 40. BUT the 84mm is the new 78mm! Versatile, quick, powerful and full of energy – don’t let the waist width fool you. It will make you feel like you’re 30 again, which is the new 20. £625 | elanskis.com

@INTHESNOWMAG

 KJUS Men’s Macun Jacket

 Ortovox Crossrider 20

Part of KJUS’ Macun Alpine Layering System, this lightweight, breathable four-way stretch jacket allows you to create the perfect body climate based on the season, the weather and your activity level. Used in conjunction with body-zoned layers, the jacket’s awardwinning ventilation system helps regulate temperature. £549 | kjus.com | snowandrock.com

Those who place great emphasis on low weight and selected features will love the CROSS RIDER 20. At 860 grams it is one of the lightweights, but it still has the most important characteristic features: storage space for safety equipment, ski and snowboard fastenings, an ice axe and hiking pole fastening, front and rear access to the main compartment and hydration system compatibility.

The CROSS RIDER 20 offers sufficient space for smaller tours or days on the piste. £100 | absolute-snow.co.uk

 Skilock

Protect valuable skiing time by securing skis and poles outside restaurants, bars and in overnight storage areas.

Pocket-sized, lightweight lock (210g) for Alpine skis (approx. 70–96mm at waist). Lock by pressing a button – release with a key. £29.99 | skilock.co.uk | amazon.co.uk

Skins DNAmic THERMALLONG SLEEVE TOP WITH MOCK NECK & ZIP

 Dare2B CERTIFY PANT

 Thule Backspace XT

Thule’s new lightweight, durable cargo box that fits onto the rear of the car, keeping all of your gear easily accessible. It’s easily fitted straight onto the Thule VeloSpace XT towbar-mounted bike carrier; there are no tools required. This premium cargo box gives the car 300L of easily accessed, extra loading space. £450 | halfords.com

The men’s Dare2b Certify Ski Pant is made of top-performing waterproof/ breathable ARED VO2 20,000 fabric mapped with AEP Kinematics and four-way stretch. With detachable bib system and snow gaiters. £100 | dare2b.com

Stay on top of your goals, all winter long, in SKINS DNAmic thermal long sleeve top with mock neck and zip. With a brushed thermal interior for warmth, and a mock neck and thumb loops for extra coverage, it’s designed to protect you from icy winter elements, on sidewalks to slopes. £100 | skins.net/uk

 686 MEN’S GT JACKET

Technical performance that doesn’t break the bank. GORE-TEX® two-layer shell in classic styling provides bomber and breathable protection for every season. £300 | 686.com

 Ortovox Fleece Plus

You’ll never want to take this off again! Thanks to the finest merino wool on the inside of the fleece jacket, it feels very pleasant on the skin. The ergonomic cut and use of elasticated materials ensures an optimum fit and great freedom of movement. To ensure that your neck and throat always stay warm, Ortovox have fitted the inner collar with warming sheep’s wool inserts. £175 | ldmountaincentre.com

 686 WOMEN’S BLACK MAGIC INSULATED OVERALL

Definitely not your boyfriend’s bibs.

Get the overall look you want with a tailored fit and classic feel. £210 | 686.com

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OCT18 // 053

 Head Kore 1G

 Dare2B SURPASS JACKET

 Black Diamond Recon

The Kore series of ski boots was designed with upward mobility in mind and exceptional downhill performance at its heart. The lightweight is delivered with the introduction of graphene in ski boots, and the blistering downhill performance is enhanced with new Liquid Fit technology. A 100% flexible customisation system. £550 | head.com/en-GB/home

The women’s Dare2b Surpass Ski Jacket is made of highly waterproof/breathable ARED VO2 20,000 fabric with high-loft, low-bulk insulation and is packed with ski-defined features. Fourway stretch fabric mapped with AEP Kinematics technology provides superb mobility. With a detachable snow skirt. £250 | dare2b.com

Designed for the skier who demands performance and comfort for both in and out-of-bounds missions, this jacket uses BD.dry™ fabric for high waterproofness and breathability, along with four-way stretch and versatile features such as removable powder skirt, helmet-compatible hood and pit zip vents. £320 | ellis-brigham.com

Stretch Ski Shell

 Head Kore 99

Sometimes it’s deep. Sometimes it’s tracked. Sometimes it’s bumped.

Lots of times it’s groomed. If this is when and where you ski then the Kore 99 is for thee! Kore 99 is the latest addition to the hugely successful Kore stable. Any conditions, any time. #TOTHEKORE £660 inc. attack 13 GW bindings | head.com/en-GB/home

Skins DNAmic THERMAL 3/4 TIGHTS

Give your favourite snowsport your all in SKINS DNAmic Thermal ¾ tights. By merging DNAmic Gradient Compression with brushed Italian thermal fabrics, they’re designed to support and stabilise major muscle groups in your upper legs to help you perform at your peak, week after week. £90 | skins.net/uk

 686 MEN’S GLCR HYDRA THERMAGRAPH JKT

From the powder to park, sub-zero to springtime, Thermagraph™ Body Mapping Insulation creates the ultimate do-it-all jacket. Add an asymmetrical zipper and you have the Hydra, the best-selling 686 GLCR jacket, ever. £250 | 686.com  Dare2B GILDED PANT

The women’s Dare2b Gilded Pant is made of warm-backed, waterproof/ breathable iLUS D-Lab Softshell fabric with fourway stretch. With inner snow gaiters and zipped hems. £100 | dare2b.com

@INTHESNOWMAG

 Ortovox

 686 MEN’S INFINITY

Merino Guardian

INSULATED CARGO PNT

Shell Jacket

A 686 favourite with timeless style and unbeatable function: cargo pockets to stash your gear, kick panels to protect your cuffs and insulation plus infiDRY 10k fabric to keep you warm and dry. £180 | 686.com

Thanks to the unique interplay of the HIGH-PERFORMANCE Toray DERMIZAX®EV MEMBRANE with a LINING OF PURE MERINO WOOL, this 3L jacket remains the benchmark in hardshell comfort! With a water column of at least 20,000mm, it protects you from the wet and cold, and is also absolutely windproof.

The 100% merino wool backing ensures excellent temperature management. £600 | ellis-brigham.com

 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition

The award-winning Ripstick series is known for being the best of both worlds: dreamy in powder and rips on the hard pack. When the state-of-the-art Black Edition carbon construction meets the Ripstick, it’s out of both worlds. £650 | tiso.com

 Elan Speed Magic Power Shift

Designed for expert-level skiers with racing in their DNA, the Speed Magic is the ultimate carving tool for women who grip it and rip it on the groomers and keep coming back for more. Guys, beware! £525 | elanskis.com

 Ortovox Merino

 686 WOMEN’S GLCR

Guardian Shell Pants

HYDRA INSULATED JACKET

These pants will impress you with their unique interplay of the highperformance Toray Dermizax®EV membrane with a lining made from pure merino wool. Thanks to this membrane, these freeriding pants protect against snow and moisture.

Further features such as the integrated gaiters and protection against sharp edges with Cordura® ensure additional protection when freeriding. £525 | ellis-brigham.com

Cut from the same cloth as our best-selling men’s GLCR jacket, but specifically tailored for you, the Hydra is made to go effortlessly from powder to park, keeping you warm wherever winter takes you. £230 | 686.com

 Thule Velospace XT3

Thule’s versatile bike rack for all types of bikes – from e-bikes and fatbikes to small children’s bikes.

Mounting bikes is easy through detachable bike arms with the Thule AcuTight torque limiter knobs that click when optimal torque is reached.

You have easy trunk access even with the bikes mounted, thanks to smart foot pedal tilt. £550 | halfords.com

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

 Elan Amphibio Black Edition Fusion

Amphibio Black Edition is the edge you need to start your morning right on perfectly groomed slopes. Step up your game with the enhanced performance and design found in the carbon reinforced Amphibio Black Edition. £800 | elanskis.com

Skins DNAmic BASE LONG-SLEEVE HALF ZIP

Stay on top of your game when the mercury starts to drop and the wind picks up in SKINS DNAmic base longsleeve top with half zip. This light compression base layer has a semi-seamless fabric construction for maximum freedom of movement and superior moisture management to keep you dry, comfortable and protected while you’re on the go. £60 | skins.net/uk

OCT18 // 055

 Ortovox Piz Boval JACKET

The reversible SWISSWOOL PIZ BOVAL JACKET for men was developed for high-action mountain sports where good insulation performance at a low weight is required. The 90g/m² lightweight lining is not only produced in an environmentally friendly way, but also has the advantage compared to down when it comes to warming, even when wet. In addition, wool can absorb and release larger quantities of moisture than synthetic fibres. £245 | nordicoutdoor.co.uk

 Ortovox Fleece Melange Hoody

Only the finest merino wool touches your skin, while the polyester on the outside ensures the material is highly flexible and very robust. You’ll benefit from the functional merino wool, which keeps you at just the right temperature level and prevents unpleasant odours, and you’ll be at the height of fashion at the same time. £140 | ellis-brigham.com | absolute-snow.co.uk

 KJUS Women’s Duana Jacket

Available in solid and colour-block designs, this ultra-stretchy down jacket has a figure-hugging and flattering fit.

A neck-gaiter provides cosy warmth while shoulder inserts absorb abrasion when carrying skis. The jacket’s four-way stretch runs through all layers – the outer fabric, the lining and even the seams. £649 | kjus.com | snowandrock.com

 Schöffel Solden2 Jacket

This fully featured, high-end navy blue jacket uses Dermizax®EV fabric with four-way stretch laminate, lining and PrimaLoft® Gold Active quilting for superb comfort, protection and freedom of movement. Bonded seams, adjustable hood and stretch snow guard increase the comfort levels further. £680 | ellis-brigham.com

 Dare2B REGRESSION JACKET

The men’s Dare2b Regression Ski Jacket is made of highly waterproof/breathable ARED VO2 20,000 fabric with high-loft, low-bulk insulation and is packed with ski-defined features. Four-way stretch fabric mapped with AEP Kinematics technology provides superb mobility. With a detachable snow skirt. £270 | dare2b.com

 Elan Ripstick 86

We expanded the Ripstick series with the Ripstick 86, the perfect blend of versatility, agility and performance for almost every condition the mountain can dish out.

It’s the go-to freeski from peak to piste. £450 | elanskis.com

056 // OCT18

Skins DNAmic BASE LONG TIGHTS

A light compression solution for training sessions on the sports field or on the slopes. Designed to be worn as a base layer beneath your gear for added muscular protection, the semi-seamless construction maximises freedom of movement, wherever your active life takes you. £60 | skins.net/uk

@INTHESNOWMAG

Wherever You Prefer To Ski...

Wherever You Prefer To Ski...

Wherever You Prefer To Ski...

 Dare2B PROVIDENCE JACKET

The women’s Dare2b Providence Ski Jacket is made of highly waterproof/ breathable ARED VO2 15,000 stretch fabric lightly wadded with warming insulation. With a faux-fur trimmed hood and a detachable snow skirt for slopeto-street wearability. £250 | dare2b.com

...We’ve Got The Equipment and Expertise To Get You There! ...We’ve Got The Equipment and Expertise To Get You There! ...We’ve Got The Equipment and Expertise To Get You There!

Bringing you the UK’s largest range of specialist skis and boots and advice and expertise since 1965 We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment Bringing you the UK’s largest range ofyour specialist skis and and advice and expertise since 1965 for wherever passions andboots dreams take you We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment for wherever passions and dreams take you Customyour Ski Boot Fitting Specialists

 KJUS Men’s Macun Pants

The higher back section of these superfunctional, comfy pants provides increased weather protection. Excellent ventilation and reinforced abrasion-resistant hems make them a great choice for serious skiers. The adjustable waistband gives you control over the fit, while the integrated kidney warmer provides extra protection. Part of the Macun Alpine Layering System. £349 | kjus.com | snowandrock.com

Ski largest Industries ofspecialist Great Britain Official Testers Bringing you the UK’s range of skis and boots and Ski advice and expertise since 1965 Custom Ski Boot Fitting Specialists We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment Winner of the World Snow Awards - Best Specialist Retailer Ski Industries Great Britain for whereverof your passions andOfficial dreams Ski takeTesters you Winner of the World Snow Awards - Best Specialist Retailer

Custom Ski Boot Fitting Specialists FREERIDE | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATI LANO Ski Industries of Great Britain Official Ski Testers

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OCT18 // 057

FREERIDE | FREESTYLEWinner | TOURING TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATIONA of the World Snow |Awards - Best Specialist Retailer Ski Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West| London, UB10 0NP | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK RACE | RECREATIONAL T:FREERIDE 020Ski 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com T: 020 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com Ski Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP T: 020 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com

Protest Nocton 18 snowjacket

Protest Silvares snowjacket

Protest Warrior snowjacket

The slim-fit Nocton 18 ski/snowboard jacket

by Protest is part of their PVRE series, which features; 10,000mm water resistance, chevron-style quilting, detachable hood, zip chest and side pockets, and under-arm vent zips for natural ventilation. £179.99 | protest.eu

The Silvares features colour-blocking formed by criss-crossing lines this ski/snowboard jacket is quilted throughout. Part of their Geotech series which features 10,000mm water resistance, ventilation zips under the arms, zip side pockets and a detachable hood. £179.99 | protest.eu

An innovative technical ski/snowboard jacket. The colour-blocked Warrior has a water resistance level of 20,000mm and a breathability level of 20,000gr.

Embedded in this jacket, cohaesive™ stoppers simplify hood adjustment. This new stopper tech hides the hardware used to tighten your hood and is convenient to use. £199.99 | protest.eu

Protest Longa snowjacket

Protest Lole Softshell Snowpants

Protest Soribel snowpants

Protest Nebesna s

The Longa ski/snowboard jacket is part of the Geotech range; it features a massive 20,000mm of water resistance, a fabulous all-over print, a detachable hood lined with sherpa fabric and faux-fur detachable trim. Vent zips under the arms for natural ventilation. £179.99 | protest.eu

These women’s LOLE softshell snowpants are pants for winter activities such as snowboarding and skiing, from the Geotech 10,000 series. They feature: softshell, YKK zips, anti-slip waistband, and zips at the bottom. £89.99 | protest.eu

Part of the Geotech series, the Soribel ski trousers are loaded with technical features such as 10,000mm water resistance, adjustable waistband. Features: 10,000mm water resistance, anti-slip waistband, zip pockets and zips at the ankle. These trousers also feature a fantastic leopard print. £109.99 | protest.eu

Introducing the awesom

by Protest. Inspired by t these ski/snowboard tro over print of a polar bea water resistance, anti-sl pockets and zips at the £109.99 | protest.eu

058 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

Protest Mount 18

Protest Risto snowjacket

Protest Texture snowjacket

The Mount 18 ski/snowboard jacket is an all-round winner for your winter sports. Part of their PVRE series, this jacket is loaded with features; 20,000mm water resistance, soft shell, slim fit and regular in length. Featuring colour-blocking and quilted parts, there is an attached hood and ventilation zips under the arms. £179.99 | protest.eu

The Risto Snowjacket is a quilted ski/ snowboard jacket which is a true fusion of street and slope style and innovation.

Part of their Geotech series, this jacket has 10,000mm water resistance. With a bomber fit, zip pockets and a detachable hood. £159.99 | protest.eu

Enter the world of water-resistant breathable fabric with a water resistance level of 20,000mm and a breathability level of 20,000gr. Features: a fixed hood, ventilation zips, zip pockets that include a lift pass pocket. The outer fabric features a subtle texture print, hence the name. £179.99 | protest.eu

snowpants

Protest Owen snowpants

Protest Mowen snowpants

Protest Decay snowjacket

me regular-fit Nabesna the Polar regions, ousers feature an allar. Features: 10,000mm lip waistband, zip ankle.

This Protest Owen snowpants are perfect for skiing or snowboarding, from the Geotech 10,000 Series and the Performance Series.

This product features: critically taped seams, ergonomically pre-shaped, YKK zippers, zips at the bottom, removable shoulder straps. £99.99 | protest.eu

The Mowen snowpants are stylish slim-fit ski/ snowboarding snowpants which are melange in colour and features: waterproof hydrophilic breathable lamination 10,000mm, nylon zip with pocket flap, adjustable waist with velcro, reinforcement ankle, slit with velcro closure. £99.99 | protest.eu

Check out the fantastic Decay by Protest.

This awesome ski/snowboard jacket takes the street to the slopes in style. Features: 10,000mm water resistance, a super cool camouflage print on body and arms; the shoulders and hood are a solid colour. £169.99 | protest.eu

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

PROTEST.EU

ENGADIN ST. MORITZ/WHITE TURF

Anyone who is afflicted by what I like to call “the equine obsession” will know all too well the realities of mud. Whether brushing it off, barrowing it or wading through it … but being a horse rider, I love it.

instead of the stocky Haflinger breed work-horse that is

time for horse-related ski fun and the phenomenon that

popular in the Alps, we have a chestnut Arab, the horse

is ski-joring – which means, essentially, being towed

of the desert, and a stunning black Friesian (there’s a

behind a horse on your skis.

certain bank advert … ).

We’ve been whisked up to the frozen Lake Silsersee,

But before I can start interrogating the riders with boring

reputedly the region’s most beautiful. It is indeed a

horse talk they turn, ropes attached to the pommel and

scene from the Hollywood image of a winter holiday

placed with a triangle of rope and wooden handle laid out

Mud comes with one kind of winter, but bring this

scene. Families are walking happily through the

behind. It’s clear we have to pick it up and go for a tow.

obsession in alignment with my other sporting

snow, fit-looking folk are cross-country skiing, others

This is the nerve-wracking element. My entire instinct is

passion and life couldn’t become more complete. And

are sledging and there are small cafés selling hot

to leave the back end of a horse well alone, particularly

so to St Moritz.

chocolate.

when the beast’s ears are flicking. However, not one to

In a complete reversal of those mud-churned fields of

The scene is completed by two excited-looking

duck a challenge, I pick up the rope and brace myself.

home I’m transported to the snow and sun paradise of

horses, which come trotting around a corner, ready to

We go sedately at first; there’s even time to take in the

the Engadin, much as the first British tourists were 153

tow us away.

scenery and smile over at the folk pointing and waving

winters earlier when they made the first-ever recorded

As I greet the riders I realise I am missing my own beasts

at the sight of us.

wintersports holiday in the very hotel I’m booked into:

too much and bury my hands into their shaggy necks,

Try a trot? Why not! A little speedy jerk forward and the

The Kulm. It is February, -20°C, and my nostrils are

breathing in deeply that horsey smell. My surprise is that

pace increases, as does my competitive edge – bend

NIGEL YOUNG

frozen, but the sun is out, the sky achingly blue and it’s

060 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

WORDS: SALLY BROOKES

Kulm Hotel St Moritz

knees low, it’s getting more exciting.

in which to take a break.

A canter? Too right … and don’t let the horse behind catch

As mentioned, I stayed in the incredible Kulm hotel,

us up! Snow sprays in your face (yes, you need goggles)

which has seen more than 150 years of an exceptional

The Kulm Hotel St Moritz (kulm.com), open from 6

and my hands are painfully frozen, but the exhilaration is

skiing history, including essentially hosting the second

December 2018 to 4 April 2019, costs from CHF675

intense and I want to go faster than any other “ski-jorer” in

Winter Olympics in 1928, and being the meeting place at

(around £535) for two people sharing a double room on

our team, nerves a distant memory.

the start of the world-famous Cresta run.

a half-board basis.

But too soon it’s over. The horses have behaved

The hotel has grown into a spacious 5★ with several

Guests are entitled to a discounted daily ski pass, a

impeccably, and despite the -20°C temperatures they

gourmet restaurants and an incredible spa, but the

gourmet package allowing guests to eat in one of 17

need to cool down so depart for a well-earned rest

original simple house where those first guests were

restaurants; weekly early bird skiing sessions when only

and rug.

received, escaping the London fog (and mud), is

hotel guests get to ski before the slopes officially open

As the adrenaline surge subsides I realise my hands hurt

incorporated into its fabric, and the Ice Pavilion, built in

and free skiing lessons for kids aged 3 to 12.

like hell and I need to be holding a hot drink.

1905 and where skating competitions were staged at

What else to say about my trip? The equine experience

the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympic Games, has recently

was the main attraction for me but I skied the beautiful

been restored and converted into a wonderful restaurant,

slopes of St Moritz, of course. They tick all the boxes –

designed by the great architect Norman Foster.

Switzerland Tourism: myswitzerland.com

a great range of terrain, spectacular views, great snow

In short, if you’re going to go skiing with horses, there

Swiss International Air Lines: swiss.com

at this high altitude and some wonderful mountain huts

are few better choices than St Moritz.

Swiss Travel System: swisstravelsystem.co.uk

DANIEL MARTINEK

Flights

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

READ THE FULL ARTICLE ONLINE AT INTHESNOW.COM

ESCAPE ROOM IN FRENCH CABLE CAR Europe’s highest “escape room” was established, temporarily, in a cable car hanging more than 3,000 metres above sea level at Val Thorens in France, the

PRIVATE OR GROUP SKI SCHOOL LESSONS?

continent’s highest resort. The

“escape room” opened after the

lifts were closed to skiers for the day and participation was free

of charge with up to five people

MICHAEL WERLBERGER

taking part in each session. We think they all escaped.

CHAIRLIFT HOAX MAN CHARGED New York State Police have charged a man with making a false statement after he claimed to have spent the night trapped on a ski

KITZBÜHEL JOINS 200-DAY SKI SEASON CLUB

lift. Isaac Hyde, 37, claimed that he spent 17 hours trapped in sub-

Kitzbühel has joined a small group

get an awful lot of snow.

a dozen glaciers in the Alps, high-altitude

zero temperatures on a chairlift at

of ski areas that offer snowsports

Kitzbühel has joined the club by pushing

Arapahoe Basin in Colorado, which is

Gore Mountain ski area but staff

for at least 200 days of the season

back on its season start and end dates over

often open from October to June, and the

became suspicious and reported

– that is, a season lasting almost

the past few seasons so that it opens some

northern Scandinavian resorts of Levi and

Mr Hyde to the authorities. If

seven months, sometimes longer.

terrain in early October and closes in May.

Ruka in Finland.

convicted, Hyde faces up to a year

Most of the existing members of the club

It manages this by snow farming – saving

Mammoth in California is sometimes open

– which has fewer than 20 permanent

snow from the previous winter undercover

from mid-autumn to early summer due to

members worldwide – are glacier ski

and spreading it out on the slopes in early

all the snow it gets, and the permanent

areas, but there are also a few resorts that

autumn the following year. This year’s

snowfield above Timberline Lodge on Mt

manage to qualify due to their high altitude,

opening day is 13 October.

Hood in Oregon is open more than 300

northerly latitude or just the fact that they

Other members of the “200 Club” include

days each year.

in jail and a fine up to $1,000.

NEW RESORTS FOR KAZAKHSTAN? Kazakhstan has announced plans to inter-connect the country’s existing mountain resorts by gondola to encourage tourism, noting that Kazakhstan is wellplaced to attract skiers from the EU, Persian Gulf, Iran, India, China and Southeast Asia. He said the country will also add 7–10 more ski resorts by 2025.

THREE MORE US SKI AREAS SNAPPED UP A company which has operated three ski areas in Pennsylvania

JAPANESE SKI AREA TO STAY OPEN ONE MORE SEASON

has sold them to Peak Resorts, The operators of Japan’s southernmost

its plight and the likelihood of it needing

time low of 32,000; however, more cash

ski areas in the Northeast and

which already owns 14 other

ski area, Gokase Highland, say it will open

to close, it had seen an increase in skier

donations to enable continued operations

Midwest. More than 60 US ski

this winter despite receiving even fewer

numbers as well as other kinds of support,

have been received from across Japan. The

areas are now operated by four

skiers last season than it had previously.

including cash gifts from well-wishers, in

ski area’s operators, the local municipality,

groups including Alterra, Vail

The centre has been running at a loss for

order to stay open. Last winter saw poor

had previously said they needed at least

several seasons, but having publicised

snow cover, and skier numbers hit an all-

40,000 visitors in order to keep operating.

Resorts and Boyne resorts.

062 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

most informed choice possible.

much quicker rate. You also have much

The key benefit of a group lesson is

more input in how you want the lesson

that it should promote camaraderie,

to progress. You can choose to see a

helping each other to progress as

specific view, or visit a particular area

you learn with those of a similar

as part of the lesson, which can include

ability and have more fun. It will also

impromptu coffee stops!

be the cheapest option, especially

Private lessons can be any length:

during peak times such as school

perhaps two hours if you aren’t

holidays. Set against this, you have

sure whether or not you will like

less control over which instructor

it. AlpineMojo ski school recently

will lead the lesson, or how many

introduced a four-hour lesson, which

share the lesson (obviously the more

is perfect for an intermediate to really

people there are, the less one-to-one

make improvements.

time you get).

In both group and private lessons,

Unlike in a private lesson, in a group

instructors can use private lift queues

lesson there is no flexibility on lesson

to reduce waiting times during peak

timing, length or meeting point, and

season, increasing the time actually

looking into the kinds of ski lessons

you should pay attention to where

spent skiing.

that are offered.

that meeting point is when booking,

All lessons should be fun and

Look at each ski school’s website

as it may require a long walk in ski

enjoyable, but choosing which school

for any offers and also pay particular

boots, or even a bus journey!

or type of lesson can really influence

attention to their partner page. Many

In a private lesson, the instructor can

other parts of the holiday, so it is worth

rental accommodation sites will offer

hone in on the individual’s learning style,

researching the options in each resort

discounted lessons if booked with a

and progression normally happens at a

before booking.

WORDS: SEGA FAIRWEATHER

It’s a long-running debate: is it better to spend your money on group or private ski lessons?

The key question is: while private

particular ski school. Many ski schools

lessons may cost more, do they offer

offer a discount on rental equipment

proportionately better value as you

when booking ski lessons. As with all

learn faster with one-to-one tuition? Or

things these days, early booking can

might you have more fun progressing

bring cost savings too.

with a group of your peers, paying

When making your choice, don’t

less and having a laugh, but perhaps

be afraid to discuss your

needing more lessons?

needs and concerns with

In fact, it can be worth basing your

the ski school prior to

decision on the particular resort you

booking lessons

choose, then looking at the ski school

because they

options available to you there.

want to help

There are a multitude of reasons why

you make

people pick a particular resort for

the

their ski holiday, and this is usually

SHUTTERSTOCK

all organised before you even start

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

ALPINEMOJOSKISCHOOL.COM

What Makes The Perfect Ski Holiday?

It May Not be

What do we all want from a ski holiday? It’s a question that I’ve mulled over for many years.

The ski industry is pretty clear about it: POWDER! We should all be heading off piste into perfect light, fluffy powder. Bouncing through it effortlessly with unrestrained whoops of glee. It makes great video footage too.

to seek out those “secret stashes”.

Snowfall in the Dolomites seems to vary a good deal.

Fresh snowfall is usually accompanied by bad weather

Some years it gets huge snowfalls, but the previous

– low visibility, high avalanche danger, poor access and

three winters, particularly at the start, there was very

often strong winds too as the front comes in. Not so

little snow. Opening up the massive 1,200km of slopes

much fun to be out in.

on the area’s incredible Dolomiti Superski pass wasn’t

And besides, do most Brits, who, if they’re lucky, only

actually much of a problem due to one of the world’s

get to ski one week each winter, really have to have

most powerful snowmaking systems, which can cover

powder? Is it the main thing we want from our ski

the lot of it with snow so long as it’s cold enough,

holiday, as the ski industry and media (mostly run by

which it was, and it did. But still I imagined that with

powder-obsessed men, incidentally) tell us?

lots of natural snowfall, as they’d had at the start of this

These musings became more prominent in my mind

winter, the area was expecting a boost in business.

If you don’t want to ski or board powder, well, we don’t

on a recent trip to the Dolomites. I’ve been to the

So I was surprised when the area’s media relations

like to say it directly, but to be honest you’re a bit weird

Dolomites quite a few times over the years, and I

manager, Nicole Dorigo, put me right. Last season,

and you’re missing out.

absolutely love the area. The scenery is quite simply

she told me, the area did record business. Having

And yet, to be honest, powder is pretty hard to

among the most stunning on earth – no surprise

sunny days and glorious, groomed slopes suited their

find. The good stuff at least. Fresh, light, fluffy snow

it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and for me it’s

core Italian market. Italians, it seems, aren’t as fussed

doesn’t fall often in the Alps, and even places where

worth going for that alone. Fortunately there’s also a

about powder, but they do like good skiing, good

it does – Japan, Utah, BC – in any given week in the

great relaxed atmosphere on the slopes, lovely local

food and good weather. Also known as the good life

winter, it’s more likely than not that you’ll struggle

people, phenomenal skiing and great food, all at pretty

or “dolce vita”.

to find freshly fallen snow. In Europe those odds are

reasonable prices, so you win at least five times over.

So that winter, Nicole told me, the few bad weather

much, much worse, and those who can’t do without it

But last January I was particularly interested to visit

days they’d had, allowing the snow to fall, meant that

are wise to hire the service of a local guide in resort

after the area had had a lot of snow.

fewer people wanted to come skiing, so they were

064 // OCT18

@INTHESNOWMAG

t ?

SÜDTIROL MARKETING - ALEX FILZ

e Powder... waiting to see if their numbers stayed up.

Mesdi, are world-famous descents on any hardcore

restaurants (including an authentic Stube restaurant

This bit of news tallied with a report we’d received a

freerider’s bucket list, the majority comprise just fast

which dates back to the 16th century) so you could

few weeks earlier (we get lots of reports with lots of

on-piste cruising and, for that, powder snow doesn’t

choose a different theme each evening, and the quality

stats each autumn from various PR companies hoping

help – although it does look pretty.

was always excellent, as was the polished musical

for a headline story for their clients, often with fairly

Alta Badia has an additional claim to fame. It has put

performance of the inimitable Carmelo in the bar.

wild numbers based on dodgy-looking research), which

a real focus on becoming a haven for skiing foodies.

This winter the Hotel Sassongher will see the addition

claimed around a third of Brits were booking their ski

That doesn’t mean the elite gourmand Michelin-starred

of five new rooms in the main building and the

holidays based on the food available in resort, not on

restaurants that are way out of the price league of

completion of a second building next to the hotel.

the skiing, let alone the likelihood of powder snow.

most of us, but that the region’s restaurateurs have

This will house eight further rooms, a new wellness

I was staying in the Alta Badia region of the

committed to serving really top-quality food, usually to

area, gym, children’s room and cinema, as well as

Dolomites, a collection of half a dozen villages that

a traditional recipe using locally sourced ingredients

a sun terrace and sky spa with open whirlpool and

have got together for joint promotion. Located next

in many of the mountain restaurants (yes, I know that

panorama sauna.

to Val Gardena, the area is one of a dozen or so

sounds a bit of a cliché these days, but here it really

that make up the huge Dolomiti Superski area. It is

means something!). Alongside their standard menu

also located on the famous Sellaronda, a network of

there is usually a daily special at a very good price

lifts and ski runs surrounding the vast Sella Massif,

meeting this criteria.

which an average skier can ski around in half a day,

Alta Badia’s affinity with food was well demonstrated

Regional info: altabadia.org/en/

although it’s more fun to take a day over it and stop to

in the hotel where I stayed, a remarkably affordable

Hotel Sassongher: (sassongher.it +39 0471 836085)

take in the sights at one of the area’s many authentic

family-run 5★, the Sassongher, at the top of the

has rooms available from €175pp (around £155pp) per

mountain cafés and restaurants.

resort. This not only had all the luxurious trappings

night, based on two adults sharing a Comfort Room on

While the area does have its famous “steep and

you’d expect including very comfortable rooms and a

a half-board basis. Fly to Innsbruck, Venice or Verona.

deep” powder runs, some of which, like the Val de

great wellness and spa centre, but also a selection of

FB.COM/INTHESNOW

Alta Badia Info

ALTABADIA.ORG/EN/

M

I

N

U

T

E

S

ADRIAN BALLINGER With the news that the world’s second highest peak, K2, has finally been skied from the top this summer by Polish ski mountaineer Andrzej Bargiel, about two decades after Everest was first skied, the number of the world’s fourteen 8,000m+ peaks not yet skied from the top is fast diminishing.

tallest mountain in the world; I’ve skied it twice). I believe these are the most successful ski descents of 8,000m peaks by any American.

I have also attempted to ski Makalu (the fourth-tallest mountain in the world, attempted it twice; our 2015 team skied it from higher than anyone else to this point, approx.

7,900m). Lhotse I’ve attempted to ski already but conditions were poor, and Everest (same season as Lhotse ski attempt, same poor conditions).

Now American big-mountain climber Adrian Ballinger, who has

What are the major challenges you

already skied two 8,000m+ peaks

feel you face?

(one of them twice), and his long-

The physical challenge will be huge,

time girlfriend and professional

of course. But the biggest challenge

rock climber Emily Harrington

will come from the hazard of skiing

have said they plan to ski Lhotse

a line this steep and exposed

(fourth-tallest peak in the world),

at altitude. Gauging avalanche

then a straight and steep 2,000m

conditions can also be very difficult

ski down, all on “no-fall” terrain, in

on peaks this big.

a straight line called the “dream line” through the Lhotse Couloir, a

It’s quite a rarity for the snow to be

feat never achieved before.

skiable on Lhotse – how confident are you that it will be?

So no one has skied Lhotse before?

Getting the right conditions is a big

You are correct. The key is the

challenge. We will be attempting

couloir (steep gully) that goes from

this expedition in the autumn. All

the summit to Camp 4. This section

Lhotse ski attempts have been

has never been skied. A number of

done in spring, when guided teams

great ski mountaineers have tried,

make the work of the expedition

and Jamie Laidlaw got the closest,

much easier. But most snow falls in

skiing the bottom part of the couloir

Nepal and Tibet during the summer

from about 8,000m. But this leaves

monsoons, not during the winter.

500m above, and this is the most

That makes autumn a much more

challenging part.

difficult climbing season but there’s a good chance of more snow in the

What’s your previous experience of

couloir. This makes for a potential

this type of very extreme skiing?

avalanche hazard but may make the

I have made complete ski descents

line more skiable.

of Manaslu (the eighth-tallest mountain in the world; this was

Finally, what drives you to try this?!

the first time it was skied from the

A love of climbing and skiing big

summit) and Cho Oyu (the sixth-

mountains with friends!

Don’t like crowds?

If you like more room on the mountain, it really pays dividends to travel to lesser-known destinations like Åre and Vemdalen in Sweden. You’ll be blown away by the uncrowded slopes and short lift queues. Even over school holidays, queueing is limited so you’ll have more uninterrupted skiing time on the immaculately groomed pistes and plentiful and accessible off-piste.

Call Ski Safari’s Sweden specialists on 01273 224068 for help choosing your perfect, uncrowded ski holiday.

Quiet slopes (even at half term) from £765pp.

Visit skisafari.com/sweden or call 01273 224068

FOR THOSE WHO DARE

www.dare2b.com