InTheSnow | Issue 67 | December 2020

ROBERT AARING, WHISTLER BLACKCOMB, BRITISH COLUMBIA

ISSUE 67 | DEC 2020

INTHE SNOW

SKI NEWS

SNAPSHOT

APRÈS SCENE “MORE ZEN” THIS WINTER The Folie Douce chain of mountain-top cabaret-barrestaurants says there’ll be “no clubbing” this winter

In A Hurry? Here Are Some Of Ski’s Current Top Stories ...

and instead, “a slightly calmer atmosphere, more

JEFF ENGERBRETSON

zen and less festival.”

FULLY SOLAR-SKI LIFTS MOVE CLOSER

SQUAW VALLEY CHANGING NAME

Serbia is to open the new longest gondola lift

A new cable car on Reunion Island in the Indian

1960 Winter Olympics venue Squaw Valley in

in the world. The Zlatibor Gold Gondola is 9km

Ocean installed by the French-based lift company

California has decided to change its name in

long and will carry skiers from the local town to

MND will produce 92% of its annual energy needs,

response to the Black Lives Matter movement and

the Tornik ski area.

thanks to 600m2 of built-in photovoltaic panels.

will announce the new one in 2021.

FIRST BRITISH WOMAN TO WIN CRYSTAL GLOBE

NEW GONDOLA FOLLOWS FLIGHT OF WITCHES

LAKE LOUISE EXPANDS

Rather forgotten in the pandemic, British boarder

The new Hexenwasser gondola opening this winter

Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, famous for its

Katie Ormerod, who learned her skills on dry

in the Austrian Tirol will be “almost as beautiful

stunning scenery, is adding 480 acres of new

slopes, won the 2020 Crystal Globe in the Women’s

as a flight on the witches’ broom” according to a

advanced terrain in the West Bowl, accessed by a

Snowboard Slopestyle Competition.

statement from the SkiWelt region.

new Doppelmayr quad chairlift.

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NEW LONGEST GONDOLA IN THE WORLD

MONTE BIANCO ENRICO ROMANZI

T.LOUBERE OT VAL THORENS

“SAVE THE GLACIER” PROJECT UNDERWAY

New drones in Les 3 Vallées will feature many

Italian ski resort Courmayeur is studying three years

innovations including a loudspeaker that allows

of data as it looks for ways to “Save The Glacier”

information to be given while waiting for the arrival

with the aim of helping preserve the fast-thawing

of ski patrol.

Mont Blanc glacier.

BRECKENRIDGE JOSEPH LARGE

TALKING DRONES FOR LES 3 VALLÉES

CENTRE AIMS TO CUT SNOW WASTE

MAN FIRST TO SKI ALL 50 US STATES

A new organisation, Snow For the Future, based in

A 65-year-old man believes he’s the first to have

Norway, has launched with the aim of helping ski

skied on natural snow in all 50 US states. Bruce

resorts manage snow more efficiently, and thus cut

McEwen took 20 years and made special trips for

energy use and help the environment.

rare snowfalls in southern states to do it.

INTHESNOW @INTHESNOWMAG INTHESNOW INTHESNOW_MAGAZINE PUBLISHER

Dominic Killinger dom@inthesnow.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Patrick Thorne

FUNICULAR FIX UNDERWAY

patrick@inthesnow.com DEPUTY EDITOR

Megan Hughes

repairs to the 20-year-old funicular railway that serves the Cairngorm ski area at Aviemore. It’s hoped the lift will run again by winter 2021/22.

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MANAGING EDITOR

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HEAD OF SALES

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SKI TECHNIQUE EDITOR

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OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Debbie Gabriel

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CONTRIBUTORS

Megan Hughes Debbie Gabriel

MAGAZINE & BRAND DESIGN BY

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After two years, work is underway on £16m of

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© Copyright 2020 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.

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This time a year ago, and indeed this time every year for the past century or so, most skiers would be nervously checking the weather forecasts to see if there was likely to be a good snow dump to start the season.

This year, of course, few skiers are thinking about that, and the question instead is, will we be able to go skiing at all?

There appear to be positive signs – vaccines on the way and self-isolation requirements if we do head to the mountains reducing with better testing – but then as governments continue to fight to suppress the pandemic, resorts are being forced to close, and there’s uncertainty in some cases as to whether they’ll be able to open at all this winter.

Ski travel companies have been saying for some time that the latter half of the season is looking the more promising, and survey after survey has indicated that the majority of skiers intend to hit the slopes this season despite all the obstacles. Last spring, as the first wave of the pandemic eased and lockdowns ended, a larger number of ski areas re-opened in May and even June than they normally would, and perhaps that will be the case in 2021 if the snow cover next spring allows it.

Regardless of that, in some cases skiers want to reach the mountains almost because of all the obstacles ranged against them. As explained in our main story at the start of the magazine, for some the health and well-being of a wintersports holidays outweigh the virus risk.

Whatever your own hopes and fears about reaching the slopes this winter, let us hope we can all make it safely out on to the snow at some point, and more importantly, I know it has become a cliché to say it but, we all stay safe.

patrick@inthesnow.com

Book in complete peace of mind crans-montana.ch/hotelpass

ASPEN SNOWMASS

Could Ski Holidays This Winter Be Better Than Usual?

As we start (or should be starting) the 2020/21 ski season, it’s looking very tricky to get on the slopes this winter. Many people may not want to even try, with government advice often running against travel to ski nations, and of course fear of catching the virus, at least until the vaccines start to be rolled out on a wide enough scale.

But the periods many people were forced to stay home due to the pandemic in 2020 does appear to have had at least one positive impact: people are thinking more about the positive nature of being in the mountains, which could mean we actually enjoy our ski holidays even more than we did before, whenever

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we can take them again.

“Like everything in our lives preCOVID, skiing and snowboarding had become somewhat frantic. Many of us were caught up in the conquests – tracking our bowl laps and vertical – rather than fully appreciating the moments. I’m looking forward to refocusing on the core of what this sport is all about, what this place enables: a chance to connect deeply – with nature, with our physical selves and movements, and even with our sense of purpose and our roles in society. No doubt, next ski season will be more of an old school experience, but that could also translate to less noise, fewer distractions and, hopefully, more meaning,” said Aspen’s boss, Mike Kaplan.

Some skiers are also noting that if fewer people are allowed on the mountain to maintain social distancing

this winter, there could be more space on the slopes than usual, and who didn’t already love a wide open piste to themselves, even before social distancing was a requirement?

As European ski nations grappled with rising pandemic cases in the late autumn, many of them going into temporary second lockdowns, ski resorts appeared to be increasingly taking the view that the benefits of skiing to mental and physical health might outweigh the risks of virus infection.

The message coming from most resorts in their pre-season publicity was one of mountains being good for your health. Out go wild aprèsski parties, in comes more yoga and socially distanced wellness activities.

A statement from Austria’s Kaunertal glacier, one of around 20 ski areas that were open in the Alps in October before lockdowns were reintroduced in several

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countries, put it like this: “Exercise in the fresh air boosts your immune system and is known to make you happy.”

Italian ski centre Val Senales initially decided to stay open when Italy began its November lockdown against the central government’s advice, but this was allowed as the semi-autonomous region where its located permitted it to.

“We’re being asked a lot if we’re still open, the answer is yes,” a spokesperson said in early November, adding, “We take the current situation very seriously, that's why we have developed a safety plan and ask our visitors to respect our safety regulations on site. Especially at this particular time we want to keep giving you the opportunity to enjoy winter sports, walk outdoors and breathe in the fresh mountain air. In the meantime, we wish you an exciting ski season – with safety and awareness!”

DEC20 // 005

PATRICK PACHOD

WARM BOTH HEART AND “SOLE” Snowsports retailer Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports has teamed up with clothing manufacturer Smartwool to put warm, quality socks on the feet of as many homeless people in Manchester and London as they can this Christmas. Every pair of Smartwool socks Ellis Brigham sells up to Christmas Eve will be matched by the retailer with a pair donated to local homeless charities in the cities they support.

100 ULTIMATE SKI ADVENTURES A new guidebook aims to take skiers on a voyage around the planet’s biggest and best destinations, as well as some of the most unusual ski spots. Compiled by award-winning journalist Alf Alderson, 100 Ultimate

COURCHEVEL CHRISTENS 2023 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS DOWNHILL

Skiing Adventures, available as a Courchevel have finished building

The new black is nearly 3.2km long and

challenging runs in the world. According

their new downhill racecourse

descends 866 vertical metres. Keen to come

to the first champions to have studied

from the huge mega-resorts of the

ahead of the 2023 Alpine World Ski

up with a name to create a reputation like the

its layout and had the privilege of

French Alps to sailing along Iceland’s

Championships, which they are due

Streif at Kitzbühel and other famous downhill

descending, The Eclipse will undoubtedly

to stage in Meribel, and the run

race pistes, they’ve christened it: The Eclipse.

become one of the top three most

will also be open for anyone to ski

“The Eclipse has already been

demanding slopes on the world circuit,” a

from this winter onwards.

recognised as one of the most

Courchevel spokesperson enthused.

large-format paperback priced at £20, or an eBook, covers everywhere

north coast in search of great snow.

NEW SKI RESORT FOR KAMCHATKA A ski resort project has been unveiled for the remote Kamchatka Peninsula in the Far East of Russia, which is known for its spectacular, remote, generally snow-sure mountains and has long been a cult destination for heli-skiers to aspire to visit. The resort, to be named Three Volcanoes Park, will be built in a spectacular location with the objective of creating a year-round mountain destination by 2025.

ALPINE GIGS AXED DUE TO BREXIT Around 60 comedy gigs featuring British comics that were to be

SKI RESORTS RANKED BY AIR QUALITY & CLEANLINESS

organised in resorts including Les Gets, Val d’Isère, Meribel and

Ski holiday company Club Med has carried

their hygiene level information from test

covered six different criteria in total.

Chamonix this season are being

out a study of 100 of the world’s leading

reports conducted by the German-based

Although the top three scored highly

cancelled because of higher costs

ski resorts and ranked them on a number

site SkiResort.info and gathered air quality

on “hygiene”, Club Med put 4th placed

and paperwork complications caused

of criteria including two factors not usually

levels from the World Air Quality Index.

Kitzbuhel and 5th placed Kaprun at the

by Brexit after the UK fully withdraws

included in ski resort rankings, but now

Tignes was rated top, with Spain’s

highest level (one above the top three) in

from the EU on 31 December,

considered something worth thinking about

Baqueira Beret in second place and La

that category and in air quality – which La

promoters Taking The Piste say.

in the “new normal”. Club Med say they got

Plagne in third in their calculations, which

Plagne also took top marks for.

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SNOW BUDDY

VERBIER OPENS NEW HIGHEST ZIPLINE

GIANT SKI POLES APPEAR IN SKIWELT

SNOW DELIVERIES IN VEGAS

Verbier has unveiled the new highest zipline in the

Two giant wooden ski poles have appeared in the

A temperature of 54.4°C – or just a tenth of a

world, overtaking the previous highest above Val

giant Austrian Skiwelt region, which connects the

degree under 130°F – was recorded in Death Valley,

Thorens in France. The new Mont4Zipline begins

ski lifts and slopes of nine villages to create one of

California, in the summer, believed to be the hottest

3,330m up, and is nearly a mile in length, also

Austria’s and the world’s largest ski areas.

reading ever reliably recorded on the planet. Over

taking the title of the new longest zipline in the

This winter the region will unveil its latest high-speed

the state line in Nevada, a business that has been

Alps. Users can reach speeds of up to 100 kph on

lift, the brand new Salvistabahn, and as part of the

making a name for itself creating ice sculptures in

the descent, which totals 383 vertical metres.

celebrations it has created a new fotopoint featuring

Las Vegas has set up a new sideline delivering boxes

The cable begins above the Tortin glacier and

the giant poles at the new lift’s top station. The station

of snow to Vegas residents.

descends between Mont Fort and Les Gentianes.

and poles are located at 1,565m altitude above the

The new “Snow Buddy” service is from Marco Villarreal,

Those descending the zipline meet first at the

village of Itter on the Kleine Salve mountain, with the

better known under his business name, the “Vegas Ice

Gentianes mountain restaurant at the base of the

bigger of the two poles about 5m high.

Man” or “the man who's making it snow in the desert”.

zipline for instruction and to test the kit. The zipline

As well as being something for people to take

Marco’s company delivers 32kg of snow to customers’

is reported to have cost CHF750,000 to create

pictures of themselves in front of, one of the

kerbsides, divided into two boxes, for $50. Add-on

and rides cost CHF45 for adults, CHF28 for teens

two poles also houses the latest generation of

packs like “DinoSnow Scavenger Hunt” are available

and seniors and CHF20 for children in addition to

panorama webcam at the top and will generate

at a small additional cost, delivering toy dinosaurs with

a lift pass.

views of the Skiwelt to web pages.

fact sheets to play with in the snow.

23-24 JAN

ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL CONTENT POOL

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ERICH SPIESS/ASP/ RED BULL

GEPA PICTURES/ MARIO KNEISL

4-5 JAN 202I

Men’s and Ladies’ Slalom World Cup

81st Lauberhorn Men’s WC Downhill

Ladies World Cup Downhill

Zagreb | Croatia As has become traditional, the new year starts with the men and women heading to the same location by the Croatian capital and near the Adriatic Coast. Slalom races take place for the women on Saturday and men on Sunday. It’s often quite warm, but there’s over €120,000 in prize money. snowqueentrophy.com

Wengen | Switzerland Back when the 80th Lauberhorn was being run at the start of this year, no one had really heard of Covid-19.

Who would have thought the season would be over two months later? The Lauberhorn Downhill sees the highest speeds of up to 162kph on the longest course (4.4km) on the circuit. lauberhorn.ch/en

Crans-Montana | Switzerland Always one of the most exciting events in the World Cup calendar, the Downhill and Alpine Combined competitions will be staged in the run-up to the biannual World Championships, this time in Italy, so all the racers will be trying to reach peak form right about now. skicm-cransmontana.ch

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ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL CONTENT POOL

3-6 FEB RED BULL

SAMO VIDIC/RED BULL

24-26 JAN

81st Hahnenkamm Men’s World Cup Downhill and Slalom Kitzbühel | Austria The Hahnenkamm title is said to be more sought after than the Olympic Downhill title by some racers.

This year Super-G is on Friday, Downhill (Austria’s biggest sports event) on Saturday and the Slalom on Sunday. hahnenkamm.com/en

FIS Men’s World Cup

FIS Alpine World Ski Championships

Garmisch Partenkirchen, Germany The famous Kandahar Downhill Race In Garmisch can trace its history back a century this year as 2021 saw the first competitions organised by Brit Sir Arnold Lunn in Murren in 1921. The first race in Garmisch wasn’t until 1928, but the organisers trace its origins to those earlier Swiss races. skiweltcup-garmisch.com

Cortina d’Ampezzo | Italy Things were looking great for Cortina a year ago with the 2020 World Cup Finals, 20/21 World championships and 2026 Olympics all heading there. Then the virus came, eventually cancelling the finals and nearly thwarting the Championships, but all are working to ensure they happen if they can. cortina2021.com

CALENDAR THE BIG RACES 202I I7-2I MAR

28 MAR-8 APR

Freestyle Ski & Snowboarding World Championships China

World Cup Finals

GB Alpine Championships

Lenzerheide | Switzerland The big final races of the season last winter when World Cup overall winners were due to be decided had to be cancelled due to the pandemic, so Lenzerheide will be hoping for no repeat of that sad end to the 2020 season. arosalenzerheide.swiss

Tignes, France After the 2020 Championships were cancelled due to the virus, GB Snowsport were quick to confirm the dates for the 2021 competition, only 10 months before the 2022 Olympics. A new timetable sees the senior and junior FIS races run from 28 March and the Children’s Championships from 5 April. gbsnowsport.com

Plans to stage Olympic test events two years ahead of the 2022 Games in China were cancelled in February as the virus first ravaged China before gaining a foothold in Europe and North America. But these Championships, awarded in 2016, are definitely on – all being well. fis-ski.com/en/snowboard

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VANESSA FRY PHOTOGRAPHY

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WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

TVB PAZNAUN - ISCHGL

Nationalism is hitting highs not seen for 80 years around the world – back before most ski resorts we visit today had been built. Although ever-more amazing ski lifts are being built each year, so are new walls and fences designed to keep one group of people separate from another group of people.

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It seems like a good time to remember that mountains and snow don’t recognise lines drawn on the map by men. In even happier news, you can actually ski across borders from one country to another, often without restriction. Here are six of my favourite ski regions crossing borders …

From France to Italy

La Rosière to La Thuile

Adriatic Sea from the top, and it also has a great record for snowfall. In the year the lift opened, I reported 13m of snow, the most in Europe, and just last spring it re-opened after pandemic lockdown restrictions were eased in Slovenia in late May and staged the country’s national ski championships, believed to be the first such post-lockdown ski event anywhere in the world.

From Italy To Switzerland

Cervinia to Zermatt

One of only two outdoor ski areas in the world open every day of There are a number of routes by ski lift and piste across the the year for skiing or boarding, weather permitting, Zermatt also French-Italian border, including via the famous Milky Way, which operates Europe’s highest lifts up to 3,899m. Cervinia is open for links the French ski area on Montgenèvre with the slopes of most of the year too, offering cross-border ski lifts from spring to neighbouring Claviere on the Italian side and on to bigger Sauze autumn to access the glacier and some of the world’s great ski d’Oulx and Sestriere – a combined 400km of piste. That’s the descents from the Klein Matterhorn down over the border on a route reputedly taken by Hannibal and his elephants en route glorious long cruise down into Italy. Better still, you can buy a ski to Rome a few millennia before the ski lifts went up. I remember pass in Italy for the same area covered by a pass bought on the skiing over the border back before the EU’s internal borders came Swiss side. down and being asked for my passport by a border guard in a sentry box at the top of a ski lift – very surreal.

But the border crossing between La Rosière and La Thuile, the Espace San Bernardo, is another popular choice. Here you ski Riksgränsen under an old border fort if you cross from the French side and ski over a vast plateau before descending into Italy, perhaps on the Riksgränsen is a remarkable resort in so many ways. Located 250km Women’s World Cup Race piste, for a real espresso and slice of north of the Arctic Circle it’s so cold and dark here in midwinter that pizza before heading back. lifts don’t start running until late spring, and then open at midsummer in June, by which time there’s skiing under the midnight sun. This year it was the only northern hemisphere ski area to operate its normal season through the pandemic. Its name means “national Ischgl to Samnaun border” in Swedish and its most westerly run starts in Sweden at the top of the lift, crosses the border into Sweden as you descend then It’s possible to ski between a rather remote corner of Eastern returns back to Norway at the base. How cool is that?

Switzerland and the famous Tirolean resort of Ischgl in an area called the Silvretta Arena – one of Europe’s biggest with its 240km of ski runs.

As well as being famous for its annual Santa Claus World Portes du Soleil Championships, Samnaun’s remote location has earned it dutyfree status in Switzerland, so rather like the ski areas on Andorra One of the world’s largest and most successful ski areas, with and Livigno in Italy which have the same status, you’ll find it full multiple crossing points, the vast Portes du Soleil brings together of duty-free shops selling perfume, alcohol, consumer electronics a dozen leading French and Swiss ski areas. British favourites and there are also a surprisingly large number of big petrol Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz as well as big name resorts like stations for a small mountain village. The piste across the border is Chattel as well as Champery on the Swiss side are all parts of this known as the ‘Duty-free run’, but skiers beware: there are border vast ski domain with around 600km of slopes. One of the most police empowered to carry out random checks to ensure that you infamous runs, The Wall, descends from the French side into are not carrying more than your duty-free allowance, or any cheap Switzerland. Very steep with “car-sized moguls”, it’s no shame to petrol, in your backpack. ride the chairlift down instead.

From Sweden to Norway and back

From Austria to Switzerland

From Switzerland to France

From Slovenia to Italy

Kanin to Sella Nevea

The Next Cross-Border Ski Area

Plans for a new ski connection crossing an international border When a cable-car was created across the Italian-Slovenian border have just been given the green light by the regional government in 2009, it had some special poignancy. This was not just a on the Italian side, but still need approving on the Austrian side. national border being skied across but the former iron curtain that The link between the Drei Zinnen (Three Peaks) ski area on the divided West and East Europe during the Cold War. Slovenia had Italian side and the Sillian Hochpustertal ski area in Austria’s East then been a part of Yugoslavia and perhaps the first decade of the Tyrol is believed to be the first cross-border ski area between noughties was the high tide of the move for borders coming down, the two countries. On the Italian side a new gondola with 10 which began with the break-up of the Soviet Union before the passenger cabins would be built along with a 2.1km slope down current surge of nationalism began. from the border at a cost of around €11m, but another lift and run But apart from this political significance this ski run has other would be needed on the Austrian side, and that seems to be a selling points. For one thing you can look down across to the less advanced part of the plan.

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DEC20 // 011

Cameron Hall from Holmlands is no stranger to Revelstoke, having recently directed a new film and web series The Revelstoke Diaries in British Columbia last winter – which is available to watch now online. Here he runs through some of his favourite places to visit off the mountain in the Canadian powder paradise.

Big Eddy Glass Works A great way to get creative and learn some new skills, Big Eddy Glass Works offers regular drop-in glassblowing workshops for beginners, where owner Leah Allison and her team will teach you the basics of the ancient artform. Taking you through

012 // DEC20

the mesmerising process step by step, you get the chance to create a bespoke piece of glassware from scratch choosing your own colours, style and design. It’s a lot of fun and a great way to warm up inside after a long day skiing outside in the cold.

Revelstoke Trading Post If you like shopping, the Revelstoke Trading post has a great selection of locally produced goods, with contemporary and classic designs and custom branded clothing that offer the perfect memento for a holiday in Revelstoke or gifts to take back home for family and friends.

The Taco Club For such a small town, there are so many great places to eat in Revelstoke that it’s hard to go wrong,

but I’d highly recommend a visit to The Taco Club on MacKenzie Avenue for a full-flavour and greatvalue après-ski feast that is a little different to the regular burger and fries combo. They also offer signature cocktails, a curated tequila menu and locally crafted beer to help you wash down your meal.

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre/Roxy Cinema The local arts centre hosts a range of cultural events from stage shows to live music events to film premieres, with a full programme throughout the year. The theatre seats almost 300 people and is cool, clean, comfortable and contemporary.

Equally, the Roxy Theatre is a great Art Deco-style cinema with bags of charm, screening the latest film

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releases and offering another good way to unwind after a day of steep and challenging skiing.

Revelstoke Grizzlies No Canadian holiday visit would be complete without taking in an ice hockey game. While Revelstoke doesn’t have a professional team, it does boast one of the best junior hockey teams in the province, “The Grizzlies”. You’ll know when it’s game night, with signs put up all round town, as the local community rallies together to show their support. You can get tickets on the door at the ice rink, but they can sell out, especially during the festive holidays – so it’s a good tip to swing by Revy Outdoors on MacKenzie Avenue and purchase in advance to avoid disappointment.

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THE REVELSTOKE DIARIES © HOLMLANDS CAPTURED BY MATT GRAYSON PHOTOGRAPHY

REVELSTOKE

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NEW GONDOLA “THE FASTEST IN FRANCE”

THE NEXT LEVEL OF RESPONSIBLE WATERPROOF/BREATHABLE TECHNOLOGY.

The Grand Massif ski region in France is set to unveil a new gondola this winter, which they claim will be the fastest in the country.

The area’s new €10m 2.2km-long Vercland gondola replaces the old iconic four-seater red gondola cabins from Samoëns, which used to be the main route up into the Grand Massif. The lift’s base is located some distance from the village and a shuttle bus is required to reach it. A second gondola, the Grand Massif Express gondola, was added from the resort centre some years ago to cope with growing demand.

The new gondola features cabins each capable of seating 10 people and is able to reach speeds of up to 7 metres-per-second; that’s a metre-per-second

STEVIE MCKENNA / SKI SCOTLAND

faster than the usual fastest lifts.

SCOTTISH CENTRE MAKING BETTER SNOW Snow cover has been an ever-growing problem for Scotland’s five commercial ski centres through the 21st century. In recent years all have installed special machines that make snow even when it’s above freezing. The main issue with those machines, though, is that they can only cover relatively small areas with snow and are expensive to run.

This winter, The Lecht has announced a £400,000 project to update its 20-year-old snowmaking arsenal.

The big difference with these state-of-the-art but conventional snowmaking guns is that they can make snow at -1°C, not the -4°C the older system requires.

While only four nights in February 2020 saw temperatures down to -4°C, no fewer than 22 nights in the same month were -1°C. “There have always been variations in snowfall in Scotland. At The Lecht, we want to be able to offer consistent, reliable snow conditions,” said The Lecht’s Managing Director, Pieter du Pon.

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AURÉLIEN DUCROZ / PROFESSIONAL SKIER

PINING FOR CHAMONIX? ©FREERIDEWORLDTOUR.COM / DOM DAHER

WORDS: CLAIRE BURNET

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Describing Chamonix as “contagious” is probably not a great choice of words at the present time, but it’s true that the valley has been captivating its visitors for several centuries, to the extent that many keep returning, both winter and summer, and some just never leave! Is it the characterful town that draw visitors back, or the mountains with their cascading glaciers, or the people that so readily share their passion with others?

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©MUSÉE ALPIN

The pandemic has of course made travel more difficult, but the good news is that Chamonix will always be there.

For those who do not know the destination already, Chamonix Mont-Blanc is both a town and a 28kmlong valley. Along the valley floor lie a number of traditional villages and hamlets, each with their own personality and each staking a claim on the majestic summits and their eternal snows above.

People have been coming here far longer than most other ski destinations, and indeed since long before downhill skiing was thought up. In 1741, the first official visitors to the Chamonix Valley were two Englishmen, William Wyndham and Richard Pocock. Their legacy to the valley was the “Mer de Glace” (sea of ice), the name they bestowed on the impressive Montenvers glacier.

20 years later, another illustrious visitor said of the valley: “These majestic glaciers, separated by great forests and crowned by granite crags of astounding height cut in the form of huge obelisks mixed with snow and ice, present one of the noblest and most singular spectacles it is possible to imagine.”

Following the conquest of Mont Blanc in 1786, explorers, mountaineers, tourists, artists and scientists were drawn inexorably to Chamonix. The dry Scot, James W Forbes, considered to be the precursor of glaciology in the early 1800s, spent many years studying the movement of ice. He developed lifelong friendships with local guides, alongside a passion for the Mer de Glace, and was rather derisory of anyone who didn’t fall in love with it.

“He who does not feel his step lighter and his

breath freer on the Montanvert and the Wengern Alp, may be classed among the incapables and permitted to retire in peace to paddle his skiff on the Lake of Geneva or to loiter in the salons of Baden Baden.”

It was John Ruskin, the 19th century artist and poet who coined the phrase “mountains are the great cathedrals of the earth”. At the foot of the Brevent, the Ruskin Stone bears witness to the hours he spent in tender contemplation of nature: “I never saw the valley look so lovely as it did tonight!

With its noble, quiet slopes of deep, deep green and grey, and, above them, the rich orange of the Aiguilles. I know nowhere else where one sees green and orange united by purple, as the sun leaves the pines and remains on the granite. The great waterfall across the valley was bounding with ever wilder crashes … and the wind brought its roar to me across the fields. The sweet level fields!”

Many more colourful quotes testify to the Briton’s love affair with Chamonix, but this is a favourite.

After successfully climbing Mont Blanc in 1851, the impresario Albert Smith wrote in his diary: “The peaks looked like islands rising from a filmy ocean – an archipelago of gold; the sight was more than the realisation of the most gorgeous visions that opium or hasheesh could evoke.”

Grand hotels sprang up in the late 1800s, bearing the names of Hotel de Londres, Hotel d’Angleterre, Hotel Royal, Hotel International… The small farming village was growing into a cosmopolitan destination and the arrival of the train in 1901 confirmed the prosperity of the Belle Époque.

The passage into the 20th century was hailed by the arrival of long wooden planks that were to gaily revolutionise the interminable winter seasons in Chamonix. In 1898, at the age of 10, the Englishman Arnold Lunn tested his first pair of skis on the valley’s slopes.

While he was not particularly enthused at the time, he went on to become a key player in the development of alpine skiing. In 1924 the first Winter Olympic Games took place in Chamonix, but due to Scandinavian opposition, downhill skiing was not on the agenda! Lunn consequently organised the first international competition, the

Arlberg-Kandahar, in 1928, and the rest is history…

During the “Années Folles” in Chamonix, three splendid hotel palaces, with magnificent gardens and ballrooms, attracted aristocrats and dignitaries from the world over. One of these superb buildings,

the “Majestic”, is Chamonix’s Congress centre, the second is proudly occupied by the Alpine Museum and the third, the Savoy Palace, recently reopened under the patronage of the Folie Douce hotels. The bygone era of crazy partying has been revived, and the British are still there having fun!

For well over 250 years, the British have kept a special place in their hearts for Chamonix. Many, like Victor Saunders, president of the Alpine Club, mountaineer, guide and author, have chosen to make the valley their home. The passion that Chamonix dwellers share for this extraordinary environment is what brings them together, whatever their nationality.

The challenge of the 21st century is how to protect this heritage, how to continue to enjoy the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley without compromising the lives of those who will become the future guardians of this temple of nature.

If Alpinism is a metaphor for life, the pioneering spirit of mountain lovers will undoubtedly meet the challenges of the future.

For friendly advice, best rates and no cancellation fees, contact the tourist office booking service on +33 450 539 998 email:booking@chamonix.com For general information, visit chamonix.com

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This winter, priorities have somewhat changed when it comes to ski holidays: no longer are we choosing resorts for their lively après-ski. Instead, why not take this opportunity to experience the unique charm of a smaller, more relaxing resort, with access to the same huge ski areas, but where lift queues are a rarity and first tracks are easy pickings?

Champagny-en-Vanoise Champagny is the epitome of a small village with big skiing, with access to 425km of pistes in Grand Plagne.

A family favourite, its unique charm, authentic atmosphere and stunning landscapes make this a highly recommended destination.

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Saint-Jean-d’Arves and Saint-Sorlin-d’Arves For true relaxation, head to the quaint and quiet village of Saint-Jean-d’Arves, or its slightly bigger brother, SaintSorlin-d’Arves. Both provide access to the 310km of slopes available in Les Sybelles, an exceptional, uncrowded ski area criminally overlooked by British holidaymakers.

Serre Chevalier With several villages to choose from, this sun-drenched valley is the perfect spot for a different type of ski holiday, whether you want to explore the 250km of slopes and plentiful off-piste opportunities, or visit the stunning UNESCO-listed town of Briançon.

Arêches-Beaufort A true hidden gem, ArêchesBeaufort has visitors returning

time and time again, and not just for the fantastic local cheese! This traditional village places huge importance on the environment and agriculture, as well as offering a wide range of non-ski activities.

Les Carroz-d’Araches Les Carroz is a gorgeous village with a strong environmental commitment, set within the huge Grand Massif ski area. Wooden chalets and tree-lined slopes with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Mont Blanc make this an incredibly picturesque spot to switch off and breathe.

Vaujany Vaujany is a remarkable ski village with a true sense of community and impressively easy access to the vast, sunny ski area of Alpe d’Huez. The

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cable car that whisks you up to the slopes is one of the world’s largest, taking you from 1,250m to 2,800m in a matter of minutes.

Villard de Lans Villard de Lans is the ultimate small village destination for serious downhill and cross-country skiers, with 125km and 150km of routes respectively. The vibrant village centre offers shops, restaurants, architectural sights and even a museum.

Les Contamines-Montjoie The idyllic slopes of Les Contamines provide a far less hectic holiday than their neighbours in the Mont Blanc massif. Here you will find 120km of pistes for all abilities, with panoramic views of the Mont Blanc and Beaufortain mountain ranges.

ATOUT-FRANCE.FR

TH IS YEAR IN SKI ING

BY PATRICK THORNE

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100 YEARS AGO 1920: The origins of downhill skiing date to the 1860s invention of the Telemark technique but a century

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ago, the alpine style of downhill really started to take off. The great Austrian ski pioneer Hannes Schneider created the Arlberg Technique, and the first recorded ski instructor, Norwegian Henrik Jacobsen, was hired to instruct at Lake Placid, New York State.

50 YEARS AGO 1970: Among the new resorts openings for 1970 were Piau-Engaly, a futuristic purpose-built resort in the French Pyrenees, and Risoul, in the Southern French Alps. In the US new resorts included Colorado’s Keystone, with the state’s largest night-skiing operation, and Homewood in California, famous for its views of Lake Tahoe.

25 YEARS AGO 1995: The 1995/96 Alpine Ski World  Lib Tech Cortado

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Cup saw America’s Picabo Street win the women’s downhill, later going on to take Super-G gold at the 1998 Olympics as well as the Downhill gold at the 1996 World Championships in Sierra Nevada.

Frenchman Luc Alphand, famous son of Serre Chevalier, won the Men’s competition.

10 YEARS AGO 2010: The Vancouver Olympics turned out to be the last in “The West” for 16 years. Twenty-five years after the Sierra

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Nevada World Championships were postponed due to a lack of snow, a similar issue faced Olympic freestyle venue Cypress Mountain, which had inadequate snow to build terrain features so snow was trucked in from 160 miles away.

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in La Plagne

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@INTHESNOWMAG

It is not just about our usual desire to indulge our love of sliding down the slopes. This season especially, it is also about finding some space, getting some fresh air and reconnecting with loved ones.

With all the benefits that brings for both our physical and mental well-being, it is no surprise that so many skiers are determined to get their winter holiday fix, as soon as resorts are able to open.

But where to go? There are plenty of ski resorts to choose from, of course, but very few that can offer both hundreds of miles of wide-open piste to whizz around and a full roster of off-slope activities to help press the reset button, including several world-class attractions unique to them, but available to the whole family: La Plagne.

The Resort

La Plagne’s unique offer connects a dozen different resort bases ranging from authentic Savoyard villages with centuries of tradition down in the valleys to state-of-the-art, purpose-built centres situated high on the mountain slopes.

In between the various resort bases, there are thousands of hectares of open space that are home not just to ski slopes but also forest and empty snowfields, so you can really escape into the great winter outdoors, finding space for your body and soul, and to reconnect with family.

The whole resort has been engaged in a huge effort to ensure its operations are Covid-safe, successfully operating through the summer and fine-tuning the social-distancing, hygiene and the myriad of other measures put in place (all detailed here: en.la-plagne.com/coronavirus-information).

Whether you go for the timeless ambience of a village resort or the doorstep-skiing of one of the altitude resorts, you have the same access to one of the world’s fastest and most efficient high-speed

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lift networks which can whisk you into the heart of the ski area in minutes. All the resort’s many other attractions are also within easy reach.

Each resort is also well equipped with its own enticing restaurants and cafes, as well as shops and other activities to try.

This winter, La Plagne’s signature affordable ski-in/ ski-out self-catering apartment accommodation, easy to self-drive to if you’d like (or take the train via Paris direct to the resort or of course fly in via Lyon or Geneva), is the perfect choice for those looking for a family ski holiday where you can minimise contact with people outside your bubble.

The Skiing

ELINA SIRPARANTA

With everything that has been happening around the world this past year, our future ski holidays are shaping up to be more important than ever.

La Plagne’s ski area stats are fairly jawdropping. It is part of one of the world’s three largest ski areas, Paradiski, which it shares with neighbouring Les Arcs and Peisey-Vallandry, connected by the spectacular Vanoise Express double-decker cable car.

Altogether that’s a 10,000-hectare domain with well over 425km of runs located between 650m and 3,250m above sea level – that’s one of the biggest lift-served verticals on earth.

As you can imagine, with such a vast area there’s skiing for every ability and taste. With glorious long cruising pistes, brilliant beginner terrain (check out the dedicated “Coolski” zones) and spectacular off-piste powder fields, any number of guides would be delighted to lead you through.

Many skiers will want to make expeditions out across the huge area, seeing how far they can go through the day. Luckily, the resort has an app to help with planning, called Yuge, even advising on the best routes to avoid the crowds.

Snow conditions aren’t a problem either. The runs extend on to seven peaks and include runs on the eternal ice and snow of the Bellecote glacier. Last winter’s natural snowfall was 7.3m and with 70% of the area above 2,000m altitude, it is cold enough for the snow to last all winter too. About a third of the slopes are covered by over 600 snow cannons for still more guaranteed cover.

Off The Slopes

One of la Plagne’s great strengths, and a bigger attraction than ever this winter, is the huge range of things it has to offer off the slopes. This winter, families will be able to reconnect and have fun together once more, thanks to the ever-growing list of activities on offer, all of which can be enjoyed safely, thanks to all the measures in place to combat the virus.

New this winter is an exciting escape game on the slopes, I Quest, which is great fun for the whole family, and there’s excitement to be had on the special fun slope with special equipment, or in the Colorado Park with its sledge track.

Also new this year are Treatment Bubbles, which have appeared on the terrace at Espace Paradisio, Montchavin’s spa and swimming pool complex.

These are used for three “Bubble of Gentleness” body treatments, a fabulous way to end the day with a view of the piste and stars!

Sophrology sessions – getting to know the local trees in Montchavin – are also new this year. Or you might like to try a snowshoe hike through the powder. Cross-country skiing, or even ski-joering, being towed along on your skis behind a pony (don’t worry they don’t go too fast).

France’s only bobsleigh track and one of the few left in the world open to the general public is a definite “must try” during your stay. The selfsteering bob-raft, which can take up to four people, is fabulous fun and again a great experience for families to enjoy together. You also have the option to take a “taxi-bob” riding behind a professional driver if you dream of trying the real thing.

You can also enjoy everything from ice climbing on a 22m-high tower in Champagny en Vanoise to dogsledding or the zip-wires waterfall in Belle Plagne, and you can even spend the night sleeping in an igloo together in the Blacksheep village in Plagne Soleil.

Most of these activities are available to children aged 8–10 or older, and there’s even the option of a family spa visit together at the Bains et Spa Deep Nature.

There are special weeks throughout the season too, with the Zen week the chance to try yoga on the slopes, Nordic walking, qi gong and more.

After a stressful year, we all need a little Zen and a lot of snow.

LA-PLAGNE.COM

LITHUANIA.TRAVEL

LITHUANIA The Baltic states of Northeastern Europe are not renowned for their high peaks.

Lithuania is no exception with its highest point, Aukštojas, more of a hill than a mountain, reaching just 294m above sea level.

They are not really that cold usually either. They lie due south of Finland, east of Denmark, and if you travelled further due west across the North Sea, you’d find Lithuania on about the same latitude as southern Scotland. It is usually snowier, however, as there’s no warming Gulf stream, just the cold Baltic sea.

But despite these rather unpromising prospects for downhill skiers and

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boarders, little Lithuania punches above its weight for ski facilities.

One of the big attractions is the Snow Arena, which opened in April 2011. The world’s only indoor-outdoor centre, it has one of the longest indoor slopes there is, at 460m, but then when it’s cold enough it links to a curving outdoor slope, which begins and ends next to the top and bottom of the indoor slope, sharing the 66m vertical.

It is 640m long with a slope pitch of up to 25%. This can operate as soon as temperatures drop below 5C° each winter when snowmaking can begin.

There’s also a 150m nursery slope and a terrain park.

The SNORAS Snow Arena opened following an investment of 98 million litas (about €28.5m) of which two-

fifths came from the EU. The centre’s capacity is 1,000 people at any time, and annual visitor numbers are 400,000 visitors annually, most arriving from the wider Baltic region.

Last summer, those arrivals included the great ski racer Petra Vlhová, who came from slightly further afield in Slovakia for pre-season race training.

But Lithuania is also home to around 10 small ski centres of a more conventional type.

Kalita ski centre in Anykščiai, also a spa resort, is one of the larger centres and for skiers it’s not that large. There are five runs, a terrain park and a yearround tubing slope (on a dry slope surface in summer). The longest run is 500m, over 40m of vertical.

Another of the larger areas is the

Ignalina Winter Sports Centre which has a long tradition of hosting winter sports competitions and entertainment thanks to a reputation for being the first in the country to get snow fall each winter, and then for the fallen snow to last longest. There are four drag lifts here serving short downhill runs of a few hundred metres each.

Most of the rest of Lithuania’s ski destinations have just one or two short drag lifts and runs which open when it’s cold enough. Wherever you are in the country, though, you don’t have to travel far to find a ski lift.

More info: Snow Arena (snowarena.lt): Kalita Ski Centre (infoanyksciai.lt); Ignalina Winter Sports Centre (lzsc.lt)

INFOANYKSCIAI.LT

WIN 7 nights for 2 people staying at  Hotel Elite We have partnered with Crans Montana to bring you this amazing competition Stay in a double room with a mountain view and breakfast included. We will even throw in transfers to and from Sierre train station. It also includes eligibility to Hotelpass.

NEW CORTINA LIFT LINKING TO SELLA RONDA An impressive lift connection between two of Cortina’s ski areas in the Dolomites opens this winter as the famous Italian resort prepares to stage the 2021 Alpine Ski World Championships then the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The new 4.5km-long gondola will link, for the first time, Cortina’s ski areas of Tofane and Cinque Torri, significantly reducing the road traffic between the two areas.

The connection will mean it will be possible, for the first time, to start the day in Cortina and travel, on skis and lifts, onwards for up to 40km to the far side of the Sellaronda and the far end of linked valleys like Fassa and Gardena.

That’s because the new gondola will link to Cinque Torri from where it’s possible to access the famous Hidden Valley run and then the almost-as-famous horse-pulled drag lift at the bottom to connect to the Sellaronda, then head on via ski and lifts. This will however be a one-way connection, with a shuttle bus required back as there are no lifts back up the Hidden Valley run.

Hotel Elite offers breathtaking views of the Alps giving you maximum sunshine and is within walking distance from the centres of Crans and Montana.

Closing Date: 31 January 2021

Simply go to: inthesnow.com/competitions

THE SHARD ARCHITECT WORKING ON NEW LIFTS

Terms: Stay from 6 March – 11 April 2021. The prize is only valid for this winter season and can’t be postponed to 2022. Possible to extend at own cost to a family room.

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Chamonix has unveiled plans for the replacement of the Grands Montets lifts above Argentière, which were destroyed by a fire in 2018 meaning currently the only way to the very top is to “skin up” from the summit of a nearby lift.

“It would be fair to say that this option has encouraged many skiers to discover the joys and rewards of ski touring, but it is not a long-term solution,” said a Compagnie du Mont-Blanc spokesperson.

The lift company has entrusted the project to the famous Italian architect Renzo Piano. His notable buildings include The Shard in London and the Pompidou Centre in Paris. The project is very big, with stations redesigned, a new cable car on the lower section and a 3S type giant gondola lift for the upper section. It will hopefully be complete for the 2023/24 season.

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© INNSBRUCK TOURISMUS / CHRISTIAN VORHOFER

During winter 2020/21 in the Austrian Tirol – like everywhere else – winter tourism will be influenced

by Covid-19, but there is no denying that it will have to be run differently this year. However, the Tirolean regions have already done a lot of preparatory work to ensure the safety for the winter season 2020/21, if resorts are able to open, which of course everyone is hoping they are.

People have been escaping to the mountains of the Austrian Tirol for centuries, and after the year we’ve had, escaping to the mountains, escaping intense jobs, Zoom calls, buzzing phones and busy lifestyles is more important for our physical and mental health.

Tirol doesn’t have purpose-built high-rise ski resorts that might remind you too much of city life artificially transported to the mountains. The villages here are real communities, some a thousand years old or more, with traditional chalet-style architecture housing enticing cafes, restaurants, shops and hotels. The perfect place to immediately feel at home and relax.

The downhill skiing is there as always of course, and Tirol was one of the first regions to re-open its lifts and successfully operate its high glacier ski slopes back in September and October.

But the way the world is, this could be the winter to try something a little different and find even more space.

ski touring Ski touring – hiking up into the mountain on your skis – has been gaining popularity in recent years, so could this be the winter to try it? Already seen as good for the environment and for your fitness, it’s now also the perfect fit if you’re looking for complete social isolation.

Mountain skills and special equipment are needed, though, so it’s important to start on something straightforward and follow the advice of a local backcountry guide.

Tirol has thousands of acres of epic backcountry skiing terrain for all abilities and the efforts of hiking up are rewarded

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with stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and not another soul in sight.

If you’re looking where to start, tours of the Urgtal Mountains in the Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis Region are great for those looking for their first ski touring experiences. You can sign up for a guided introductory tour, such as the Smuggler’s Tour that departs from Fiss-Ladis with descents towards the Samnaun Valley over the Swiss border.

Another good choice is Innsbruck’s Sellraintal Valley, where an interpretive ski touring trail winds up towards the Lampsenspitze Peak (2,875m). Six discovery panels have been installed along the trail, providing information and practice on ski touring skills.

snowshoeing Snowshoe walks are a great way to get away from it all – this time without quite so much exertion, and indeed something skiers and non-skiers can enjoy together. You can again escape the pistes and lifts and once more it’s sensible to hire a guide to reach the best locations safely. Most resorts in Tirol offer snowshoe tours, again with options from complete beginners to experienced experts.

The romantic winter landscapes of the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena are a beautiful area for the perfect snowshoe hike, always with a view of the impressive mountain panorama. Far away from any hustle and bustle, you’ll immerse yourself in the enchanted Winter world of the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena, once in a while spotting the picturesque towns of Ehrwald, Lermoos, Biberwier, Berwang, Bichlbach, Heiterwang am See or Namlos in the distance.

In Innsbruck, there’s free guided snowshoeing with the Welcome Card offered to visitors. Everyone from sixyear-old children to the grandparents are welcome to join in.

cross-country skiing Another way to get away from it all is cross-country skiing. Again, if this is something you’ve wondered about trying for years, this could be the winter to give it a go!

One of the best all-round aerobic exercises there is, and no lifts required

in many locations, cross-country skiing can again be tried at various levels of intensity, from full power to a gentle glide between cosy huts in the forest, with regular stops for hot chocolate and cake, or just take a picnic along with you. Simply travel at your own pace through the Alpine wilderness.

Tirol has some 4,000km of wellmaintained trails for classical and skate skiing. Complete beginners to experts are well looked after with the option to head off on your own if you know what you’re doing, or take a lesson with a certified instructor.

Almost every village in Tirol has excellent cross-country ski facilities.

But an example for those looking for something undemanding, the “Claudia Circuit” is a perfect cross-country ski run near Kühtai, just over 2km in length and ideal for a short circuit between stops.

winter Hiking You can, of course, head out on a hike without strapping snowshoes on. A winter hiking trail in Tirol is officially defined as “a trail laid out in the snow that is marked, maintained, monitored and secured to guard against alpine hazards”. There are thousands of kilometres of trails in the region and almost all resorts have several and often offer guided hikes. The trails all have to be sufficiently wide, only moderately steep and not exposed, even in bad weather and snowfall, relatively safe and easy to walk with suitable footwear.

The Mieming Plateau is a popular choice for a winter hike, where there are four designated trails. Sunglasses and sunscreen should be part of your basic equipment as you’ll be hiking in one of the sunniest regions in Tirol.

Alternatively, in the Mountaineering Villages in the Sellraintal Valley, peaking at the resort of Kühtai (2,020m), you may be hiking in the high mountains, but the going is still gentle.

Safe, well-groomed trails lead you through a unique mountain landscape with the imposing scenery of the Stubai Alps all around.

Whatever you opt to do and wherever you choose to visit in the Tirol, you’ll love your escape to the space and beauty of the Alpine wilderness in the Austrian mountains.

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WORDS: MEGAN HUGHES

High winds, a white out, a global pandemic … nothing could stop these skiers from hitting the slopes this summer.

This year, we were thrust into a world none of us expected. International borders were closed, travel came to a halt, strict lockdowns were imposed. For many of us, skiing was the last thing on our minds as we began to navigate “the new normal”.

However, as travel restrictions began to ease over the summer months, curious images of the slopes began popping up on our social feeds. We began to wonder, surely no-one had been able to sort out a summer ski trip in such a short space of time?

It turned out a number of dedicated and forwardthinking companies had done just that, so we simply had to find out more about how they managed to hit the slopes amid a global pandemic.

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Warren Smith Ski Academy For those that wanted to use their well-earned holiday days to develop their skiing technique, the highly acclaimed Warren Smith Ski Academy (WSSA) were able to run a number of on-snow courses as restrictions began to lift across Europe.

Their summer 2020 programme kicked off in July in the Italian resort of Cervinia, with ski tuition taking place high up on the Matterhorn glacier, where the summer snow conditions are impressively reliable.

Warren Smith, Director of WSSA, said: “The snow remained in excellent condition throughout the courses we ran in July and August on the glacier. The Italians dealt with the Covid-19 situation really well.

I think it’s because they got hit so badly at the start, they took things very seriously and everyone felt

safe. Our guests had a brilliant time.”

The WSSA courses aim to develop pupils’ individual skills and confidence, with physical tuition complemented by in-depth video analysis and ski biomechanics.

Around twenty guests joined the course on the first week, demonstrating that the appetite for winter sports tuition has certainly not waned over the summer months!

AfterJam As soon as a travel corridor to France was announced on 3 July, the folks over at ski-wear company AfterJam knew that if they wanted to bring their unique brand of events to the Alps this summer, this was their chance.

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This summer’s main event, the AfterJam freestyle snowsports camp in Les 2 Alpes, had been in the works for months, with all planning going swimmingly – until the pandemic hit.

However, despite all the odds, they still managed to bring over 100 skiers and snowboarders to the glacier of Les 2 Alpes for expert freestyle coaching, summer activities and a well-earned getaway.

According to AfterJam co-founder Nate Wilde, the main challenge was actually the travel. “The trip getting confirmed so late in the day meant that everyone was responsible for sorting their own travel, and with so many ferries, planes and coaches being cancelled or seriously limited, this made it all very difficult. In the end, almost everyone took the road trip option and drove for almost 18 hours to get there!”

AfterJam’s resident DJs managed to maintain a party vibe for the week, with outdoor après venues ensuring safe distancing was possible.

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Despite the ongoing pandemic, AfterJam are hopeful that they will be able to continue running their unique events this winter.

“Events this year are going to take a lot more planning, and have plenty of Covid-19-related contingency options either way!” said Nate.

Snoworks For the most reliable of training trips, Snoworks took a number of skiers out to Europe’s most impressive snowdome, the Netherlands’ Snowworld Landgraaf, for their Slalom training courses this summer.

Indoor snow centres were impressively quick putting into practice extensive safety measures to ensure that skiers could continue enjoying the snow, with Landgraaf no exception. There’s even a hotel

attached to the ski slope here, meaning you can well and truly stay in your bubble!

For ski racers, a Snoworks course here is one of the most effective ways to train during summer, as twicedaily on-snow sessions allow skiers around 28 runs each day, providing huge opportunity for development.

A range of training times and lanes allow practice across a variety of snow surfaces, and two waterinjected lanes giving unparalleled on-ice training. The site also offers ski-tuning rooms and video rooms for feedback and adjustment.

Who’d have thought you could do all that, in summer, amid the madness of 2020?! It goes to show: if it’s safe to do so, skiers will always want to hit the snow.

DEC20 // 025

ATOUT FRANCE/GILLES LANSARD

If this year has taught us anything, it’s that we’ll never take a ski holiday for granted again! However, we are all becoming increasingly aware that if we want to continue enjoying the mountains, we also need to protect them.

For many, this means trying to find a more sustainable way to take a ski holiday.

Keeping your trip as eco-friendly as possible can seem like a mammoth task, but with so many resorts in France currently implementing eco initiatives and schemes, skiing greener has never been easier.

From using hybrid piste groomers to producing renewable energy, French resorts are firmly staking their claim as destinations for climate-conscious skiers. But that’s not all! Take a look at some of the awesome initiatives

026 // DEC20  PROMO

you can experience in the French Alps this winter:

“Flocon Vert” (Green Snowflake) France’s highly sought-after “Flocon Vert” label is a key indicator of the work resorts are doing when it comes to innovative, sustainable development.

It’s not easy to obtain, though, with a rigorous selection process meaning only the most committed resorts can earn the label. These include Châtel, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Megève, Chamrousse, Les Rousses, Valberg and La Pierre Saint-Martin.

Renewable Energy At least 48 ski lift companies in French ski areas are committing to using exclusively renewable energy sources (including hydroelectricity, wind power and photovoltaics), even agreeing to pay more for them in order to reach sustainability goals.

Green Globe

Biodiversity Initiatives

The Green Globe is an internationally recognised label designed to reward tourism companies in their social, economic, cultural and environmental efforts.

Green-Globe-certified ski areas in France include Le Grand Massif, Tignes and Val d’Isère.

Though we can’t always spot them in the winter (try as we might!), ski areas are home to a huge number of plants and animals. The French ‘Be part of the mountain’ scheme aims to educate the public about how their off-piste activity can impact these delicate ecosystems, as well as promote a more positive relationship between visitors and the local environment.

Reducing Lifts’ Electricity Consumption French resorts are demonstrating impressive ingenuity to reduce the energy consumption of ski lifts. In Val Cenis, they have introduced IT platforms that track lifts’ activity in real time and advise drivers to reduce speed when demand is lower. Similar systems have been implemented in many French resorts, as reducing the speed of a lift has impressive expected electricity savings of 10–30% over the season.

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Eco cuisine In France, even mountain cuisine is going green! Chefs and restaurants across the Alps are becoming evermore committed to innovative, more sustainable ways of cooking, focusing on local, seasonal ingredients and responsible production methods.

Serious foodies can visit one of the six restaurants in the Alps that have been awarded a green macaron, given to those demonstrating an exceptional approach to sustainable cuisine.

ATOUT-FRANCE.FR

GONDOLA CABINS FOR DINERS’ SELFISOLATION An Edinburgh restaurant has imported six gondola cabins which it is using to allow groups of diners to eat in self-isolation within each cabin. The gondolas were reported to have been brought nearly 1,500km from the French Alps to McLarens on the Corner by a company that says it has “recycled” them, adding “fresh upholstery, JP NOISILLIER/NUTS.FR

twinkly lights, wheels and a table.”

NEW SIX-SEATER LIFT FOR SAINTE FOY

ALL NEW SKI AND TARTIFLETTE PACKAGE FOR VAL D’ARLY Although France is known for

Their new “Ski and Tartiflette” package,

The tartiflette dinner will of course be

its big ski areas, many people

available up to the February school holidays

made with the famous Reblochon cheese

are also attracted to its cheesy

(6/2/21), combines a week’s self-catering

sourced from farms in the area and

cuisine too, and this winter Val

apartment holiday, a six-day ski pass for

includes salad and dessert.

d’Arly in the heart of the Savoie

the huge Espace Diamant ski area and

The package costs from €238pp

Mont Blanc region is launching a

a tartiflette meal to be enjoyed in a local

(approximately £215) for four adults

package that combines the two.

restaurant on your return from the slopes.

(excludes travel).

Sainte Foy Tarentaise, the small resort sandwiched between some of the world’s biggest ski areas in the French Alps, has unveiled a number of improvements for the coming winter.

Chief among these is an upgrade to the Arpettaz chairlift, now upgraded to a new six-seater detachable chairlift with an increased capacity on the route to 3,000 people/hour.

SWISS RESORT OFFERS “RENT A COW” SERVICE Swiss resort Lenk is offering anyone the chance to rent one of its local cows. Describing the offer as an “extraordinary opportunity”, anyone can choose a cow from an online picture gallery, meet them when next permitted to travel to the Alps and then enjoy their share of the cheese produced from the cow’s milk after the summer.

NEW ADVANCES IN HEATED SKIWEAR

SUFFOLK’S SNOASIS LIVES, RENAMED “VALLEY RIDGE”

The German-based family-run ski clothing company Schöffel have announced a range of skiwear that

One of the longest-planned indoor snow

building work is yet to begin. But the new

currently the 180m Chill Factore slope.

centres in British history will still happen,

owners of the 284-acre site say the £500m

The change of name should help

its new backers say, but with a modified

project will open to the public by 2024.

minimise confusion now that a second

is not new, but Schöffel say that their

plan and a new name: Valley Ridge Resort.

It appears the slope will now be smaller

indoor snow centre project is also called

breakthrough is in far thinner heating

The SnOasis project in Suffolk, which

and have a grass roof. Publicity material

Snoasis. Swindon’s Snoasis is on hold

included a 400m indoor snow slope –

now describes it as “…one of the largest

due to a funding shortage, blamed initially

was first unveiled two decades ago, but

indoor ski slopes in the UK.” The longest is

on Brexit.

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incorporates heating to ski trousers and ski jackets. Heated ski clothing

elements than were previously possible, with the warmth delivered via 1mm-thin carbon nanotubes.

DEC20 // 027

WHERE TO SKI IN WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

Ski resorts are making a strong case that just being in the mountains, engaged in physical activity, is good for our physical and mental health. They’re also stressing how hard they’re working to minimise any risk of the virus infecting visitors on their watch – there’s frequent cleaning of common areas, mask wearing and social distancing everywhere. Some are limiting the number of people allowed in resort and on individual lifts.

to self-drive to the mountains, booking into self-

La Rosière I La Thuile

catering accommodation and maintaining our

France / Italy

family bubble.

But what about on the slopes? With all that’s

You can ski this cross-border area entirely on high-

happened in 2020 it now seems slightly ironic that

speed chairlifts and drag lifts. If you head down to

most leading ski resorts have spent the past few

the Italian side there is a gondola back up from the

decades upgrading their old drag lifts and chairlifts

base there, but a chairlift alternative if you prefer

into fast, comfortable gondolas when we’re all

to keep in the open air. The recent expansion on

now being told it’s best to ride on open-air lifts to

the French side up to 2,800m on Mount Valaisan is

minimise the virus risk.

accessed by high-speed chairs.

Of course, resorts are running their gondolas and cable cars with cleaning regimes in place, socially distanced queues, masks worn and windows open in the cabins. Some, including Italy’s Alta Badia,

Hemsedal Norway

But ski resorts do gather up people from around

one of those that has spent heavily on gondola

the world, and when we’re not on the slopes

upgrades, say they’ll be safely running their lifts at

Scandinavia is not the easiest place to drive to –

we’re often confined together indoors. Some

the maximum speed allowed in order to reduce the

although it’s perfectly possible if you have the time,

skiers are therefore looking for ways to minimise

ride time. On top of all this, in many resorts you can

but if you take the quick option and fly, that may

their interactions with others. There are reports

find ways to get up the slopes without getting in a

defeat the object of trying to avoid being in a cabin

of rich folk booking out chalets for the entire

cabin lift at all, but some are a little better placed

with strangers. That said, cabin lifts are something

winter, and for the rest of us there’s the option

than others.

of a rarity in Norway, Sweden and Finland where

028 // DEC20

@INTHESNOWMAG

A PANDEMIC

the majority of lifts are drags. Bigger resorts do

Les Menuires

served too by a network of fast quad and six-seat

have chairlifts and some gondolas (Ylläs in Finland

France

chairlifts. You can use these to access the peaks at the Weisshorn and Hörnli without needing to take

famously offers a special sauna cabin option).

One of Norway’s largest resorts, Hemsedal, has

Although gondolas provide some of the fastest

a network of high-speed lifts to get you up and

and most direct routes to the highest points in the

around on the slopes.

Belleville Valley and to connect with other parts of Les 3 Vallées, around two thirds of the lifts out of the

Obertauern Austria Making a sales pitch for many years for its good

various base areas at Les Menuires are high-speed chairs and most of the points accessed by the

the alternative gondola or cable car if you wish.

The Lecht I Glencoe I Glenshee I Cairngorm (Aviemore) Scotland

gondolas can be reached by chairs, perhaps with a change of chair midway rather than going direct, but

There’s a lot of talk of Scotland being the obvious

then at least you don’t have to take your skis off.

place for Brits to go skiing this winter. Of course, in

snow conditions thanks to its altitude, the resort

reality much depends on whether there are internal

where The Beatles filmed the movie Help! more

British travel restrictions and, if things look good for

than 55 years ago has 17 chairlifts, two more

Arosa

snow and travel, whether the limited local facilities

“Chondolas” and just one stand-alone gondola.

Switzerland

will be able to cope with a glut of incoming skiers. But

With a choice of gondola cabin or chair on the

only one of the country’s five ski areas, Nevis Range,

same cable and just one gondola, plus there are

While Arosa does have gondolas and cable cars to

is accessed by gondola, and at Cairngorm the main

a dozen different points at the base of the resort

access its slopes, and you’ll need to take a cable

funicular railways remain out of action so the slopes

where you can jump on a chair, so the chances of

car across to access the skiing on the Lenzerheide

at the other four centres are predominantly accessed

queues building at the base are remote.

side, the main powder bowl above the village is fully

by drag lifts and a few chairs.

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DEC20 // 029

While many ski holiday companies are looking to at best maintain their existing selection of resort options due to the Covid-19 crisis, French Alps specialist Peak Retreats was the first to announce it would be offering several new destination choices for winter 2020/21.

PETE OSWALD – VISITNORWAY.COM

Le Corbier

030 // DEC20

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The company, which specialises in self-drive ski holidays, a mode of travel to the mountains predicted to be particularly popular this winter, is adding Le Corbier in the vast Les Sybelles ski area, which is still largely unexplored by the UK market.

With 310km of slopes, Les Sybelles is the fourthlargest ski area in the French Alps by some measures.

Relatively uncrowded, Le Corbier, one of the six villages in the ski region, is situated an hour from Chambéry Airport in the heart of the Maurienne Valley. The village has a family-friendly reputation and was awarded the French government’s Famille Plus label in 2006, thanks to the facilities and activities suited to all ages.

Purpose-built in the 1960s, most of the resort is also ski-in/ski-out, as well as pedestrianised, plus there’s a dedicated sledging area, a snowpark, and fun slopes.

Visitors to Le Corbier this winter will also find a new freeride area where the black slope will be left in its natural state (marked, secured but left ungroomed).

The 695m-long “Jonquilles” ski run is located under the resort’s Mont-Corbier chairlift and descends 282 vertical metres. It joins three other freeride trails the region created last winter above Saint-Sorlin-d´Arves (Bartavelle, Perdrix and Perrons Bas) designed for skiing in a natural setting but safer environment than fully off-piste.

A second new run, this one groomed, is being created through the wild landscapes of neighbouring Saint-Colomban-des-Villards. The new red-graded Culaz piste heads towards the Villards Valley from the top of Mont Cuinat at 2,078m following the Bellard ridge.

“Located between Belledonne and Maurienne it will offer a splendid panorama with Mont Blanc as the backdrop,” a resort spokesperson said.

There’s also a new lift, the Gaston Express chairlift, which will provide better skier flow and better interresort links on the key Ouillon plateau.

The new €4.6m six-seater detachable chairlift replaces the old “Torret” double chairlift, cutting the ascent time to less than five minutes.

This chairlift was named in memory of the late, great Gaston Maulin, who founded the Sybelles ski area in 2002 after years of working to create it.

Besides Le Corbier, Peak Retreats (peakretreats.co.uk; 023 9283 9310) now offer a range of self-catered apartments, self-catered chalets and hotels in over 50 French mountain village resorts chosen for their charm and easy access to the ski slopes.

PEAKRETREATS.CO.UK

DOLOMITI SUPERSKI ADVISE ON LEAST CROWDED DAYS Italy’s Dolomiti Superski is using historical data to forecast how busy the slopes are likely to be on each day of the season. The idea is that skiers can plan a holiday in such a way as to avoid the busiest periods.

“By measuring lift capacity the service allows the skier to decide when to use which lifts, and therefore avoid crowds,” said Dolomiti Superski’s Diego Clara.

CORNWALL DRY SLOPE A GO! A planned dry ski centre with ski

ED LEIGH IDENTIFIES PERFECT DATES TO SKI AND QUARANTINE

training academy, ski jump with big air

Ski Sunday’s Ed Leigh has

to go skiing regardless of Covid,” says Ed.

bank holidays, so if you stay through to the

build a 140m-long dry ski slope for all

identified the Easter school

“With the change in quarantine regs down

following Sunday, you’re looking at 10 days

abilities with a 150m tubing run too.

holidays as the perfect fortnight

from 14 to 6 days, it actually means there’s

on the mountain for 5 days off work. Get

The runs will be served by a drag lift

for Brits to hit the slopes through

a perfect week lining up: Easter is early

back on the 11th, and by Thursday 15th you’ll

his Money Saving Snow Tips series.

this year, so book a day off work for the 1st

have done your quarantine period. That’s 10

“I’ve been pushing Easter as the best time

of April. Friday 2nd and Monday 5th are

days on the hill for only nine days off work.”

bag and climbing wall planned near St Austell in Cornwall is still moving forward, according to the family business behind it. Altitude Cornwall, first announced in 2018, is aiming to

and a conveyor lift.

DESTROYED RESORT BEGINS REBUILDING Before the virus, Australia was visited by horrific bush fires a year ago, which threatened many of the country’s ski areas. Sadly one of them, Selwyn Snow Resort, had its buildings and lifts completely destroyed as it was engulfed in flames. Its owners committed immediately to rebuilding the ski area and making it better than it was before, and have announced that a new chairlift is now under

ANDY PARANT

construction to start the process.

TOUR OP OFFERS RESERVE 3 DATES ON 1 BOOKING

CHOCOLATE “SNOW” FALLS ON VILLAGE A kind of brown powder snow, which turned out to be chocolate, has fallen

As the ski industry struggles to cope

cancelling the two you don’t need once

or receive a full refund.

with the impact and uncertainty of

the travel/resort opening position is

“Self-drive, self-catering holidays are

chocolate snow, made up of cocoa

travel restrictions and ski area openings

(hopefully) clearer.

the safest way to enjoy the mountains

powder, was tracked down to the

caused by the coronavirus, one tour

Erna Low, the UK’s longest-established

this season, and this has been our core

local chocolate factory. However,

operator has come up with a novel

ski holiday company, is now offering this

product for many years. We know that

it wasn’t caused by an intentional

proposition – the option to choose

“multiple-dates-on-one-booking” option.

flexibility is key so that our clients can be

desire by the factory’s owners, Lindt,

and reserve up to three potential

If none of the three dates work out in the

confident in booking,” said Jane Bolton,

for it to snow chocolate, but by a fault

holiday start dates on a single deposit,

end, customers can switch dates again

MD of Erna Low.

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on the Swiss town of Olten. The

in the plant’s ventilation system.

DEC20 // 031

The Skiing Secret That’s Almost Too Good to Share

Livigno is the kind of resort you hear whispers about. A friend of a friend once went, a colleague mentioned it a few years back, a family member saw it written about in a corner of a magazine … but why is no-one shouting about this amazing resort from the rooftops?

Well, there’s a very simple reason – nobody wants to share it!

Livigno truly is one of European skiing’s best-kept secrets, but it’s gradually gaining the recognition it deserves, winning the title of European City of Sport in 2019.

Granted, it’s not the most accessible resort in the

032 // DEC20

Alps – transfers can take over three hours from major airports – but if you can deal with sitting still for a little longer than normal, you will reap the benefits. This isolated location led the government to grant Livigno tax-free status back in 1805 in a bid to encourage industry to the area. This tax-free status remains, making Livigno one of the bestvalue-for-money ski resorts around.

So, why do so many skiers return to Livigno year after year, not wanting to share this secret skiing paradise?

A Superb Ski Area The resort is split into two separate ski areas on either side of the Valley: Carosello and Mottolino.

Both offer fantastic options for beginner and intermediate skiers, with some of the widest slopes I’ve ever seen in a European resort. Forget tricky

bottlenecks and long lift queues – here you can practically have the pistes to yourselves.

At 115km, Livigno isn’t the largest of ski areas, but if you’re lucky enough to get some fresh snow, any qualms about the number of pistes will be long forgotten. Thanks to its high-altitude position and reliable snow record, Livigno is a guaranteed powder paradise. Designated off-piste routes and secured freeride areas offer skiers the opportunity to explore and advance off-piste safely, while more advanced freeride options and even heliskiing will suit more advanced tastes.

As if this wasn’t enough, Livigno is also renowned as one of the best freestyle destinations in Europe, with the Mottolino Snowpark attracting athletes from across the globe.

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SAMUEL CONFORTOLA

WORDS: MEGAN HUGHES

activities are almost as popular here as the skiing itself – from a vast Nordic skiing area, to snowshoeing routes, paragliding and a huge spa complex.

The streets are lined with shops, restaurants and bars, buzzing with activity no matter what time of day.

has a seafood menu to die for. Fresh fish in a ski resort? We were a little sceptical too, but we were blown away by our meal here.

Top Quality Accommodation A Charming Resort Impeccable Food Options Close your eyes and picture the perfect ski village.

What do you see? If it’s snow-lined cobbled streets, twinkling lights looped above charming bars with pots of mulled wine bubbling over open fires and people enjoying themselves, then you’re picturing the centre of Livigno. Livigno is not small, but all development has been done without losing the resort’s traditional Alpine charm – not a concrete apartment block in sight.

It sounds rather cliché, I know, but Livigno epitomises the relaxed nature of the Italian way of life. Off-slope

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Many people are often sceptical that you will find the pinnacle of Italian cuisine in the heights of the mountains, but in Livigno, good food comes as easily as good skiing. From classic Italian pizza and homemade pasta, to traditional mountain fondues and even sushi, there’s something for all tastes!

Our personal favourite is local hotspot Bivio, which offers three separate venues depending on your mood (and budget!). There’s a casual bar, an à la carte restaurant and a five-starred restaurant, which

When it comes to a more niche resort such as Livigno, it’s imperative to book with a company who truly know their stuff. Livigno Ski Holidays are the ultimate experts when it comes to all things Livigno, having operated in the resort for over 25 years.

They offer a truly flexible booking process, whether you want to put together your own bespoke holiday or sit back and let the experts take care of it all.

With the highest-quality accommodation, friendly staff and brilliant in-resort service, it’s their personal touches and passion for this resort that will leave you planning your next Livigno holiday before you’ve even left!

LIVIGNOSKIHOLIDAYS.COM

YDO SOL IMAGES

This winter, the concept of a completely private ski holiday has an added dimension as rich skiers look for ways to minimise the danger of their exposure to the Covid-19 virus.

Go Totally Private

YDO SOL IMAGES

034 // DEC20

Although we’ve been unable to find much corroborating evidence, there have been media reports of wealthy people booking out chalets for the entire season with the aim of relocating to the mountains for the winter, into a property that no one had stayed in for weeks or months previously.

So long as they have high-speed internet connections, it doesn’t matter too much where they are.

“Bookings for the next winter season are already looking healthy – New Year is nearly fully booked – and we see an emerging trend in demand for space and privacy,” said a spokesperson for Severin*s, a 5★ superior hotel with adjacent separate private residence available to rent in Lech, Austria.

The hotel’s statement appears to be in line with reports from other high-end ski holiday providers who are reported to be seeing a growth in the number of people booking properties for the entire season in order to effectively relocate to the mountains rather than making multiple trips through the season.

Severin*s is promoting a “totally private package” that includes a private jet from the UK to Innsbruck, private Mercedes

transfers to Lech and self-contained luxury accommodation in their residence.

Severin*s describes itself as an “…ultraluxurious private residence which sleeps eight in four separate bedrooms, and houses its own large kitchen, dining room, living room with huge open fire place. There’s a grand piano, and wrap-around balconies and a spacious, alfresco hot tub that fits up to six people. It has its own entrance and lift and over 400 square metres of stunning living space over two storeys. The Residence offers skiers a glorious level of pampered privacy and space.”

Each bedroom has comfortable box-spring beds by Wittmann, high-quality linens and state-of-the-art technology and sound systems. Residents can make use of room service, chef and concierge service from the hotel next door.

The private package, purchased through Oxford Ski, costs from €59,000 (£54,000) for seven nights (for up to eight people), which includes private return flights from London or Biggin Hill private terminals on a Citation Sovereign jet for eight passengers with club four seats and a large cabin.

Flights connect with transfers from Innsbruck taking approx. 90 minutes in a comfortable 15-seater Mercedes Sprinter equipped with leather seats, flat-screen TV and refrigerator with champagne and snacks provided on both the plane and the transfers, and then exclusive use of The Severin*s Residence for up to eight people for seven nights. The season begins 5 December 2020.

OXFORDSKI.COM

A “NEW” RED PISTE FROM MORZINE Morzine, on the French side of the huge Portes du Soleil ski region which crosses the swiss border with 600km of slopes linking a dozen ski villages, will unveil a new ski run this winter. The new slope is in fact the “remodelling” of the existing red Aigle run that descends from the summit of Nyon at 2,019m, down LINDSAY PIERCE PHOTOGRAPHY

to the Nyon plateau at 1,413m. The run is now three times wider and provides 2km of skiing pleasure.

DRAGON’S DEN ON A SKI LIFT

ARTIST HAS BIG BOOK OF PISTE MAPS PUBLISHED Rather like classic album covers,

James Niehues, whose maps, printed

Company is available in the UK via Amazon

the creation of piste maps,

literally hundreds of millions of times, have

priced £80.49.

especially back before the era of

helped countless skiers and snowboarders

“I have always enjoyed the challenge

digital mapping, is a source of

navigate down the snow-covered slopes

of fitting an entire mountain on a single

fascination and delight to many

of the world.

page. Mountains are wonderful puzzles,

skiers and boarders.

Now a luxurious new book The Man Behind

and I knew if I painted with the right

Most famous of all the map designers and

the Maps: Legendary Ski Artist James

amount of detail and care, they would

a living legend in the industry is ski artist

Niehues published by the Open Road Ski

last,” said Niehues.

“Ski Lift Pitch”, an initiative in New Mexico that allows small businesses seeking funding to ride a chairlift up a mountain with potential investors and make their pitch, saw 12 start-ups competing to attract a part of $100 million worth of investable capital at the latest event at Taos Ski Valley.

3 NEW SIX-SEAT LIFTS IN GEORGIA While the construction of ski lifts at many resorts around the world has been postponed this summer, some larger projects have gone ahead, one of them at the Bakuriani in Georgia. The resort has been selected to host the 2023 Freestyle Ski and Snowboard World Championships and has installed three high-speed six-seat chairlifts as part of the planning for the event.

OPEN-TOP “GONDOLA CABRIOLET” The new Cabriolet Gondola designed

by Swiss company Bartholet will soon be appearing in resorts. “The glass cannot be closed when the weather is bad, but if a ski area also

AUSTRIAN SKI AREA TO DEBUT WITH 210KM OF SLOPES

has regular glass-enclosed gondolas on the line, the gondolas can be easily exchanged depending on the

A new lift that connects two already large

Space Salzburg and the Shuttleberg

the area that seven winters ago unveiled

weather,” said Bartholet’s Denise

Austrian ski areas is creating a ski region

Flachauwinkl-Kleinarl Absolut Park.

the G-Link, which created the first major

Linder. Open gondolas are not new.

that links the slopes of five valleys and a

The Panorama Link will mean skiers and

connection in the area.

Some early models, generally used

dozen mountain peaks served by 70 ski

snowboards can travel between Wagrain

The new Panorama Link takes eight

lifts and including 210km of ski slopes.

and the slopes of Flachau, St. Johann,

minutes to make the 3,137m connection

built without windows, but these are

Known as the new Panorama Link,

Kleinarl, Flachauwinkl and Zauchensee.

between Wagrain at 1,785m altitude and

now rare.

the new gondola connects the Snow

The new lift is the latest expansion of

Kleinarl at 1,856m.

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to get between resort bases, were

DEC20 // 035

Ski Tuition So Good, You Don’t Even Need Snow!

The Warren Smith Ski Academy’s 2020 Ski Technique Lab Tour sees record success across UK venues and social platforms, as attendees improve their skiing without stepping foot on the snow.

Each autumn, the hugely popular Ski Technique Lab Tour from the Warren

036 // DEC20

Smith Ski Academy (WSSA) draws skiers from across the UK, with its unique technique tuition and expert analysis.

However, in these strange times, developing Covid-19 restrictions meant that WSSA had to adapt the tour in order to reach as many skiers as possible. Not only were safety measures put in place, but sessions were broadcast virtually, to allow more skiers than ever to experience this unique event.

Each event was hosted by Warren Smith himself, with InTheSnow’s newly signed Ski Technique Editor displaying the same boundless enthusiasm to improve skiers’ technique as he has for the last 20 years.

Warren’s sessions are lauded for their simple explanation of 3 Way Lineage (Ski Technique/ Ski Biomechanics/Ski Equipment Precision) and its importance to ski technique development and unlocking classic blocks in skier movement patterns.

In-person participants were also able to participate in the WSSA’s “6 Way Foundation” tests, which allows the team to identify their specific movement ranges and what they need to do to improve, whether this is by balancing out differences between the right and left side of the body, or generally improving range.

Identifying this allows skiers to build their own technique development programme off the snow and dramatically change their skiing before the winter season starts.

Understandably, physical event attendance was capped to ensure social distancing, but the first event, at the Altimus Outdoor store in London’s Kensington High Street,

was filmed in full and streamed live to the WSSA Facebook page.

As a result, engagement on WSSA’s social media coverage of the tour broke all previous records, as skiers who couldn’t attend logged on to get their technique fix.

Even now, skiers can still benefit from the recording of the event, which was packed with tips on how you can become a better skier by working on specific exercises at home.

Speaking after the tour’s conclusion, Warren Smith said: “With these exercises, people are going to get the chance to work on their ski technique now at home, so we have timed it just right. Even if people haven’t managed to get to the tour, they can still access it online and train towards the winter season.”

The presentation also includes video footage of course participants skiing to highlight common technique errors and how they can be improved.

We certainly can’t think of many better ways to spend lockdown!

+44 (0)7747809545 theteam@warrensmith-skiacademy.com warrensmith-skiacademy.com

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 Full Tilt AscendAnt

Insulated Gore-Tex Jacket

"Sammy’s Holy Grail" is how Armada have describe their new ski. As part of the Zero Collection this ski is at the forefront of Armada’s R&D Lab. A surf Inspired tip and tail shape partnered with Armada’s Smear Tech means that skidding, sliding and slashing on this ski is super easy. The Lightweight Caruba Wood core gives a poppy and responsive feel while strategic reinforcing gives added stability. £679.95 | skibartlett.com

Sammy Carlson

Serves up a sublime blend of warmth and performance. The unstoppable waterproof, windproof and breathable protection of the GORE-TEX 2L membrane comes free from harmful chemicals thanks to the PFCec-free durable water repellent treatment. That’s good for the planet and good for your conscience. £269.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

Full Tilt have continued their long-standing tradition of partnering with the world’s best skiers and welcome Sammy Carlson to the Team, Sammy has taken the popular Ascendant and added his own design flair. Designed as a free ride touring boot, the Ascendant Sammy Carlson comes with Tech Inserts and Grip walk soles as standard for a great walking experience. £424.95 | skibartlett.com

 Volkl Revolt 104

Built as a collaborative process between Volkl’s engineers and the feedback from their athletes to make sure this range of skis has everything they need in a freestyle collection. The full sidewall construction guarantees you will have enough power on piste and its multi-layer wood core allows the ski to flex in just the right spots to get the best float in powder and the most fun in the park. If you want enormous fun on every part of the mountain, then this it! £449.95 | skibartlett.com

 Ortovox Tour Light Glove

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

A merino-wool-lined soft-shell touring glove giving you warmth when you’re skiing down, but very breathable to stop you overheating when you’re exerting effort on the way up. Light enough to give you plenty of dexterity with a windproof and waterproof outer shell to protect against wind and snow. A really comfortable, lightweight glove suitable for all kinds of adventures. £60 | skibartlett.com

 Sweet Protection The Looper MIPS Helmet

 Bolle Nevada Neo

Thanks to its EyeLatch system, the interchangeable magnetic lenses are secured and locked in the blink of an eye.

Complete with a choice of two lenses including a light reactive cat 1-3 NXT® Phantom and cat 0 lens, Bollé’s top-end goggle offers the best vision whatever the weather conditions. £230 | bolle.com

This is a modern, lightweight and low-profile helmet from Sweet Protection, with MIPS technology. With extensive venting, including integrated goggle vents to keep your vision outstanding, the Looper will ensure you will never be too hot or cold on any given day. £144.99 | Absolute Snow

G3 Alpinist+ universal skin 

More at skibartlett.com With their renowned reputation for specialist expert advice, combined with their carefully selected and tested range of products, it’s no surprise that Ski Bartlett’s word-of-mouth reputation over the last 50 years has made them the UK’s most popular independent ski shop!

The G3 skin is the pinnacle skin for getting up the mountain without using a chair lift.

This 100% nylon climbing skin has the most grip out of any on the market helping you to not slide backwards. The injected plastic Tip (Scala) helps reduce snow creep and also protects the skin if you hit any rocks or roots. The centre Rip-strip gives you less resistance when pulling the skins apart and the bomber tail clip keeps a tight grip to the ski. With all these great features these skins will be your best buddy for tackling any snow conditions. £179.95 | skibartlett.com

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 Slowtide Valen Blanket

 The North Face

Slowtide blankets are brand new this season and couldn’t have arrived at a better time. With all of us spending more time outside, a lightweight cosy and coollooking blanket that you can easily pop in a bag is a great addition. Made from 100% recycled materials, these blankets will keep you warm wherever you go! £29.95 | skibartlett.com

Thermoball Lace-Up Women’s Boot

 K2

 Dakine Help Pro 20L

Warm, soft and comfortable, the ThermoBall™ Lace-Up Boots feel more like slippers than outside boots, but thanks to the grippy rubber soles and supportive OrthoLite® footbeds, you can wear them outside in dry, cold conditions.

They feature a DWR water-repellent coating and have a synthetic fill to keep you toasty and warm. £99.95 | skibartlett.com

Mindbender 90TI

Part of the Heli series, this backpack is fully equipped for winter’s deepest backcountry days.

With enough room for a big mission, it’s a small, do-it-all backpack that includes a purpose-built snow tool, sleeves, a large fleece-lined goggle pocket and hydration sleeve that doubles as laptop storage off the mountain. $100 | Dakine.com

This all-mountain freeride ski is built with the same Titanal Y-Beam construction and All-Terrain Rocker profile as its more soft snowfocused siblings, but with a narrower waist width, the 90TI boasts superior agility and manoeuvrability in tougher conditions, can crank a carve on the groomer and still perform in the steep and deep. £525 | Ellis Brigham & Snowtrax

 Bolle RYFT Mips

The latest high-end Bollé helmet breaks all rules thanks to its revolutionary ventilation system. With bigger and wider vents than traditional snow helmets, it defies the market’s standards. The innovative Active Panel Ventilation system allows an airflow never achieved before in a snow helmet, while still meeting the highest impact protection norms. £258 | bolle.com

 Black Diamond Helio Carbon 104 Ski

Black diamond has re-engineered their famous Helio Series, making this without a doubt their best range of skis to date. The Helio Carbon 104 with its carbon make up is light enough for your backcountry touring adventures, but burly enough to charge downhill through powder, crud or ripping at high speed down the pistes. £699.95 | skibartlett.com

 Nikita Laurel Women’s Jacket

Dakine Maverick Gloves 

Maverick is made with a combination of durable water-repellent leather and a nylon/poly blend that’s DWR treated. The result is a premium look and feel, and hardwearing construction that can take a beating. This glove provides less build and more warmth. $90 | Dakine.com

 Fawk Snowboard Jacket

 Dakine Baron GORE-TEX Mitt

Montecwear’s best-selling hardshell jacket for freeriders and ambitious all-mountain skiers. Built to thrive in even the most severe conditions and the harshest of weather, this is a jacket for those who want to take on all the mountain can throw at you! Light insulation for performance and comfort on the slopes and in the backcountry. £171 | Ridestore.com

The Baron Mitt has the tech to keep your digits warm. This leather mitt features a full GORE-TEX insert with Gore Grip technology to maintain dexterity and handle the harshest weather at the mountain. There’s Primaloft® insulation and a soft wool liner to keep your hands warm, while the bonded layers and four-way stretch exterior enhance grip and movement for buckling bindings and adjusting boots. $95 | Dakine.com

 OutdoorMaster Wireless Helmet Drop-in Headphone

 Bach Bag Dr. Duffel 40L

Minimal designed headset with 12.2-inch cord, fits most audioready ski/snowboard helmets including Giro, Smith, Burton, K2, POC, Anon. These headphones provide three glove-friendly buttons to adjust volume, change tracks, play, pause, take calls and use Siri (voice control) through the built-in microphone.

InTheSnow special coupon to get 30% off: INTHESNOW30 £69.99 | outdoormaster.com

Fed up of holdalls that feel like a black hole where you can’t find anything? These clever new bags open up wide like a doctor’s bag. The inner edges are full of organiser pockets to allow you to easily find all your on-the-go essentials. Comes complete with comfortable shoulder straps for hands-free travel, which easily tuck away if you’re checking your bag into the hold. Made from super strong PFC-Free Cordura fabric and available in a multitude of sizes. £139.95 | skibartlett.com

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A signature style for several seasons, the Nikita Laurel Jacket finds an update this year while staying true to its coach-inspired origins. Made with a softshell hood, 10k fabric and 40gm insulation, this jacket doesn’t just look great, it performs great too. £154.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

 Burton Step On Re:Flex

 Nikita Bushwhack

 Thermic Power

Snowboard Binding

Women’s Fleece Jacket

Speed Heated Jacket

The men’s Burton Step On Re:Flex Snowboard Binding offers an intuitive boot-tobinding connection for riders seeking both convenience and performance. Three connection points – two by the toe and one at the heel – deliver unmatched simplicity, security and board control, while a quick-release lever ensures quick and easy exit. £249.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

High profile with a high collar and high-pile fleece, the Nikita Bushwhack jacket is our answer to your innermost jacket desires.

Features a long relaxed fit, drop tail hem and a full zip closure. Put this long-fit coat on in the autumn and never take it off again until the temps begin to rise. £99.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

The ultimate in heated jackets, combining the warmth and lightness of synthetic (downlike) Primaloft insulation, a Windblocker outer fabric to combat the elements and the best part - 6 Bluetooth-controlled heating elements spread around your body! Just plug in the USB cable to a small pocket sized power pack and choose your desired heat from the free smartphone app. £219.95 | skibartlett.com

 Line Blade Women’s Ski

A true carving ski made for a skier that wants to cut deep and charge through anything. Made with Gas Pedal Metal. a new Cut-out Titanal Layer which spans the width of the ski to give you direct edge grip that race skis can’t even challenge. Its massive 140mm wide tip also allows you to have impressive performance in the fluffy stuff. The aspen wood core makes the ski light and super controllable edge to edge. I promise you this ski will leave you with the biggest grin that by the end of the run your cheeks will be sore! £599.95 | skibartlett.com

 Burton Photon Step On Snowboard Boot

The men’s Photon Step On Snowboard Boot delivers the highest level of performance with the added comfort and convenience of the Dual Zone Boa® Coiler Closure System. The boot is designed specifically for the Burton men’s Step On® Binding to deliver unprecedented entry/exit speed and uncompromised board control in an incredibly easy system. Just turn the Boa® dials to fine-tune the boot’s fit. £369.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

 Libtech Travis Rice Orca Snowboard

The LibTech Orca has a dream directional shape and contour, making it fun whatever terrain you are on. It’s a freeride pow ripper meets resort slashing daily driver. Floaty nose + Tight sidecut + Maximum Power Tail = A day on the mountain you will never forget! £579.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

 Sweet Protection Boondock Goggle

The Boondock is an all-new goggle in a semiframeless design giving it a very clean and modern look. This model features a cylindrical lens with our unique proprietary lens technology, RIG™. This is a medium-sized and snug-fitting goggle offering great field of vision. £139.99 | RX Sport

 Atomic Hawx Prime 120 XTD

More at sputniksnowboardshop.com Sputnik is one of the UK’s largest independent snowboard shops. We offer great choice and service to all our customers. Whether you are beginner or expert, we can kit you out to ensure you have a great day on the mountains.

After the success of the Hawx Ultra XTD, Atomic have expanded their offering with a slightly wider all mountain touring boot – the Prime XTD. Utilising a combination of the award-winning XTD touring technology – range of movement, grippy soles, tech inserts and ridiculous lightness with the comfort fit of the Prime range of ski boots. £424.95 | skibartlett.com

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 Amundsen Sports Peak Anorak

This is a technical shell jacket that provides water-resistant protection in the harshest winter conditions. This signature anorak has been perfected over several years and field tested in Antarctica. Created using the exclusive C_change membrane which combines stretch, water-resistant and breathable fabrics that protect from the elements and keep you comfortable while in the mountains. £449.99 | White Stone

 Cortazu Mountain Hard Shell

 Dakine Ranger Travel Pack 45L

Part of the Weather Resistant Travel Collection, this travel pack is sized for weekend adventure and airline carryon alike. It has a front access pocket with 15” laptop sleeve and side water bottle pocket.

With multiple grab handles, this is a must-have piece of luggage. $175 | Dakine.com

 Sidas Dryflow Mini Boot Dryer

If the thought of cold wet boots in the morning gives you the shivers, then you definitely need the New Sidas Dryflow mini. The circulating air blowing system paired with the UV lamps gives you fast effective drying.

Even the dampest of boots will be dry in only four hours. Running off a USB lead means these can be powered in the house, in the car or even from a portable power pack – whether you’ve been skiing, biking or out walking these will easily dry your boots ready to get out and play again. £29.95 | skibartlett.com

TH IS YEAR IN SKI ING

Carv Digital Ski Coach Carv turns any ski boot into a personal coach, giving you access to world-class audio coaching any time you ski.

The ultra-thin inserts fit under any ski boot liner and measure 35 pressure and motion metrics live on every turn. Software in the Carv app instantly analyses your technique, coaching you with real-time audio feedback, interactive drills and addictive challenges.

At the heart of Carv is your Ski:IQ™. Discover your own technique score and get the best advice, developed by world-class instructors, to help you improve.

Want to know who’s king of the hill? Compete for the top of the leaderboard in your local mountain, or even the world. getcarv.com

Award-Winning Hard Shell has a high waterproof rating, recycled fabric and zip-in system to connect to their mid-layer or fleece. Designed to be functional including 20+ features all in one jacket: nine pockets to hold all your essentials, Waterproof AquaGuard® zippers, Cohaesive™ Cords, Recco® Rescue System and more. The Dermizax®EV fabric is 100% waterproof and windproof while remaining breathable under active conditions. €400 | cortazu.com

 SkiLock

When you head off on your ski holiday, we’d always recommend adding a Ski Lock.

Small, light, easy to carry and great value for money, the Ski Lock from Ski Security is an essential in our ski kit. Unlike many other ski locks, its unique design secures your skis and your poles, allowing you to fully protect your skis like the investment they are! £29.99 | Call 0845 644 6512 or visit amazon.co.uk

 Burton Gore-Tex Avalon Bib Women’s Pant

Cold, stormy weather comes and goes.

The trusted comfort and weatherproofing of the Burton GORE-TEX Avalon Bib Pants are always with you. Cut with the same fit as your favourite high-waisted overalls, these fully waterproof and breathable bib pants are your ticket to ride in any weather. They’re decked out with on-mountain features like meshlined vents and a drop seat for smooth transitions in the bathroom!! £269.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

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 MONS ROYALE

 Armada Declivity 92 Ti

Yotei Tech LS Ultra

The brand-new Declivity range is built using Titanal with cut-out sections,so the 92 Ti has the performance on hard snow which doesn’t affect the handling in soft conditions. Precision carves can be locked down but, because it isn’t as stiff as other skis with metal, it keeps that playful feel, helping make this one of the best all-mountain skis we’ve ridden. £539.99 | Ellis Brigham

Pairing the technical performance of merino with uncompromised style, the Yotei Long Sleeve Crew is a winter-sports essential. Made from Mons Royale’s 190-weight merino wool, it’s breathable, odour-resistant and delivers lightweight warmth. £90 | Ellis Brigham

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 Cortazu

 Helly Hansen

Mountain Mid-Layer

ODIN MOUNTAIN INFINITY

The All Season Mid-layer jacket is lightweight and made of the Airtastic™ fabric from Toray which is supersoft, breathable and easy to pack. The mid-layer is a lightly insulated highperformance jacket, perfect for a wide variety of activities and suitable for all seasons. Sleeves are not insulated. €165 | cortazu.com

SHELL JACKET

LIFA Infinity Pro™ is Helly Hansen’s most innovative and responsible waterproof/breathable technology to date. Challenging the industry norm, this first-to-market technology pushes the envelope in apparel design through advanced textile engineering and development. The ODIN Mountain Infinity Shell Jacket sets a new standard for responsible, waterproof and breathable gear. £600 | hellyhansen.com

 Dakine Split Roller 110L – Water resistant travel

 ARMADA The Stranger

 Meidjo 3.0 NTN Telemark Binding

The world’s first Eco-Designed telemark binding that is helping keep the snow falling by using recycled materials.

The Meidjo 3 is better than its predecessor in every way, 40% stronger, 20g lighter and a 50% longer life. The lowtech system is keeping the binding stable yet easier to lock in the boot so your overall ease of use is much simpler. £489.95 | skibartlett.com

 OutdoorMaster Snow Goggles Pro PLUS Black Frame VLT 13.3%

These upgraded snow goggles feature ColorOptimization Technology to reduce blue light effects, improving contrast to make the surrounding objects clearer. They have an ultra anti-fog coating and magnetic interchangeable lens. Wide choices of lenses. Get 30% off with code: INTHESNOW30 | £79.99 outdoormaster.com

 Yuki Threads

This piste ski ensures you will make the most of the conditions on the groomers allowing you to carve hard, trick around on, laugh and have a good time.

Featuring a straighttapered, edgeless butterzone in the tip and a rockered, springboard tail for endless wheelies and extra pop, the allnew Stranger merges carving with freestyle and freeride attributes. £539.99 Absolute Snow

The Weather Resistant Travel Collection is trusted through whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Be it rain, sleet or snow the 900D Coated ripstop, YKK® weatherproof zippers, sturdy grab handles and protective organisation keeps the powder hunters’ relentless search focused while on the go.

From boards to boots and outerwear, your gear will hit your destination dry, secure and ready for the most epic of days. $162 | Dakine.com

 Arva Evo5 Avalanche Transceiver

The compact Evo5 transceiver is not much bigger than an iPhone, but doesn’t lack on performance features – easy to use, large 50m search area, interference management for electronic devices, secondary avalanche activation and much more. £225 | skibartlett.com

 Oneskee

Northbound Jacket

Mark V snow suit

The Northbound Jacket is THE jacket for you. The style, fit, tech, features… it just works.

The fabrics and fill are also 100% recycled and Bluesign approved, so you’re ticking all the boxes not just some. You can rest easy knowing you’ve nailed this job and can get on with more important things, like getting up the hill! £269.99 | futureproot.life

This is the highest-performance suit in their one-piece collection offering both style and substance with its superior performance and attention to detail. Made from a durable recycled nylon taslan outer shell with a recycled polyester taffeta lining, delivering both a soft hand feel with a 20k/20k waterproof and breathability performance. £349 | oneskee.com

042 // DEC20

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Boot Fitting

Covid-19 Secure

Avoid the Busyness in Resort...

Spend Time Getting Your Equipment Right Before You Go Covid Secure Shopping with a Relaxed Atmosphere Bringing you the UK’s largest range of specialist skis & boots and advice and expertise since 1965.

We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment for wherever your passions and dreams take you.

Custom Ski Boot Fitting Specialists Members of the Sidas Boot Fitting Academy Ski Industries Of Great Britain Official Ski Testers Winner Ski Club GB - Best UK Store Sports Equipment Provider Winner Ski Club GB - Best UK Store Sports Clothing Provider RECREATIONAL | RACE | TOURING | TELEMARK | FREERIDE | FREESTYLE Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP T: 020 8848 0040 www.SkiBartlett.com

 Eivy Icecold

 Helly Hansen ELEVATION INFINITY

Women’s Hoodie Top

SHELL JACKET

The balance between street and function makes this hoodie style incredibly versatile, designed to fit your entire lifestyle from everyday to snowboarding or skiing. Adjust hoodie with the drawstrings and pull up the face cover under the goggles for maximum stealth and warmth. Comes in a recyclable travel bag with adjustable drawstring, keep and use on all your adventures. £69.95 | sputniksnowboardshop. com

This jacket was recognised as a 2020 ISPO Award Gold Winner in the Snowsports segment, voted as the best product in the Hardshell Jackets category. Featuring the revolutionary LIFA Infinity Pro™ technology, a first-to-market advancement made entirely without added chemicals, the Elevation Infinity Shell Jacket sets the new standard for responsible, waterproof-breathable gear. £650 | hellyhansen.com

 Lange XT3 120 Ski Boot

Lighter than previous iterations, the XT3 has more range of movement (an impressive 53deg) and has the addition of frictionless ankle pivots for more free-flowing movement on the skin up. It also has increased precision and performance for allmountain skiing, with its new locking walk-mode mechanism giving no excess rearward movement and ‘Dual Core’ for increased rebound on every turn. £479.95 skibartlett.com

 Douchebag Hugger 20L

Say a warm welcome to the stylish little sibling of the bestselling 30L Hugger. Just as strong, just as durable and just as user friendly, but now you have a smaller option for everyday use, whether it’s work, school, travel, or you just want a smaller riding pack.

Still with its signature accessibility, just lay it on its back and zip the whole front open and inside you’ll find even more pockets to keep you organised for day-to-day adventures. £139.95 | skibartlett.com

 K2 Disruption MTI

Ski fast and smooth with the new K2 Disruption MTI – an aggressive, medium-length radius ski for expert skiers who want to push their on-piste performance. Titanal I-Beam construction and Dark Matter damping combine for a planted and powerful ride, inspiring those skiers chasing the need for speed. £700 | Ellis Brigham & Snowtrax

 Look Pivot 18 Forza 2.0

The look pivot has been a favorite of freestylers and freeriders for years. The Unique turntable heel design gives you much more float and forgiveness when stomping big tricks. The full aluminium toe gives you confidence you are not going to pre-release in sticky situations but the multidirectional release in the heal ejects you perfectly when it needs too. £294.95 | skibartlett.com

 The North Face Pallie

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Down Women’s Jacket

 Dope Ski Jacket

Whether you are hitting the slopes or the pub garden you are sure to stay warm with the new North Face Pallie Down Jacket. It’s loaded with 550 fill goose down at the core and synthetic PrimaLoft® Silver insulation in the sleeves and sides. £299.95 | skibartlett.com

Dope’s best-selling jacket model in an all-time classic anorak style.

It’s a highly versatile all-mountain option, with medium insulation to keep your temperatures in check whether you’re hiking uphill or powering down. Perfect all-mountain companion with medium insulation.

From £101 | Ridestore.com

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 Amundsen Sports Peak Half Zip

 MONS ROYALE

This is a soft and comfortable sweater in 100% quality merino wool, perfect for mountain activities or your everyday use. Merino wool is breathable and will keep you dry in any conditions. The fabric is both warm and cool. £144.99 | LD Mountain Centre

Yotei BF Tech LS Mint Edge

 Arcade Belt

The perfect accessory when you are out and about. Made from recycled materials with a full elastic strap and durable clip. £19.95 | sputniksnowboardshop.com

The Yotei BF Tech LS offers the technical performance of merino combined with endless style. The Yotei BF LS is super versatile and can be worn on its own, or over a baselayer, and it looks at home on the hill and in the bar. Featuring Mons 190 Lightweight Merino for temperature regulation and odour resistance. £90 | Snowtrax

 Loop Shred Hoodie

For those park crew days when you can’t break the train you’ll want to be in the Loop Shred Hood. When you go from the down flat down, to rainbow to cannon and repeat, do it in quality organic cotton and recycled P.E.T fabric, because it will hold up longer than your ego will. £96 | futureproof.life

 Oneskee Mark V Shell

Their first-ever single-membrane onepiece ski suit is a subtle variation on the classic Mark V suit, for those looking for a lightweight alternative to the signature Mark V. This suit has all the essentials, but a few key differences include a front storm placket with magnetic fasteners, ventilation complete with mesh, x5 external waterproof pockets and x2 external glove pockets with magnetic fasteners. £449 | oneskee.com

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ANDRZEJ BARGIEL Polish ski mountaineer Andrzej Bargiel made history in 2018 when he became the first to successfully complete a ski descent of the world’s secondhighest peak, K2, a feat that others had died trying to accomplish. Now that he’s planning to be the first to summit and ski down Everest without using supplementary oxygen, Red Bull have released an incredible free-to-view hour-long film of Bargiel’s stunning K2 achievement: K2: The Impossible Descent.

What are the most important things for people to master if they want to climb and ski big mountains? Where do you start?

AB What I want to say to people that want to start is that if it’s possible, then it’s good to start small, with baby steps – spend a lot of time in the mountains and get used to it. You have to develop your skills and give yourself time to learn the basics before moving onto bigger things later.

How are you able to function above 8,000m when most other people who make it up there need oxygen?

AB Definitely being at high altitude requires good endurance, and I’ve trained for years, trying to raise my endurance, and I also have some skills for this, so I highly benefit from the physical side of it. Definitely you have to filter the oxygen from the air while being so high. When you read

046 // DEC20

books about mountaineering, people describe the experience like being on the edge or hallucinating; I definitely feel much calmer, and I feel better.

Your brother’s use of drones on K2 shown in the film was very intelligent and impressive. Are there are any other ways in which you may make use of drones in future expeditions?

AB I am sure that this technology brings up a lot of safety issues because on high altitudes with high mountains there are no rescue teams, so with this technology we can prevent some elements and also monitor, and I hope that in the future the treatment will also be bigger so there will be improved access to food, drugs, tents or ropes for the expeditions. I think this provides great value for the expedition – not only the beautiful videos and beautiful shots we can make, but also for raising safety and improving safety issues.

With the danger of a serious accident from the slightest error so high when you are alone on skis, how do you not get too afraid to even start?

AB Definitely a key element is preparation of the whole line of the descent. I was there with my team many times to check the route. The more you familiarise yourself with the place, the more comfortable you feel – so for me the descent itself was just a realisation of the plan because by that point it was just a physical task to perform. redbull.com/gb-en/films/ k2-the-impossible-descent

REDBULL.COM

UN I T E D WE S K I

Right now we are all riding out the bumps With no bubbles to lift us to snowy peaks The only lines are tracked on Covid charts And masks have nothing in common with goggles!

Whilst our endurance is being put to the test We keep a positive “altitude� and hope you do too.

STAY SAFE, THE SLOPES WILL BE READY WHEN YOU ARE!

WWW.CHAMONIX.COM

For friendly advice, best rates and no cancellation fees, contact the tourist office booking service on +33 450 539 998

DSC_5071: DSC_8798: AUSTIN ROSS, WHISTLER BLACKCOMB, BRITISH COLUMBIA

A L E X I S P I N T U R A U LT (FRA)

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DAV I D W I S E (USA)

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I N V I S I B L E

SEE LIKE A CHAMPION TRY OUT OUR AUGMENTED REALITY FILTER

TRY OUT OUR condition. LTS technology (Low Temperature Sensitivity) ensures a high photochromic performance even in low INSTAGRAM temperatures. A 4 technology is also available on our ultimate Phantom+ lens: a semi-polarized film reducing distracting glare and enhancing contrastAUGMENTED to distinguish ice from snow (available only on Phantom+).

All Phantom lenses benefit from PLATINUM expertise, ensuring outstanding anti-fog and anti-scratch performance.

REALITY FILTER Phantom lens is a combination of 3 advanced technologies that revolutionizes vision on snow. Made with NXT™

material to deliver greater definition, Phantom incorporates a molecular photochromic filter adapting to any light th

ISSUE 67 | DEC 2020

INTHE SNOW ROBERT AARING, WHISTLER BLACKCOMB, BRITISH COLUMBIA