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ISSUE 82 | OCT 2026

PHOTOGRAPHER: LEON BUTLER | LOCATION: WHISTLER SUNSET SESSIONS

38-44 FIRST TRACKS

CONTENTS 08 2026/27 SKI SEASON PLANNER THREE VERY DIFFERENT WAYS TO SKI THE ROCKIES

12 BAQUEIRA BERET

46 WARREN SMITH

LOOKING BACK ON 25 YEARS IN VERBIER

47-56 OFFICIAL LONDON SNOW SHOW GUIDE

61 GEAR GUIDE THE LATEST SKIS, KIT AND ESSENTIALS

SKIING IN THE SPANISH PYRENEES

THE DESTINATIONS CHANGING SKI HOLIDAYS THIS WINTER

22 COLORADO

STEAMBOAT, WINTER PARK AND ARAPAHOE BASIN

28 NO LIFT QUEUES HERE

MORE TIME SKIING, LESS TIME WAITING

32 BLOW THE BONUS

INSIDE AUSTRIA’S TWO-STOREY SLOPESIDE SUITE

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80 NINE GREAT REASONS TO VISIT ISERE

DISCOVER ISÈRE WITH PEAK RETREATS

92 GOLDEN

BIG-MOUNTAIN SKIING IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

84-89 JAPAN

100 SKI FIT WITH AIMEE FULLER

HOW IMPORTANT IS A CARDIO BASE?

104 LA CLUSAZ

WHERE FREESKI HERITAGE MEETS FAMILY SKIING

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18 NEW SNOW

WILL SUPER EL NIÑO DELIVER A MASSIVE ALPINE WINTER?

ello and welcome to another ski season with InTheSnow. Glacier ski slopes are already open for the season, snow holidays are reported to be selling, like, er, cold cakes, and global media are getting increasingly excited about what’s been coined the ‘Super El Niño’, which is soon to reach its peak in the Pacific Ocean. The ski industry’s take on this is that it could mean a snowy winter for some.

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Opinion is divided, however, on how much influence the El Niño / La Niña cycle in the Pacific has on weather conditions as far away as Europe. Most meteorologists seem to favour the view that the epicentre is too distant from the Alps to have a direct impact here. But we’re clinging to a recent statement from the European Space Agency which states that, in their view, the strong El Niño does increase the risk of severe cold spells and snowstorms across Europe. Although there is an “if”. “El Niño warms the tropical Pacific, and that extra heat can bring more rain there. But the effects don’t stop in the tropics.

They can shift air patterns right across the planet, sometimes reaching all the way up to the stratosphere. When that happens, it can throw off Europe’s winter circulation too, and that’s often when we see colder winters,” an ESA spokesperson said, adding, “As the El Nino develops, it can deliver a chain reaction in the atmosphere. Warm ocean water drives strong convection and planetary waves that disrupt the polar vortex, increasing the likelihood of sudden atmospheric warming, and weakening the jet stream. This can shape winter. In Europe, if the disrupted jet stream favours persistent high-pressure blocking, allowing cold Arctic air to move south, it increases the risk of severe cold spells and snowstorms across Europe and other regions.”

PUBLISHER

So, there you have it. The good news is we don’t have too long to wait to find out who is right. The Super El Niño is currently predicted to peak as soon as next month, meaning the snowy abundance should be with us right at the start of the season, eradicating the usual nervous wait for the snow to arrive. What a relief!

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Patrick Thorne patrick@inthesnow.com DEPUTY & DIGITAL EDITOR

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Nick Jones GEAR EDITOR

Ellis Brigham CONTRIBUTORS

Robert Thorne Aimee Fuller MAGAZINE DESIGN BY

Gareth Payne Muse Creative Studio gareth@musecreative.studio SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Emily Smith

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SKI BETTER WITH INGHAMS Decades on the slopes. Service you can trust. We’re the whole package. Call 01483 944 466 Visit inghams.co.uk

THE ULTIMATE

2026/27 SEASON PLANNER A

nother ski season is already here! Hoorah! Glacier ski resorts are already operating in the Alps, and centres have opened using last year’s snow recycled in Scandinavia.

As usual, we’re all hoping its going to be a snowy one, and, as always, with the annual changes in dates or days of the week for the main festivities, there are factors to be aware of when planning your trip(s) to the slopes.

HERE’S OUR LOWDOWN >> >> >>

GO, GO, GO!

December marks the true start of the ski season, as most charter flights and trains begin on the weekends of the 12th or 19th. If El Niño delivers in November, early December can be superb: quieter slopes, lower prices, expanding terrain and the chance of fresh snow. Resorts lean into Christmas with Advent markets and festive events, while Lapland offers pre‑holiday Santa visits; Levi enters polar night on the 10th, creating surreal floodlit skiing. Early‑season festivals return too, including Rise at Les 2 Alpes (5–12) and Rock On Snow in Avoriaz (11–13). Ski racing ramps up across St Moritz, Val d’Isère and Italy heading into Christmas.

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

With Christmas falling on a Friday, most travellers are avoiding Boxing Day departures and instead choosing Sunday 27 December, returning on 3 January. Iglu Ski reports 60% fewer seven‑night packages for this Sunday‑to‑Sunday rotation, urging families to book quickly. After New Year, January was once the quietest and cheapest period, but shifting travel patterns mean more families and student groups now target these weeks. Grande Plagne notes that changing

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consumer behaviour and weather variability require flexibility. For race fans, January delivers the classics: Lauberhorn in Wengen (15–17), Hahnenkamm in Kitzbühel (22–24), the Kandahar in Chamonix (30) and the X Games in Aspen (29–31).

PARTY TIME

Crans‑Montana hosts the season’s biggest Alpine event from 1–14 February, featuring all major disciplines on a newly built downhill course. A strong British contingent hopes to qualify, including Laurie Taylor, Billy Major, Freddy Carrick‑Smith, Reece Bell, Victoria Palla, Luca and Zak Carrick‑Smith, and Molly Butler, as the sport moves into the post‑Dave Ryding era. February is also peak half‑term, bringing high prices and busy slopes across Europe. Families in Wales and the South West benefit from earlier school holidays, giving rare access to non‑peak pricing. Otherwise, expect premium rates and crowded pistes throughout the month.

EASTER

Easter Sunday falls on 28 March, its earliest date since 2015, prompting strong early bookings as families recognise the improved snow odds compared with late‑April Easters. Travel agencies say many

who usually book New Year or half-term trips are shifting to Easter for better value. The final week of March has recently become the quietest and most affordable of the season, making it prime territory for late deals. Spring also brings major music festivals: Snowboxx in Avoriaz and Rock the Pistes across the Portes du Soleil in week three, followed by Tomorrowland Winter in Alpe d’Huez. The World Cup Finals run 18–25 March in Sun Valley.

APRIL

Although Easter falls in March, school holidays extend into mid‑April, making high‑altitude or northern resorts the safest bets for snow. This season sees the debut of the Winter X Games League, moving from Aspen to Canada and concluding in Ruka‑Kuusamo from 9–11 April. Britain’s Mia Brookes and Zoe Atkin are expected to compete. Ruka’s long season and strong event pedigree make it an ideal finale venue. April also continues festival season, with Snowbombing returning to Mayrhofen (5–10), featuring Bicep Live, Fatboy Slim and Rossi. The Altitude Comedy Festival is taking a hiatus but plans to return in 2028.

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Cheese Party

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The French ski village of Samoens has announced that it will stage a four-day “Cheese Party” from 14–17 January. The traditional resort, part of the huge Grand Massif ski region, has its own local cheese producers, but says it’s going global. “This year, we’re taking Savoyard cheese on a culinary journey around the world, with recipes that are as delicious as they are unexpected. At the Cheese Party, there’s no such thing as too much

cheese. On the menu: seriously indulgent dishes, a lively atmosphere, a large bar and, of course, lots and lots of cheese!” a spokesperson commented. The organisers say that cheese fans will find food trucks and culinary creations based on Savoie cheeses, local producers, concerts and an après-ski atmosphere. “No excuses and no diet will stand in the way: we’ll see you at the Cheese Party!” the spokesperson added.

“No excuses and no diet will stand in the way: we’ll see you at the Cheese Party!”

Ski Confidence

Single Chair No More

Peak Retreats will run a women-only Ski Confidence Week in La Rosière, France, from 13 to 17 March, preceded by online coaching from ski confidence coach Louise Pode. It’s designed to be a fun, sociable week that helps skiers feel calmer, more confident and more in control on the slopes. “Ski Confidence Week is aimed at women skiers who may feel nervous, out of practice or less confident than they once were. We want them to rediscover their love of skiing,” said Peak Retreats’ Nicola Moss.

Niseko has a new gondola this winter, and one of the world’s few remaining single chairlifts will also be upgraded to a double chair. The new lifts are going in above Niseko Village, one of the multiple areas that make up the interlinked Niseko United ski area, Japan's best-known ski destination. “Together, these enhancements will reduce waiting times, improve safety and provide guests with greater flexibility as they explore the mountain," said a spokesperson for the famous Japanese resort.

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Escape to

higher ground

Inspo this way

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EFFORTLESS FAMILY SKIING IN SPAIN’S PREMIER PYRENEAN RESORT HIGHEST LIFT ALTITUDE 2,610M

36 FAST RESORT LIFTS

175KM OF RUNS

131 SLOPES TO CHOOSE FROM

aqueira Beret has long been celebrated as Spain’s flagship ski destination, but what truly sets it apart is how effortlessly families can enjoy it. From seamless travel connections to comprehensive pre‑arrival planning via its dedicated, one-stop-shop, in-house booking agency, the resort makes it remarkably easy to arrive, settle in, and head straight for the slopes. This winter, Baqueira Beret enters a new chapter with expanded facilities, refined services and fresh infrastructure designed to elevate the experience for every type of skier. Baqueira Beret is not just one of the biggest and best ski areas in the Pyrenees. For those who know it and love it already, its appeal extends well beyond the slopes and takes in the rich blend of gastronomy, culture and non‑skiing activities that showcase the unique character of its home in the Val d’Aran and Àneu valleys.

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THERE’S MORE >> >> >>

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HERE IT IS >> >> >>

From challenging descents and

wide cruisers, to

learning zones and

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off-piste terrain.

THE RESORT’S VAST 2,273-HECTARE SKIABLE AREA ENSURES PLENTY OF SPACE TO ROAM. @ INTHESNOW_MAGAZINE

Thanks to its stunning mountainscapes, extensive slopes and an impressive 175km of runs divided between 131 slopes and served by 36 fast, comfortable lifts, it’s a ski area that caters to all skill levels, both famous for its fabulous freeriding but also, at the other extreme, with gentle learning zones for beginners. Indeed, for the coming winter, Baqueira is reorganising the beginner area at 1,800m, one of its busiest learning zones. This redesign will enhance comfort, safety and circulation, all extra good news for families and first‑timers. The move follows improvements last winter made specifically for novice skiers, including the widening of the key Cascada run (Tortuga 2) and the opening of a new blue run in Lebre along with other changes designed to make more of the slopes accessible to all abilities. Intermediates and advanced skiers can explore wide cruisers, challenging descents and off‑piste terrain. The resort’s vast 2,273-hectare skiable area ensures plenty of space to roam. The highlight of the 2026/27 season is the brand‑new Mirador six-seater detachable chairlift in Baqueira, the central area of the resort. Its capacity of 3,000 people per hour will significantly improve flow and access, reducing wait times and opening new possibilities for exploring the terrain. It’s easy to find your way around, get updates on the best conditions and quietest slopes with Baqueira Beret’s Ski Track App, which has been designed to take skiers through their day at the resort. Users can record their descents with detailed data like kilometres travelled, runs completed and accumulated elevation gains. They can also view routes in 3D and share locations in real time with other skiers. There's also an interactive 2D map with geolocation, enabling you to accurately track routes across the whole of Baqueira Beret. The app also lets you see the status of slopes, ski lifts and services (such as

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restaurants or Baby Baqueira) in real time, get step-by-step directions to any point in the resort or take advantage of dynamic filters that make it easier to adapt information to your personal needs, such as displaying blue runs only or finding the nearest ski lift. The region’s culinary reputation is another of its big attractions, with family-run restaurants serving elevated Pyrenean dishes, traditional Aranese recipes passed down through the generations, and modern interpretations of mountain cuisine. Recent upgrades include the creation of Xocolateria Jolonch (chocolate café of the Montarto hotel), a recognised brand owned by the traditional confectioner Torrons Vicens for après-ski treats, while the iconic Moët Winter Lounge has unveiled a new look, with a decor scheme that reinforces its exclusive character. Whether enjoying a long lunch on‑mountain or a cosy dinner in the valley, food is an essential part of the Baqueira experience. Families with young children benefit from dedicated daycares and snow gardens where little ones can discover the joy of winter in a safe, playful environment (Baby Baqueira). Ski schools offer lessons for all ages, making it easy for everyone to progress at their own pace. Baqueira Beret’s commitment to sustainability is ongoing, guiding the resort’s roadmap going forward. Remarkable innovations, such as drone-enabled waste removal from waterways, have been introduced, giving resort teams the power to tackle the task with greater precision and speed. In the warm months, they have also worked on planting and reseeding certain sensitive areas to protect the precious ecosystem. The centre is also progressively replacing snow fences, which promote the natural accumulation of snow and help reduce the need for artificial production, reinforcing the resort’s commitment to a more efficient and environmentally friendly management model. Reaching Baqueira Beret from the UK has never been easier. Numerous direct flights from the UK to Toulouse or Barcelona place the resort within comfortable transfer distance, making it one of the most accessible major ski areas in the Pyrenees.

Although it may not be a resort attribute you think you’re looking for, one of Baqueira Beret’s greatest strengths is the ability to organise your entire stay in advance, making the planning painless. Using the booking centre on the official website and the resort app, skiers can organise their ski and snowboarding holidays with ease, getting unique advantages. The resort’s booking agency offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to streamline every detail, from accommodation and lift passes to ski lessons, equipment hire, childcare and restaurant reservations. Families can arrive with everything already arranged, allowing them to focus solely on enjoying the mountains. You can book the accommodation that best suits your needs, thanks to the wide selection of hotels, flats and rental houses. You can rent skis, snowboards and other equipment at Baqueira Store, and collect it at any of the Ski Service centres located at the foot of the slopes and also opt to return your equipment to a different location for added convenience. Another key feature of the reservation centre is the personalised advice you can get when prebooking restaurants in the resort. This service gives customers all the information they need to choose the destination that best suits their tastes and needs. Guests can even rent ski lockers in advance, leaving equipment next to the slopes without having to carry it back to the hotel. You can also secure unique experiences like dog sledding, snowmobile excursions, snowshoeing, scenic flights and heli-skiing in remote enclaves of the Val d’Aran. With effortless access, full pre‑arrival planning, world‑class skiing and a rich cultural backdrop, Baqueira Beret stands out as one of Europe’s most family‑friendly ski destinations. This season’s improvements only strengthen its appeal, ensuring that every visit is smooth, memorable and full of discovery. Find out more and book now at baqueira.com

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n and off the slopes, visitors can explore picturesque villages, sample refined local cuisine and enjoy everything from snowshoeing and dog‑sledding to wellness experiences and scenic walks.

N E W S

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Ciao! Tasting France & Italy

La Rosière famously sits on the Italian border, meaning its possible for skiers to pop over for an authentic pizza on espresso. This January, the French resort celebrates its unique location with the first “Taste of France and Italy” event. During the course of a week, French and Italian chefs, local producers and amateur foodies gather to enjoy workshops, demonstrations and tastings. The perfect opportunity to enjoy a taste of the Dolce Vita.

Saudi Ski No More?

Transatlantic Skier

This year’s Middle East conflicts seem to be at the root of uncertainty over the future of Saudi Arabia’s planned $38 billion Trojena ski area. First announced in 2022 with a (then) 2026 planned opening date, the centre was designed with 36km of slopes, using artificial surfaces and all-weather snowmaking to operate year-round. Key structural infrastructure was completed and successful test snowmaking carried out, but major contracts were cancelled earlier this year, leaving the project’s status uncertain.

Stuart Macdonald, a Chamonix mountain guide, is preparing for the challenge of a lifetime: a solo row across the Atlantic from Portugal to French Guiana. For up to 90 days from January, he’ll battle powerful currents and shifting weather relying on a solar-powered desalination system and sheer resilience. After training on Lake Geneva and driven by adventure and purpose, he hopes his 6,000km journey will raise vital funds for multiple charities and inspire others to push beyond their limits. summittoseachallenge.com

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NEW SNOW THE DESTINATIONS CHANGING SKI HOLIDAYS IN 2026/27

018 // OCT 26

he new ski season arrives with a surge of fresh destinations, expanded accommodation options and new rail and air routes, creating one of the most varied winters in recent years. Tour operators are reporting strong shifts in traveller interest. Italy and Scandinavia continue their rise, with one agency predicting that Italy may soon overtake Austria as the second‑most popular destination for British skiers after France. Canada is also gaining traction, with multiple companies adding new holiday options. Peak Retreats is expanding into lesser‑known French resorts linked to major ski areas, adding Brides‑les‑Bains (connected to Méribel and Les 3 Vallées)

and Briançon, a UNESCO‑listed fortified town within Serre Chevalier. Inghams has introduced Interlaken, offering access to Grindelwald’s slopes and classic Swiss scenery beneath the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. The Ski Club of Great Britain is launching its biggest Freshtracks programme yet, with an expanded Dolomites offering and instructional holidays such as the Sella Ronda On‑Piste trip. Its programme spans seven categories, including women‑only trips, under‑35 holidays and Peak Experience options for skiers aged 60+.

launched its first Japan product, including Tokyo accommodation, rail transfers to Nagano, seven nights in Hakuba, a six‑day lift pass and six days of instruction. Erna Low, celebrating 95 years next season, has added new accommodation across France, Italy, Switzerland, Bulgaria and Austria, including a return to Sölden, where Miss Low led her first group in 1932. Chalet specialist OVO Network has added seven traditional village destinations, such as Valmeinier, La Grave, Praz‑sur‑Arly and Arâches‑la‑Frasse, noting a 23% rise in British customers seeking “a more authentic mountain experience.”

Budget‑minded skiers have a new long‑haul option: Japan. Action Outdoors has

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Rail travel continues to grow as climate‑conscious skiers seek alternatives to flying. The Eurostar Snow train returns with a quick change in Lille, serving major French Alpine gateways. The Travelski Night Express sleeper expands to two routes, Paris–Bourg‑Saint‑Maurice and Amsterdam/Brussels–Bourg‑Saint‑Maurice, running from 18 December 2026 to 26 March 2027 and offering two extra ski days. As SnowCarbon explains, “Skiers travelling from the UK can connect to either route by taking a Eurostar to Paris or Brussels.” Flying remains dominant, and airlines are adding new routes. Crystal Ski Holidays is launching a Birmingham–Oslo service;

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easyJet is adding flights to Kittilä in Lapland, Newcastle–Barcelona and Newquay– Geneva; and Jet2.com is introducing Stansted–Innsbruck, noting that ski demand is up 30% year‑on‑year. Accommodation options are expanding too. SkiWeekends is adding two ski‑in/ski‑out chalets in Argentière. Pierre & Vacances is launching four premium Swiss residences in Thyon, Zinal, Vercorin and Meiringen. Skiworld is adding chalets in Plagne Villages and Tignes Les Brévières, while Ski Beat is introducing Chalet Florence in Plagne 1800, offering one free place for full‑chalet bookings.

OVERALL, THIS WINTER’S TRAVEL LANDSCAPE FEELS MORE EXPANSIVE AND MORE INTENTIONAL THAN EVER, DEFINED BY EVER BROADER CHOICE, FLEXIBLE TRAVEL OPTIONS AND A GROWING SHIFT TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE, AUTHENTIC AND ADVENTUROUS WAYS OF EXPERIENCING THE MOUNTAINS. 019 // OCT 26

N E W S

Another 8000er Polish ski mountaineer Andrzej Bargiel, famous for being the first man to ski K2, has completed the first continuous ski descent of Nanga Parbat (8,126m) in the Himalayas, one of the world’s 14 8,000m+ peaks, without the use of supplemental oxygen. He has now skied eight of the 14. The Red Bull-sponsored athlete closed his decadelong Pakistan Project by skiing an unbroken line down from the mountain’s summit to the snowline, without using bottled oxygen. That’s something no one, until now, had achieved in one continuous, oxygen-free push. Bargiel also holds the first full ski descents of Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II and Nanga Parbat, and last year became the first person to climb and ski Mount Everest from the summit to Base Camp without supplemental oxygen.

New €155m Lift

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Closed since the devastating 2018 fire, the first part of the flagship new Grands Montets lift at Argentière in the Chamonix Valley is set to open this December. The first section of the new Argentière-Lognan gondola, which was given a €155m price tag when announced two years ago, features 10-seater cabins and glass, pyrite-shaped stations designed by the famous Italian architect Renzo Piano Building Workshop. Construction has been as meticulously ecoconscious as possible, engineered to protect the classified Mont-Blanc site. Beyond the lift itself, a beginner area and a dining space will welcome skiers and sightseers at Lognan (1,972m). The upper section, set to connect Lognan to the summit of Les Grands Montets at 3,275m, restoring lift access after nine years, is scheduled to reopen in December 2027.

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Complete your evening with a journey through our private wine cellar. Driven by a personal passion for exceptional winemaking, our owner, Iwan, has curated a collection of fine vintages ready to be discovered. Warm spaces, stylish comfort, and memorable moments await. Welcome to our home.

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FOUR MOUNTAINS TWO MATES ONE PASS WE HAD AN IKON PASS EACH AND A SUPER-SIMPLE PLAN:

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Fly into Denver

grab a car

Ski our way around Colorado

Plus a couple of nights in Frisco thrown in for good measure.

THIS WASN'T SO MUCH A SKI HOLIDAY AS A ROAD TRIP WHERE SKIING HAPPENED TO DICTATE THE ROUTE.

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START BEFORE THE SKIING STARTS First, though, Denver. Rather than treating it as simply the airport before the mountains, we gave ourselves a couple of days to “rest” in the Mile High City, and I’d absolutely do the same again. We stayed at The Maven Hotel in Dairy Block, right in LoDo, and spent our time exploring Union Station and 16th Street, brunching at Leven Deli, wandering through the murals of the RiNo Art District and heading out to the spectacular Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

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That evening, we watched the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Even if ice hockey isn’t your thing, an NHL game is fast, loud, completely over the top and enormous fun. The following morning, we loaded the car and pointed it towards Steamboat. Skis in the back, coffee in the cup holders, several hours of Colorado highway ahead and one of your best mates beside you talking the usual mixture of complete rubbish and where we might find the best snow. This was where having multiple mountains on one pass was about to get interesting.

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DENVER

STEAMBOAT

WINTER PARK

COPPER

Steamboat Springs rewards the drive because it’s a genuine Colorado town, with restaurants, bars, shops and a Western character that feels a million miles from a purpose-built Alpine village.

By the time we reached Winter Park, snow was hammering down. We pulled up at Zephyr Mountain Lodge, hurriedly changed into ski gear and headed straight out rather than waste a stormy afternoon unpacking.

Copper Mountain was the resort I knew least about and perhaps the one that surprised me most.

It was raining when we arrived, but overnight the temperature dropped and the following morning the mountain was transformed.

Winter Park is a fascinating contrast to Steamboat. Its base sits at around 2,743m, the skiing reaches 3,676m and there’s more than 1,200 hectares of terrain. More importantly, it feels like a mountain designed for people who really like skiing. Intermediates can cruise beautifully skiable groomers while stronger skiers peel away into trees, bumps and technical lines before meeting everyone again further down. For mates with different abilities, that is gold.

THE ONE THAT GOT UNDER OUR SKIN

Steamboat is huge, with more than 1,500 hectares across six peaks, but it’s the way it skis that stayed with me. The famous tree skiing is every bit as good as we’d been told. Beautifully spaced trees, rolling terrain and little natural hits everywhere mean you can disappear from the side of a groomer and emerge further down with a stupid grin on your face. Having a guide proved a masterstroke, taking us straight to lines and pockets of snow we’d never have discovered ourselves. By mid-afternoon, we were both saying the same thing: this was one of those unexpectedly brilliant ski days. And Steamboat kept going after the lifts closed. We soaked tired legs in the natural pools at Strawberry Park Hot Springs, ate superb tacos at Salt & Lime and discovered that bison steak at the Ore House is apparently exactly what you need after several hours in the trees.

STRAIGHT INTO THE STORM

PERHAPS THE BIGGEST SURPRISE

Its terrain naturally separates by ability, with easier skiing at one end, intermediates through the middle and increasingly challenging terrain as you move across and higher up the mountain. For families or mixed groups, it’s exceptionally easy to understand. We worked our way into the moguls and trees of Upper Enchanted Forest, while higher up, Copper Bowl and snowcataccessed terrain around Tucker Mountain give stronger skiers plenty to explore.

Then there’s Mary Jane, where things become steeper, bumpier and more demanding. Yet that’s the clever thing about Winter Park: you can dial the day up or down depending on your legs, your ability or how much fresh snow happens to be falling.

But Copper was also simply fun. There was a proper buzz around the base, Aerie Lodge was one of the nicest mountain restaurants we visited and the day ended at Downhill Duke’s with cold beers and a plate of nachos so ridiculous it probably deserved its own table.

We’d arrived wondering whether the weather might ruin the afternoon. We finished wondering how we’d got quite so lucky again.

We’d come for a day’s skiing. We left as Copper converts.

ES IR SK K PA R R TE IN W ©

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O RT

Driving away, we were already talking about coming back.

THE TOWN THAT MAKES THE WHOLE THING WORK For the final part of the trip we based ourselves in Frisco, right in the heart of Summit County, with eight ski resorts within roughly 4 to 45 minutes. Crucially, though, it doesn’t feel like somewhere you merely sleep between ski days. Main Street has bars, restaurants, cafés and independent shops, with a slightly old-Colorado feel. You can have a few beers, wander back to the hotel and spend dinner arguing about which mountain gets tomorrow. Then, on our final morning, we pulled back the curtains to find a serious overnight fall had covered everything. Cars were disappearing under snow, breakfast suddenly seemed considerably less important and our final day had just become a powder day. Twenty minutes or so up the road was Arapahoe Basin. There wasn’t much discussion required.

A BASIN

SAVING THE BEST SNOW UNTIL LAST A Basin is brilliant because it doesn’t seem particularly interested in impressing you. There's no enormous resort village or parade of designer shops. Instead, there’s the A Frame and The Beach, where skiers park beside the slopes, pull out barbecues and turn the car park into an après scene. The mountain itself reaches almost 4,000m, and more than 70% of its terrain is advanced or expert. Pallavicini is steep and direct, the East Wall legendary when open, while The Beavers add glades, gullies and more adventurous terrain. But on our final day, the statistic that mattered was the amount of snow that had fallen overnight. Visibility came and went, snow was still falling and every few turns revealed another untouched pocket. There was plenty of whooping, questionable line choices and stopping to wait for each other while laughing at whatever had just happened. Exactly how a ski day with a mate should be.

MAYBE THE BEST RESORT IS FOUR RESORTS If we’d booked a conventional week in Colorado, any one of these mountains could have given us a brilliant holiday. But we’d have missed everything the others brought to it. Instead, we got Steamboat’s trees and Western town, Winter Park’s storm skiing, Copper’s brilliantly accessible layout, Frisco’s genuine mountain-town atmosphere and, finally, the high-altitude, stripped-back skiing of A Basin. And we did it all with the same Ikon Pass. Because, ultimately, the best bit wasn’t ticking four famous resorts off a list. It was the drives between them. The unexpected powder. The enormous nachos. The wrong turns. The morning weather debates. Discovering somewhere we’d barely heard of and wishing we had another night there. Arriving with fairly ordinary expectations and leaving desperate to return. Most of all, it was doing all of that with a mate. And if you’re reading this already wondering who you’d take with you, then I suspect you understand exactly why I’d do the whole thing again.

AT THE AIRPORT Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com) offers a wide range of parking and overnight hotel stays at all major UK airports. One week’s Meet and Greet airport parking at Heathrow Airport costs from £120. For the latest prices and to book, visit www.aph.com.

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FRISCO

N E W S

Netflix And Ski Utah’s Powder Mountain has confirmed a $40 million upgrade to its lifts, terrain and guest facilities, marking the first major redevelopment since Netflix billionaire Reed Hastings took control of the resort. The improvements, beginning this winter, represent a shift for a mountain known for vast acreage but modest infrastructure. Powder Mountain spans 8,464 acres, the biggest in the US, but much of it has historically been accessed by hiking or snowcats. Hastings bought a majority stake in 2023 and invested $100 million to stabilise stalled development. The new package includes opening the DMI zone, more than 1,000 acres of steep, hike‑to terrain with 2,200 feet of vertical, served by a steep quad. A new beginner‑area lift, a high‑speed Sundown replacement with night‑skiing capability, and a full rebuild of Sundown Lodge round out the upgrades.

026 // OCT 26

Resort Upgrades Green Snow

The One

2029 Spend

Vialattea and Bardonecchia, core resorts in Italy’s Turin Alps, are deep into a €28 million, renewably powered snowmaking upgrade. Vialattea has completed three of four phases in Sestriere, with expansion to Sauze d’Oulx, Cesana‑Sansicario and Cesana‑Claviere completed in the summer. Bardonecchia added 100+ new generators and plans two reservoirs to reach 80% coverage. The region reports that visitor numbers are up 15%, with over 60% coming from abroad, 70% of whom are from the UK.

Cervinia has unveiled “The One”, a €197 million 3S cable car that will transform access to Plateau Rosa and link seamlessly with Zermatt. Spanning nearly 6km and 1,500m of vertical, the two‑section lift will run at 8 m/s, reaching Plan Maison in 4.5 minutes and Plateau Rosa in about 12, carrying 3,000 people per hour. Due to open in December 2029, the wind‑resistant system features Pininfarina‑designed cabins, renewable‑energy integration and year‑round tourism benefits, marking a major new chapter for Cervinia.

Norway’s northern Narvik ski area is undergoing a €53 million upgrade to its lifts and slopes and race infrastructure ahead of hosting the 2029 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships. Work remains on schedule for completion by March 2027, including a new 10‑seat gondola, six‑seat Linken Express, three T‑bars and the 3km Panorama Downhill Course. New family terrain, expanded snowmaking and more piste bashers are included. Narvik’s sea‑view descents and its cross‑border pass with Riksgränsen remain key attractions.

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Crans-Montana

Book your ski trip now and spend more time on the snow

From:

£ 115 Per person, per night *

w Nening e op

Seven nights. Six to pay. More time to play. This winter, make yourself at home at L’Uciole****, the new mountain hideaway in Crans-Montana. Ski all day. Slow down when you return. Italian food at the table, a cosy room waiting upstairs. At L’Uciole, winter days end beautifully. Available for stays: 1–18 December 2026 | 3–28 January 2027 | 8–25 March 2027. Book at least 30 days before arrival. Minimum stay of seven consecutive nights. Subject to availability and not combinable with other offers. *Based on two people sharing a double room. Subject to availability.

Book your winter escape : www.luciolecransmontana.ch

028 // OCT 26

EUROPE AND NORTH AMERICA’S QUIETEST SKI RESORTS

ith the popularity of many of the world’s bestknown ski areas increasing, you can find the slopes very busy now, particularly at peak periods. In the most extreme cases, this can take away from your holiday enjoyment if the slopes feel like busy motorways and you’re constantly having to be wary of the close proximity, speed and skiing or riding styles of fellow slope users at every turn.

have departed, used to be a good time to hit the slopes, but that’s no longer the case at many resorts.

If you’re in search of quieter slopes, the good news is that some great ski areas tend to have largely uncrowded pistes. Of course, all ski areas need to sell enough lift tickets to stay viable, but thanks to their design or location, some seem to still get enough visitors while having slope space to spare.

Instead, pre-Christmas and post-Easter are usually the quietest periods now.

"Everything we thought we knew about visitor numbers has changed significantly. There are now more and more families looking for budget opportunities in between holiday periods,” commented Thomas Saison, General Manager at the Office de Tourisme de la Grande Plagne.

"EVERYTHING WE THOUGHT WE KNEW ABOUT VISITOR NUMBERS HAS CHANGED SIGNIFICANTLY."

Studying the piste map to look for areas that appear to be off the main routes through the ski area can also uncover quieter terrain, usually well away from the base areas. Many larger resorts also now have apps that can give you an idea of where the quieter slopes are in real time at any point of the day.

Of course, wherever you choose to go, getting your timing right can be a big factor. January, after the New Year crowds

With all that taken into account, here are some of the ski centres best known for their usually quiet slopes.

BIG SKY, MONTANA, USA

LA ROSIÈRE

PANORAMA

VAL CENIS

GRAND TARGHEE

LES SYBELLES

Val Cenis is a smart choice for families and skiers seeking quieter slopes thanks to its tucked‑away location in France’s Haute Maurienne Valley. Many visitors head to better‑known nearby resorts, leaving Val Cenis and its spacious 125km ski area rather overlooked. Its long pistes (up to 10km apiece) spread skiers out, reducing congestion even at peak times. For anyone wanting peaceful skiing, easy progression and room to roam, Val Cenis delivers a genuinely crowd‑free experience. There’s a reassuringly local feel too, with traditional villages and an easy-going atmosphere that makes the whole area feel refreshingly removed from the mainstream Alpine circuit.

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La Rosière has built a reputation as a great family destination, often overlooked by skiers heading to famous name resorts nearby in the Tarentaise Valley. But it has a big area, the Espace San Bernardo, which covers a 160km piste network and stretches across the border to the resort of La Thuile, Italy. All that space helps prevent massive bottlenecks on the French side, and as you head towards the border, you’ll find increasingly empty slopes, with most novice and family skiers sticking to the sunny, south-facing pistes by the resort. The wide and open slopes naturally accommodate skiers smoothly without feeling congested, and you can pop over to grab an authentic pizza and espresso before returning on those spacious slopes.

Grand Targhee is a Wyoming favourite for skiers seeking quiet, spacious slopes thanks to its secluded position on the western side of the Teton Mountains. It has no major city nearby, and most international visitors skiing Wyoming head to Jackson Hole. As a result, Targhee enjoys naturally low skier traffic. Once you’re here, Targhee’s wide-open bowls and long, flowing groomers spread people out beautifully, creating a calm, unhurried feel even in peak season. The resort’s laid‑back, family‑friendly vibe adds to the sense of escape with plenty of room to roam. Add reliable snowfall and spectacular Teton views, and it’s clear why Targhee insiders prefer keeping it to themselves.

Panorama, on BC’s eastern border in Canada, has a reputation for uncrowded slopes that comes from a mix of geography, scale and culture. Its tucked‑away position deep in the Kootenay Rockies tends to keep passing traffic low, with many travellers choosing closer Powder Highway resorts instead. Once they do make the wise move to turn off to Panorama, though, the ski area spreads out across nearly 3,000 acres, creating the highest terrain‑to‑skier ratio not just in North America but the entire world. That’s according to a study of the world’s 100 largest resorts by a German consultancy. Even with one of the continent’s biggest vertical drops and big‑mountain variety, Panorama has stayed quietly under the radar.

Les Sybelles is an excellent choice for skiers seeking quiet slopes thanks to its vast, uncrowded terrain and calm village atmosphere. Hidden in the Maurienne region, it offers one of France’s largest ski areas yet remains surprisingly unspoilt. The fluid layout lets skiers move easily between sunny plateaus, secluded valleys and peaceful villages, keeping crowds dispersed. With 127 runs across 393 hectares around the Ouillon, there’s ample space to roam without the intensity of major Alpine resorts. Each linked village has its own gentle rhythm, allowing visitors to enjoy the mountains at their own pace.

029 // OCT 26

Big Sky feels spacious because its sheer scale naturally disperses skiers across the mountain. With 5,850 acres of terrain and a skier density averaging about two skiers per acre, it ranks as the least crowded major resort in the United States. This vast layout spans four connected mountains and hundreds of runs, ensuring skiers rarely converge in the same zones. Its remote southwestern Montana location, an hour from Bozeman, further limits day‑trip traffic, helping to preserve low numbers on the slopes. Combined, these factors create the resort’s signature wide‑open feel, where even peak days normally remain remarkably uncrowded.

VAUJANY

POWDER MOUNTAIN

ALTA BADIA

ANDERMATT-SEDRUN

OBERTAUERN

SAINTE-FOY

030 // OCT 26

Vaujany is an excellent choice for skiers seeking quiet, crowd‑free slopes paired with fast access to major terrain. Its small, traditional village atmosphere keeps skier numbers low, and the efficient lift system links directly into the vast Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine with 250km of pistes. You get quiet local runs for warm‑ups, then swift connections to high‑altitude terrain, including the chance to reach the legendary Sarenne, one of the world’s longest black descents, before the crowds from Alpe d’Huez. This balance of a small village and a big mountain next door makes Vaujany ideal for families and relaxed skiers who want space, scenery and seamless access to a huge ski area.

Andermatt is a famous name in Swiss skiing, but it still flies under the radar a little, despite a massive makeover over the past decade or so that has seen hundreds of millions of francs/pounds spent on a new base village development and state-of-the-art lifts. It is now the largest connected ski area in Central Switzerland (the heart of the Swiss Alps). In 2019, the Sedrun-Cuolm da Vi gondola lift created a direct connection between the Andermatt-Sedrun and Disentis ski areas, providing a total of 180km of pistes served by 33 state-of-the-art lifts, with terrain climbing up to 3,000 metres. All this essentially equates to plenty of slope space to spread out across.

Now majority-owned by Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings, Powder Mountain is one of Utah’s best choices for skiers seeking quiet, spacious slopes. Its vast 8,464‑acre footprint makes it the largest ski area in the United States, yet it operates with a relatively small lift network. That imbalance is exactly why the mountain feels so peaceful: skiers naturally spread out across huge tracts of terrain, much of it accessed by short hikes or cat‑assisted laps rather than high‑capacity lifts. The result is very uncrowded runs, minimal bottlenecks, and a mellow, backcountry‑style atmosphere. Even on busy days, Powder Mountain’s scale ensures you can find long, uninterrupted fall‑line skiing and wide‑open space.

Obertauern is a strong choice for skiers seeking quieter slopes, particularly outside peak holiday weeks. Its efficient, circular layout, including a popular circuit known as the Tauernrunde, lets visitors move smoothly around 100km of linked pistes, helping prevent crowd build‑ups. With a fleet of fast, modern lifts, any queues are typically short, with fast-moving lines and noticeably less congestion outside Christmas, New Year and February school holidays. Early December and late March are especially calm, offering wide, open runs and plenty of space to roam. While Austrian and German holiday periods do bring heavier traffic, Obertauern’s overall flow still keeps everything moving.

The Sellaronda circuit that links Alta Badia, the Fassa Valley, Val Gardena and other areas together in the Italian Dolomites has been a huge success, and the main routes around the circuit are usually busy through much of the season, with bottlenecks and queues sometimes appearing even where the most efficient queue-gobbling lifts have been installed. But although it’s not really promoted for its size, the area is vast with over 500km of slopes, so if you stay away from the areas associated with the Sellaronda, a relatively small part of it all, you can find many quieter nooks and corners of the piste map that few venture into.

Last but certainly not least, Sainte‑Foy Tarentaise is somewhat hidden in plain sight; skiers in Les Arcs, Tignes and Val d’Isère are all very close to it, but the vast majority just drive on by. As a result, it’s an excellent choice for skiers seeking quieter slopes thanks to its boutique, low‑key character and protected location in the Tarentaise Valley. While those world-famous nearby giants draw the crowds, Sainte‑Foy remains blissfully uncrowded. Its tree‑lined pistes, gentle family terrain and superb off‑piste bowls feel spacious and serene throughout the season, creating one of the most tranquil experiences in the French Alps.

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Melting Fast

Night Tour

Glaciers in Germany’s Bavarian Alps shrunk by more than a quarter between 2023 and 2025, losing around one million cubic metres of ice. Munich University geologists say there is “absolutely no chance” of saving any remaining glaciers, with most expected to vanish within years and the last ones disappearing by the 2030s. Copernicus data show the past three years were the warmest ever recorded, driving rapid global glacier loss. At Zugspitze, thawing ice has made a long‑running lift unsafe, forcing its removal after five decades.

Saint‑Martin‑de‑Belleville will debut the Belleville Light Tour this winter, a new two‑stage night ski touring race. Held on illuminated courses, the Olympic‑inspired sprint format features climbs, descents, boot packs and fast skin transitions, with racers competing solo or in relay teams. Spectators can watch the action up close, while beginners can benefit from a pre‑race assistance zone. Taking place on 28 January in Les Menuires and on 10 March at Saint‑Martin‑de‑Belleville, each evening ends with a Savoyard tartiflette.

CMY

Indoor Airbags

Mega-Lifts

Tamworth’s SnowDome says it is taking freestyle progression to new heights with the purchase of two freestyle airbags. “Skiers and snowboarders no longer need to head abroad to practise on freestyle airbags. From trying a first jump or rotation to taking on bigger tricks, riders can use the airbags to practise their technique and dial in new moves before taking them to the park,” a spokesperson for the centre commented. SnowDome’s coaching sessions provide a supportive introduction to freestyle.

The spectacular SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project around Mürren is now complete, with the final Birg–Schilthorn lift entering service ready for the 2026/27 season. First announced in 2019, the CHF 100m upgrade replaces the old aerial trams with five faster, high‑capacity Funifor lifts built to withstand strong winds. The system now links Stechelberg to the 2,970m Schilthorn via Gimmelwald and Mürren, climbing over 2,050 vertical metres. Celebrating the milestone, lift company chairman Johannes Stöckli hailed the on‑schedule completion as “a historic moment”.

THE WHITEOUT PODCAST

BRING YOUR HORSE ON YOUR SKI HOLIDAY

didn’t realise how quickly a place could quiet the mind until I arrived at Naturhotel Forsthofgut, a remarkable family‑run hotel in Leogang. Once a small farm with a guesthouse, it has evolved into a 5★ nature‑focused resort with a forest‑themed spa, superb dining, exceptional family facilities (including stables for guests’ ponies) and true ski‑in/ski‑out access to the vast Saalbach‑Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn region. The journey from Salzburg was disarmingly simple: a comfortable, free train ride for anyone staying in SalzburgerLand. By the time I reached Leogang, the mountains glowed in the late‑afternoon light and the hotel appeared like a modern Alpine fairytale, with wood, glass and soft lines blending into meadows and forest. Inside, everything felt instantly calming. Natural textures, warm tones and gentle luxury created a sense of exhale, and the

welcome was genuinely heartfelt. Nature and wellness are woven through every space; wherever you sit, there’s a view, a quiet nook or a window framing the outdoors. My Garden Suite became a sanctuary. The vast 120m², two‑storey space, with a private sauna on the balcony, offered mountain views in every direction. One side overlooked the onsen bath and natural lake, the other the ski piste. Soft fabrics, pale woods and a cloud‑like bed made everything feel indulgent. The waldSPA is where I truly fell in love with Forsthofgut. It’s huge yet never overwhelming, more like wandering through a forest of calm. I drifted between saunas, heated pools, relaxation rooms and the Lake House, where waterbeds and soft lighting dissolve time. The onsen ritual, ending in a steaming 42°C pool overlooking the lake, was unforgettable.

Dining is a highlight. The nightly set menus let you mix and match five courses across locally sourced dishes, vegan options and indulgent classics. Multiple restaurants add variety, from Silva’s forest‑inspired haute cuisine to Mizumi’s Japanese specialities. Skiing folds effortlessly into each day, with the piste passing the door and the in-house rental shop removing any hassle. The equestrian facilities are exceptional, with a magnificent arena, top-notch stables, paddocks and even the option to bring your own horse with you on your ski holiday! Maybe next time… Leaving the Forsthofgut felt like leaving behind a feeling, and I tried to hold on to the calm rhythm that makes you breathe deeper and slow down for as long as I could. forsthofgut.at/en

SKI BETTER IN NORWAY Reliable snow. Stunning scenery. The home of skiing. Call 01483 944 466 Visit inghams.co.uk Image© Hunnalvatn Media

ALPS AT THEIR VERY BEST

winter holiday in Austria’s Zell am See‑Kaprun reaches another level, and regular visitors can easily list dozens of reasons why. But most of those reasons fall into five standout themes: natural snow, spectacular views from the Schmittenhöhe and the 3,000m Kitzsteinhorn, the vast glacier‑mountain‑lake ski area, rich regional culture and cuisine, and impressive sustainability credentials. For visual spectacle, few places on earth can match the mixture of snowy mountains, glaciers, forests and pure Alpine lakes offered by Zell am See‑Kaprun. The glacier‑topped Kitzsteinhorn rises sharply above Kaprun, with the Hohe Tauern National Park visible from Salzburg’s highest lift‑accessed point at 3,029m. Skiers carve natural‑snow glacier pistes at 3,000m, while the Kaiserblick viewing platform on Schmittenhöhe above Zell am See reveals more than 30 peaks over 3,000m. Lake Zell completes the picture with snowy shoreline strolls, winter boat trips, shopping

in Zell am See or Kaprun and the essential local treat: Kaiserschmarren, a dish of fluffy caramelised pancake pieces.

a weekly winter programme with snowshoe hiking and a Kitzsteinhorn Explorer Tour with a National Park Ranger.

Zell am See‑Kaprun offers panoramic piste skiing, easy‑access freeride terrain, Nordic trails, world‑class snow parks and fun slopes. Ski tourers head for Ronachkopf or marked routes on the Maiskogel and Kitzsteinhorn, while freestylers flock to the superpipe and parks used by pros. The wider region boasts an impressive 408km of pistes across the Schmittenhöhe, the Kitzsteinhorn glacier ski area and neighbouring Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, all linked by the Ski ALPIN CARD. Slope highlights include the Black Trass (70% gradient), Ski’n’Brunch mornings and gentle family terrain on the Maiskogel.

Guests can use public transport for their journey to the region and for getting around during their stay with the Guest Mobility Ticket. Cable cars powered by electricity from renewable sources are another part of the region’s mobility infrastructure. Thanks to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, the ski season runs from October into May.

Around 90 restaurants, including eight Gault Millau‑awarded venues, serve everything from hut classics to gourmet dishes. There is also plenty to do off the slopes, including

For a winter holiday combining scenery, snow-sure slopes, great food and rich experiences, Zell am See‑Kaprun delivers it all.

Find out more www.zellamsee-kaprun.com/winter

PHOTOS BY © ZELL AM SEE-KAPRUN TOURISMUS

N E W S © LUCAS HERBERT

A-Basin 8-0 Colorado’s Arapahoe Basin ski area turns 80 this year and has celebrations planned. The ski area, one of the world’s highest at two miles above sea level, is also one of the most snow-sure with a season that can last from October to June, meaning it might just be one of the surviving ski areas in another 80 years. The resort was established just after WW2, in 1946, when Larry and Marnie Jump opened it with a lone rope tow, adding two single chairlifts the following year. “We are a mountain built around great terrain and passionate skiers and riders,” said Alan Henceroth, now resort president, who has been working there for nearly half its history. “These immovable things that make us have kept this place true to itself.”

Fun Pipe

allowing progression for experienced riders. Created by designer Stefan Plattner, the project also seeks to restore halfpipe culture’s social energy. Hintertux hosted Fun Pipe Camps and community events over the summer, including the first‑ever Fun Pipe Games.

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035 // OCT 26

A new “Fun Pipe” concept aims to revive the inclusive, creative spirit that once defined halfpipe riding. As traditional pipes have grown larger and more technical, many resorts have removed them entirely, leaving only a few superpipes used mostly by professionals. The Fun Pipe, which has already debuted at Austria’s Hintertux summer ski area, offers a smaller, friendlier alternative shaped with Zaugg’s new 13‑foot Pipe Designer. At around 120m long with 3.5m walls and a rounded base, it’s designed as a “blue run” of halfpipes, giving beginners a smooth, confidence‑building entry point while still

N E W S

Why big isn’t always better While the biggest ski resorts often grab the headlines, they're not always the best fit for every skier. Offering quiet pistes, shorter lift queues and an authentic Alpine atmosphere, smaller resorts can provide a refreshingly different experience. With more skiers seeking a balance of great skiing and characterful mountain settings, Peak Retreats (peakretreats.co.uk), the French Alps specialist, has expanded its accommodation offering in some of its traditional village resorts. Each resort offers something different, from the family-friendly slopes of Aussois to the traditional Savoyard charm of Notre Dame de Bellecombe, the gateway-to-Paradiski appeal of Champagny en Vanoise and the spectacular setting of Pralognan-la-Vanoise, which was added to the programme last season. For those who value a welcoming atmosphere, traditional architecture and uncrowded slopes, these village resorts continue to prove that bigger isn't always better.

Resorts & Events

036 // OCT 26

Beginner Fest

Two Gondolas

Showcase Chair

The 1er Ski Festival returns to Les Gets in March after a hugely successful debut last winter, offering a full week designed for people who have never skied before. Running from the 21st, it’s a resort‑wide celebration of beginner skiing, with mornings spent in group ski or snowboard lessons and afternoons and evenings filled with organised activities, music and socials. With everything arranged in advance, it’s a friendly, low‑stress way to start skiing or snowboarding at any age.

Italy’s Passo Tonale and Ponte di Legno have undertaken major upgrades, replacing two ageing chairlifts for the coming season with new 10‑seat Leitner gondolas as well as improving several slopes and upgrading snowmaking systems. The new Corno d’Aola gondola will cut ascent time to 6.5 minutes, while the Valbiolo lift has been rebuilt with a new top station at Malga Valbiolo. A Skywalk viewing platform is planned for 2027 in one of Italy’s most snowsure ski areas.

Whistler Blackcomb’s new Showcase quad is due to go into service this winter, with North America’s largest ski area set to open on 20 November. Protecting the glacier has been central throughout the lift’s construction, with all towers anchored in bedrock rather than ice and the project passing strict environmental review. The lift will give faster access to some of Blackcomb Glacier’s best terrain making skiing laps far quicker, with smoother trail links and better skier flow.

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THE BEST RESORTS FOR EARLY-SEASON SKIING

here’s something very special about getting on snow before Christmas and before (almost) everyone else. We always get excited as the ski season approaches, but most of us don’t think about actually booking a trip before Christmas.

038 // OCT 26

When you think about it, though, why wait? Dozens of ski areas are already open by the start of November; you’ll most likely have the slopes pretty much to yourself, and prices are much lower as resorts try to entice more early visitors like you. Many will offer new-season gear testing, and you’ll get the smug joy of posting on your socials that you’re already on the snow while everyone else is mired in the damp, dark British autumn. There are, of course, things to be aware of when you plan your trip. The big one is (as always) snow.

Travelling in the early season means a greater chance that there won’t be much, but the resorts that plan to open in October or early November are also prepared for that and only plan their season start dates backed by things that make the opening more certain – things like glaciers and/or snow farming (last winter’s snow stockpiled through summer, then spread back out on the slopes in cooler autumn air), or socalled “all-weather snowmaking machines”. Be aware, though, that at best, what’s going to be open initially is likely to be much more limited and, of course, higher up the mountain than in the main season. Another issue is getting to your chosen resort. On the one hand, you can expect much quieter travel and far lower prices than in the main season, hopefully with a lower likelihood of weather disruption too. Against that, services, particularly if you plan to fly, will be more limited, with many

airlines cutting services in what is the low season and the ski charters mostly not getting underway until mid-December. Depending on how early you arrive in the resort, the same issue, that some restaurants and hotels may not yet have opened, will most likely mean that accommodation and après options are more limited and quiet, but on the other hand, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a bed and booking a table! Some resorts also throw an early-season festival to really get the party started in November or the start of December.

OUR TOP PICKS FOR SKIING BEFORE CHRISTMAS @INTHESNOWMAG

CRANS-MONTANA

VAL THORENS

LES 2 ALPES

SAAS-FEE

Early-season skiing at Les Deux Alpes is one of the Alps’ most reliable pre-Christmas options, thanks to glacier terrain reaching 3,600m and cold early-winter temperatures. The 2026/27 season is expected to run from 28 November to 4 July, giving the resort an exceptionally long winter. December brings quiet slopes, fast pistes and big views across the Oisans, while the village quickly finds its winter rhythm. Rise Festival adds extra energy, drawing 7,000 British visitors for electronic music, DJ sets, yoga and mountain activities. Reliable snow and a lively atmosphere make Les Deux Alpes a strong December choice.

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Europe’s highest ski resort has one of France’s longest seasons, usually running from late November into early May, and it launches winter with real fanfare. La Grande Première is scheduled for 21–22 November 2026, likely marking one of France’s earliest major opening weekends. Alongside first turns on the high-altitude slopes, skiers can explore a huge test village with more than 50 brands offering new skis, snowboards and touring equipment to try. DJ sets, quizzes, film screenings, parties and plenty of raclette add to the atmosphere, making Val Thorens a lively and snow-sure way to start the season.

Saas-Fee barely seems to stop skiing. Its season effectively begins in summer, when the high-altitude Allalin Glacier reopens, then builds steadily through autumn towards full winter operations. Skiing takes place between roughly 2,870m and 3,500m, where reliable snow and early-season training lanes attract national race squads, so sharing a gondola with a World Cup skier is not unusual. From 1 November, the winter glacier season steps up another gear, with more terrain opening, longer lift hours and a livelier resort atmosphere. For skiers keen to start early, Saas-Fee remains one of Europe’s most dependable highaltitude options.

039 // OCT 26

High-altitude, pre-Christmas skiing at Crans-Montana feels like stepping straight into winter’s sweet spot, with crisp air, quiet slopes and reliable early-season snow. The ski area rises to 3,000m beneath the Plaine Morte glacier, with a partial opening planned for 28 November, conditions permitting. December also brings plenty of atmosphere in town, where shops, restaurants and hotels are already open and festive lights begin to appear. Access is straightforward via Geneva and rail, followed by the funicular from the valley. With the 2027 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships approaching, this promises to be a particularly exciting winter.

TIGNES

Tignes once skied virtually year-round and still squeezes an impressive amount from its high-altitude snow. Summer skiing survives for a short spell on the Grande Motte glacier, while the main winter season now starts in late November and runs for almost six months into May. For 2026/27, opening day is planned for 21 November, with the lift and piste connection to neighbouring Val d’Isère expected to follow a week later. Opening weekend traditionally brings a real sense of occasion, with the village and slopes coming back to life together. For early-season skiers, Tignes remains one of France’s safest bets.

040 // OCT 26

LIVIGNO

Livigno, a 2026 Winter Olympics venue, is another strong November choice, thanks to its altitude, cold climate and determination to open useful amounts of terrain before Christmas. The 2026/27 season is scheduled to begin at 08:00 on 28 November. Slopes rise to 2,800m, with broad pistes on both the Carosello and Mottolino sides offering plenty of early-season mileage. November also brings national-team training, freestyle sessions and the first stirrings of the resort’s winter calendar. With dependable snow, uncrowded runs and a long cold-weather season ahead, Livigno offers a lively but practical way to get winter started early.

CERVINIA

OBERGURGL

RUKA

ISCHGL

Cervinia is a standout autumn ski option, with the 2026/27 season expected to begin around 24 October. Lifts rise to 3,480m on the Italian side and connect directly with even higher glacier terrain above Zermatt, opening up a huge high-altitude network well before the main winter rush. Much of the 360km shared ski area lies above 2,000m, strengthening its early-season credentials. Quiet pistes, cold temperatures and long runs from Plateau Rosa are matched by unforgettable Matterhorn views. Even in leaner autumns, the altitude and generally reliable upper slopes give skiers a dependable early taste of winter.

Ruka in Finnish Lapland is among the first non-glacier ski areas worldwide to open each autumn, with the 2026/27 season scheduled to start as early as 2 October. The secret is snowfarming. During winter, huge quantities of machine-made snow are stored in compacted mounds, then covered through summer with insulating materials to protect them from heat. Around 60% to 80% can survive, leaving enough to build a solid base in late September. A few Saarua slopes and park features open first, before natural snowfall and fresh snowmaking steadily expand the ski area as Lapland moves towards winter.

Obergurgl is one of the Alps’ most dependable autumn choices and has long been known for opening early without relying on glacier skiing. The 2026/27 season is due to begin on 19 November, with slopes rising to 3,080m and linked high terrain above Hochgurgl helping to preserve cold, wintry conditions. Its earlyseason reputation is reinforced by World Cup racing on 21–22 November on Hochgurgl’s Kirchenkar slope. By late November, Obergurgl is often among the largest nonglacier ski areas operating in the Alps. Add quiet pistes, efficient lifts and reliable snow, and it makes a convincing start-of-season option.

Ischgl launches winter on 26 November 2026 with its familiar blend of high-altitude skiing and big-stage entertainment. The Silvretta Arena Ischgl/Samnaun, linking Ischgl with duty-free Samnaun in Switzerland, is known for opening substantial terrain early and can have more pistes available from the start. That makes it one of the strongest late-November ski options in the Alps. The opening celebrations are centred on the resort’s famous Top of the Mountain concert, supported by parties and events throughout the village. Reliable snow, a large ski area and Ischgl’s unmistakable energy make for a confident start to winter.

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LECH ZÜRS AM ARLBERG

igh in the Austrian Alps, Lech Zürs am Arlberg stands as one of Europe’s most distinctive winter destinations, where outstanding skiing meets exceptional hospitality, refined gastronomy, contemporary culture and an elegant Alpine lifestyle.

But Lech Zürs is about far more than skiing. Exceptional hospitality and personal service shape every day, both in the villages and on the mountain. High‑quality mountain restaurants offer attentive table service, creating a relaxed, unhurried rhythm that makes time on the slopes feel effortless.

At its core is Ski Arlberg, Austria’s largest connected ski area, with 300km of ski runs, 85 lifts and over 200km of freeride terrain. Its high‑altitude setting and reliable snow conditions give skiers the confidence they seek when planning a winter holiday, while the region’s deep skiing heritage, closely tied to the origins of Alpine skiing itself, adds authenticity that few destinations can match. Here, skiing is not just a sport; it is part of the landscape, the culture and the identity of the place.

Gastronomy is a defining highlight. Lech Zürs is a serious gourmet destination, home to Michelin‑starred and award‑winning restaurants that elevate every evening into something memorable. Even on the mountain, the standard of dining is remarkably high, blending regional flavours, creative cooking and warm Alpine charm. Skiing and gastronomy share equal weight here: one fuels the adventure, the other shapes the atmosphere.

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Culture adds another dimension. Above the village, James Turrell’s Skyspace‑Lech creates a striking interplay of art, light and landscape, while galleries and hotels showcase contemporary works. The season begins with energy at the RE:WIND Season Opening from 4–6 December, just after Ski Arlberg opens on 2 December. As winter evolves, spring skiing becomes one of Lech Zürs’ great pleasures. Longer days, excellent late‑season snow and pleasant temperatures create a joyful mood, and with snow certainty until 18 April 2027, the season stretches deep into spring. Give Lech Zürs a try and soon you will join the many returning visitors each winter. “Come for the skiing. Return for the feeling,” as they say. Discover Lech Zürs am Arlberg and start planning your next winter escape.

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MORE THAN A SKI HOLIDAY

SÖLDEN

START EARLY, SKI LONGER

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ölden launches winter earlier than almost anywhere in the Alps, with glacier skiing beginning in October then the seamlessly connected winter ski area opening on 12 November this year. Located in Austria’s beautiful Ötztal region, Sölden offers one of Europe’s longest and most snow‑reliable seasons, thanks to its high‑altitude, glacier-covered terrain rising above 3,000m and its state‑of‑the‑art lifts and gondolas. This early start sets the tone for a destination built around sport and entertainment. Sölden’s glacier slopes provide dependable conditions for the first turns of winter, while the main ski area adds a huge ski domain, all with fast access and modern infrastructure as soon as it opens. The combination of altitude, glacier terrain and snow reliability ensures great

ski conditions not only from early autumn but also well into spring, seven months later, positioning Sölden as a leading Alpine performer at both ends of the season. Sölden’s sporting credentials are reinforced each October when the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Opening returns to the Rettenbach Glacier. As elite athletes carve through the season’s first giant slalom races, the event showcases the resort’s high‑performance terrain, professional expertise and world‑class operational standards. Yet Sölden is equally defined by premium experiences and Alpine lifestyle. At 3,048m, ice Q, Austria’s highest toque‑awarded restaurant, offers fine dining framed by striking architecture and panoramic views. Nearby, 007 ELEMENTS immerses visitors in the cinematic world of James Bond inside

SOELDEN.COM

the mountain itself, while the BIG3 viewing platforms deliver iconic perspectives across the Ötztal Alps. Entertainment continues throughout winter and into spring with the Electric Mountain Festival, where international electronic music meets skiing and a high‑altitude atmosphere. Together, these experiences elevate Sölden beyond a pure ski destination, creating a place where top‑level winter sport, premium gastronomy, modern infrastructure and Alpine lifestyle come together from the very start of the season. Book your stay directly at soelden.com and benefit from the best price guarantee. Please note that all operational dates are subject to weather and snow conditions.

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ALTENMARKT‑ZAUCHENSEE

ltenmarkt‑Zauchensee is one of Austria’s most reliable early‑season ski destinations, offering a blend of relaxed village charm and high‑altitude terrain that consistently delivers strong snow conditions from late November onwards. Zauchensee’s elevated, north‑facing slopes hold their snow impressively well at the start of winter, creating crisp early‑morning corduroy and dependable coverage that sets the tone for the season. The terrain suits all levels, from first‑timers enjoying gentle beginner runs to confident intermediates and adventurous skiers seeking varied pistes, wide bowls and a dramatic mountain backdrop. As part of the vast Ski Amadé network, once the main season gets underway, a single pass unlocks 760km of slopes, 270 lifts and 25 resorts across five regions.

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ALTENMARKT-ZAUCHENSEE.AT

Off the mountain, Altenmarkt and Zauchensee offer a warm, easy‑going atmosphere perfect for unwinding after early‑winter laps. It’s the combination of Alpine authenticity and reliable start‑of‑season conditions that keeps skiers returning year after year.

Away from the slopes, Erlebnis‑Therme Amadé blends relaxation and family fun with saltwater pools, a wave pool, a sports pool and Austria’s only one‑man looping slide. The spacious sauna world offers themed saunas and aromatic infusions for deep unwinding.

A standout experience, early‑morning skiing in Altenmarkt‑Zauchensee gives guests the chance to carve fresh tracks long before the crowds arrive. The first lift leaves at 7.30am, with small, guided groups led by representatives from the lift company, ski schools, local hoteliers and the tourist office. A highlight is when downhill World Champion Michael Walchhofer joins the session, sharing insights in an intimate, relaxed setting. The morning concludes with a hearty late breakfast at the Gamskogelhütte.

With the Guest Mobility Ticket, every overnight visitor enjoys free public transport across SalzburgerLand from arrival to departure. Together, these experiences make Altenmarkt‑Zauchensee a standout choice for early‑season skiing, combining dependable late‑November snow, varied terrain and a welcoming Alpine atmosphere from the very start of winter. 043 // OCT 26

SNOW-SURE FROM THE START OF WINTER

ISCHGL

SKI SEASON KICKS OFF WITH WESTLIFE IN ISCHGL

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schgl’s season starts before most, on 26 November 2026, and what’s more, thanks to its high-altitude terrain and extensive snowmaking, it usually has more terrain available from day one than anywhere else.

Alps, where the band’s biggest hits echo across the mountains and the atmosphere feels both intimate and electric. It’s a rare blend of skiing and live music that sets Ischgl apart.

With modern lifts, wide-open terrain and snow-sure skiing from late November until early May, it’s an effortless way to launch winter. Those booking the Opening Package can fold early‑season skiing together with accommodation, a lift pass and access to special events, creating a seamless start filled with boundless skiing fun.

Early‑season visitors can also take advantage of the Skipass Special START, offering up to 15% off when booking five days or more between 26 November and 18 December. With 239km of pistes to explore, the offer makes long, relaxed days on the mountain even more appealing, especially for those looking to stretch their budget without compromising on quality.

Two days later, on 28 November 2026, Westlife celebrate their 25th anniversary at the Top of the Mountain Opening Concert. After warming up on the slopes, visitors can settle into an unforgettable evening in the

December brings deep early‑winter snow and a festive Christmas atmosphere to Ischgl. Wide pistes, reliable conditions and lively seasonal events make it one of the Alps’ most popular early‑season

ISCHGL.COM

destinations, with the village glowing under holiday lights and regular fresh snowfall. December also brings another highlight with the December Special Deal, a three‑night stay that includes a ski pass, access to the Silvretta Therme and a collection of attractive extras. Starting from €705 per person, it’s an ideal way to enjoy Ischgl at its most atmospheric, when early‑winter conditions create a perfect alpine mood. A visit to the Silvretta Therme completes the experience. Its pools, saunas and panoramic relaxation areas offer a soothing counterbalance to energetic days on the mountain, making it the ideal place to unwind and recharge before heading back out into the snow.

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28 NOV. 2026

TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN OPENING CONCERT FIRST DAY OF SKIING: 26 NOV. 2026

Relax. If you can ...

THANKS FOR 25 YEARS How things have changed... maybe

wenty-five years is a long time in skiing. Technology has changed, equipment has evolved and the way we understand how people learn to ski has moved on considerably. Through it all, the Warren Smith Ski Academy has been developing a philosophy with one fundamental idea at its heart: understanding why you ski the way you do is the key to becoming a better skier.

046 // OCT 26

When Warren established the Academy 25 years ago, British skiers were largely focused on mileage, piste technique and the occasional lesson. The Academy began looking much deeper. Technique, biomechanics, equipment set-up and video analysis were put under the microscope long before many of those ideas had entered everyday ski teaching. Rather than simply telling a skier what to change, Warren and his team wanted to understand what was preventing that change from happening in the first place.

Verbier played an important role in those early years. Its extraordinary variety of terrain provided a natural testing ground, from manicured pistes and moguls to steeps, itineraries, powder and constantly changing snow conditions. It was an environment in which weaknesses could be exposed, ideas tested and the Academy’s methodology continually refined.

Video analysis has become more sophisticated. Our understanding of biomechanics has deepened. Equipment set-up has become an increasingly important part of the process. Yet the objective remains the same: helping skiers understand their own skiing rather than simply asking them to copy somebody else’s.

But what developed there was never intended to be confined to one mountain.

It is an approach that has helped thousands of recreational skiers, instructors and professionals look at skiing differently, while contributing to a broader change in the way British skiers think about technique and improvement.

Over the following 25 years, the Academy’s approach has travelled with Warren and his team, working with skiers in different resorts and mountain environments around the world. The terrain may change, but the philosophy remains remarkably consistent: identify how an individual moves, understand the technical, biomechanical or equipment-related barriers affecting their skiing and give them practical tools to improve.

The Academy’s 25th anniversary is therefore about considerably more than longevity. It is an opportunity to look back at how ski coaching has changed, how the Academy’s methodology has evolved with it and how a philosophy developed over a quarter of a century continues to help skiers understand not just how to ski better, but why they ski the way they do. FB.COM/INTHESNOW

OFFICIAL SHOW GUIDE 2026 17–18 OCTOBER OLYMPIA LONDON

TALKS & INSPIRATION

There’s always been much more to the Snow Show than shopping for skis and goggles, and this year there are more reasons than ever to grab a seat and listen for a while. Across the weekend, the show’s theatres will be looking at where we ski, how we ski, the people who make mountain life so compelling and some of the bigger questions facing snow sports.

DESTINATIONS THEATRE WHERE NEXT?

New for the 50th Snow Show, the Destinations Theatre is the place to start plotting your next winter escape. Resorts and destination experts from around the ski world will be taking to the stage throughout the weekend, sharing ideas, insider knowledge and plenty of inspiration for future trips. Expect familiar favourites alongside places you may never previously have considered, with discussion ranging from the skiing itself to where to stay, eat and explore once the lifts close. It should be particularly useful if you have reached that familiar stage of knowing you want to go skiing, but haven’t quite decided where. Drop in, listen to the people who know these mountains best and you may leave Olympia with next winter’s destination decided.

MOUNTAIN THEATRE STORIES FROM THE SNOW

The Mountain Theatre is one of those places where you can intend to stop for 10 minutes and find yourself still sitting there an hour later.

048 // OCT 26

A fixture of the Snow Show, it has hosted many of skiing and snowboarding’s best-known athletes, adventurers and personalities over the years, and returns for the 50th edition with another programme of interviews, stories and conversations from across the mountain world. It is where the people behind some extraordinary days on snow get to tell the stories properly, whether that means competition, exploration, adventure or simply a lifetime spent in the mountains. Keep an eye on the weekend schedule and make time for the names and subjects that catch your eye.

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FITNESS & MINDSET

GET READY FOR WINTER

We spend plenty of time thinking about skis, boots and where we are going, but rather less about whether our bodies are ready when we get there. The Fitness & Mindset Stage aims to put that right, with practical advice on ski fitness, confidence, recovery and returning to snow after injury. Experts will be on hand throughout the weekend to discuss everything from troublesome knees and rebuilding strength to preparing properly for that first morning back on skis. A little work before the holiday can make a surprisingly big difference once you reach the mountain.

GET MORE FROM YOUR KIT READY FOR ANYTHING

Good skiing is not only about where you go, but how well your equipment works for you once you get there. Sponsored by CARV, the Equipment & Instruction Theatre brings together some of the people who spend their lives thinking about ski technique, boots, tuning and how to get more from the kit we rely on every day in the mountains. This year’s programme includes a ski servicing masterclass from Skiers Lounge, boot fitting expertise from Solutions4Feet and Profeet, plus sessions with CARV’s founders and creators looking at the technology, ideas and coaching behind the system. Whether you want to understand why your boots never quite feel right, learn how to look after your skis properly or find out how technology can help improve your skiing, there should be plenty here to take away and use on your next trip.

CLIMATE ACTION

THE FUTURE OF WINTER

Anyone who spends time in the mountains knows winters are changing, making the conversation around the future of snow sports increasingly important.

Travel is a major part of the discussion, alongside repairing and reusing equipment, reducing waste and the choices resorts and outdoor businesses are making. There will be films and conversations across the weekend too, providing plenty to think about before your next journey to the snow.

THE WHITEOUT PODCAST

049 // OCT 26

Hosted by Protect Our Winters UK, the Climate Action programme brings athletes, industry figures and sustainability experts together to look at what skiers, snowboarders and the wider mountain industry can actually do.

STYLE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCES

The Snow Show is at its best when there is something to actually do, rather than simply another stand to walk past. This year, there are plenty of chances to test yourself, pick up new ideas and try something you might not normally encounter on a ski holiday.

WARREN SMITH SKI TECHNIQUE LAB WHAT’S HOLDING YOUR SKIING BACK?

Most skiers spend years trying to improve on snow without ever really looking at how their body moves off it.

050 // OCT 26

That is where Warren Smith’s Ski Technique Lab comes in. Warren and the WSSA team have been using video analysis for years as part of their coaching, helping skiers understand not just what is happening on the snow, but also what may be limiting them away from it too. Through the Skier I.D. Passport programme, the Academy also runs remote coaching sessions that look at skiing technique alongside functional movement, helping people build an off-snow plan that can make a real difference once they are back in the mountains.

At the Snow Show, visitors can start that process for themselves. Bring along a short video of your skiing and one of the Academy team will analyse it, talk through what they see and offer practical feedback on where you could improve. The wider Technique Lab also looks at things like ankle flex, leg steering, symmetry and core stability, so you can begin to see how the way your body moves off snow connects with what happens on it. It is a good chance to learn something useful about your skiing before the season starts, and perhaps leave Olympia with a much clearer idea of what to work on before your first trip.

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The UK’s biggest Snow Show bringing together inspirational speakers, resorts from across the globe and the best in gear, all under one roof. JAMES GAMBRILL FOUNDER

FASHION SHOW BACK ON THE CATWALK

The Fashion Show returns for the Snow Show’s 50th edition, with Snow + Rock sponsoring the catwalk and bringing some of the latest winter looks from its best-selling brands to Olympia. Alongside the familiar names will be independent designers and brands that are newer to snow sports, each with their own ideas about how we should look, and perform, in the mountains. Expect everything from technical outerwear built for long days on snow to more individual takes on winter style, along with plenty of accessories from head to foot. There will be some household names in the mix too, making this a good chance to see what is coming into the shops for winter, discover a few labels you may not have encountered before and perhaps find some inspiration for the next addition to the ski wardrobe.

NORDIC & BIATHLON EXPERIENCE TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Spend most of your winters heading downhill? This is a chance to find out what happens when you point the skis the other way.

No previous experience is needed, and it is the sort of thing you may only intend to try once before finding yourself going back for another go. 051 // OCT 26

The Nordic & Biathlon Experience introduces visitors to cross-country skiing, roller skiing and biathlon, with demonstrations, coaching and plenty of opportunities to have a go. Members of the British Nordic Development Squad and experienced Nordic skiers will demonstrate classic and skate-style roller skiing, while visitors can also find out how to try the sport here in the UK without waiting for snow.

Then there is biathlon, one of winter sport’s more unusual combinations of endurance and precision. Visitors can try the shooting range, take on challenges against the clock and even get the heart rate up before attempting a shot, giving some idea of just how difficult it is to stay steady when your pulse is racing.

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APRÈS & ENTERTAINMENT

There comes a point in any good day at a ski show when it is time to stop looking at new kit, find a drink and talk about where you are going skiing next. Happily, there is plenty going on at Olympia when you fancy a break from exploring the stands, from live acoustic music in The Longhouse to some rather more high-tech winter entertainment.

VIRTUAL REALITY SNOWBALL EXPERIENCE

DUCK, DODGE, THROW!

THE LONGHOUSE

SKI SIMULATOR

At some point during the day, you are going to want to stop walking, find a drink and compare notes on where you have been and what you have seen. The Longhouse looks set to be the place to do it.

Crystal Ski Holidays will be at this year’s show with a new ski simulator that should bring out the competitive side in just about everyone.

Inspired by Norway’s Viking heritage, it brings a little Norwegian mountain atmosphere into the heart of Olympia, with drinks, conversation and après throughout the weekend. Meet friends, talk skiing, learn a little more about Norway or simply take the weight off your legs for a while.

Suitable for all ages, it gives visitors the chance to test their ski skills against the machine, challenge friends and see how they measure up against some of skiing’s biggest names. It should be an easy one to dip into during the day, whether you are a seasoned skier, still finding your feet or simply fancy proving a point to whoever you came with.

PULL UP A SEAT

052 // OCT 26

There will be live acoustic music across both days too, adding an appropriately relaxed soundtrack. Artists and performance times were still to be announced as we went to press, so check the show programme when you arrive. Whether it becomes your meeting point, an afternoon pit stop or somewhere you settle in for a few drinks, don't be surprised if you find yourself coming back more than once.

HAVE A GO

It may only be October and there probably will not be much snow falling outside Olympia, but you can still have a snowball fight. Put on the VR headset and you are transported into a snowy world where the job is simple: duck, dodge and throw. The action appears on a large screen too, allowing friends and family to watch your efforts and, inevitably, offer advice from a safe distance. It is uncomplicated, slightly ridiculous fun and, unlike the real thing, you should finish with dry gloves.

Expect a little friendly rivalry, a few bruised egos and probably more than one demand for another go.

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SPEAKER BIOS

MOLLY BUTLER

MIA BROOKES

MATT WESTON

JENNY JONES

DAVE RYDING

CHARLOTTE BANKES

Mia Brookes became the youngest snowboard World Champion in history when she won slopestyle gold aged just 16 in 2023. The British snowboarder has since claimed back-to-back Big Air Crystal Globes and multiple X Games golds, before making her Olympic debut at Milano Cortina 2026, all while still being one of the youngest names at the top of the sport.

CHEMMY ALCOTT

Molly Butler is one of the exciting new generation of British Alpine racers coming through the ranks. A two-time Youth Olympian and 2026 British giant slalom champion, the 20-year-old competes in slalom and giant slalom at Europa Cup level and is already building an impressive international career representing Great Britain.

Four-time Olympian Chemmy Alcott has been at the heart of British skiing for more than two decades. A former lead presenter of BBC Ski Sunday, she raced at four consecutive Winter Olympics before retiring in 2014 and has remained a familiar face in the mountains ever since through broadcasting, charity work and her enduring enthusiasm for skiing.

Jenny Jones changed British snowboarding history at Sochi 2014 when she became the first Briton to win an Olympic medal on snow, taking bronze in slopestyle. Add three Winter X Games gold medals and a career that helped put British snowboarding firmly on the international map, and she remains one of the sport’s most recognisable British figures.

Matt Weston arrives with two Olympic gold medals after a remarkable Milano Cortina 2026. The British skeleton racer won both the men’s and mixed team titles, adding them to two individual World Championship crowns and two overall World Cup titles. Even more impressively, he only took up skeleton in 2017.

THE WHITEOUT PODCAST

Charlotte Bankes finally claimed Olympic gold at Milano Cortina 2026, winning the mixed snowboard cross title with Huw Nightingale. A 2021 individual World Champion and twice overall World Cup Crystal Globe winner, she has competed at four Winter Olympics and has become one of Britain’s most successful snowboard cross racers.

Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards became one of Britain’s most memorable Winter Olympians at Calgary 1988, where he was the first ski jumper to represent Great Britain at the Games. His determination, humour and underdog spirit made him a household name, while his story later inspired the 2016 film Eddie the Eagle. He remains closely connected to skiing today as a qualified ski instructor, guide and regular speaker.

053 // OCT 26

Dave “The Rocket” Ryding rewrote British ski racing history when he won the famous Kitzbühel slalom in 2022, becoming Britain’s first Alpine World Cup winner. A seven-time World Cup medallist, he completed a remarkable fifth and final Winter Olympics at Milano Cortina 2026, 16 years after making his Olympic debut in Vancouver.

EDDIE “THE EAGLE”

054 // OCT 26

GUIDE MAP

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AN ©D

GROUND LEVEL

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ELK

ALL

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GALLERY LEVEL

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©R

FEATURED RESORTS

MARMOT BASIN

AZERBAIJAN

UTAH

PIEMONTE

COLORADO

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Azerbaijan may not be the first name that springs to mind for a ski holiday, which is all part of its appeal. High in the Greater Caucasus, Shahdag combines modern lifts, snowmaking and smart hotels with more than 30km of pistes, while Tufandag offers another mountain base with striking scenery and skiing for a range of abilities. Add spas, good dining and the chance to pair a few days on snow with time in Baku and this is a winter trip with a real sense of discovery.

Piemonte packs an impressive amount of skiing into one corner of north-west Italy. There is Olympic heritage in Sestriere, huge mileage across the Vialattea, classic skiing in Bardonecchia and high-mountain terrain around Monterosa Ski and Alagna. Altogether, the region offers around 1,350km of slopes across more than 50 ski areas, backed by proper Alpine villages, excellent mountain refuges and some of Italy’s finest food and wine. Big skiing, unmistakably Italian.

High above Jasper in the Canadian Rockies, Marmot Basin combines serious mountain terrain with a refreshingly laid-back feel. Its 696 hectares are spread across five mountain faces, with long groomers, open bowls, glades and steeper chutes among 91 named runs, plus 914m of vertical. The snow is typically dry and light, the views stretch deep into Jasper National Park and, back in town, Jasper retains the easy-going character that makes a Canadian ski trip feel like more than just time on the slopes.

Few ski destinations make getting from airport to powder quite as straightforward as Utah. The state has 15 ski resorts, with 10 less than an hour from Salt Lake City International Airport, making it possible to land and be heading for the mountains remarkably quickly. Alta and Snowbird bring serious powder credentials, Deer Valley adds polished service, while Park City and Snowbasin deliver scale and variety. Add Utah’s famously dry snow and it is easy to see why skiers return year after year.

Colorado offers the sort of variety that can keep skiers coming back for decades. Aspen Snowmass, Steamboat, Telluride and Winter Park each have their own character, from wide-open bowls and immaculately groomed pistes to historic mountain towns and lively après-ski. Across the state, 21 resorts are members of Colorado Ski Country USA, giving visitors a broad choice of terrain, atmosphere and ski-town style, all set among the high peaks of the Rockies.

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Switzerland’s most beautiful panorama

YOUR BOOK KE T TI C

GRINDELWALD · WENGEN · MÜRREN · INTERLAKEN

Nov. – Apr.

131 miles of slopes

Paris | Amsterdam | Frankfurt

62 miles

Basel

of winter hiking trails

Munich

Zurich

Vienna

Bern Lucerne Grindelwald Wengen Geneva

Montreux Lugano

Barcelona

Milan | Rome | Genua | Venice

12301

Jungfraujoch TOP OF EUROPE T #1 H G I L HIGHTZERLAND I IN SW

WHISTLER SUNSET SESSIONS

058 // OCT 26

PHOTO BY LEON BUTLER | INSTAGRAM: @LEON.BUTLER1

70 YEARS OF SKI EXPERTISE

From skis and boots to clothing and accessories, these are products selected by people who know what works on snow and what skiers should be looking for in 2026/27. Consider this your expert edit of the gear worth knowing about this season.

I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H

Ellis Brigham celebrates 70 years of ski expertise this winter, so it seemed a particularly good time to ask its team to help us pick out some of the most interesting gear for the season ahead.

FOOTWEAR

SALOMON S/PRO ALPHA C BOA 120 SKI BOOT RRP £560

This new boot delivers three defining advantages for performance-driven skiers: unmatched steering and power transmission with EXODRIVE, superior heel hold and ankle stability for precise ski control and refined fit and comfort thanks to new liner construction, easiest step-in and cuff micro-adjustment. www.ellis-brigham.com

RAB CIRRUS HUT SLIPPERS

SOREL WOMEN’S TORINO V WP

GRIVEL EXPLORER MICRO CRAMPONS

Rab's Cirrus Hut Slippers are the rest that tired feet need after a long day in the mountains. With a cushioned insole and grippy sole, they're perfect for walking around the mountain refuge or bothy, or sitting in your tent.

Sorel designed the Women's Torino V Waterproof snow boot for everyday use. Its OutDry membrane, suede upper and coated leather mudguard combine to provide reliable waterproof protection. Warmth comes from the 200g synthetic insulation and microfleece lining. The soft faux-fur cuff traps heat around the ankle for extra comfort.

Grivel's Explorer Micro Crampons are lightweight, packable micro spikes for hiking or running on icy paths and frozen non-technical terrain. Fourteen large crampon spikes are evenly spread out, with horizontal spikes at the heel and toe that give you reliable traction, and the hinged front section doesn't restrict your stride.

www.ellis-brigham.com

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£45

www.ellis-brigham.com

£150

£40

Photo: Moritz Ablinger

Conditions change. Presence doesn’t.

scott-sports.com

HELMETS SCOTT ELEMENT PRO MIPS HELMET RRP £130

A lightweight all-mountain and freeride helmet combining MIPS® protection with integrated RECCO® technology for added mountain safety. Active ventilation, anti-fog airflow and SCOTT’s 360° Pure Sound technology boost comfort, while the glove-friendly FIDLOCK® magnetic buckle is a particularly useful finishing touch.

MIPS® SAFETY SYSTEM

FIDLOCK® MAGNETIC BUCKLE

ANTI-FOG VENTILATION

SCOTT Sports / specialist UK ski retailers.

SALOMON PIONEER 3 MIPS

GIRO NEO II MIPS

One of our most popular models for many years has just had an overhaul. Now with a more modern shape, an extremely comfortable liner, a fully adjustable fit system and active ventilation. The addition of MIPS increases safety from angled impacts.

A redesign of one of their best-selling models, it’s super comfortable, lightweight and has a modern shape with a very slight peak. The size adjuster is second to none, the ventilation can be adjusted depending on the weather and MIPS provides increased protection from angled impacts.

BOA® H+1 MICROADJUSTABLE FIT

INTEGRATED MIPS®

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RRP £130

www.ellis-brigham.com

EXODRIVE™ CUFF CONSTRUCTION

RRP £140

CUSTOM SHELL™ HD

THERMOSTAT CONTROL™ ADJUSTABLE VENTILATION

IN FORM™ 2 DIAL FIT SYSTEM

www.ellis-brigham.com

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& GOGGLES © LEON BUTLER

SMITH STASH XL CHROMAPOP PRO PHOTOCHROMIC RRP £160

Replacing one of their best-selling frames, this uses a cylindrical lens shape and features a Photochromic lens, which automatically adapts to different light conditions. They are a firm favourite with team riders and staff alike.

CHROMAPOP™ PRO PHOTOCHROMIC LENS

LARGE CYLINDRICAL CARBONIC-X LENS

AIRFLOW VENTILATION + FOG-X ANTI-FOG

www.ellis-brigham.com

DRAGON SLAIN MAG

SCOTT REACT GOGGLE

GOGGLESOC PRO SOC

With a medium/large frame size and coming with two premium lenses, these offer exceptional value for money. Changing the lenses takes seconds, thanks to the magnetic changing system.

Premium goggles with a magnetic lens system for fast light swaps. Amplifier tech boosts contrast, while NoFog keeps vision clear. Spare low-light S1 lens included.

Pow x Kate Zessel edition. Fits securely over almost any goggle lens to protect and clean. Made from recycled plastic bottles, supporting POW (Protect Our Winters).

MAGNETIC QUICK CHANGE LENS SYSTEM

www.ellis-brigham.com

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LUMALENS® COLOUROPTIMISED OPTICS

RRP £225

INTEGRATED MAGNETIC LENS CHANGE SYSTEM

VISION-ENHANCING LENS TECHNOLOGY

SCOTT Sports / specialist UK ski retailers.

RRP £14

88% RECYCLED RPET FABRIC

www.ellis-brigham.com

ENGINEERED ELASTIC SECURE FIT

065 // OCT 26

RRP £140

K2 MINDBENDER 88 RRP £595

A versatile all-mountain ski with a distinctly pistefocused feel. K2’s Dark Matter Dampening helps smooth out vibration and keeps the ride planted and composed, without adding unnecessary bulk or stiffness. A strong choice for skiers who want precision with added versatility.

SKIS & BINDINGS HEAD DISCOVERY

RRP £505-£660 (Model Dependent)

The Discovery Range is new from HEAD this year. This season is all about progressive flex. The harder you push the ski the harder is pushes back. Engineered to feel lighter, easier to turn and control, agile when you want it and stable when you need it, this is real progress. With multiple widths there is a model for everyone.

DARK MATTER VIBRATION-DAMPING

TITANAL I-BEAM

AUXETIC TECHNOLOGY

PROGRESSIVE FLEX SYSTEM

ASPEN/PAULOWNIA WOOD CORE

ENHANCED STABILITY POINTS

WOOD CORE DESIGN

GRAPHENE CONSTRUCTION

www.ellis-brigham.com

Multiple UK Retailers

PROTECTOR + RRP £110-£240

066 // OCT 26

(Model Dependent)

The Protector Bindings from HEAD (Tyrolia) have become renowned for their safety and compatibility with their system skis. The Trusted full heel release technology now also steps into the racing segment with Protector+ Freeflex and introduces an additional model to the Freeski segment with Protector+ Attack. With a lower stand height and higher DINs, they offer greater safety at the highest performance level. Multiple UK Retailers

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Just you wait.

There’s no other feeling like skiing. The power in every turn, the mountain opening ahead, the wind rushing past you. The best part — the better you get, the more alive you feel. So why settle for your comfort zone? Simply clip on Carv and ski. You’ll get real-time coaching that makes every turn smoother, every run more confident, and every day more fun. If you thought skiing couldn’t get any better, just you wait. getcarv.com

THE WHITEOUT PODCAST

Tom Waddington | Verbier | SKi:IQ™ 165

You thought skiing doesn’t get any better?

CLOTHING & SALOMON ABSOLUTE 3L JACKET RRP £380

Salomon is undoubtedly one of skiing’s favourite brands and serial innovators. This jacket is for resort skiers who love to explore everything from pistes to easy-access off-piste terrain.

ADVANCEDSKIN DRY+ 20K/20K MEMBRANE

3-LAYER CONSTRUCTION

www.ellis-brigham.com

Whatever the weather! SCHOFFEL SAFUNA JACKET RRP £500

This long-standing German skiwear company has earned a lot of trust and love among UK skiers, who appreciate its great all-weather protection and sophisticated Alpine style.

WINTERSTAR PUFFY JACKET RRP £249

WINTERSTAR is Ellis Brigham’s first private label skiwear brand. This first collection features stretch waterproof and breathable fabrics, fully taped seams, warm insulation and lots of features, all at a hard-tobeat price.

068 // OCT 26

20K WATERPROOF / VENTILATION ZIPS WITH 20K MVTR MEMBRANE MESH INSERTS

www.ellis-brigham.com

WATERPROOF & STRETCH FABRIC

FULLY TAPED SEAMS

SYNTHETIC INSULATION

www.ellis-brigham.com

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ESSENTIALS HESTRA CZONE INCLINE GLOVES RRP £140

Short, flexible ski glove for skiers who want maximum feel and grip. Made from supple cowhide with a CZone membrane that stops water from getting in while letting out moisture. Thin lining and ergonomic fit provide high comfort – perfect for spring, and for high-speed skiing all over the mountain. Available at selected Hestra retailers and hestragloves.com

HESTRA ARMY LEATHER GTX 3 GLOVES

DEMON ZERO PLUS RF D30 IMPACT SHORTS

POC VPD AIR VEST

This all-time best seller is beloved by mountain lovers who demand durable, warm, all-weather protection. This new stealth black limited edition is destined to sell fast.

Great for park skiing or icy slopes. Stretchy cycling-short fit with hip/thigh padding and D3O foam on the coccyx, absorbing and dissipating impact energy in a fall.

One of the most comfortable back protectors out there, featuring ventilated mesh and a soft honeycomb guard that moulds to your body. Level 1 certified for spine safety.

www.ellis-brigham.com

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RRP £75

RRP £170

069 // OCT 26

RRP £165

(MALE & FEMALE VERSIONS)

SAFETY & TECH SCOTT PATROL E2 30 KIT RRP £980

A serious 30L freeride pack featuring SCOTT’s Alpride E2 electronic avalanche airbag system. Supercapacitor technology works reliably in cold temperatures, while dedicated avalanche-tool storage, ski and snowboard carry systems and tough CORDURA® construction make it ready for big backcountry days.

SCOTT ALPRIDE E2 AIRBAG SYSTEM

LIGHTEST ELECTRONIC SYSTEM ON THE MARKET

CORDURA® FABRICS

SCOTT Sports / specialist UK ski retailers.

CARDO OUTDOOR BLUETOOTH HEADSET

THERM-IC ULTRA HEAT GLOVE LINER RRP £240

THERM-IC ULTRA WARM SOCKS S.E.T + S PACK 3000B

Communicate hands-free without mobile signal or internet. Connect with up to 15 Cardo users via a helmet-mounted unit to chat, take calls, or listen to music on the go.

A slim, power-efficient heated under-glove offering three adjustable heat levels and up to 7.5 hours of comforting warmth when the temperature really drops.

Heated socks, app-controlled via Bluetooth, keeping your feet perfectly warm and cosy, adjustable straight from your phone.

www.ellis-brigham.com

070 // OCT 26

RRP £220

RRP £250

www.ellis-brigham.com

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BARTS NYLON 3D MITT

ROARSOME SPIKE THE DINO SKI SUIT

Less wrestling, more skiing. Barts’ Unicorn Gloves feature a fun finger puppet design kids love. Includes cosy fleece insulation, a water-resistant shell and 'don’t lose me' cord.

How to be fearless on the slopes? Roar like a dinosaur! Features playful dino detailing, 10K waterproofing, and recycled insulation to keep kids warm, dry and easy to spot.

RRP £26.99

www.ellis-brigham.com

RRP £185

www.ellis-brigham.com

Ready, Set, Snow! Let the mountain adventures begin. REIMA KUOSKI JACKET

SNOWY TODDLER BIB PANT

Born in Finland, Reima knows cold weather. The Kuosku Jacket brings 10K waterproofing, recycled PrimaLoft insulation and slope-ready details to keep young skiers warm and dry.

SEADY JACKET

072 // OCT 26

RRP £155

www.ellis-brigham.com

RRP £79.90 RRP £139

Wild on the slopes! Picture’s leopard-print ski set brings attitude, 10K waterproofing, cosy insulation and grow-with-me tech for multi-season wear. www.ellis-brigham.com

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KIDS' COLLECTION

REDRAW THE LINE

NEW_

ARCUS Precision-built for the performance-minded, the Arcus helmet redraws what a freeride helmet can be. POC.COM

N E W S

Brand. Digital. Print. Creative. (Yes, we design the InTheSnow magazine too.)

Solar-Powered Gondola Austria’s Saalbach Hinterglemm is giving its Reiterkogel lift a multi‑million‑euro upgrade, replacing it with a modern 10‑passenger Doppelmayr gondola. Alongside faster travel, higher capacity and a new upper section reaching the summit, the project includes large photovoltaic systems that will supply green, self‑generated electricity for the lift, reducing energy demand and its operating impact. Spacious cabins and barrier‑free boarding further enhance comfort for families, bikers and winter visitors.

We create brand and digital experiences that carve through the noise. Let’s create something together.

Dolomiti Cashback

Skiing Sophie

Dolomiti Superski has been ordered to pay €30 million in compensation after Italy’s antitrust authority ruled its ticket pricing harmed neighbouring resorts. Anyone who bought a pass in the 2022/23, 2023/24 or 2024/25 seasons can claim either a 20% cash refund or a 30% discount on a new pass. An information campaign and online claims portal will launch in October. The €30 million pot is fixed, meaning late claimants risk missing out once funds are exhausted.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, has been appointed royal patron of the Armed Forces Para‑Snowsport Team (AFPST) and marked the announcement by skiing at The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead. She met coaches and volunteers and took part in para‑sports. AFPST says her support will help expand its programmes for wounded and injured military personnel. The team plans an Arctic expedition with amputee veterans next year. A former ski rep, Sophie is an accomplished skier and is also patron of the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association.

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THE WHITEOUT PODCAST

Some days the mountain calls Fresh snow overnight and hours until first light. Cold air, warm hands. No distractions. Waterproof. Windproof. Mountainproof.

YOU MAKE THE MEMORIES. WE MAKE THE GLOVES. CZone Incline

@hestragloves | #hestragloves | hestragloves.com

AUTUMN RACING It’s hard to believe that the start of the 2026/27 FIS World Cup ski racing season is just weeks away. As usual, the tour for both men and women will kick off in Austria’s stunning Ötztal Valley, famed for its reliable early autumn snow cover thanks to its high-altitude terrain and glacier slopes. The AUDI FIS Ski World Cup Opening Sölden will get the FIS 2026/27 Alpine Skiing World Cup tour started on Saturday, 24 October, in Sölden, one of fewer than a dozen areas where the new season is already underway! The women traditionally open with the season’s first giant slalom race on the Rettenbach Glacier, before the men complete their fast runs through the blue and red gates the following day. Four weeks later, the tour converges again, back in the Ötztal Valley. This time, the races are in nearby Gurgl, which is famously one of the first resorts to open non-glacier ski slopes each autumn, thanks to its high altitude. Gurgl will kick off its winter season with a women’s slalom on Saturday, 21 November, and a men’s slalom the following day. The exciting races begin on the Kirchenkar piste in Hochgurgl and finish 320m above the Top Mountain Crosspoint. There’s plenty of excitement before and after both weekends of racing, with bib draws, medal ceremonies and plenty of partying for all. In Gurgl, the races are rounded off with exclusive evening events at the Gurgl Carat Congress and Events Centre in Obergurgl.

DON'T MISS THE START OF THE SEASON! The AUDI FIS Ski World Cup // FIS 2026/27 Alpine Skiing World Cup tour // Saturday, 24 October // Sölden

World class terrain without the crowds. SUN VALLEY, IDAHO, USA America’s original destination ski resort, combining legendary skiing with timeless stays at The Sun Valley Lodge and The Sun Valley Inn.

Discover The Lodge and The Inn at sunvalley.com

Available through leading UK ski tour operators

078 // OCT 26

80 9 1 e inc ied. s bed en sk m li be c t r o e N ev n and

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A SPECTACULAR SKI DESCENT IN PERU

ritish alpinist Fay Manners, a former data consultant turned elite ski mountaineer, has completed what appears to be the first ski descent of a long‑abandoned route on the southwest ridge of Ranrapalca in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. The line, considered inaccessible for more than 40 years due to hazardous glacial conditions, had not been climbed since 1980 and had never been skied. Manners, originally from Bedford, undertook the expedition with Italian ski mountaineer Marco Malcangi as part of a wider project to study the region’s terrain, snowpack and future objectives. After arriving in Peru, the team began acclimatising with a hike to 4,600m and several days of rock climbing. Their initial plan was a straightforward ascent of Vallunaraju (5,686m), but during the approach their attention shifted to a striking line descending from the col between Ranrapalca and Ocshapalca.

Curious about its history, they consulted local guide Cesar Vicuña, who confirmed the line had not been climbed in decades. He had attempted it himself in 2022 but was turned back by impassable glacial terrain. The last successful ascent was by four Swiss climbers in 1980; no known attempts had been made since, and none had ever tried to ski it.

“WE HAD TO ABSEIL DOWN 30 METRES WITH OUR SKIS ON, AND IN THE LOWER SECTION WE HAD TO JUMP OVER CREVASSES ON OUR SKIS WITHOUT BEING ROPED.” The team returned with equipment for several days on the mountain. Manners and Malcangi carried skis and boots, while teammates hauled mountaineering gear and snow protection. Leaving camp at 4.00am, they spent a full day breaking trail and navigating heavily crevassed terrain, establishing a safe passage through the lower section before returning to camp.

The following night, Manners and Malcangi set off for the summit push at 1.00am, aiming to ski continuously from the summit to the glacier’s end. The ascent demanded constant adaptation: jumping crevasses, climbing squeaky névé, breaking trail through powder and crust, skinning long glacier sections, crossing fragile snow bridges and negotiating exposed terrain. At one point, they abseiled over a crevasse too large to jump, climbing awkwardly with skis strapped to their packs as they gained altitude above 6,000m. “The ski from the summit was spectacular but technical. Wide and open at first and then very technical with huge crevasses. The exposure was very high,” said Fay, adding, “We had to abseil down 30 metres with our skis on, and in the lower section we had to jump over crevasses on our skis without being roped. It was quite technical, and you had to be fast because the conditions were warming and becoming more dangerous.” Manners and Malcangi named the route Acceso Momentáneo (“Momentary Access”), reflecting both the rarity of finding the line in climbable condition and the unexpected opportunity that allowed them to complete a historic first ski descent.

079 // OCT 26

From camp, the route appeared improbably direct: a chaotic lower glacier riddled with steep crevasses and towering seracs, leading into a broad, lower‑angled upper face topped by a small, steep summit covered in spring snow. The contrast between the two sections – wild and broken below, clean and inviting above –

made the line visually compelling but far from guaranteed. “Looking upward, we weren’t sure reaching the upper slopes would be possible,” Manners said.

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NINE GREAT I REASONS TO SKI ISÈRE THIS WINTER

sère is a feeling – a winter escape shaped by atmosphere, emotion and the freedom to create your ideal Alpine experience. With 21 resorts and 1,200km of pistes, the region ranges from world‑class, high‑altitude domains to authentic, family‑friendly villages with quiet forest runs, each with its own personality. Isère offers a mountain holiday for every type of skier. Access is easy too, with simple driving routes from the UK, smooth rail links into Grenoble and direct flights from multiple UK airports. British travellers can book everything through French Alps specialists Peak Retreats, who can organise your travel, accommodation and ski essentials.

ISÈRE OFFERS EXHILARATION, CONNECTION, DISCOVERY AND WINTER HOLIDAY OPTIONS THAT GO FAR BEYOND TRADITIONAL SKIING. HERE ARE NINE GREAT RESORTS TO CHOOSE FROM:

080 // OCT 26

3&4

Les 2 Alpes offers France’s longest season from December to July, with glacier terrain, huge vertical and unique experiences such as sunset events and snowmaking tours.

Auris en Oisans is a quiet, south-facing village, part of Alpe d’Huez ski resort, family-friendly convenience and gentle, sunny slopes ideal for beginners.

Villard / Corrençon combine welcoming Alpine character with Nordic heritage, extensive crosscountry terrain, biathlon facilities and new experiences including Vercors en Lumière and stargazing events.

Vaujany offers a peaceful base linked to 250km of terrain, strong off-slope facilities and new First Tracks and Sunset Skiing.

Chamrousse sits above Grenoble with 91km of skiing, extensive night skiing and the new Olympic Games House, celebrating its 1968 Winter Olympic heritage.

Les 7 Laux delivers challenging terrain, family-friendly pistes, a top-rated snowpark and a relaxed, good-value atmosphere close to Grenoble.

Alpe d’Huez features vast terrain, a huge vertical drop and legendary descents. It is home to La Sarenne, one of the world’s longest black runs. Can it all be skied in a day?

Oz 3300 is compact, familyfocused and traffic-free, offering reliable snow, great wellness facilities and the unique 1,000 Star Hotel experience.

Discover Isère with Peak Retreats, who have over 20 years’ experience and first-hand resort knowledge. Their UK-based team can help you plan your perfect mountain holiday. Visit peakretreats.co.uk/isere

N E W S

Charity The Chilly Run

Anyone who has been staying in the authentic French ski village of Sainte-Foy-Tarentaise on New Year’s Day in recent years may have been surprised to see skiers heading past in their swimwear, regardless of the temperature or the weather. For several years now, the village has kicked off the New Year with “the Chilly Run”, which gathers the boldest participants for a ski run in swimsuits or fancy dress, the kind of event that usually happens at the end of the season in springtime, creating an event that is both icy and, as it is in fact a charity fundraiser, heartwarming. Last winter, participants and partners raised €2,770 for WaterAid, and each edition supports a different charity. “This playful tradition shows that the year can begin with laughter while supporting a worthy cause,” a village spokesperson commented.

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“This playful tradition shows that the year can begin with laughter while supporting a worthy cause.”

THE WHITEOUT PODCAST

FROM

TOKYO

T 084 // OCT 26

wo nights in Japan’s capital, a bullet-train ride to Nagano and a week among Hakuba Valley’s ten ski resorts make this one of winter’s most rewarding long-haul ski trips.

The first thing that Japan gets right is that it takes all your excuses away. The flight lands, trains work, bags arrive, signs seem to make more sense than expected and if you’ve done the few sensible things before leaving home, your entire arrival feels surprisingly easy for a trip that takes you across the ocean, with your ski equipment in tow.

That’s important because Japan has long been perceived as a bit of a dream destination among British skiers. Deep snow, ramen in steaming bowls, efficient politeness, late-night Tokyo, mountain rituals and powder days that people would remember for years. It’s one of those trips many people keep thinking about for “one day” until one day comes true. Our holiday took place in Hakuba Valley, but it wouldn’t make sense to come to Japan with all this stuff and go to the mountains straightaway. So we decided to spend 2 nights in Tokyo first, not only to adjust, but also to eat well and get acquainted with the city. And Tokyo is one of the destinations where even a short stopover counts as an extra chapter.

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HAKUBA VALLEY Japan, properly

We also arranged a Holafly eSIM before our departure from the UK. It’s a bit of administration that needs to be done before travelling, but in Japan, it’s one of those small steps that make your first day

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much smoother. You’ll immediately have your mobile data working and will be able to check your route to the train station and make all your decisions and bookings on your mobile easily. Here are three things that you should take care of before your first ski holiday in Japan. Set up an IC travel card, like Suica or PASMO, ideally online if possible. Organise mobile data before arriving. Complete Visit Japan Web, the government’s pre-registration system for immigration and customs, and download your QR code. These are definitely not the romantic preparations of a winter ski holiday, but they allow you to start enjoying the holiday sooner.

085 // OCT 26

Our flight from Heathrow to Tokyo Haneda proved to be smoother than usual for ski holidays. Parking through APH at Heathrow Airport, then a pleasant flight with Japan Airlines on board JL42 from London Heathrow to Tokyo Haneda and back on board JL43. The service proved to be impeccable without being formal. The cabin was pristine, food tasted good and small touches, such as the cleanliness of the aircraft during the flight, made the difference during 14 hours in the air.

FROM TOKYO

Japan, properly Then we walked to Asakusa, where we managed to give the day a historic touch. Sensō-ji and the area around this temple may be busy, but walking along Nakamise Street gives you the impression of a procession, where you will see stalls, lanterns, souvenirs and tasty snacks before you reach the temple and remember that Tokyo is not all modernity but is a city with its own history.

TOKYO BEFORE THE SNOW Tokyo is a city where you cannot see much in 2 nights. But, used correctly, it makes an excellent pre-ski stopover, allowing your body to catch up and your mind to transition from airport mode to Japan mode. We stayed at the Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Shiodome near Shimbashi Station, and for a short stay it was exactly what we needed. The area is practical but not fancy, and this is exactly what you need when you want to try and see as much as possible without using up all your energy.

086 // OCT 26

On the map, Tokyo seems like a challenge. You see a bunch of lines, stations, districts and names sprawling in all directions. In reality, once you start using Suica or PASMO cards and understand that large stations are part of the deal, you’ll feel that the city is surprisingly manageable. Not easy, but wonderfully usable. The first rule for us after our landing in Tokyo was to eat and to decide nothing. Tsukiji Outer Market was the perfect choice to make us feel comfortable: steamy food, fresh fish, small queues, skewers, sweets, savoury food and a constant desire for “one more”. It’s like the organised appetite. People move, eat, pause, photograph, queue and move again.

By the afternoon, we wanted to go somewhere else, so we went to Shimokitazawa, where we found vintage stores and coffee shops. It was one of those travel decisions that seems humble on paper but gives the day its character, with its narrow streets, independent shops, more relaxed atmosphere and younger crowd. At that point, Tokyo stopped playing a role and became itself. Having dinner around Shimbashi was left to spontaneous choice and the after-work crowd, followed by a wander through the food halls in Ginza. By this time, we were already a bit sleepy, but we were not simply visiting this part of Tokyo; we were absorbing everything. The second day was Tokyo in all its modern beauty. First, we went to the famous team Lab, where we saw the immersive digital experience. Next, Harajuku and Meiji Shrine provided a change of tempo that Tokyo is good at. First you see crowds, fashionable people, snacks and shopfronts, and suddenly you are walking through woodland on gravel and feeling the silence. In the late afternoon, we walked through Shibuya. Crossing the crossing is probably one of the most famous experiences in any city in the world, but seeing it happen live is a very cool experience. Then we went to see the evening view from the Shibuya Sky. At first, the city spreads around you, then it gradually starts to glow. Finally, when you get back to the street level, Tokyo switches to night mode. We finished with Shinjuku, as it seemed to be something of a must-visit. The area is filled with arcades, lights, restaurants, crowds and the Godzilla head above Hotel Gracery. It may seem unnecessary, but it’s not. Somewhere in the middle of all this, we also found ourselves in the dog café,

an amusing interlude that makes us laugh now as it did then. At the end of 2 nights in Tokyo, the city did exactly what it needed to do. It fed us, entertained us, slightly overwhelmed us and adjusted our body clocks. More importantly, it made us ready to go to the mountains.

INTO THE MOUNTAINS The route from Tokyo to Hakuba Valley was one of the highlights of the trip. From Tokyo Station, we took the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano, then continued by bus to the valley. It’s worth reserving your seats, especially in February, because ski equipment is known to complicate your journey if you don’t take care of your transportation in advance. The Shinkansen is the thing that Japan does best. Quiet, smooth, punctual and calm. There’s something incredibly nice about leaving one of the busiest cities in the world and riding to the mountains in a train without any problems. Nagano appears sooner than expected, then a bus takes you to the next stage of the journey. The scenery gets tighter, the air changes, the snow appears and gradually Hakuba Valley becomes visible.

TO HAKUBA VALLEY for 2 nights at Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba. In retrospect, it’s exactly what was needed to begin our Hakuba Valley adventure. After Tokyo, after the train, after the bus and after all this adjustment, we didn’t need anything complicated. We needed slopeside convenience, meals included and snow outside the window. Cortina has a reputation as a place that attracts the snow. We got proof of this almost immediately after we arrived, with fresh snow falling and changing the mood. There’s something special about snowfall in Japan – the atmosphere of shared understanding that tomorrow morning becomes very important.

For a week’s holiday, the flexibility is useful: multi-day passes allow rest days within their validity period. For winter 2026/27, a 6-day pass can be used over 11 days from first use, giving you room to follow the forecast or take a day off. You choose where to ski according to the snow, where you are staying and your group’s energy. Daytime Hakuba Valley shuttle buses are included on ski days; night skiing and the night shuttle need separate tickets. Using the pass just for a shuttle ride still counts as a ski day. The buses make exploring easier, but learn their timetable and take late-afternoon departures seriously. Check your return journey before heading for that last lift. Once you understand this flow, Hakuba Valley becomes much easier to explore, with a little organisation bringing plenty of choice.

CORTINA

THE RIGHT WAY TO BEGIN We started with the northern part of Hakuba Valley at Hakuba Cortina, where we stayed

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Hotel Green Plaza is not the place I would prefer for lively evenings out in Hakuba Valley, but at that moment, it made total sense. You are on the mountain, you are well-fed, you are close to the lifts and the whole day becomes quite simple: you wake, you eat, you ski, you warm up, you ski again, you recover. This is what makes Cortina unique. It gives you a chance to experience Hakuba Valley without demanding too much from you. The resort has an easy slopeside rhythm, and when the snow falls, it feels exactly like the Japan that many skiers imagined for years. One day we got up very early, and the decision didn’t require any effort. Falling snow always makes you feel that the decision is already taken. People move faster, conversations become shorter, boots are put on faster. Those first few turns had the soft sound-dampening feeling that I always hope to feel when I fly halfway round the globe to ski. That day wasn’t just a good beginning to our Hakuba Valley week but the kind of day that justifies the entire trip.

Mominoki fitted perfectly for this part of the journey. It had the cosy, comforting atmosphere of a ski hotel and was the kind of place that becomes even more precious as the week goes by. You want to feel comfortable, have a decent breakfast, you need somewhere easy to return to and the feeling that the day has a soft landing. Happo-One is one of the most popular ski resorts in the valley, and it feels like its hub because of the heritage, the size and the atmosphere. Of course, it’s also connected with the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. It feels more serious and bigger than some of Hakuba Valley’s smaller resorts, has the long slopes, steep sections and enough varied terrain to satisfy confident skiers. It’s also the place where you can see the landscape that surrounds the Hakuba Valley. It’s often talked about in terms of powder snow, but the mountains in the valley deserve more attention. On a sunny day, Happo-One opens up to big ridges, wide views and a sense of the Alpine scale that is subtle but different from the Alps. Less chocolate-box, more elemental. For many visitors, Happo-One feels like Hakuba Valley’s hub, but Tsugaike’s wide beginner slopes, tree runs and TSUGA POW DBD area; Iwatake’s panoramic views and terrace café overlooking the stunning Japanese Alps; and Hakuba Norikura’s varied terrain, newly renovated ski-in/skiout hotel with spa facilities, all offer good reasons to explore. Your favourite place may be somewhere else.

HAPPO-ONE AND THE SKI TOWN After Cortina, we went to Hakuba Village for 2 nights at Hakuba Mominoki Hotel, with breakfast included. The difference in atmosphere was instant. Cortina is self-contained, but Hakuba Village has its own ski-town rhythm. There are ski rentals, restaurants, bars, buses, boot bags at hotel

087 // OCT 26

Finally, the bus stops in front of HappoOne and the valley starts to make sense. Hakuba Valley brings together ten separate ski resorts rather than one interconnected area, and the Hakuba Valley All-Mountain Pass covers them all. Available for single or multiple ski days, it lets you move between resorts, even within the same day, using one lift pass.

lobbies and the evening murmur of people talking about where they skied and where they are going to ski tomorrow.

FROM TOKYO

Japan, properly

HAKUBA 47

GORYU BY NIGHT

And my favourite place was Hakuba 47.

Goryu also gave us one of the most memorable moments of the trip: night skiing.

THE PLACE I KEEP TALKING ABOUT

On the second day, I could already feel that it would become the resort I would recommend once I get home. The resort had the rhythm of a good ski day: enough pitch to keep things interesting, enough flow to prevent the day from feeling bitty and enough variation to allow a change of plan without turning the whole thing into a logistical nightmare. There are resorts that demand some effort from you to be enjoyable. Hakuba 47 doesn’t. It has an easy rhythm, and I liked how the day built up. You ski a few laps, follow the terrain, move across the mountain and it feels like the resort is opening up before you. Connection with ABLE Hakuba Goryu is the main reason why Hakuba 47 is so appealing. In a valley where you usually

Japan knows how to provide night skiing with a great atmosphere. With lights, cold air sitting in the valley and snow still falling in the beams, everything looks sharp, and the mountain becomes smaller and more concentrated. Day’s distractions disappear. It’s just the trail, the light, the next turn and the feeling that you are doing something unusual for the holiday routine. Night skiing can be considered as a kind of activity that resorts offer just because they can. In the case of Goryu, it felt memorable. Maybe it’s partly due to snow, maybe it’s because of novelty and maybe it’s just because we became comfortable enough with Japan to appreciate the experience fully. Practical planning also becomes necessary if you ski late. The main valley shuttle buses are arranged around the regular ski day, not your late-night adventures. Taxis and Ubers came in handy during the evening periods, providing us with additional freedom of movement; however, the lesson remains the same – always ask before committing.

Jigatake and Kashimayari are good options to consider when travelling with family or in case of mixed abilities. They provide a milder and calmer feeling that can come in handy for those who do not want to have a challenging day. This is among the strong sides of Hakuba Valley – it offers different possibilities for every type of skier. One can chase snow in Cortina, live in Happo, enjoy the linking slopes of Hakuba 47 and Goryu and choose a more peaceful area once the group needs a break. Not every ski day has to be adventurous. Sometimes, it is good to take it easy after several challenging days.

FOOD, FAMILY AND WHY HAKUBA VALLEY IS EASIER THAN EXPECTED Another advantage of Hakuba Valley is that eating well does not require much effort for travellers. Some nights were exactly

THE QUIETER SOUTH

088 // OCT 26

have to think about the bus transportation, a link between the two ski resorts becomes a real luxury. You can make your own way, cover the terrain and ski wherever the terrain leads you. Together, Hakuba 47 and Goryu make one of the most pleasant days in the valley for confident intermediates and advanced skiers. There’s enough variation, speed and terrain to make you feel that you are skiing and not just visiting the other ski resort. That day became the moment when Hakuba Valley started to feel as it should.

The last leg of our adventure took us southwards towards Omachi, bringing yet another change of mood. The first impression we got upon reaching Cortina, Happo, Hakuba 47 and Goryu did not prepare us for the more relaxed atmosphere awaiting further along the way. We stayed at Hotel Keisui, with breakfast included. Sanosaka offers another reason to explore this end of Hakuba Valley, with slopes overlooking Lake Aoki and terrain largely suited to beginners and intermediates. After several days of buses, lifts and different ski areas, there’s much to be said for a gentler day, taking time over the turns and enjoying the scenery along the way.

what you hope for in Japan – ramen, gyoza, grilled meat, strong flavours and dishes suited to cold hands and tired legs. On other occasions, we had access to Western comfort food, which is important for some families. Children do not have to be adventurous with food every night, and mixed company does not need to treat every meal as a challenge. In general, variety is what Hakuba Valley offers families – they can choose what they want. Hakuba Valley is foreign enough to feel adventurous, but at the same time, it is

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TO HAKUBA VALLEY

For UK skiers, Japan will always seem like a more complicated choice than the Alps’ ski week. The flight is longer, planning takes more effort and the whole adventure requires a lot of preparation. This is why Hakuba Valley becomes so enjoyable once it works.

organised enough to feel comfortable and reassuring. The service is usually friendly, systems work and even the unknown things rarely create problems.

WHAT HAKUBA VALLEY FEELS LIKE But what is the actual feeling of skiing in Hakuba Valley? It is varied, rewarding and less difficult than one might think given the distance from the UK. Hakuba Valley is not an Alpine village with a single lift network, and it becomes even better once you accept this fact. You need to look at the schedule of shuttles, plan your area of skiing each morning and be ready to ski Hakuba Valley using the principle of movement rather than convenience. Cortina gave us the snowiest start and the easiest ski-in, ski-out base. HappoOne gave us Hakuba Valley’s spine with history, scale and the feeling of a true ski town. Hakuba 47 became my favourite area due to having the most convenient slopes for my way of skiing. Goryu provided us with the night skiing, one of the best memories of this trip. Omachi, Jigatake and Kashimayari then slowed the pace of our adventure down and rounded it off. Hakuba Valley is not complicated, but it is layered. This is what makes it so attractive. You do not visit it to cover some number of pistes. You visit it to move around a valley and to understand different zones of Hakuba Valley in order to let each day be created by snow, energy, weather and appetite.

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Booking the trip through a specialist such as Ski Safari makes a lot of sense as it allows you to take care of the long-haul logistics properly. We managed to focus on the experience itself rather than on managing all the components of the trip due to flights, accommodation and transfers being organised. Booking ski rental through Rhythm proved to be convenient as well, with efficient service and properly prepared equipment. A Tokyo stopover was an important part of this journey. It added more variety to the holiday. Without it, the trip would still have been a good idea, but adding it made the experience deeper and more varied, as we could visit neon before snow, food markets before lift queues and temples before powder laps. By the time we reached Hakuba Valley, we felt like we had experienced Japan properly. October is the right time to start planning Hakuba Valley trips as winter feels closer now, favourite resorts return to the skiers’ mind and people start wondering if it is the year for something different. Hakuba Valley becomes the right answer to such questions, as it is adventurous but not risky, different but not difficult and snowy but does not demand that you give up all comforts. All you need to do is avoid overplanning every turn of the slope, and instead prepare some important things. Sort mobile data, set up Suica or PASMO, complete Visit Japan Web, reserve the train, allow time in Tokyo and do not try to ski all ten areas just to prove something. Let Hakuba Valley do what it does best – let Cortina give you snow, let Happo provide you with scale, let Hakuba 47 and Goryu give you flow and let the southern end slow your week down. Eat well, rest when

needed and accept the fact that the best days of the trip can be unexpected. Japan is a unique country, and it deserves to be visited. But Hakuba Valley shows that visiting it does not mean feeling scared. It is a real ski resort, cultural journey and travel experience combined. And when the snow is falling softly under the lights at Goryu, or when you step out at Cortina to see the slopes fill up again, the journey from London becomes not only worth it but absolutely obvious.

TRAVEL FILE This trip was booked through Ski Safari, including flights, accommodation and transfers into Hakuba Valley. Flights were with Japan Airlines between London Heathrow and Tokyo Haneda. Parking at Heathrow Airport was provided by APH and mobile data by Holafly. Ski rental in Hakuba Valley was provided by Rhythm. This trip included stays at the Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Shiodome, Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba in Cortina, Hakuba Mominoki Hotel and Hotel Keisui. Important pre-trip preparations include the completion of Visit Japan Web before travel, setting up an IC travel card (Suica or PASMO), careful research of the Hakuba Valley shuttle schedule and making Shinkansen reservations where possible. Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com) offers a wide range of parking and overnight hotel stays at all major UK airports. One week’s Meet and Greet airport parking at Heathrow Airport costs from £120. For the latest prices and to book, visit www.aph.com. More information skisafari.com hakubavalley.com rhythmjapan.com services.digital.go.jp/en/visit-japan-web

089 // OCT 26

WHY IT WORKS FOR UK SKIERS

N E W S

AP RPAÈRST Y!S K I SILKSWORTH SKI CENTRE FRI 23 OCT, 5-10PM WITH LIVE DJ

5PM - GATES OPEN 5:30PM - LOCAL BAND: BE RIGHT BACK 7PM - CHARLIE HEDGES SET 1 8:15PM - CHARLIE HEDGES SET 2 9:30PM - LOCAL DJ: STEPHEN KYLE

200 More Acres

Lake Louise Ski Resort near Banff will add more terrain for winter 2026/27, building on this year’s Richardson’s Ridge expansion, which introduced 200 acres and a new high‑speed quad. Upcoming additions include Grove Glade, a new green run linking Merlin’s to the Richardson’s Ridge Chair, plus expanded intermediate and advanced glades. Pikaboo will be completed as a second route between the bases of Paradise and Richardson’s Ridge, while a new Prunepicker connection will link Marmot to the Ridge base for smoother circulation. Enhanced snowmaking will improve consistency across the ridge, and upgrades to the Top of the World Chair will boost loading capacity, reliability and speed. A spokesperson said the improvements create more ways to explore and more time on snow.

Ski

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More Norway

Tour operator Inghams is offering more for ski lovers of all things Norway. The company is offering Oslo and Bergen city break extensions to Norwegian ski trips to Geilo and Myrkdalen respectively and extended their Norway season until the end of the Easter holidays on 11 April 2027. In addition, responding to growing demand for flexibility, guests travelling to Norway can now choose any-day departures and flexible holiday durations, moving away from the traditional seven-night ski holiday.

TICKETS £10 UNDER 5S FREE

Call 0191 528 5101 to book. For more details visit www.everyoneactive.com/ ApresSki

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IS GOLDEN BC, CANADA’S ULTIMATE SKI TOWN?

hat makes a great ski town? Most of us picture a town framed by snow-covered peaks, locally owned and run shops, cafes and accommodation and ideally a kick-ass, legendary ski area right on its doorstep. Along with plenty of backcountry potential too, of course. That combination seems increasingly hard to find in our modern world.

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Thankfully, some great ski towns do still exist, but Golden, British Columbia, ticks all the boxes. It is one of those rare ski destinations that feels like it has everything working in its favour: deep, dependable snow, a location surrounded by some of the best terrain on the planet, and a mountain‑town culture that still feels wonderfully, unmistakably Canadian. For skiers who crave the real thing, deep powder snow, mountains that feel unspoilt, and a community that lives and breathes skiing and riding in the winter months, Golden delivers in a way few places can. However much we wish otherwise, snow conditions can be unpredictable anywhere in the world, of course, but Golden’s geography gives it a genuine advantage. Pacific storms roll into British Columbia loaded with moisture, and by the time they reach Golden’s more interior position, winter temperatures are typically colder than at coastal resorts. That combination of moisture from the west meeting interior cold creates the light, dry powder for which the region is

famous. It’s the kind of snow that billows, floats and stays soft for days, and it’s one of the reasons skiers return year after year. And then there’s the terrain: the Freeride World Tour didn’t choose Golden’s local ski area of Kicking Horse by accident. The world’s best skiers and riders came here because the in‑bounds terrain is genuinely unique: steep, dramatic and thrillingly natural. They’ve used three separate venues, all within the resort boundary and all accessible to the public. Kicking Horse is defined by its six major ridges, each offering a different flavour of challenge, and the resort’s wild, untamed feel is a huge part of its appeal. Unlike many European destinations, all in‑bounds terrain is avalanche‑controlled, giving skiers the freedom to explore off‑piste lines with confidence. But Kicking Horse is only the beginning. Golden sits at the heart of one of the greatest concentrations of skiing anywhere in the world. Within a two‑hour drive, there are four other world‑class resorts, making Golden an ideal base for a multi‑mountain holiday. The surrounding backcountry is legendary too: home to more than 25 backcountry lodges, the highest concentration on the planet, plus endless touring zones, snowmobiling terrain, cross‑country networks and winter adventures of every kind. If you want variety, Golden has it in abundance.

The bonus for Brits is that after the direct transatlantic flight, Golden is really easy to reach. Located on the doorstep of the Canadian Rockies, it’s a scenically stunning three-hour drive from Calgary International Airport. The Golden Shuttle (goldenshuttle.ca) offers transport to and from Calgary Airport, as well as service between the town and the resort for those who want to skip the driving. Off the mountain, Golden offers something increasingly rare: an authentic Canadian mountain‑town experience. It isn’t polished for postcards or built around boutiques. It’s real. Walk into a local bar and you’ll see rosy cheeks, helmet hair and people who spend more time outside than in. Locals take pride in their community and welcome visitors who share that respect for the mountains. It’s a place where skiing isn’t a brand, it’s a way of life, just like it should be in a real ski town.

"GOLDEN IS THE KIND OF PLACE THAT REMINDS YOU WHY YOU FELL IN LOVE WITH WINTER IN THE FIRST PLACE." In short, Golden is the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with winter in the first place, and it’s one where the locals who are lucky enough to call it home are happy to share it with visitors who bring the same respect for the community and the landscape that they hold dear.

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093 // OCT 26

Visit the Tourism Golden tourismgolden.com/inthesnow

Plan your trip to Golden

408 kilometres of pistes. One unforgettable winter playground. With the Ski ALPIN CARD, Zell am See-Kaprun connects the Schmittenhöhe, the glacier slopes of the Kitzsteinhorn and the vast Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. Early-season skiing begins high on Salzburg’s only glacier and continues well into May, while numerous ski-in/ski-out options make every day eﬀortless. Beyond the pistes, freeriding, snow parks, ski touring, winter hiking and cross-country skiing oﬀer endless ways to explore. Families can look forward to varied activities, gentle beginner areas and memorable adventures in the snow — all set between glacier, mountain and lake in one spectacular Alpine destination. www.zellamsee-kaprun.com

ALPS AT THEIR VERY BEST GLACIER | MOUNTAIN | LAKE

LITTLE SKIERS. BIG ADVENTURES. HAPPY PARENTS.

or families, the perfect ski holiday is simple: soft snow, happy children and a chalet hotel where everything feels effortless. For 50 years, Mark Warner have been turning that dream into reality. Their half‑century of expertise, care and consistency has earned them a reputation as the UK’s most trusted name in family ski travel. In a world where time‑poor parents crave reassurance and organisation, Mark Warner stand apart. Their holidays aren’t just “family‑friendly”; they’re built entirely around what families need. Nowhere is that clearer than at Chalet Hotel L’Ecrin in Tignes, a cosy, stylish alpine base in one of France’s most snow‑sure resorts. Set at 2,100m in Tignes Val Claret, L’Ecrin blends alpine charm with modern comfort. It’s close to the lifts, offers spacious family rooms and includes daily breakfasts, afternoon tea and six evening meals – removing the need for planning or shopping. An indoor pool, sauna and in‑chalet bar add easy relaxation. Flights and direct transfers are also included in the package holiday price. Childcare from 4 months to 12 years is delivered by qualified staff, with age‑specific clubs and the highly popular ski school drop‑off and collection also available for an additional cost. These all mean parents can head off into the vast Tignes–Val d'Isère ski domain without spending the whole time clock-watching or needing to rush

back from a distant spot for a lunchtime pick-up. Optional evening childcare adds flexibility, giving parents precious downtime. Along with ski and snowboard lessons, families can pre‑book lift passes and ski and snowboard equipment. It is all ready for collection on arrival, meaning no queues, no confusion, no wasted time. For time‑poor parents, securing everything in advance transforms the holiday from “something to organise” into “something to look forward to”. It is important to secure your holiday as soon as possible though. Childcare and ski school places are limited and, particularly when travelling at peak times like Christmas, February half-term and Easter, booking as soon as possible is essential. It also ensures you secure the room type you prefer. Since the 1970s and 80s, Mark Warner have focused on making holidays easier for families. Their award‑winning reputation, including multiple British Travel Awards, reflects what thousands of families already know: reliability and care are at the heart of every Mark Warner holiday. With Mark Warner, families feel reassured, organised and genuinely cared for, making the magic of the mountains wonderfully simple.

markwarner.co.uk

N E W S

Snow Check Serre Chevalier in the southern French Alps, which already generates 30% of its green electricity on site, is strengthening its sustainability strategy with advanced snow‑management and circular‑economy tools. Drone‑based LiDAR surveys from Elda Technology now map snow depth in real time, helping teams target grooming,

cut unnecessary snowmaking and manage terrain more efficiently. An integrated platform links snowmaking, grooming and depth data, supported by a new measurement system that will equip all groomers from next winter. The resort has also launched La Ressourcerie by SCV, a reuse hub that extends the life of existing

materials and equipment, reducing waste and the need for new purchases. This winter, Serre Chevalier will operate the first LEITWOLF LTE‑Motion electric groomer, marking the start of Compagnie des Alpes’ 10‑year plan to convert its 100‑machine fleet.

YOUR NEXT SKI HOLIDAY

Andorra. Wish you were here? Big mountain days. Great holiday value.

3 ski areas. 300+ km of pistes. 200+ slopes. From beginner to advanced. Grandvalira

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63 km | 2 linked sectors

30+ km | Arcalís

Book with the people who know Andorra. Hotels, transfers and ski extras, arranged by our Andorra-based team.

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RUNNING TOWARDS WINTER HOW IMPORTANT IS A CARDIO BASE, WHETHER YOU’RE A MOUNTAIN PUNTER OR AN OLYMPIAN?

very year, just as winter starts creeping closer, the same conversations begin. How do I get fit for ski season? For me, this is all about getting snow-fit. Forget the bikini body. Put that away. This is about bulletproofing your body so you can squeeze everything possible out of your days on the mountain.

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What exercises should I be doing for snowboarding? How do I stop my quads from burning after the first few runs? Trust me, even I get that on day one. Our minds usually jump straight to strength work: squats, lunges, wall sits – my personal least favourite – and deadlifts. They are all brilliant and absolutely have their place. But there’s another part of training that I think gets overlooked: your engine.

Your aerobic fitness. It might not be the obvious connection. When you think about skiing or snowboarding, you probably don’t immediately picture going for a run or getting on a road bike. But in my experience, having a strong cardio base can completely change how you feel on the mountain. Think about what a ski day actually involves. There’s the walk to the lift in ski boots, carrying kit and wearing enough clothing to survive the Arctic. Then you start riding. During my freestyle career, a competition run might have lasted around 45 seconds. Short, explosive and intense. Compare that with cruising a long piste somewhere like Val d’Isère, where you

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could be riding continuously for 5 or 10 minutes. You jump on the lift, recover, then do it again. And again. For hours. That ability to recover between runs is where aerobic fitness really comes into its own. The fitter your cardiovascular system is, the better your body can recover between those harder efforts, whether you’re charging steeps, riding moguls or doing laps through the snowpark.

Those steady sessions where you can still hold a conversation are gold. Consistency beats destroying yourself once and then needing four days to recover. Cycling is brilliant too. It’s lower impact, you can stay out for longer and hills naturally introduce harder efforts followed by recovery. If time is tight, throw in a few intervals: after warming up, go harder for 1 minute, ease back for 2 minutes and repeat five or six times.

You don’t need to become a marathon runner. You’re simply building a bigger engine underneath everything else you do. I really noticed this during one season in New Zealand. I’d spent the summer road cycling, properly getting into it, with long rides around three times a week. When I arrived back on snow, something felt different. I couldn’t work out why, but I just wasn’t getting tired. Everyone else seemed to be fading while I still had plenty left in the tank. I hadn’t radically changed my snowboard training. The big difference was all those hours on the bike.

Keep it accessible. And don’t worry about having a fancy bike. Bigger tyres and a heavier frame? That’s just more training. Ideally, start 6 to 8 weeks before your first trip, although even 4 weeks of regular aerobic work is worth having. The body’s ability to adapt is magic. Strength, mobility and balance still matter enormously. I want strong legs, a strong core and the mobility to move properly on my board. But I see cardio as the foundation that lets me use all of that for longer.

These days, running is my passion. Trainers on, out of the door and you’re moving. I notice a massive difference to my snowboarding when I’m aerobically fit, although the hardest part as autumn closes in can simply be getting outside. My tricks are very basic. Gloves. Hat. Warm kit ready to go. I even leave my socks and trainers on the radiator. Heading into a cold morning suddenly feels much easier when your feet are warm. And you don’t need huge distances. If you’re starting from scratch, try 20 to 30 minutes of easy movement two or three times a week. Jog, run-walk, cycle or head out for a brisk walk that gets your heart rate up. The biggest mistake is believing every session needs to be a pain cave.

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Best of all, training through

autumn becomes a way of running towards winter.

Every run, ride or brisk walk puts something in the bank for those first turns. You don’t need to train like an Olympian. Move a little, get your heart beating and gradually build your engine. Because when that first proper snow day arrives, the goal isn’t simply to make it down the mountain. It’s to get back on the lift and say: one more run?

Aimee Fuller is a former 2x Team GB Winter Olympian, broadcaster and author of Fear Less Live More

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Without really planning it, I’d built a huge aerobic base through something I simply loved doing.

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PEACE OF MIND IN YOUR POCKET LIFEPASS IS THE SKI PASS THAT'S ALSO A MOUNTAIN SAFETY AID, AND THIS WINTER IT ARRIVES IN CERVINIA.

hen former Olympic ski racer Chemmy Alcott takes her children skiing, she wants them to have the freedom to explore. As a parent and Director of CDC racing, she also wants to know where the kids in her camp are, and that if something goes wrong, help is one button away. It’s one of the first questions the parents ask now when they send their kids to CDC camp.

“AFTER BRIEFLY LOSING MY SON ON A FAMILY SKI TRIP, LIFEPASS BECAME A MUST-HAVE FOR US,” says Chemmy. “It means I can let my kids experience the mountain freely, knowing I can find them and they can call for help.”

That’s the idea behind LifePass. It's a safety aid and your ski pass in one. Press the SOS button and ski patrol get your exact GPS location. Lift access is built in, so there's no separate pass to buy, and it opens the gates hands-free like a standard card. It works across mobile blackspots, so it keeps working where phones and AirTags can struggle. It’s the same size as your ski pass and just under 1cm thick, so it fits any ski-pass pocket, including children’s. Parents can keep an eye on their children without handing them a phone, and groups can see where everyone is across the resort.

How to book Heading to Cervinia or La Thuile? Book LifePass direct at lifepass.eu. It’s a small daily charge on top of the standard lift pass price. Follow @lifepass_eu on Instagram for new resorts, product updates and more.

NEVERENDING MOUNTAIN In Pontedilegno-Tonale you start with a ski run and end up at après-ski. You walk into a spa and walk out to a concert. Whether it’s your first time or your favourite destination, here the mountain never ends. This winter, keep discovering it.

pontedilegnotonale.com

LA CLUSAZ WHERE FREESKI HERITAGE MEETS FAMILY SKIING RESORT ALTITUDE 2,600M

49 LIFTS ACROSS FIVE MOUNTAINS

here are a few landmark trips in a lifetime of ski holidays. The first is usually your own introduction to skiing, perhaps with parents, school friends or a partner. Then comes the moment you take your own children to the mountains, hoping they’ll fall in love with skiing just as you did. The family that skis together stays together, after all.

0104 // OCT 26

I’ve been through all those stages, including the bonus one of taking my child’s friends on ski trips. Last spring, I reached a new milestone: taking my first grandchild on a ski holiday. It’s a mix of pride and disbelief: joy at helping the next generation onto snow, tempered by the realisation that time has raced by and you’re suddenly the “older generation”. Once you reach this stage, you want to get everything right and draw on decades of experience, starting with choosing the perfect resort. Plenty of destinations fit the bill, but fewer tick all the boxes we wanted: short transfers, slopeside accommodation, reliable

125KM OF PISTES

88 RUNS TO CHOOSE FROM

snow, authentic village charm and great family‑friendly facilities. I chose La Clusaz, which offered all of that plus a certain cool factor: it’s home to freeskiing icon Candide Thovex, widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. It also felt like a full‑circle moment. We’d taken our eldest son on one of our first family ski holidays here more than 30 years ago, back when he was an only child. I also wanted to quietly prove to myself that I’ve still “got it” – that I could ski the same mountains Candide grew up on, and watch my granddaughter take her first slides on those same slopes. We managed a little of both, though mostly on gentle greens rather than the black run named after him or the intimidating freeride terrain he’s famous for. I did, however, manage brunch in his café in the village, where the brioche façon pain perdu with salted butter caramel ice cream is worth the trip alone.

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proper kitchen and all the home‑from‑home essentials made life easy. OVO’s in‑resort staff provided cots, stairgates and other necessities, giving us the relaxed, seamless experience we’d hoped for.

To make those chalet days enjoyable, we needed somewhere with character rather than a bland apartment block. We chose Le Petit Mazot, a quirky chalet from OVO Network, tucked in a peaceful spot just a hundred metres from the nearest slopes and the Nant‑Bossonet lift, with a 10‑minute walk into the village. A bus was available, but we never needed it. A “mazot” in the Savoyard region is a small, rustic wooden hut once used by Alpine farmers, and this one has been beautifully converted so that every centimetre of space is cleverly used. It was cosy, comfortable and full of charm, perfect for the five of us. Its wrap‑around balcony and sun terrace became great play areas as the March sun melted the snow. Our toddler granddaughter could run safely back and forth on the enclosed balcony, and having a

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Our chalet sat between the bases of Balme and L’Aiguille, so we tended to ski one or the other most days, with occasional longer excursions across the linked area. Unexpectedly, one highlight was the ski rental shop – rare in my long experience. The family‑run Skiset store went above and beyond to kit out three generations with the right gear, and after chatting with the staff, it became our go‑to stop on walks into the village for tips on the best mountain spots and restaurant recommendations. Evenings were simple and enjoyable. We either cooked together in the chalet, all went out to eat or took turns babysitting so the other couple could enjoy a night out. One favourite was 2 Mules, a short walk away and one of La Clusaz’s top restaurants. It’s stylish yet welcoming, serving inventive contemporary French dishes full of refined flavours, beautifully presented in a cosy, vibrant setting. The friendly, attentive service and views over the village added to the sense of being somewhere special.

The village’s Aquacentre is ideal for young families, with warm water, gentle splash zones and a calm atmosphere. Little ones can explore safely while parents and grandparents enjoy mountain views from the pools. The baby‑friendly areas are well designed, with shallow spaces perfect for confidence building. A three‑generation ski holiday brings everyone together in close quarters for a week, which can be both wonderful and occasionally challenging if you’re not used to spending full days together. But La Clusaz’s relaxed, family‑focused atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop. We had a stress‑free, balanced holiday, helping our son and daughter‑in‑law get time together while enjoying precious moments with our granddaughter. The village’s warm Savoyard charm, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of our chalet, set a gentle rhythm that made it easy for grandparents, parents and the little one to enjoy time together. Beginner areas helped our bemused granddaughter take her first slides, while the rest of us explored the pistes before regrouping for long lunches and cosy evenings. By choosing the right resort and the right accommodation, we created space for shared moments, laughter and genuine connection, a holiday that was memorable for all the right reasons.

Fact Box Patrick Thorne and his family travelled with OVO Network (ovonetwork.com/en/), who have 7 nights in La Clusaz at Chalet Le Petit Mazot from £1,105. Ski rental: skiset.co.uk Resort info: laclusaz.com

0105 // OCT 26

La Clusaz has excellent childcare, but we didn’t need it. Part of being a skiing grandparent is doing your share of chalet shifts, enjoying quiet time with your grandchild while others ski. You’re aware you’re missing slope time, but it’s surprisingly lovely to hang out together on neutral ground.

La Clusaz offers 125km of pistes, 88 runs and 49 lifts across five linked mountains – Beauregar, Aiguille, Étale, Manigod and Balme. About half the terrain is rated easy, with slopes rising to a snow‑sure 2,600m and around 1,500m of vertical. The breakdown is 53% beginner, 33% intermediate and 14% advanced, with extensive off‑piste on Balme, home to the steep freeride terrain Candide made famous. We didn’t feel the need to explore further, though the lift pass includes nearby centres such as family‑friendly Manigod, and a free shuttle links La Clusaz with Le Grand‑Bornand.

There’s also a sense of obligation. Your child only became obsessed with skiing because you took them on those early holidays. It feels only right to help ensure their child becomes similarly snow‑addicted.

Our days quickly settled into a familiar rhythm. Parents or grandparents would head out skiing each morning while the others stayed at the chalet or took our granddaughter for a gentle ski or sledge on the nearby nursery slopes. We’d meet for lunch in a mountain restaurant, then swap roles in the afternoon while she napped.

Ski Antarctica

Bucket list idea

Antarctica sits high on many serious skiers’ bucket lists, and AE Expeditions offers one of the few ways to ski there, if you can afford it. Its voyages combine expedition cruising with guided ski touring, taking experienced skiers and snowboarders ashore to explore some of the world’s most remote mountain terrain. Led by qualified mountain guides, guests can usually ski up to twice a day during shore landings, with six or more outings possible per voyage. Previous descents have included Mt Tennant on Ronge Island (700m), Mt Hoegh to Andvord Bay (800m), Mt Pond to Whalers Bay (540m) and Doumer Peak to Port Lockroy (550m). A 12‑night Across the Antarctic Circle sailing, departing 13 November 2026, starts from £11,597pp for a twin‑share stateroom, including full board and excursions. Ski or snowboard touring costs an additional £1,022pp.

0106 // OCT 26

Best Ever Britain’s ski and snowboard teams start the 2026/27 campaign after recording their best-ever results last winter. As well as our first-ever Olympic snowsports medal courtesy of Charlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale in mixed snowboardcross, Scotland’s Kirsty Muir has become the first British woman to win the ‘Big Globe’ for coming top overall across the various skiing park-and-pipe competitions. As well as winning the crystal globe for coming top in slopestyle, the 21-year-old from Aberdeen also placed third in the Big Air Tour. “I’m still very speechless. It had definitely been a goal of mine for a while. You have to be consistent over the competitions,” said Kirsty. Charlotte Bankes also took her third individual Snowboard Cross crystal globe and Zoe Atkin won the Freeski Halfpipe crystal globe.

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takes The Cake All of France celebrates Epiphany in early January with the galette des rois, the beloved ‘King Cake’ that is shared with family and friends, but ski resort Le Grand‑Bornand takes the tradition to spectacular heights. The village unveils a giant 1.7m galette crafted by Maison Bétemps, the only bakery with an oven large enough for such a feat. Rooted in local community spirit, the event has become one of the resort’s most beloved winter rituals. Six to seven bakers spend two hours at 170°C preparing the mega‑cake, using 20kg of puff pastry and frangipane. It serves 300 people and hides 20 fèves (traditional gifts). ESF ski instructors parade the enormous galette to the village square, where crowds gather for this charity fundraising celebration that blends Alpine tradition, festive atmosphere and a uniquely oversized slice of French Epiphany culture.

Yum

World Champs INSTAGRAM.COM/AIMEE_FULLER

Excitement is building for the upcoming 2027 Alpine Skiing World Championships, set to take place from 1-14 February in CransMontana, Switzerland. It’s the world’s largest Alpine skiing tournament of the season and will see the very best male and female skiers compete in all Alpine disciplines (downhill, Super G, giant slalom and slalom and team combined). The resort last hosted the biannual event in 1987, but a new downhill course will provide a spectacular backdrop for the spectators in the newly designed finish area. The World Championships are the biggest competition for skiers outside the Winter Olympics, and the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) has now announced plans to switch from staging them every two years to running them every year there isn’t an Olympics, starting in 2032, or possibly sooner.

0107 // OCT 26

Annual Champs

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Ai or Si? Iglu, one of the UK’s leading ski holiday companies, reports a sharp rise in skiers using AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to research trips, with usage jumping from 2.2% last year to 8.7% in 2026. Yet the human touch is strengthening too, with the share of customers preferring to speak to an expert rising from 20% to 24%. Responses across the industry differ, and chalet specialist Skiworld is leaning further into its core strength: in‑house expertise and customer service, branded as “SI” or Ski Intelligence. “It’s a tongue‑in‑cheek term for our specialists who’ve stood on the mountains, hosted in chalets and know firsthand why resort X beats resort Y for a family with teenagers,” says Rob Dixon, adding that Skiworld chooses not to let automation replace human guidance.

0108 // OCT 26

What's New Most In 50 Years

Ski Preston

Rise Again

The southern hemisphere had a mixed winter in 2026, with Australia’s season ending early due to an often mild, dry winter. However, after a poor start, the Andes were dumped on from mid-July, with reports of up to 6m of snowfall. Famous Chilean resort Portillo said this was the most snow it had received in such a short space of time for 50 years, and it was one of several areas to extend its seasons to mid-October.

Funding and official permissions have reportedly both been secured for Preston’s Phoenix Park redevelopment, bringing its long‑planned dry ski slope closer to construction three years after it was announced. The scheme will transform the Trax Off Road Motorsport site with a new slope, a watersports lake and a mountain‑bike track. Work can begin once contaminated land checks and other conditions are met, marking a rare new UK dry‑slope project.

Most music festivals in the mountains tend to take place in spring, but Rise at Les 2 Alpes is different, kicking off the season instead. The festival is back for its 12th edition this December, taking place from the 5th to the 12th and bringing more than 7,000 mostly British festival-goers to the mountains. Now one of Europe’s biggest electronic music festivals in the mountains, it includes live concerts, DJ sets, yoga and outdoor fun.

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Secwépemc Territory. Reuben Krabbe photos.

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Take It Easy Les Arcs, arguably the easiest resort to reach by rail from the UK, has announced new ski routes and a new lift for the upcoming season. New Easy Ski routes will guide beginners and less confident skiers back to the villages via quieter pistes where possible, helping to improve both

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safety and enjoyment on the slopes. In addition, the popular Les Pitchouns trail in Peisey-Vallandry has been redesigned for winter 2026/27. The forest-themed route now features magical new scenery, hidden characters and surprises along the way, making it even more enjoyable for families

and beginner skiers. Meanwhile, the iconic Lonzagne lift (the “red yoghurt pots”!) that connected Peisey-Nancroix with Plan Peisey has made its last circuit and has been replaced by a swish new 10-person gondola that cuts the ride time to just over three minutes.

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Top Charity Snow Camp has been named the UK’s highest‑ranking charity for apprenticeships for the second year running, securing 16th place in the government‑backed Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers list. The youth snowsports charity was recognised for programme quality, diversity and inclusion, apprentice achievement and strong peer feedback. The result places Snow Camp among England’s leading apprenticeship providers and highlights its use of skiing and snowboarding to build confidence, careers and leadership

skills. Since 2013, its award‑winning Apprenticeship Programme has helped graduates progress into coaching, youth work and mentoring roles, often returning to deliver the same sessions that inspired them. Managing director Lara Kinnear said the recognition reflects the “life‑changing impact” apprentices have on communities nationwide. Participants praised the programme for boosting communication, coaching skills and self‑belief.

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Scottish Lift

Early Swiss

Eddie’s Dry Slope

After Scottish ski areas enjoyed their best season in about a decade last winter, Nevis Range has announced a plan to add a new wind‑resistant quad chairlift to secure long‑term snowsports access higher on the mountain as climate change pushes reliable snow upwards. The lift would replace lower‑mountain infrastructure and support year‑round activities. The centre says its snowmaking isn’t viable due to costs and existing systems not functioning but wants to create a true year‑round destination.

Big-name Swiss centres are usually among the first to open their slopes each season. If all goes to plan, Zermatt, Saas‑Fee, Engelberg and the Diavolezza glacier near St. Moritz should all be open already by the team you read this. Next up, Davos plans to start its 2026/27 season on 13 November, then other early-November openers should include Adelboden’s TschentenAlp, Arosa–Lenzerheide, Glacier 3000, Mürren Schilthorn, Andermatt’s Gemsstock and Verbier on 14 November.

A leading dry slope in Gloucestershire, once used by Eddie “the Eagle” Edwards, is up for sale for £625,000. The Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre reports turnover above £842,000 and features a café‑bar, shop, repair service and events drawing visitors nationwide. Manager Cameron Singer told the BBC that staff hope a buyer keeps it running. Edwards said he has “very fond memories” of the slope and hopes “somebody buys it and carries it on.”

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20 YEARS IN.THE.SNOW with Patrick Thorne

fter 20 years editing InTheSnow, Patrick Thorne has watched skiing change dramatically. We asked him what he remembers, what he misses and what still keeps him coming back.

IF WE DROPPED YOU INTO A SKI RESORT IN WINTER 2006, WHAT WOULD IMMEDIATELY FEEL DIFFERENT? “I think, as with everywhere, less tech! Hands-free lift access was already around, but a lot more resorts still had staff scanning passes, and phones were a bit more basic, so we were more likely to be trying to unfold a paper piste map with our ski gloves without it blowing away or getting soaking wet rather than studying a map on an app.” WHAT HAS DISAPPEARED FROM SKIING THAT YOU GENUINELY MISS? “I’m actually starting to miss those old double chairlifts that take 10-15 minutes to get back up the slopes. You used to sometimes have a chance for a good chat with someone you’d never met before, but that’s not so easy when the ride is over in three minutes and everyone whips out their phone.” WHAT SKI RESORT PRESS-RELEASE CLAIM MAKES YOU SUSPICIOUS? “Quite a few are triggering for me. ‘The best’ usually isn’t and ‘luxurious’ covers a multitude of sins.” IN 20 YEARS OF SKI JOURNALISM, WHAT HAVE YOU CHANGED YOUR MIND ABOUT? “Japan, for some reason I didn’t think I’d like. I was asked to visit and tried to get out of it, but eventually agreed to go if it was just three days. From the moment I landed in Tokyo, I absolutely loved it. Lovely people, fabulous food and of course great skiing. I felt so stupid having to go home 72 hours later and came back for much longer the next year.” AFTER ALL THE RESORTS, POWDER DAYS, PRESS TRIPS, NEW LIFTS, DISASTROUS WEATHER, EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE AND ENDLESS PRESS RELEASES, WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING BACK?

0114 // OCT 26

“I love snow and it hasn’t changed. It’s a magical thing how it transforms everything. I love skiing. I think it’s one of the best things mankind has invented. It instantly connects us to our childhood, pure fun and joy, forget everything else. And, yes, the nice hotels, fancy restaurants, interesting people are all good too. Why would I ever not want to keep going back?”

READ THE FULL INTERVIEW ONLINE Patrick talks changing snow, rising costs, ski technology, resort development, the future of the ski holiday and his new book, The Skiing Bucket List: 104 Ideas to Inspire Every Skier, at inthesnow.com.

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InTheSnow | Issue 82 | October 2026