InTheSnow Issue 38 - September 2014

ISSUE38 | OCT2014

ROSS WOODHALL

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IN THIS MONTH

FEATURES

There’s a new trend at ski resorts to build scarily high bridges, platforms, zip wires and more from which thrill seekers can look down into the abyss…

008 HIDDEN GEM  LES CONTAMINES

INTHESNOW

@INTHESNOWMAG INTHESNOW

Les Contamines is a pretty French Savoyard village with a long history and a great ski area. The area lift pass includes neighbours Megève and St Gervais among others.

016

SCARE YOURSELF  9 SCARY SNOW EXPERIENCES

028

BAD KLEINKIRCHHEIM  PT EXPLORES BKK Franz Klammer’s home resort of Bad Kleinkirchheim, or ‘BKK’ for short, is a classic spa resort in the opposite corner of Austria to most of the resorts we know well.

REGULARS

054 10 MINUTES WITH  ODLO We talk to professional freeskier and X Games gold medallist

GEAR BOOT ROOM 044  As usual we preview and profile some of the coolest new gear on the planet including the latest ‘must haves’ in every skier’s kit bag.

WIN!

Jon Olsson about his life, his thermals, and how much he enjoys doing crunches.

FREERIDE 010 SKI TUITION 042

patrick@inthesnow.com

A TRIP FOR 2 TO LES ARCS 034

It’s that time of year again when we all start getting excited about the coming ski season. OK, some of us are excited about the ski season all year round, but even for those of

5 REASONS: WILDER KAISER 037

us who aren’t that obsessed, early autumn is when our hopes are racked up to an ever higher level.

020

TEAM

Then in the past few weeks glacier ski areas have

based in the snowy playground of Alpe d’huez.

started opening in the Alps, and enticing images have

PUBLISHER

SUB EDITORS

© Copyright 2014

DOMINIC KILLINGER

MICHELLE SADLER NICK JONES

Printed in the UK

skiers and boarders whizzing down the slopes on fresh

No part of this publication

powder in the last few days of September. If you can

dom@inthesnow.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

CONTRIBUTORS

MATT NICHOLSON

SAM THORNE OLIVIA PARRY-JONES SALLY BROOKES ANDY TAYLOR DAVID BLACK

matt@inthesnow.com

patrick@inthesnow.com

skiing led to the creation of ski manufacturer Pure Freeride Design,

while it was still the last fortnight of summer, pictures snow that had fallen on the upper slopes.

PATRICK THORNE

We profile Rupert Gammond, a young designer whose passion for

the past month to help fuel the excitement. First of all, arrived from Western Canada showing deep powder

EDITOR

LIFE IN PICS  PFD SKIS

There have been lots of exciting bits of news over

EQUIPMENT EDITOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored in a

are already waiting for you, and of course we have all

in any way or means, either by

the details inside.

recording or otherwise, without permission of the publishers in writing.

We’re also excited to bring you our whole new look for InTheSnow this season; we hope you like it.

It’s all part of our policy of staying ahead of the game,

INTHESNOW LTD

which extends to the online world with our evergrowing presence on the web, on mobile devices and

debbie@inthesnow.com

COLUMNISTS

SALES MANAGER

JON WEST PHIL SMITH HEMEL SNOW CENTRE

THE SNOW STUDIO

DESIGN BY

+44 (0)1494 862 423

PICTURE EDITOR

ROCKET BASE

DOM@INTHESNOW.COM

ROSS WOODHALL

www.rocketbase.co.uk

INTHESNOW.COM

GIANCARLO G

get to the slopes in October you’ll find some ski slopes

retrieval system or transmitted,

SALLY BARTLETT

DEBBIE GABRIEL

been popping into the InTheSnow inbox showing lucky

KINGS LANE, BUCKS HP16 0QY

across social media, so you can now find InTheSnow almost everywhere and updating daily.

giancarlo@inthesnow.com

Back to this issue, along with all the big news stories for 2014–15, we have a new feature called Scare Yourself in which you will find pictures of the highaltitude bridges, platforms, zip wires and glass boxes that have appeared hanging hundreds and sometimes over a thousand metres above the valleys below in the Alps. We hope you find them as jaw dropping as we do. They’re the latest craze, and there seems to be a new one appearing almost every month in the mountains at the moment.

We also have new columns starting this month which include a monthly diary, freerider and indoor snow centre columns, and ‘Blow the Bonus’ which has ideas for the multi-millionaires among us to consider, and the rest of us to ogle at.

But, rich or poor, snow is snow, and let’s hope for plenty of it for us all this coming season.

003 // NOV14

henrik windstedt in our new heli gravity. #justaddski

DAVOS

SKI FOR FREE THIS SEASON

S ki holidays are expensive for most people

You do of course have to be savvy and do your maths homework. You need to calculate

FREE LIFT PASSES FOR CHILDREN

Crystal offers free lift passes all season at the French resorts of Chamrousse and La Clusaz as well as Sestriere in Italy and

whether the complete price you pay is really significantly lower than what you’d pay with

Many ski areas offer free lift passes for

Geilo, Beitostølen and Hemsedal in Norway.

a regular package.

children, particularly in the Easter holiday

There are also buy-one-get-one-free lift pass

Many of the best offers come in at the start

period, but the huge French accommodation

deals (limited availability) for Les Deux Alpes

of the season, before Christmas, or at the

provider Pierre et Vacances is also offering

and La Rosière in France and Bulgaria’s

end from mid-March and into April, although

free lift passes in the busier Christmas

others do last all winter.

period for Les Arcs, La Plagne, Val

The first of these have now been published

d’Isère and Valmorel for departures on

for 2014–15.

20 December.

The terms vary with children up to age 11, 12 or 13 covered and up to one or two adult passes needing to be

SKI FOR FREE IN DAVOS OR ANDERMATT

on an average income. Ski resorts argue

purchased to qualify, depending on the resort, but savings of up to €222.50 per

SKI DEALS ALPINE ELEMENTS: alpineelements.co.uk ANDERMATT:

child are achievable.

skisolutions.com

that building new lifts, adding snowmaking

Davos Klosters is running a ‘free lift pass’

Similar deals are offered at a longer list

CRYSTAL:

and then grooming the slopes every night

offer to try to encourage more people to

of resorts over the Easter holidays, and

crystalski.co.uk

and paying wages and insurance are

visit during the 5 weeks it is open from 14

tour operator Inghams are offering a free

DAVOS:

expensive too, so the lift ticket prices keep

November to Christmas week.

child’s pass when an adult pre-books

bit.ly/1pcKN8L

going up.

To qualify you need to book a stay in the

theirs at any of their properties in Austria’s

But skiers can find a ‘middle way’

long list of participating residences in the

Saalbach Hinterglemm for departures

sometimes by benefiting from the fact that

resort. Prices start at CHF80 (about £53) for

between 15 March and 11 April, 2015.

while most people want to travel in peak

an overnight B&B stay, or in a 3★ hotel from

season, the ski resorts still have to spend

CHF88 (about £58). A 1-day lift pass normally

on running their operations in low season

costs up to CHF69 (£46).

when there are fewer people around.

Although not fully open until December,

The result, thanks to the economics of

Davos Klosters covers 320km of piste, the

“supply and demand”, is that some resorts

highest of which is at 2844m and 80% of

offer skiing free of charge on certain

which is located above 2000m.

Currently Ski World have a buy-one-

dates … so long as you book a stay there.

At the rather more expensive, luxurious end

get-one-free offer on holidays to La Rosiere

Pamporovo and Borovets.

This can be quite a saving when, at the

of the market, travel agency Ski Solutions

departing on 13 December 2014, saving

“Due to the excellent relationships with

most expensive resorts in the Alps and

is offering a free lift pass all season at

€198 with holidays costing from £489pp,

overseas suppliers we are able to offer great

the Rockies, a couple can expect to pay

the new 5★ Chedi, Andermatt, so long as

while Alpine Elements have free lift pass

value holidays for British skiers across each

around £500 for their 6-day lift passes –

bookings are made by 14 November, saving

offers at a number of their chalets in Tignes

element of the holiday, and we offer free lift

sometimes not much less than the travel

up to £250pp. Package prices including

and Val d’Isère on low-season dates,

passes to help customers to keep the costs

and accommodation costs.

flights and rail transfers are from £1795pp.

typically in mid-December.

down,” says the company’s Marion Telsnig.

INGHAMS: bit.ly/1rjTt0o LA ROSIERE: skiworld.co.uk/bogof-lift-pass-deals P&V:

FREE LIFT PASSES IN TOUR OPERATOR PACKAGES

bit.ly/1prWOGK

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

005 // OCT14

GERMKNÖDEL INDEX Amsterdam-based website Snowplaza has rated Austrian ski resorts according to the price of the popular dessert dish germknödel, a yeast dumpling with vanilla sauce, at the highest restaurants in each resort. Most expensive was Lech with a €10 (£7.90) germknödel, and best value for combined lift pass and germknödel was the Skiwelt. Sölden had the cheapest germknödel costing €4.60 (£3.60), but its €246 was more than the Skiwelt’s €219.

INCLUSIVE LOUNGE ACCESS Specialist ski operator Flexiski (flexiski. com) are offering its clients complimentary access to the award-winning No.1 Traveller airport lounges. Available at Gatwick, Heathrow Terminal 3, Stansted, Edinburgh and Birmingham, complimentary pre-flight comforts include hot food from a bistro-style menu, fully-tended bar, wi-fi, newspapers, magazines, games and entertainment.

SKI 10 HOURS DAILY Hemsedal has announced plans to open non-stop from 9am to 7pm on 3 days each week. The Scandinavian centre says it will also open freshly groomed slopes for evening skiing every Friday from 6pm to 10pm for those who just can’t get enough time on the snow. Non-stop skiing will run from 23 December and to 26 March on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

HOW TO USE A CHAIRLIFT

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

FEDERER & VONN PLAY TENNIS AT 3454m

W

ski resorts of Grindelwald and

The themed chocolate shop

Wengen.

offers a wide range of the finest

The “tennis exhibition match”

Lindt chocolate, and the adjacent

took place on a specially created

Master Chocolatiers parlour

court while American skiing

gives visitors an insight into how

superstar Vonn’s boyfriend Tiger

chocolate is made.

Woods was also in Europe,

“I never cease to be amazed by the

competing in the British Open.

great ideas Lindt comes up with.

hile many of us were relaxing in

It wasn’t just a match for the fun

Today on the Jungfraujoch was a

the sunshine in July, Roger Federer

of it, however; the Jungfraujoch

real highlight for me,” said Federer.

and Lindsey Vonn enjoyed a tennis

has recently seen a multimillion

The Jungfraujoch has year-round

Snowsport England’s (SSE) new initiative named

match in the unlikely location of

pound makeover, which included

snow, and a short snow fun run

“30 Days of Snowsport” began this month and

the Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest

the opening of a Lindt Swiss

served by a covered conveyor

will run until early November, as part of its GO

rail station, 3454m up in a land

Chocolate Heaven shop, for which

lift. It is not thought, however, that

SKI GO BOARD campaign. The aim, the organi-

of eternal snow, above the Swiss

Federer is a brand ambassador.

Federer went skiing!

sation says, is to celebrate the start of the winter

As part of a French national awareness

30 DAYS OF SNOWSPORT

season and get people excited about snow

campaign relating to the proper usage of

sports, as well as giving people a taste of skiing

chairlifts, Les 2 Alpes in conjunction with the

and snowboarding with 30 days of activities at

ESF French Ski School is running a workshop

slopes, and online via competitions and social

on “how to use a chairlift” throughout the winter. Anyone wanting a free lesson on the correct use of a chairlift should meet

EUROSTAR TICKETS ON SALE

at “L’Alpette” chair lift on any Tuesday

media promotions.

Events include fun days of snow activities and entertainment, days featuring GB skiers and snowboarders, taster sessions for non-skiers/

Eurostar has opened ticket sales

fares from £149. Skis and boards

venient way for skiers to travel to

boarders, “try something different” opportunities

for their ski services to the French

continue to be carried for free.

popular Swiss resorts – full details

for existing skiers/boarders, as well as elite-level

Alps next winter. Services run from

Eurostar runs a Friday overnight

and tickets are being released as

competitions and freestyle nights.

London St Pancras, Ebbsfleet and

service that arrives in the French

we go to press.

For more information go to goskigoboard.org.uk,

Ashford in Kent via the Channel

Alps early on Saturday morning,

Eurostar was first introduced into

where you’ll find snow-sports videos and edits

Tunnel, offering day and night

with the return leg departing late

service in 1994, with each train carry-

from Sochi heroes, as well as special offers from

services direct to the French Alps,

on Saturday evening, allowing for 8

ing 750 passengers and operating at

SSE partners, and competitions to win skiing and

VIP SKI (vip-chalets.com) has added

which provides easy access to top

days on the slopes. There are also

speeds of up to 300km/h. Following

snowboarding prizes.

eight brand new hot tubs to its chalets in

resorts including Courchevel, Les

Saturday daytime services for a

refurbishment of the original trains,

“After the success of the ‘Slide2Sochi’ roadshow

Arcs, Méribel and La Plagne.

standard 6-day/7-night ski holiday.

these will continue to form a core

last year, we wanted to continue to engage

enquiries received last winter included a

The 2014–15 seasonal ski services

The recently introduced Eurostar

part of the Eurostar fleet. The new

people at local slopes with fun, welcoming days

request for a hot tub. The company now

will run weekly from 19 December

connecting service to Geneva via

e320 trains, set to launch in 2015,

which would attract people into finding out what

has 41 chalets with hot tubs as standard,

until 11 April 2015, and skiers looking

Lille will commence on 14 Decem-

will carry around 900 passengers at

snow-sports are all about,” said Tim Fawke,

but some are more heavily hot tub

to hit the slopes can purchase return

ber, which will open up a con-

speeds of up to 320km/h.

Chief Executive of SSE.

or Wednesday from 9.30am to 12.30pm throughout the coming ski season.

80% DEMAND HOT TUBS Val d’Isere after it found that 80% of all

endowed than others.

006 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

FIREMAN’S CHALLENGE ON SLOPES

SECOND ISCHGL SUPER LIFT

Firepower came to Queenstown’s Coronet Peak in New Zealand a few

A second new super lift in as many seasons is under construction at Ischgl in

weeks ago, as teams of firefighters in full gear went head-to-head on

the Austrian Tirol.

the slopes. Fortunately there was no fire; instead the six teams of four

Work began at the end of June on the new Pardatschgratbahn, a remarkable

were raising money for charity. Clutching a 30m-long 20kg fire hose,

€40m (£31.5m) 28-seater tri-cable gondola system (which uses giant gondola

the teams were neck and neck in the 2-hour Firefighter Chillfactor

cabins of small cable-car size). The cabins will be an all-new design used for

Challenge, but in the end Queenstown retained the annual trophy

the first time on the new lift.

taking into account a fun Hose Haul on the deck and fundraising

The lift will replace the four-seater lift of the same name, which although

dollars raised.

opened in the 1990s and, therefore, less than 25 years old, has been

“It’s trickier than you might think!” said Auckland Airport firefighter Tony

rendered obsolete by the ongoing improvements at Ischgl, which last

Scott, who was also the man behind the event. “We had to have a few

season saw the new Piz Val Gronda lift open up new terrain.

practice runs the afternoon before, because if you don’t get the timing

The old lift had a mid-station, but the new Doppelmayr-built lift will make

right the person on the end of the hose gets flung off like it’s a slingshot.

the full 1251m vertical ascent (the biggest yet for a lift of this type) in a single

“When we add it all up we should have raised just over the NZ$10,000

stage, in just under 9½ minutes.

(£5000) mark which is fantastic,” said Mr Scott. This takes the amount raised

The top and bottom stations of the new lift are also technological and

in the 4 years since the inaugural competition to NZ$32,000 (£16,000) .

architectural achievements, thanks to the limited space available at the base

The event raises funds for a charity that provides funding for young

of the slopes, and the type of terrain at the top of the lift.

people looking to further themselves in the arts, sports, or cultural

The lift is expected to open for next season, although it is such a technical

fields, in memory of Queenstown mountaineer Bruce Grant who died

masterpiece the resort has not yet confirmed a provisional opening date. An

on K2 in 1995.

online blog following its construction is at: bit.ly/Y0y4Pz.

CHALET HOLIDAY PRICE TOPS €0.5M nightclub, and vehicle lift, as well as more than a dozen staff, including two chefs and two butlers.

However, Austria is not being left out of the picture, with Chalet N in Lech asking €490,000 per week (£385,000) for peak weeks – much more per week than the Edelweiss.

Chalet N sleeps up to 22, monograms the initials of each guest onto their pillowcase, and has their favourite champagne waiting on ice on their arrival.

Both properties feature in the Luxury Chalet Collection (luxurychaletcollection.com), an annual list of the top rental chalets in the skiing world, compiled by The Oxford Ski The price being asked for a holiday over next

and New Year.

Company, which has just released its 2014–15

Christmas and New Year’s Day 2015 at Chalet

The top-end prices being charged for luxury

season list, featuring 13 new additions for the

Edelweiss in Courchevel 1850 has topped

chalets has rocketed in recent seasons,

coming season.

€0.5m, believed to be the biggest price yet

particularly at Courchevel 1850, famously

The Oxford Ski Company is keen to stress that

asked for a chalet holiday.

beloved by Russian oligarchs, where many of

most of the properties attract far lower rental

The €550,000 price tag (about £435,000) is

the most “uber-luxurious” chalets are located.

fees, and even the two most expensive drop in

for a minimum fortnight stay over Christmas

The Edelweiss sleeps 18, features its own cinema,

price dramatically outside of the peak period.

007 // OCT14

L e s

C o n t a m i n e s

WORDS: ANDY TAYLOR  PIC: N. JOLY

008 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM

S

ski centres on the Mont Blanc pass have none.

Its local slopes are accessed by a gondola that takes you from the village up to the first stop of the mountain. From there, there’s a system of chairlifts, and a few button lifts, along with a second chairlift, which leaves from the village as well.

There are two zones for beginners.

The fairly large local ski area is part of an association of local ski resorts,

o you like your resorts traditional,

which include nearby Megève and the

unspoilt, affordable, French, and on

resort’s nearest neighbour St Gervais

the same lift pass as the world-

(10 minutes away on the bus), among

famous ski area Chamonix, you need

others, altogether offering around

look no further than Les Contamines

445km of slopes. The local 6-day

– or Les Contamines-Montjoie to

pass, at less than €190 (£152), is one

give the resort its full official name.

of the best value in the French Alps.

Although regarded as a little off the

Off the slopes Les Contamines

beaten track to the mainsteam British

remains very much a

tour operator market, this works in

ski resort; there are

favour of those who like a traditional

few alternatives for

village that’s not swamped with Brits,

non-skiers other than

but is also close to many of the big

outdoor options such

name resorts (the specialist operator

as hiking, climbing,

Peak Retreats is here, however

paragliding, or

– see peakretreats.co.uk/ski/les-

following nature trails.

contamines.htm).

Those who love

A pretty and compact Savoyard

their food will enjoy

village with a long history, unlike many

dining out in Les

famous resorts, Les Contamines has

Contamines too.

been largely unspoilt by the march of

Although not the

time and the growth of winter tourism.

cheapest of resorts,

With the local population still totalling

prices are lower than

around 1000, this resort remains

at the most famous

centred, as it always has been, around

French resorts, and

a single main street, and its 18th

you can expect to

century baroque village church.

enjoy a good meal

Anyone weary of modern concrete

for an average of €15

resorts will delight in Les Contamines’

(£12). One criticism of

chalet-style traditional Alpine

some of the purpose-

architecture; even the shops are

built areas, measly portions, is not an

built entirely out of timber. All the

issue here as the meals are large and

buildings in the town look exactly

delicious – the locals are justly proud

the same, just varying in size. This

of the high standards they offer.

helps to encourage a strong domestic

But while there are plenty of restaurant

market, with nearly two-thirds of all

choices, there’s also the traditional

clientele arriving from within France

French lack of an après-ski scene,

itself. But flying into Geneva it’s only

so, unless you’re happy to make your

a 90-minute drive, and Lyon is not

own, this is not a great choice if you’re

much further, with high-speed trains

looking for a party town.

stopping at a station only 20 minutes

If Les Contamines sounds like it might

from the village.

be the place for you, the only warning is

Les Contamines’ own ski area

that once hooked you may find it hard

comprises a healthy 120km of trails,

to go anywhere else. Visitors to this

served by more than 24 lifts. What’s

“hidden gem at the foot of Mont Blanc”

more, the area has a strong reputation

tend to come back year after year, and

for good snow conditions, with

enjoy the warm welcome of the same

powder lasting in good shape for

local hoteliers and restaurateurs.

days after a fall, and snow cover in

It seems with Les Contamines it really

general remaining when other lower

is a case of ski it, love it.

LES CONTAMINES lescontamines.com Piste: 120km/48 runs Snowmaking: 210 machines 6-Day Lift Pass: €184.50 Nearest Airport: Geneva 80km/90 minutes Nearest Station: St Gervais 12km

009 // OCT14

FREERIDE

Y L E S S O N

N O . 1

F I R S T

S T E P S

YOU’LL NEED PLANKS

beginning. Book on a freeride course or hire

Next comes the equipment – skis. We’re

a local guide or instructor. This I cannot stress

talking wide, so wide they can look like a pair

enough. Powder is addictive and addiction

of water skis. You ride the snow, you don’t turn

can cause errors.

in it. If you’ve waterskied, surfed, windsurfed, kitesurfed or skateboarded, you’ll understand.

GET YOUR KIT ON

The skis form a platform against the snow, and

You’re also going to need more than just a

it’s the reaction of the snow against the base

pair of fat skis. You’ll need safety equipment

of the skis that

and you’ll need to know how to use it. That’s

causes them

a minimum of a

to deflect, not

backpack, shovel,

like on a piste

probe and ava-

where you’re

lanche transceiver,

using edges.

and an airbag is

ou’ve seen it in the films and everyone’s talk-

Freeriding is

advisable. Far too

ing about it – freeriding. What does it mean

about using the

many people kit up

and what do you need to be able to do it?

base, so they

and head off with

need to be

no idea how to use

wide – we’re

the gear, so book

looking at over

on a course and get

Firstly, the name says it all. It’s “free”, as in

100mm at least

trained up.

free from restrictions. Wow, that means you

underfoot with

can develop your own style. No more hav-

big shovels.

PHIL SMITH SNOWWORKS Phil Smith is founder of Snoworks

BIN THE DOUGHNUTS

wish and with your feet as wide or as close

DON’T BE A BILLY NO MATES

All-Mountain Ski Courses. Snoworks

There’s one more

together as possible without anyone saying

Before you get

run Off-Piste and Backcountry courses

thing – you need to

it’s wrong. If someone says you have to

carried away

throughout the winter along with Off-

be fit. Safety is a big

ski “like this or that” then it certainly is not

with fat skis

Piste Adventure trips to destinations

issue here and if

free, so expect instruction to be different.

and the feeling

around the world. info@snoworks.com

you’re heading into

It’s more centred on getting in control,

of being free

the off-piste you

having fun and embracing the snow and

and jumping

need to be capable

the mountains and learning about safety.

off the nearest

You certainly shouldn’t be standing in a line

precipice, the most important thing to remem-

getting up after a fall, finding your skis and

watching a demonstration from an instructor

ber is off-piste skiing is dangerous, so get well

getting them back on in deep snow. There can

waiting for your turn and trying to copy

educated. You’re moving away from prepared

also be a lot of hiking in order to access runs

them. Say goodbye to skiing robotics and

runs and into off-piste. You need the right

at the top or exit them at the bottom, so start

hello to freedom.

guidance and the right knowledge from the

training now.

YOU’LL NEED TO KNOW WHAT IT IS

ing to face your “shoulders to zee valley” and no more worrying about not “sticking zee bottom out”. You can ski however you

010 // OCT14

of moving around,

SNOWORKS.COM

STMORITZ

SOLDEN

LATE EASTER BLAMED FOR DROP IN UK SKIERS

BAN PERPETUATES STEREOTYPES

DRONIES IN NEW ZEALAND

An unusually late Easter, and challenging snow conditions across much

A group of snowboarders campaigning to be allowed to snowboard at

A new era in “selfies” has debuted on New Zealand’s ski slopes.

of the northern Alps, resulted in a decline in the ski market of 3.6% last

one of the three ski areas in North America that still ban them, saying

Tourism New Zealand has invested in flying drones that were used

winter (from just under 900,000 in 2012–13 to 867,700) according to the

that the ban is divisive and perpetuates an inaccurate stereotype, have

during the current southern hemisphere ski season to create personal

Crystal Ski Industry Report.

lost their case.

videos from above.

The drop in the number of Brits heading to the slopes last season is a

The group were suing Alta ski resort, which along with another Utah

The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ drone travelling around New Zealand’s

setback after a small rise in the market the previous season, which had

resort Deer Valley and Mad River Glen still bans snowboarders from

South Island carries an extremely high-quality camera and a removable

followed 4 years of successive drops in business that had seen the UK

it slopes, despite allowing other sliding devices besides skis, such as

4GB micro SD card, giving crystal clear video and the option for slow

market decline by nearly a third from its 2007–08 season peak.

monoskis, according to the snowboarders.

motion shots. The drone begins recording a close-up portrait then

Crystal Ski Holidays believe, however, that the signs for 2014–15 are

The judge in the case decided Alta’s ban was on equipment, not a

quickly pans out to show New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery, creating

good.“The Winter Olympics significantly raised the profile of snow

type of person, and he said that in his opinion it therefore had no

a short film about 8 seconds long.

sports in the UK, and indoor ski centres continue to report increased

legal merit.

The NZdronie has been visiting the ski areas of Coronet Peak, Cardrona,

visitor numbers suggesting an uplift in interest for snow sports, which

Alta was backed by the US National Forest Service from whom it

Mount Hutt, and Mount Cook through the winter, with Tourism New

will be further boosted by a recovering economy and an earlier Easter

leases the public land. The Forest Service argued that boarders have,

Zealand encouraging people to share their “dronies” on all social channels

break,” said a company statement. France continues to be the most

in their opinion, a potential dangerous blind spot in their vision as

using the hashtag #NZdronie, with daily prizes also up for grabs.

popular country, despite seeing a decline of 1.3%, taking a 33.5% share

they descend the slopes, and that some of Alta’s slopes are too steep

The use of drones for personal videoing looks set to increase in ski

of holidaymakers last season. Switzerland had a slight resurgence with

for snowboarding.

areas around the world, although their usage may be restricted in

a 1% increase, taking its share of the market to 6.5%. Andorra, Italy, and

The snowboarders say that the ban encourages “hostile and divisive

some nations by general privacy, and/or flying restrictions and laws

Scandinavia each increased market share by 0.2%, whereas Austria,

skier-versus-snowboarder attitudes,” and their lawyers, who are now

that already exist to stop snooping and potential dangerous use

Bulgaria, and USA/Canada each lost 0.2% market share. The small

considering an appeal, pointed out that boarders and skiers co-exist

of flying machines, even though some of the laws may have been

countries sector stayed stable at 2% market share.

without major problems at thousands of ski areas worldwide.

originally intended to restrict larger craft like helicopters.

UK Selling products +44 (0)1637 870640

Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices

SAALBACH’S BIG LIFTS

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

Saalbach-Hinterglemm, which has built a

investment is going on new groomers, more

18 gondolas – believed also to be the highest

reputation over the past decade for having the

snowmaking, and piste improvements.

number of this type of high-capacity lift of any

biggest and best ski lifts in the world, has spent

Saalbach-Hinterglemm will now operate 19 chairlifts,

resort in the world.

nearly €40m (£31.5m) this summer to continue

of which more than a dozen are six- or eight-seater

The new Steinbergbahn lift is Leogang’s second

the upgrading process.

chairs – believed to be the highest number of this

modern 10-seater gondola from the valley up to

A new eight-seat chairlift, and a gondola with

type of high-capacity lift of any resort.

the Skicircus.

cabins each capable of carrying ten people, are

The new lift, the Polten 8er, will be a modern

The new lifts take the resort’s hourly uplift past

being installed at a combined cost of €17.5m

eight-seater Doppelmayr chairlift with heated

the 100,000 mark for the first time (to 103,000), a

(£13.8m), part of a €300m+ (£235m+) spend since

seats and bubbles.

figure matched only by a dozen or so linked ski

the turn of the century. The rest of this year’s

Saalbach-Hinterglemm will also now operate

regions worldwide, all in Europe.

LES ARCS SLOPES TO OPEN 11 HOURS DAILY

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART CHAMONIX GONDOLA

Les Arcs in the French Paradiski region shared with La Plagne has

Work on a state-of-the-art new gondola to replace the current Plan Joran

announced a major change in its operations for the coming winter, with

chairlift at Chamonix Valley’s Grands Montets ski area, scheduled to

plans to open the core of its ski area above Arc 1800 from 9am to 8pm

open in December, has continued through the summer.

every day.

The new POMA-built gondola will be faster and can carry more people than

The “brand new space for sharing and entertainment” will be about

the old lift. Each cabin will be able to carry up to ten people (compared to

much more than just skiing and snowboarding.

four previously) and will travel at 6m/s on the 2.35km ascent from the base

It will feature a new toboggan run, a new terrain park, a new “discovery

station to the top station nearly 900 vertical metres above at 2138m.

slope” and beginners area, and an area for children. The area will also

The new lift replaces two older lifts for greater convenience and lower

include off-slope attractions including the resort’s new 3800m water

environmental impact. It is part of a €477m (£376m) investment programme

park, including leisure pool and chutes, with daytime views through a

by the Compagnie du Mont Blanc, to be rolled out over 40 years.

glass wall out towards Mont Blanc.

Extensive renovation work is also ongoing at the Aiguille du Midi, and a

A new gondola with eight-seat cabins that will access all facilities is

new beginners area at Planpraz (Brévent-Flégère ski sector), at a snow-

scheduled to open in 2015.

sure 2000m altitude, is also due to be unveiled next winter.

0151 625 1921 mountainheaven.co.uk 012 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

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LUCA ROLLI

NO S H O R TC U T S It’s the moment when you realize its all been worth it— the pre-dawn wake up’s, the bitter cold, the effort that come’s with each step, each deep breath—now its just you, the mountain, and the descent.

SCOTT-SPORTS.COM © SCOTT SPORTS SA 2014 | Photo: Dom Daher

CHILDREN’S TICKET PRICE STUDY A report on children’s lift ticket prices has been published by the International Ski Federation (FIS). Compiled by InTheSnow’s editor Patrick Thorne, the report details child lift ticket prices charged at 700 ski resorts worldwide last season. “The research showed many simple but creative initiatives, from children under 10 skiing for free, to free lift passes for children on their birthday,” said an FIS statement.

WORLD’S LARGEST INDOOR SKI CENTRE

ANOTHER 6-SEATER La Clusaz will see a second new six-seater chairlift in two years installed for the coming

Construction has begun on

“The town is expected to welcome

ski season. The new lift from Bossonnet to the

northeastern China’s largest cultural

20 million visitors every year,” Liu

Crêt du Merle will in fact be a combination six-

tourism complex, which will contain

Ming, Vice General Manager of

seater and gondola cabins. The new lifts are

the world’s largest indoor ski slope,

Harbin Wanda City Investment Co

part of a 3-year investment programme by the

and is due to open in Harbin, China,

Ltd told China Daily.

in 2017.

Other details so far published

The $3.3bn (£2bn) “Cultural Tourism

include a figure of 1500 slope users

City” will include the first indoor

at any one time, with a capacity for

slope to offer a 100m vertical, and

the entire complex set at 50,000,

will have six separate slopes, say the

which will also include an Olympic-

Wanda group, one of China’s and

sized ice rink, theatre, shopping mall,

Alpe d’Huez says it will complete

the world’s biggest companies, who

4★ and 5★ hotels, restaurants, and a

snowmaking on the full 16km length of its

are behind the project and currently

large cinema complex.

black run down from the resort’s Sarenne

run several conventional ski areas

Other companies working on

in China.

the project include Britain’s Acer

Located in Harbin’s Songbei district,

Snowmec Group.

resort’s lift company SATELC.

SNOWMAKING FOR LONGEST BLACK

glacier in time for the start of next winter on December 6th, 2014. The 10-mile-long run

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

is officially the world’s longest pisted black

GET SKIFIT!

descent. “Everything has been carefully thought out to harmoniously blend the equipment into the surrounding landscape,” said a resort spokesperson.

NEW CHÂTEL SWIM COMPLEX A new ‘aqua centre’ Châtel Forme d’Ô will be open in the French Portes du Soleil resort next winter. The eco-friendly centre

S

as well as developing flexibility and balance. It can be accessed on the website befitapps.com, or downloaded from iTunes.

Each session builds on the previous one, and consists of a warm-up,

THE ART OF SKIING

activation exercises, core work, circuits, coordination exercises, and

The Art of Skiing by Jenny de Gex is a beauti-

a final stretch down. These sessions

ful collection of the finest examples of historic

should be completed two to three

ski poster art, and is due to be published by

times a week, progressing through

Palazzo on 30 October.

the phases as fitness improves.

Organised by country and resort, it uses

kiFit, a new video-based app and

“Last season I treated over 40 ACL

posters from the Beekley Collection – the

online training programme aimed

[anterior cruciate ligament] knee

largest private collection of ski art in the

at skiers and snowboarders who

injuries amongst a series of other

world – to reflect the changing trends in ski-

are serious about getting fit for

ski and snowboard injuries. After

ing fashion and technique, and investigates

their snow-sports holiday, has been

talking with my patients about how

the most popular resorts, their establishment

launched by Chamonix-based

they occurred I became convinced

and development.

physiotherapist and clinical expert,

that many of them could have been

By the turn of the 20th century, skiing had

dining with a lively twist above Verbier

Neil Maclean-Martin.

avoided. I introduced my SkiFit

emerged from its utilitarian origins to become

this season should head to the Crystal

Suitable for all levels of skier, SkiFit

classes last season in Chamonix and

a fashionable sport in both Europe and North

offers a series of over 100 high-

the feedback was outstanding,” said

America, and a wave of new stylish resorts

There’ll be a combination of fresh self-

quality exercises specific to snow

Maclean-Martin, who has worked for

emerged. By the 1930s, skiing was by far the

service food, a gourmet brasserie and

sports, delivered in 60-minute

more than 15 years in the world of

most popular winter pastime for the rich and

a lively mix of cabaret, music and live

guided sessions. The 8-week

elite sport, and is a clinical specialist

famous – combining adventure, fashion and

entertainment on offer, all up at 2200m.

training programme is delivered

in musculoskeletal sports injuries.

exclusivity. The graphic art of the posters ad-

Their stated aim is to “strive to surprise”

over four phases, with the aim of

SkiFit costs £4.99 for Phase One, or

vertising this exhilarating sport have become

improving strength in key muscles,

£9.99 for the full programme.

collectors’ items.

has been built with ecological materials, uses renewable energy and has a green energy system to heat the water. Châtel Forme d’Ô will include a family area and fun areas for children along with saunas, steam rooms and a relaxation room.

GOURMET & CABARET Skiers looking for some high-altitude

Mountain and Ruinettes restaurants.

every afternoon this coming winter.

014 // OCT14

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THE ALPINE ROCKFEST RETURNS The Alpine Rockfest, which brings together some of the world’s greatest ski racers competing to win a big cash prize, and an après-ski rock concert just before Christmas, is back for 2014.

Staged at Paganella ski area above the Italian village of Andalo, Trentino, this exciting innovation in ski racing was first staged in 2009, when French Alpine skier Cyprien Richard defeated the best Olympic skiers in the world to win the largest single cash price in skiing history.

The Rockfest format consists of 20 top Olympic ski stars racing through four successive rounds of sprint giant slalom, with five athletes being eliminated in each round. The final “Winner-Takes-All” round involves the last five athletes, competing for a €75,000 prize (around £59,000).

Last year’s winner was American Ted Ligety, who also won in 2011. He was competing against 19 more of the world’s best, including Aksel Lund Svindal, Bode Miller, Dominik Paris, and Christoph Innerhofer. alpinerockfest.com

IN-CHALET RIFLE RANGE Luxury ski holiday company Scott Dunn (scottdunn.com) has several new chalet choices in Val d’Isère this winter.

Chalet Husky comes complete with games rooms that feature a climbing wall, archery and rifle shooting. To avoid damage to people or property, the archery is a grown-up version of childhood bows and arrows, with suction cups on the arrows, while the rifles are the non-lethal laser variety. Über-contemporary in design, this superb chalet, which sleeps up to 14 across seven en suite bedrooms, also has a stylish wellness area complete with large pool with infinity waterfall, sauna, Jacuzzi, and massage rooms. Guests also benefit from Scott Dunn’s famous fully comprehensive chalet service from a team of dedicated professionals.

Holidays cost from £1275pp, based on full occupancy, and include return British Airways flights, transfers, in-resort driver service, and a private chef and host.

015 // NOV14

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE  MAIN PIC: MATHIAS PRÄGANT

016 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM

DANIEL GOLLNER

around 50 saunas – in truth, BKK was a spa resort for centuries before skiing was even thought of.

There were also quite a few 4 and 5★ hotels set back from the road; I had not realised before that Bad Kleinkirchheim was a little more upmarket than the average ski resort, although it was still, as it transpired, friendly and relaxed.

I was booked in at the 4★ Trattlerhof, a historic inn that

BAD KLEINKIRCHHEIMER

B

village, 21 of them in hotels, which are also home to

was first mentioned in records nearly 500 years ago in 1520 (although licensed to serve alcohol much more recently in 1642), and since 1884 it has been managed by five generations of the Forstnig family, the latest of whom, Jakob, is a friendly, knowledgeable, efficient and attentive host.

The hotel has large rooms, an excellent restaurant, a spacious spa (which I had to myself when I visited) and its own cosy separate slopeside bar and restaurant, the

ad Kleinkirchheim has always intrigued me.

Einkehr. There are also adjacent horse-riding stables

There are three main reasons. First, the name – it’s

from which sleigh rides are organised. Rather than

wonderful and translating it to “bath – small – church

resting on their laurels with all that history, Jakob and

– home” just adds to the appeal, as does the cool

his family are pusing into the 21st Century by becoming

abbreviation it’s commonly referred to as: BKK.

the first hotel in the region to win the Austrian Eco-Label

Second, there’s the location – it’s in the opposite

award, having installed a charging station for electric

corner of Austria to most of the resorts we know

cars in the car park.

and love in the Tyrol, Salzburgerland and Styria. BKK

I was on to the slopes next

stands tall in the south west, a short hop from Slovenia

morning, which extend to over

and Italy – so it’s a bit different.

100km in a large L shape

And finally, there’s my all-time skiing hero, being of that

around the resort, one

generation, Franz Klammer, who calls BKK home and

side of it following an

does a lot to promote the place worldwide. They’re so

adjacent valley to

proud of him, understandably, that they named one of

the neighbouring

the best pistes after him.

village of St

In fact there must be something in the local mineral

Oswald,

water, as the surprise winner of the downhill at

making the

Sochi last February, Matthias Mayer, comes from the

distance

neighbouring village.

from one side

BKK was a fixture in British ski brochures for the last three

of the whole

decades of the last century, but it quietly disappeared

area to the other

from them a few years ago, a victim perhaps of its

quite substantial.

isolation from other big name resorts which make it more

There’s a good mix of

economically challenging to justify the flights.

terrain, the vast majority of

So I was delighted to be told at the end of last winter

it below the treeline level with

that Inghams were bringing it back for the coming ski

classic blue, red and black trails

season, and that I would get a chance to go visit.

cut through the forested slopes.

It turned out that while it had taken me 35 years of ski

Most famous is run number 8 directly

holidays to finally reach BKK, I’d picked a good season.

above Bad Kleinkirchheim itself, the Franz Klammer

North-eastern Austria was having a surprisingly lean

World Cup run. If you’re lucky enough to be in BKK on

winter for snow cover, but the locals were all keen to

one of a few select dates, you may get the chance to

explain that typically if snow is not so good on one

ski with the great man himself on that run and several

side of Austria, it’s better on the other, and vice versa.

of his other favourites.

So it was that despite arriving near the end of the

There’s a good mix of lifts too, 25 in total, with several

season in March, cover was still excellent. Maybe the

gondolas and four quad chairlifts, but also rather a lot

cast arsenal of 800 snowguns pointing at 97% of BKK’s

of T-bars and old double chairs in need of a makeover.

slopes helped too.

All in all, there’s plenty to keep everyone from

As I arrived I recognised a fairly standard Austrian ski

beginners to the less demanding expert entertained

resort, perhaps a mile long, fanning out from the main

for a week.

street with ski areas on each side of that road. What

Sometimes when you visit a ski resort you’ve known

was a little different was the sight of two large public

about for over three decades but never actually

swimming pool and spa complexes in the very heart of

been to, it’s a bit of an anti-climax, as it does not live

the resort – because the Bad in the name isn’t just there

up to what you envisaged in your mind’s eye. Other

by chance; this is a spa resort as well as a ski one.

times it’s exactly what you expected. Thankfully,

Indeed the resort’s motto is “from the piste to the

Bad Kleinkirchheim exceeded expectations, with a

spas”, and the spectacular Römerbad (Roman baths)

nice ski area, great people, excellent food and a few

thermal centre is located right at the bottom of the

pleasant surprises, such as the extent of the après-

slopes, with admission included in the ski pass price,

ski spa culture – although if I’d paid attention more

so you can, if you wish, literally dive straight in after

to the ‘Bad’ in its name and less to Klammer and

your day on the slopes.

Kleinkirchheim, I would have been aware of that.

It’s the biggest of more than 20 swimming pools in the

So I’m very glad that Inghams are going back.

BAD KLEINKIRCHHEIM Inghams offer 7 nights staying at the 4★ Hotel Trattlerhof from £794 or at the 4★ Hotel Eschenhof from £854, both on a half-board basis and including flights from Gatwick to Ljubljana and resort transfers.

Ski pack items can be pre-booked with Inghams: 6 days full area lift pass from £189 (adult) £95 (child) 6 days standard ski and boot hire from £110 (adult) £70 (child) inghams.co.uk / 01483 791 114 badkleinkirchheim.at trattlerhof.at

ARNO GRUBER SEN

017 // OCT14

ELECTRIC CAR RENTAL A fleet of 40 Renault Twizy electric cars will be available to rent at French ski area Serre Chevalier this winter. Each Twizy seats two people and is equipped with ski carrier and snow tyres. They can be hired for €20 a day or €60 a week. Serre Chevalier has also replaced the Croix de la Nore draglift with a quad chairlift.

SKI BUTLERS The luxurious new Chedi Andermatt (thechedi-andermatt.com) will offer a ‘Ski Butler’ service to its guests this winter. The Butlers will carry guests’ skis to and from the slopes, as well as store and service them, and also sort out rentals, provide tips on the day’s conditions and best powder stashes as well as organise transport by ski bus to and from local skis areas.

THE SKI SLOPES TO YOURSELF? Guests of the 5 Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa, Switzerland, which features one of the ski world’s biggest spas and a unique personal funicular lift linking hotel to ski pistes, can enjoy the slopes to themselves from 27 – 30 November. Half board ‘Private Mountain’ packages including 3 nights in a deluxe double room, ski pass and spa access cost from CHF 960 (£628) per person. tschuggen.ch

PRINCE RECREATES ST MORITZ Party planners recreated the atmosphere of St Moritz within Kensington Palace for Prince Harry’s 30th birthday last month.

A drawing room in the Palace was decorated with St Moritz themed décor and 30 lucky guests were invited to the exclusive party, plus Harry’s brother William

SPEED RIDING WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT

A

WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

in the Ortler Alps ahead of his

start will be crucial. Because from

record attempt, the date for which

that point on there is no way back

is yet to be decided.

and I will have to try to make the

The speed rider needs to get used

best of it. From that point on I will

to the extreme conditions of the

have to face it all alone.”

height, and at the same time try to

Olaf Reinstadler, mountain rescuer

better understand the mountain

from the Alpine School Ortler,

and its weather conditions.

confirmed that the success of the

“This unique attempt from almost

attempt will depend not only on

4000m requires enormous

Senoner’s skills and ability, but

young Italian man, Armin

physical as well as mental

also the mountain itself, which

Senoner, has announced that

strength,” said Senoner.

plays an important role, as the line

he will be attempting to break

“With efficient training both can

of sight, snow, fog, and all other

A newly-launched avalanche airbag from Black

the Guinness World Record for

be strengthened. [On] the day

weather conditions will not be

Diamond is claiming an industry first as it uses

speed riding this season.

of the record attempt, besides

under his control, so an element

jet-fan inflation rather than compressed air.

Speed riding is a combination

weather and snow conditions, the

of good luck is needed also.

The company says that jet-fan inflation is a

JET-FAN INFLATION AVALANCHE AIRBAG

of skiing and parachuting, a

breakthrough system that draws air from an

relatively new extreme winter

unlimited source – the atmosphere. The result

sport that was invented in France.

is that the pack is stable, can be used more

The current Guinness World

than once, and doesn’t cause issues when

Record of 146.46km/h is held by

carried on planes.

Frenchman François Bon.

The compact lithium ion battery powered fan can

French chalet operator Le Ski reports that

Together with his manager

inflate a 200L bag in just 3.5s, followed by top-up

long stalks on an Alpine flower mean a

Bartolomeus Kohl, Senoner

bursts. The bag also carries out self-diagnosis, with

aims to fly from the 3859m-high

LED lights indicating if it is functioning correctly.

Königspitze, situated in Italy’s

The bag automatically deflates 3 minutes after

Ortler Alps, and reach a speed of

inflation to create an air pocket to help survival

season is coming. Well the Gentianes are

over 150km/h.

and rescue.

higher than we’ve ever seen them at the

Senoner, who hails from Val

The bag comes in 11L, 28L and 40L sizes, and

moment – so there is ‘proof’ of what is to

Gardena, began training at the

is stocked by Snow & Rock, Ellis Brigham, and

end of the 2013–14 winter season

other leading snow-sports retailers.

and Harry’s sister-in-law Kate, who were said to be the party planners.

BIG FLOWERS = BIG SNOW snowy winter is on the way.

“When the ‘Gentiane’ grows high in autumn the locals say that a big snow

come!” said a company spokesperson.

0018 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM

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FINLAND’S LARGEST RESORT NOW LARGER Finland’s largest ski resort, Levi, is undergoing a major expansion ahead of the 2014–15 ski season with a new “Levi South” area.

The new area will open in December, and will significantly increase the size of the ski area and services on offer.

A new six-seater chairlift with seat heating and pull-down bubble hood is being built with a capacity for 3000 additional skiers per hour to serve the new area. There will also be a new ski pass office, rental and ski service shop, ski school, and play area for children.

The existing restaurant, Sivakka, is being enlarged to seat 60 further guests.

Levi will now have 45 downhill slopes and 26 lifts, with the longest piste being 2.5km. Many of the slopes are lit until 7pm during the darker winter months, and cross-country skiing is popular with hundreds of kilometres of trails. bit.ly/1B3BC0d

ALPINEGURU

MORE LUX CHALETS? New working laws imposed on chalet companies operating in Switzerland, requiring them to pay staff a minimum wage of £2238 per month, have led to numerous mainstream British mid-level chalet operators pulling out of the country, or significantly reducing their offering, leaving large numbers of chalets without operators.

Oli Corkhill, founder of luxury ski holiday broker Alpine Guru (alpineguru.com), says this could be good news for wealthier skiers and boarders.

“We’re predicting that many of the chalets vacated by the massmarket operators will be snapped up by luxury developers and renovated for the high-end market,” said Corkhill. “This will be very welcome in resorts such as Zermatt, where demand outstrips supply during peak periods for the high-end market.”

This season, Alpine Guru will be offering 184 chalets in 12 Swiss resorts, an increase of 20% from 2013–14.

019 // NOV14

ROSS WOODHALL

Fine tuning the sidewalls by hand.

PFD SKIS LIFE IN PICS

Ski templates, made

by CNC to insure 100% accuracy.

In 2011 a young designer’s passion for skiing led to the creation of Pure Freeride Design.

Using a perfect blend of materials, design know-how and a ‘no gimmick’ attitude to freeride skiing, PFD have now refined, tested and perfected their unique line of skis with an elegant bamboo finish and are producing small quantities of carefully handcrafted skis for a

Tools of the trade.

limited number of passionate skiers each season.

HISTORY After Rupert Gammond finished a product design degree at Leeds he went straight to the mountains, making his home in Alpe d’huez and working six seasons to enjoy his passion

Dimensions are checked to create the correct flex.

for skiing in the amazing freeride playground. After years of skiing every day, bouncing ideas and dreaming up the perfect designs, PFD began in a purpose-built workshop in the Worcestershire countryside. The following 2 years were dedicated to using the best possible materials in creating and developing a range of prototypes. Working with friends and contacts in Sweden, Japan, and France contributed to the success of the designs. PFD Skis are designed and developed by skiers, for skiers.

Die cutting the logo.

020 // OCT14

Cutting as close to the steel edge as possible.

PFDSKIS.COM

SKI YOGA AND CIRCUS SKILLS CAMP

“LEARN TO SKI” FOR SOLOS

WHISTLER GONDOLA’S NEW CABINS

Outdoor holiday company Green Adventure Retreats

Friendship Travel, which is a specialist tour operator for singles, has

Whistler Blackcomb is installing new eight-passenger gondola cabins for

(greenadventureretreats.com) has an unusual (and affordable) holiday

announced more “learn to ski” holidays in its programme for 2014–15,

their workhorse of a lift, the Whistler Village Gondola, at a cost of around

option for families heading to France over New Year.

which includes seven resorts in France, Italy, and Austria.

$6m (£3.7m).

The Family New Year 2015 Ski Yoga and Circus Camp runs from 27

For first-time skiers, extra learn to ski weeks are being provided

“The original cabins have been loading our guests onto Whistler

December–3 January in Vallorcine, near Chamonix. The trip caters

based at the Chalethotel La Bérangère in Les Deux Alpes, where

Mountain since 1988,” said Dave Brownlie, President and Chief

for all levels of skier, from complete beginner to experienced powder

prices for a 7-night holiday start at £1095pp inclusive of return London

Operating Officer at Whistler Blackcomb. “These sleek new cabins are

hound, and even caters for non-skiers with yoga, snowshoeing, circus

Gatwick flights (other airports available), transfers, chalet-board

set to dramatically improve the experience for skiers, snowboarders

workshops, and glacier visits on the agenda.

accommodation, hire of boots and skis (or boards), lift pass, and 5 full

and sightseers. Eight passengers will be able to sit comfortably with

Priced at £655 for 12 years and up, £525 for those aged 7–11, £395 for

days of lessons.

their gear in outside racks, and the new configuration is set to improve

3–6-year-olds, and £100 for under-3s, the holiday includes all meals, a

Prices across the range for the 2014–15 programme start from £695pp

capacity for the Whistler Village Gondola by 12 per cent through four

Mont Blanc Unlimited Ski Pass worth €280 (£220), daily yoga, circus

for 7 nights in January at the Hotel Cristallo in Courmayeur in Italy, and

additional cabins and greater loading efficiency.”

skills, and outdoor activities, plus a New Year’s Eve raclette and disco.

for singles who fancy spending Christmas on the slopes, a week at the

The gondola is currently closed to install the new cabins for the coming

“The only catch is that you have to share a room with your children!”

Chalethotel Dahu in Courchevel 1850, France, is priced from £995pp.

season. The lift terminals for the Whistler Village Gondola at the base, at

says organiser Saskia Anley-McCallum, adding, “This holiday is about

The prices include sole occupancy of a twin or double room (but

the mid Olympic Station, and at the top Roundhouse Lodge will also see

community, sustainability, skiing, playing and family fun! Apart from

discounts apply to those willing to share with a fellow guest), and the

improvements to enhance the functionality of the interior space, as well

being a wonderful ski holiday it creates strong friendships, leaving a

services of a local host who arranges everything from airport transfers

as the terminal appearance. An additional $5.9m (£3.6m) will also be

deep impression.”

to obtaining lift passes. friendshiptravel.com

allocated to further information technology initiatives

WHERE TO SKI THIS OCTOBER t’s an open secret that if you’re truly

shape. You also have the opportunity to try out

and Gstaad, will re-open on the 25 October.

addicted to snow, you don’t need to

the new season’s gear ahead of the crowds.

October is, of course, too early for predicting how

wait until the “main” ski season starts in

Austria traditionally has the most areas open in

good a winter 2014–15 might be, but there were

November to get your fix.

October, many of them hosting opening festivals

big falls in the Alps at the start of September, and

You don’t have to fly down to the

with gear testing, and Oktoberfest beer tents.

in North America in mid-August (the picture is from

southern hemisphere either (where the

Sölden goes as far as staging the first World

Panorama in British Columbia, Canada), which help

2014 season is currently winding down),

Cup ski racing in the northern hemisphere on its

get everyone excited even if they’re no guarantee

more than a dozen leading glacier ski

glacier slopes. Other Austrian areas to try include

that a big thaw ain’t gonna hit in mid-autumn.

areas have opened already for winter

the Kaunertal, Stubai, Mölltal, Kitzsteinhorn,

Snowmaking usually kicks off at non-glacier resorts

2014–15, although to be fair a couple

Pitztal, and Dachstein glaciers.

aiming to open in late-October by now – high

– the Hintertux glacier in Austria and

Elsewhere in the Alps: Cervinia, Passo Tonale,

ski slopes in Colorado, like Arapahoe Basin, and

Zermatt in Switzerland – have never

and Val Senales are re-opening in Italy, as is

northerly latitude ones in Scandinavia, like Ruka in

really closed since last winter. If you don’t

Tignes in France after a brief closure following

Finland, will all be hoping to open by the middle of

want even to go as far as the Alps, there are our

their summer ski season. Swiss options include

the month. Elsewhere, Banff in Canada is one of the

six indoor snow centres to try too, of course.

Saas-Fee and the Diavolezza glaciers near St

few areas that has a fairly fixed opening date for its

Boarding or skiing in October may seem surreal,

Moritz, and Glacier 3000, between Les Diablerets

first slopes – this Halloween, 31 October.

but it has its advantages. First up, not many other people are doing it, so you can expect low air fares, hotel prices, and discounted lift tickets, as well as fairly empty pistes. And if you’re getting nervous about high prices, and heaving roads, hotels, and pistes in France during the February school half-term holidays, why not consider going in the October/November holidays instead, when none of these factors will be an issue?

OK, the pistes available tend to be high in altitude, and limited in scope to 10 or 20km of usually easy to intermediate level stuff, but that’s enough to give most of us a fix, and if you like your freestyle the parks are often in tip-top

022 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

DOVER to CALAIS 16 crossings a day.

Car + 7 skiers and all their gear.

£35

*

www.myferrylink.com

I’m furry happy my skis go free!

SKI HOSTING CASE GOING TO HIGH COURT

F

lost its initial appeal in Chambery

of British tour operators offering free

all British tour operators ceased

last month.

orientation tours of the easy slopes

offering the ski hosting service

The ruling in Chambery confirmed

to their clients on arrival in resort.

in France, although several offer

the original verdict – that ski

This service is commonly offered in

non-skiing advice or work with ski

hosting is illegal in France – but

ski areas around the world, and is

schools to provide a similar service

substantially reduced the amount

frequently provided by the resorts

where feasible. Ten leading British

of damages that had been awarded

themselves in North America,

tour operators have backed Le

to the École du Ski Français.

but has long been a cause of

Ski’s case that argues the verdict

“Le Ski has instructed their lawyer

contention in France (and a few

is inconsistent with French law, in

to submit an appeal to the supreme

Austrian resorts), with ski schools

which, they dispute, unqualified

court in Paris regarding the ski

claiming it breaks French law as the

people, such as school teachers

hosting case. This is only possible

hosts are, they say, paid ski guides

and civil servants based in France

with the continuing support of our

who do not have acceptable

are allowed to lead groups on

rench chalet ski holiday operator

fellow tour operators,” said Le Ski’s

qualifications to lead members of

French slopes, and is, therefore,

Le Ski is to take its case against

Managing Director Nick Morgan.

the public on French slopes.

discriminatory and unjustifiable

the ski hosting ban in France to

The roots of the case go back many

Le Ski was taken to court over the

under EU law.

the supreme court in Paris, having

decades but surround the practice

matter in 2013, and at this time

WORLD SNOW DAY REPORT The FIS World Snow Day has published its results for its third staging, which took place on 19 January this year.

World Snow Day is part of the FIS’s “Bring Children to the Snow” campaign, which encourages more families and children to try snow sports.

On the day itself hundreds of ski resorts around the world organise fun events, teaching, and free or discounted lift passes for children and families.

In the end 610 different ski areas, dry slopes, snowdomes, and other organisers took part in World Snow Day 2014 in 35 countries around the world, with 549,000 participants – making it the biggest and most successful yet.

Planning for the 2015 event, which will take place on 18 January 2015, is

The only

D O V E R

already well underway with most of those who staged events last year saying they plan to take part again, and new organisers already being added, with

T O

C A L A I S

F E R R Y

the likely result that the fourth World Snow Day will be bigger still.

recommended by ferrets

0844 2482 100 Terms and conditions apply. *Each way, price subject to availability.

024 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

AURÉLIEN DUCROZ_DAN FERRER

 PROMOTION

& STILL MADE IN FRANCE

D

SPONSORED ATHLETES

expeditions around the world.

2012, Dynastar was rewarded with an official

What makes Dynastar’s products so

certification for its products, which are now

special is their innate ability to adapt to

labelled “Guaranteed Made in France”.

each destination, every project, and every

This guarantee is issued by an independent

individual skier’s desire on the slopes. Each

organisation and is based on two criteria that

Dynastar’s sponsored

one is designed to offer superior adaptability.

the company must satisfy at the same time:

athletes include:

Once they have been put through their

the main specifications of the production

paces at the base camp, they are ready for

process are French, and at least 50% of the

Marion Josserand

the journey, and are set to deliver a new

manufacturing cost is of French origin.

Olympic medallist at

range of emotions.

Vancouver 2010

Since 1963, the legendary site of the

POWERTRACK

Chamonix-Mont Blanc valley has forged

Dynastar make skis for all types of skiers –

Jean-Frédéric Chapuis

Dynastar’s identity, and shaped the

all mountain, freeride, ski cross, ski touring

2013 World Champion

personality of its products – technical and

and free touring. There is also a special

ynastar, the world-famous ski company, has

high-performance skis for committed and

junior range for children.

Jonas Devouassoux

just celebrated its 50th birthday.

passionate skiers.

This season the company launches the

7x World Cup top 10 finalist

Established in the shadow of Mont Blanc,

all-new Powertrack, an all mountain ski that

GUARANTEED MADE IN FRANCE

offers incredible handling and versatility. The

Arnaud Bovolenta

building its foundations, and forging its

Powertrack range ingeniously combines the

7x World Cup top 10 finalist

values year after year. Today the resort of

These days, more and more famous ski brands

qualities of its CR skis with the performance

Chamonix remains Dynastar’s natural choice

are actually made in giant factories in Asia

of its CHAM skis, in a bid to set the new

for its base camp and work laboratory,

and Eastern Europe. Dynastar’s cutting-edge

gold standard in the all mountain category.

and the company is currently looking at

factory in the Chamonix valley is the only

Powertrack skis are designed for proficient and

Chamonix to serve as a launch pad for new

remaining production site for skis in France. In

expert skiers that enjoy skiing in all conditions.

the company has been writing its history,

025 // OCT14

FOLIE DOUCE

FUN, BRIGHT AND ETHICALLY MADE IN NEW ZEALAND

BOBSLEIGH EXPERIENCE For the coming winter a new option is to be introduced at La Plagne, which hosted bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton events at the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics, the chance to ride behind the Olympic and World Champion Bruno Mingeon in a real racing bobsleigh assisted by a breaker.

Participants can expect to reach speeds of around 130km/h, and after

Pure Merino

their descent can enjoy drinks with a video of their experience provided, as well as a certificate presented by

Base Layers For Kids Aged 5-12 Years Merino is nature’s most advanced fibre, 100% natural, super soft, and incredibly warm. Merino Monsters base layers regulate body heat so children stay warm and happy on the mountain without over heating.

www.merinomonsters.co.uk

SLOPE OFF THIS WINTER BOOK YOUR TRAIN TO 1000s OF SNOW, SKI & CITY DESTINATIONS THROUGHOUT EUROPE WITH VOYAGES-SNCF.COM

Mingeon.

The descents with Mingeon will be WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

offered during the Christmas holidays,

MEGÈVE GETS FOLIE DOUCE

T

and from March–April 2015, with a maximum of three sessions per week.

Participants must be aged 18 or over, with a maximum of six people in a group. The price is €295 (£232), with a suit provided.. If only one person is interested there’s the possibility to go in a two-seat bobsleigh.

dancing in your ski boots.

“Megève is very French, has a reputation for the best gastronomy in the Alps and a somewhat staid image, dare one say it, when it comes to nightlife. Not somewhere you’d normally associate with extravagant parties and après ski,” says Elizabeth Cahir of the small specialist British operator Stanford Skiing, which has long been established in the resort (stanfordskiing.co.uk).

The new Folie Douce will open at the top of Mont Joux, one of the peaks in the Megève/St Gervais ski area, with a new high-speed six-seater chair accessing

he charming, picturesque French resort of

it. The venue will provide its usual mix

Megève is the latest to see the arrival of a

of cabaret and festive après-ski from

Folie Douce on-mountain apres-ski venue

lunchtime until the pistes close.

this winter. The chain, which is growing

“Is Megève ready? We say bring it on!”

across France, has built a reputation for

says Cahir. “Although we do wonder where

Austrian-style hedonistic après-ski at

the party is going to come from given that

altitude, albeit with a little more Ibiza than

outside of French hols Megève is blessed

traditional Tirol, courtesy of the tabletop

with extremely quiet pistes. Great for those who want to ski; less good for making the party go with a swing!”

Unlike other operators, family-run Stanford

START PLANNING YOUR SKI TRIP TODAY ONLINE: VOYAGES-SNCF.COM

Ski has 15 staff, led by John and his wife Kathryn, in the resort. It owns and operates its own chalets, as well as working with local

CALL: 0844 848 5848

hotels, and operating a transfer service

Weekdays 9am - 7pm, Saturdays 9am - 6pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays closed

to Geneva airport. The company offers

VISIT: VOYAGES-SNCF TRAVEL CENTRE 193 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EU

apartment, chalet, and hotel holidays, with catered chalet prices from £520 per week

Weekdays 10am - 6pm, Saturdays 10am - 5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays closed

P. ROYER

plus flights, and weekend and short breaks

FIND US ON:

from £295 for 3 nights in a catered chalet.

facebook.com/VoyagesSncf.UK twitter.com/VoyagesSncf_UK

026 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

For stockists information call: 01572 770900

Scare Your self WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

028 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM

e r f

ecent years have seen ski areas endeavour to out-do each other on who can create the most exhilarating, or terrifying, attraction for their guests.

Making use of their existing assets – very big mountains, very long drops, and very high lifts – resorts have been busily constructing glass-bottomed balconies hanging over cliffs, 3km-high zip wires, cable cars with see-through floors (or you get to ride on the roof), and a collection of rickety-looking (but in reality very stable, we hope) metal bridges and suspended walkways, thousands of metres above the valley below.

Here’s our quick guide to eight of the top vertigo-challenging attractions in the Alps this winter.

THE PEAK WALK What’s claimed to be the first hanging bridge in the world to connect two peaks with one another has been built at Glacier 3000, a ski area between Les Diablerets and Gstaad in Switzerland.

The 107m-long bridge, named The Peak Walk, hangs 3000m up in the Swiss Alps. Scheduled to open in November, it has cost CHF1.8m (£1.2m) to build. The bridge will be open all year round, and admission will be free (once you’ve bought a lift pass to get up to it).

029 // OCT14

C CATTIN AND VAL THORENS TOURIST OFFICE

CONTINUED...

STEP INTO THE VOID A glass room hanging out over the Chamonix valley has been created 3842m up at the top of the Aiguille du Midi in France.

The structure was built using specially created glass, developed by a French glazing company who specialise in oversized glass.

A transparent film binds three layers of 12mm-thick glass together, without any alteration to its transparency, which means there is no optical effect. The glass plates of the five faces of the structure are held together by mechanical fasteners, which were also specifically developed for this project. The overall design eliminates any metallic structure, which ensures an unobstructed field of view for visitors.

The structure can support a weight up to 1.5 tonnes, but “for greater comfort” a maximum group of four visitors is allowed at any one time.

THE CLIFF WALK Located 3041m above sea level, the 100m-long (and 1m-wide) Titlis Cliff Walk, above Engelberg above Switzerland, is a spectacular suspension bridge accessed by another engineering marvel, the revolving “Rotair” cable car, an all-new improved version of which debuts this winter.

After arriving at the summit, to reach the Cliff Walk visitors pass through an underground tunnel and on to the viewing platform at the south wall window. The suspension bridge stretches from here to the Ice Flyer glacier chairlift station.

“To cross the bridge, you’ll need nerves as strong as the steel cables from which it hangs,” warns the resort’s publicity blurb, adding, sadly, “Please note: the suspension bridge will be closed in bad weather.”

The world’s highest zip wire opened above Val Thorens in France last spring connecting the Maurienne Valley and Tarentaise regions.

At 1300m ( just under a mile) long, and starting at more than 3200m above sea level, visitors ride through the air reaching speeds from 65–105km/h. The 105s-long ride costs €50 (£40), taking you up to 250m above the ground, with the journey designed to mimic that of a flying eagle. The zip wire is reserved for skiers and boarders only, who must be aged 8 years or over and must wear a helmet.

“The moment I launched myself into the void, my heart was beating like crazy. Then, it was an absolute joy, pure ecstasy in which I saw the mountains like never before,” said 34-year-old Thibault, one of the first to try it. “You glide above the landscape with a sense of complete freedom in nature and feel as if you’re not disturbing a thing.”

030 // OCT14

JOELLE BOZON

HIGHEST ZIP WIRE

B. DELAPIERRE

“The moment I launched myself into the void, my heart was beating like crazy”

OPEN-TOP CABLE CAR New cabins installed on the existing cable car to the Dachstein glacier, near Schladming in Austria, have the novelty of an upstairs “balcony”, where up to 10 passengers can get a fresh-air view of the massive Dachstein massif as the lift climbs 1000 vertical metres to 2700m in just over 5 minutes, hanging up to 210m above the south face of the mountain, and requiring no support towers.

Access to the balcony section, open all year round, is on a firstcome, first-served basis, with special access at the lift stations at no additional cost.

DINE OVER THE CLIFF Building mountain restaurants with spectacular views isn’t new, but the Top Mountain Star panorama bar at the top of Obergurgl’s ski area in Austria seems to edge that little bit further towards the void.

Jutting out into the sky 3080m up, the futuristically designed Mountain Star provides spectacular views across the Otztaler Alps from its location at the Wurmkogl ski area at Hochgurgl.

GREAT GLASS ELEVATORS In recent years advances in lift technology have allowed for the creation of new cable cars and gondolas suspended ever higher above the valley below, and with fewer support towers required. In recent installations, including the Peak2Peak in Whistler Blackcomb, which hangs 440m above the ground, it has become obligatory, it seems, to install transparent flooring in at least some of the cabins, so those who want to can ride across looking straight down. Other lifts with this added feature include the Gentianes lift at Verbier in Switzerland, and the 3S Bahn at Kitzbühel in Austria.

THE SKYLINE WALK August saw the opening of the new Skyline walk at Mürren in the spectacular Swiss Jungfrau region.

This platform, an extension of the existing Birg mountain restaurant’s terrace, is situated over a vertical precipice, offering stunning and exhilarating panoramic views.

“The Skyline Walk platform is a mainly steel and glass structure with a steel grill walkway,” according to a resort statement. “Its angular shape connects seamlessly with the exposed Birg Station and the irregular cliff formations of the surrounding landscape.”

The transparent nature of the structure allows for unimpeded views of the entire mountain panorama as well as heady views into the depths.

THE DACHSTEIN SKY WALK Once you have reached the Dachstein glacier on your roof-top cable-car ride, the fun doesn’t need to end there as what the centre claims is the most spectacular viewing platform in the Alps awaits.

Right next to the Dachstein cable-car top station the Dachstein Sky Walk stretches out over the void.

Beneath your feet there’s the 250-metre sheer rock cliff face of the Hunerkogel, and all around you a stunning mountain panorama with views as far as the Triglav Mountains in Slovenia or north to the Bohemian Forest of the Czech Republic.

And that’s not all, because the highest mountain in southern Austria is also home to the Dachstein Suspension bridge, a metal structure hanging over a 400m void – yet another big drop to peer down into.

Still need more thrills? Well you could always go skiing or snowboarding. The Dachstein glacier’s five lifts are open most days of the year.

INTHESNOW.COM // OCT14 // 031

150 YEARS OF WINTER TOURISM

It was almost 150 years ago to the day that the then owner of the Kulm Hotel (kulm.com), Johannes Badrutt, made a bold bet promising the last departing British summer guests of 1864 a free winter stay if their winter holiday in St Moritz was not as good as the summer.

After a great winter, those Brits spread the word, starting winter tourism.

LAAX PIPE TO BE MADE LONGER LAAX, home of the annual Burton European Open and a year-round indoor

HELI-SKIING ROADSHOW

freestyle snow-sports training centre, is one of the world’s leading areas for

Whether you are an experienced

representatives of CMH Heli-skiing in

watch the latest CMH Heli-skiing movies.

Bristol – Mon 10 November.

freestyle skiing and boarding. The Swiss

heli-skier or someone considering

British Columbia, Canada, the company

Special guest, the experienced CMH

Manchester – Tues 11 November.

resort already has four snow parks, a

heli-skiing for the first time, you have

that invented heli-skiing 50 years ago

Mountain Guide Roko Koell, will provide

Oxford – Wed 12 November.

super pipe, a mini pipe and a freestyle

the opportunity to join Pure Powder at

and are today the largest and most

his insights into heli-skiing in Canada.

Central London – Thurs 13 November.

slope, and this winter it is extending its

their CMH Heli-skiing presentations this

experienced heli-ski operator in the world.

super pipe by 40m to give it an impressive

coming November to learn more about

At Pure Powder’s relaxed evening

DATES AND VENUES:

Each event starts at 6.30pm. For

this ultimate ski experience.

presentations you will be treated to

London (1st Timers) – Tues 4 November.

more info and to register go to: www.

Pure Powder are the official UK

drinks and canapés, and you will get to

Edinburgh – Thurs 6 November.

purepowder.com/cmhevents.cfm

total length of 200m.

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TESTED - PROVEN - TRUSTED

South Tyrol ...

Italy with a twist

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South Tyrol is Italy at its best – with an added dash of Alpine influence. Discerning skiers enjoy guaranteed snow coverage on 90% of slopes, cosy mountain huts and an awe-inspiring backdrop of the Dolomites. Add to that, 300 days of sunshine a year, delicious food fusing Italian and alpine flavours and quality regional wines and it’s clear to see why South Tyrol really is Italy with a twist. www.suedtirol.info

12/18/11 4:46 PM

07.indd 1

1/4/12 10:29 AM

Win a WEEK

for 2 to Les

Arcs Voyages-sncf.com, the UK’s leading provider of European rail tickets and passes is offering a chance to win 7 nights in a Pierre & Vacances Hotel in Les Arcs area and plus ski equipment. To enter visit inthesnow.com/competition You’ll travel from London to the heart

per hour. The lucky winners will

courtesy of Pierre et Vacances.

of the French Alps by first class rail,

stay in a one bedroom self-catering

To be in with a chance of winning,

travelling at speeds of up to 320km

apartment in the resort of Les Arcs

just answer this simple question:

Terms & Conditions: Entrants must be aged 18 or over and must be UK residents. Prize is non-transferable. There is no monetary alternative. Prize must be taken between Saturday January 17 and Saturday January 24 2015, is for 7 nights for 2 people. Rail travel will be on Eurostar services from London to Paris and on TGV services from Paris to Bourg Saint Maurice.Prize includes return rail travel for 2 people from London to Bourg Saint Maurice in standard premier class on Eurostar and in first class on TGV services (subject to availability); accommodation for 2 people in a 1 bedroom self-catering apartment in Les Arcs. The following are not included – transfers to and from the departure stations and resort; ski hire; lift passes; insurance; food and other sundries.

What is the name of the UK’s leading provider of European rail tickets?: 1. SNCF-Voyager.com 2. Voyages.com 3. Voyages-sncf.com

POWER STATION PISTE MAP The company currently constructing the

half of the power plant’s exterior shell. The

artificial surface cross-country trails and ice

giant Amager Bakke waste-to-energy plant

green will snake all the way round to the base

rink surfaces are planned.

in Copenhagen, Denmark, which will feature

of the building, with the blue and black runs

The plant is due to be completed in 2017 and

a dry ski slope descending the sides of the

filtering into it at the midway point.

will burn 70 tonnes of waste per hour, treating

building has revealed a piste map showing

Access to the top of the building will be via

around 400,000 tonnes of waste annually,

exactly what type of terrain will be available to

elevators. The piste map also shows cross-

produced by 500,000–700,000 inhabitants

skiers and boarders.

country ski runs and ice skating at the base

and, at least, 46,000 companies. It will supply a

The plant will feature green (very easy), blue

of the building. It is not clear whether this is

minimum of 50,000 households with electricity,

(easy), and black (difficult) runs on the upper

intended to be possible for cold winters, or if

and 120,000 households with district heating.

F_180w_240h_ITS.pdf

1

16/09/2014

16:20

DOES YOUR EQUIPMENT PERFORM AS WELL AS IT SHOULD...?

4 VALLÉES SURVIVES BITTER DISAGREEMENT C

The 4 Vallées ski area in Switzerland, which was under threat due to a serious disagreement about income share by the different lift companies that run it, will remain intact after all following

M

Y

negotiations between those companies, and a renewed 18-year

CM

agreement has been signed.

MY

The 4 Vallées claims to be Switzerland’s largest ski area, with 400k of runs, which encompasses the trails above the neighbouring resorts of Nendaz, Veysonnaz, Verbier, and Thyon. During the period of disagreement this summer, Verbier went as far as suggesting a new Verbier-only area would be created, with around 200km of runs.

Aware of the importance of finding a solution for the 2014–15 winter season, talks and negotiations between the four participating lift companies were conducted by State Councillor Jacques Melly, who helped them reach a solution. They say they are now committed to strengthening their collaboration.

“We welcome this positive outcome as this is great news for skiers holidaying in the Verbier 4 Vallées area,” said Pierre-Andre Gremaud, Director at Verbier/Val de Bagnes – La Tzoumaz Promotion SA. The areas previously disagreed some years ago when the break-up of the 4 Vallées was also threatened between seasons, but this was again resolved before the snow arrived.

A 6-day adult 4 Vallées lift pass costs CHF355 (£232).

CY

CMY

K

Recent innovations in technology means ski equipment is better than it’s ever been before.

Ski boots are much more customizable, as plastic shells can now be heat moulded and shaped to the lumps and bumps in your feet. Have you improved since you bought your current boots?

Are they still comfortable making you reluctant to upgrade them?

A pair of custom fitted boots will be more comfortable than you can possibly imagine and give better performance than your old ski boots ever could.

Have your skis seen better days? Can you ski everything you want to?

Skis have now become much more versatile and user friendly helping you to ski in all snow conditions.

If you choose the correct ski shape and ability level, you will see huge changes in your progression and enjoyment.

Come and visit us today to ensure you have the correct advice from experienced equipment specialists before you invest in your next pair of boots and skis.

Bringing you the largest specialist range of skis & boots in the UK and advice and expertise since 1965.

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

Custom boot fitting specialists. Ski Industries Of Great Britain official ski testers.

“WINNER OF THE WORLD SNOW AWARDS - BEST UK SPECIALIST RETAILER”

FREERIDE | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATIONAL @INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

Ski Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP T:020 8848 0040 | E:info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com

Ski holidays

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from

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GET YOUR SKIS ON! The new season is nearly here and there’s no better feeling than being back on the slopes. Take advantage of our early booking prices and choose from our portfolio of hand-picked chalet hotels in some of the finest, snow-sure resorts in the Alps.

Check out our new chalet hotels in Tignes & Zell am See Mark Warner ski holidays include: Direct Flights | Resort Transfers | Accommodation Welcome Drinks & Canapés | Breakfast | Afternoon Tea | 3 Course Dinner with Wine Evening Childcare | Ski Hosting* | Lift Pass Collection Service

markwarner.co.uk | 0844 273 6825 Val d’Isère | Tignes | Les Deux Alpes | La Plagne | Courchevel 1850 | Méribel | Courmayeur | St Anton | Zell am See ATOL1176 protected. *Courmayeur only. Price shown is per person based on two people sharing, apply to 7 nights at Chalet Hotel Moris, Val d’Isère departing 19/04/15, is subject to availability, cannot be combined or offered in retrospect and can be withdrawn at any time. Facilities & inclusives vary between resorts. See website for full terms & conditions.

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 PROMOTION

WILDER

KAISER REASON ONE INSPIRING SCENERY Located a little way east of Innsbruck, beneath the mighty Wilder Kaiser

speedy routes or family favourites, like the moonlight toboggan run at

mountain range in the Austrian Alps, are the traditional ski resorts of Söll,

Hochsöll. Here you will also find the largest night skiing area in Tirol with 10km of floodlit slopes.

Going, Ellmau and Scheffau. Each village has its own personality and direct access using a network of 90 ski lifts to Austria’s largest

REASON FOUR TIROLEAN HOSPITALITY

interconnecting skiing area, the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, with 280km of slopes.

The genuine welcome received in the Wilder

REASON TWO AUSTRIA’S LARGEST SKI AREA

Kaiser region goes a long way to help make this area extra special for visitors. On the mountain there are more than 70 rustic ski huts, providing an authentic mountain

With 280km of slopes providing perfect intermediate territory, the wide and open pistes are immaculately groomed, flattering all

WILDER KAISER FURTHER INFO

atmosphere and serving the best mountain food – just what you need for a well-earned break from all the action.

skiers and boarders whatever their skill level.

You can ski all day without taking the same

Independent packages start from €386

lift or the same run twice. Each year the area

per person for “Super Ski Weeks” to the

spends big on upgrades which make it even

Wilder Kaiser, including a 25% discount

better still.

on the whole holiday – 7 nights accom-

REASON THREE APRÈS-SKI ACTIVITIES

REASON FIVE ON-MOUNTAIN CHILDCARE

modation on B&B, 6-day ski pass, on ski

Dropping the children off at ski kindergarten

hire and ski school and a Wilder Kaiser

then having to make your way up the mountain

Guest Card (offer valid 6 – 19 Dec 2014

is not the most efficient use of time, especially

and 14 March – 12 April 2015).

if you have to turn around and reverse the process after a few runs in order to be there for pick-up time. In Scheffau, head to the top

Beyond the slopes, try a horse-drawn sleigh

station of the Brandstadl lift as a family, where

ride through the picturesque scenery, or try Alpine curling or ice skating. With 14km of toboggan runs on five dedicated

children will love the Schneepiraten Kids Club and parents can get straight

runs, tobogganing is a “must do”. Choose from romantic forest tracks,

on to the slopes.

WILDERKAISER.INFO

037 // OCT14

threevalleetransfers ION CAMERAS

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English tag b & w

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Woodsy dominated the finals, with a first run

of the BSS Park and Pipe Squad have come

score of 93.3, and stayed on top for the remain-

together to encourage people to “get involved”

der of the three runs, cementing the win with a

and join BSS to help park and pipe get better

score of 96.7 in the second run.

representation in the organisation.

“My first run was good, but I knew I had more to

That means anyone who is already in some way

give,” said Woods, “When the level of competition

involved in freestyle or freeski should consider

is so high you can’t play around. My goal is always

joining BSS via:

to ski the best I can so I wanted to improve. I’m re-

teambss.org.uk/about-us/join-us/

ally proud of the rail section and the kickers were

“The GB Park and Pipe Team have a strong foun-

smooth. I went big and that felt good.”

dation and we are keen to build on the recent

But the issue BSS faces is that its current mem-

successes in Sochi, maintaining the progression

bership is

and to be

dominated by

able to chal-

representatives of the traditional Alpine disciplines – downhill and

“The level of the competition is so high you can’t play around. My goal is always to ski the best I can so I wanted to improve”

lenge for multi medals in snowsports in the upcoming years,” said

eam GB famously did great things in park and

slalom – but

pipe at the Sochi Olympics, and in other world-

it is having

class competitions, but British Ski and Snow-

to vote on a

board (BSS), the governing body of British snow

policy that

sports, has warned that future success may be

rewards

under threat if more “regular” people don’t sign

success. Consequently, in the run-up to the 2018

who added, “We need as many people with an

up as members of the organisation.

Olympics, this sees all of a multi-million pound

interest in Freeski and Freestyle Snowboard, no

Team BSS slopestyle skier James “Woodsy”

funding package for British snow sports, allocated

matter how small or how seemingly outdated, to

Woods, the only Brit to win a Crystal Globe in

by public funding body UK Sport, going to park

come and get involved whether as an organiser,

snow sports, has already gotten the 2014–15

and pipe, with none going to those traditional

supporter of the local scene, coach, filmmaker,

season for the team off to a great start by taking

Alpine disciplines. If the current membership vote

or other role. We would love to have you engage

the title of the NZ Freeski Open Champion just

against the funding package, it could have serious

with our growing community, and we need those

over a month ago, after dominating the finals in English tag b & w - reverse

consequences for that subsidy.

already involved to become members of BSS to

Cardrona. After taking the top qualifying spot,

So, in order to try to balance things out, members

give us a voice within the organisation.”

Bilingual - reverse

English tag - reverse

French tag - reverse

JAMES WOODS | SLOPESTYLE SKIER

Lesley McKenna, BSS Park and Pipe Programme Manager,

French tag b & w - reverse

038 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

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f you’re planning a trip to Val d’Isère

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Why wait for the winter? Snoworks

contact number given to guests.

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The specialist travel and accommodation

abilities launching from 18 October on

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the snow-sure glacier at Tignes, France.

in the village from its huge portfolio, which

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includes more than 200 self-catered apart-

cheaper prices, guaranteed snow, and

ments, 120 catered chalets, and 30 hotels, for

the very best of British ski instruction

all budgets. Simply Val d’Isère is also 100% fi-

as the reasons to book one of their

nancially bonded so all bookings are protected

– the many options for almost all

– quite important these days in light of people

abilities range from intermediate all

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Simply Val d’Isère can also sort out your ski

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040 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

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AIVARS ZEE ZARINS

Rail Riders

“Rail riding” is a hot topic in snow sports with many of the industry’s highlevel Ski and Snowboard Coaches having labelled it at indoor snow centres as the Brits’ big opportunity to compete internationally on snow.

S

dry slope. Now he’s won the Burton Rail Days Com-

going to spin 270 onto a rail, I would try a 180

petition in Tokyo, competed in the Olympics and

spin first. I also make sure I fully commit to what-

trains on the largest rails at The Snow Centre Hemel

ever trick I’m trying. If I don’t feel like trying it, I

Hempstead, so naturally we were more than happy

wait for another day. That’s key to being a suc-

to get a few rail-riding pointers from him!

cessful snowboarder; I don’t want to get carried away and risk injury. Having weekly freestyle

How would you hit your first rail?

lessons at a snow centre or dry slope is a really

Rather than going straight for riding a rail, I’d

good way to build on tricks.

practise riding onto boxes or gas pipes. You can find these at real-snow slopes like The Snow Cen-

What’s running through your head throughout

tre. If possible I’d try “ride-on” boxes. “Ride-ons”

a rail trick?

are features that you don’t need to jump onto;

Way before I get onto the rail I’ve planned

they have a “snowy get-on” running into them, so

the trick! I’ve thought about how to do it and

you can literally ride straight (50-50) over them.

visualised myself doing it too, so as I approach

From 50-50s I’d progress to board slides, before

the rail I’m already confident I will land it. There

getting creative, with spins on or off the features.

is no point attempting something you don’t

“Side hits” are the next step up from “ride-ons”.

believe you’re going to land! Once on the rail

o if the ease of indoor rail riding really is our

This involves jumping from a “get-on” at the side

I’m relaxed, I spot the landing as I come to the

chance to shine, what extra hints and tips will

of a rail or box onto it. I wouldn’t rush into landing

end of the rail and get ready to ride away with

send us on the way to performing “gnarly” tricks

on actual rails; side-hitting gas pipes is a great

a smile on my face. Landing a trick is a great

on a rail or two?

way to progress and improve your rail game.

feeling and gives you the buzz to go and do

Known for his technical rail stunts, Team GB’s

it again. Remember, landing it once doesn’t

Slopestyle Olympian Snowboarder Jamie Nicholls

How do you make sure you land a rail trick?

mean you have learnt it; it’s where the learning

started out riding a gas pipe on Halifax’s Snowplex

I set up tricks to benefit the next trick! If I was

begins. Repetition!

THESNOWCENTRE.COM

041 // OCT14

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

LESSON #01 AGILITY INTRODUCTION

1. NO SKIS

2. OUTSIDE SKI

3. INSIDE SKI

When having a ski lesson, sometimes

At the start of the day, before skiing,

The outside ski is king, and this exercise

Try lifting your outside ski at various

you might wonder why you are being

it’s a good idea to warm up. Try making

will help in making sure you are in con-

points throughout the turn, before,

asked to do various silly things like

short turns, jump turns, or hop turns

trol of your balance over this ski.

during, and after the fall line. Practising

standing on one ski, lift this, hold that

whilst off your skis. Next, try doing the

Try lifting your inside ski at various

this helps to develop lateral movements,

there … tricky movements! The answer

same on a gentle slope (still off skis);

points throughout the turn.

which is an essential movement used

is that they can help to build strong

boot skiing can be fun, quite easy to

links between your brain and your

master, and great for a warm-up. It’s also

TIP: Try lifting up your inside ski just

muscles, making you more adaptable,

great to keep the kids entertained whilst

after the fall line – if you are balanced

Tip: Start lifting it after the fall line,

and quicker to learn and change ... also

someone is taking a toilet stop!

over your downhill ski then this should

and as you build more confidence try

be quite easy. If you struggle it’s likely

to lift it earlier in the turn.

they can be fun and rewarding! Below

when carving your skis.

are some fun, simple, yet effective drills

TIP: It’s all about being centred on

to be because you have too much

you can try on snow. Have fun!

your boots; too far back or forward

weight on the inside ski.

will result in a wipeout!

SKI BOOT LAB

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Call 020 7736 0046 Profeet 867 Fulham Road, London, SW6 5HP

YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DAY ON SNOW It’s vital to check the school

FUN WARM-UP GAMES

start to use the green carpet to

employs a team of specially

Watch from afar and see if the

learn side-stepping and straight

trained instructors who have

instructors start with some fun

running (sliding down with both

experience and love to look

games and exercises to warm-

skis straight). Following this,

after children aged 3–5 years.

up those little muscles, ready for

instructors will start to work on

On day 1 you should witness an

a big morning of skiing. Some of

the “pizza” shape (snowplough)

immediate connection between

Altitude instructors’ favourites

– this is the shape made with

your child and the instructor.

include What’s The Time Mr

the skis to help the children to

Young children may arrive at

Wolf, Musical Statues, and

slow down, stop, and turn.

the meeting point on the first

Chase The Polar Bear.

day with hesitation, confusion,

A JOB WELL DONE!

and often a few tears. However,

Every good school will have a

JON (AKA WESTY) AT ALTITUDE

soon as they put on their

TEACHING THE TECHNIQUES

“Altitude Racing Bib” and meet

Skiing development should not

week to celebrate the children’s

“Patrick the Polar Bear”, the

be rushed and should start in a

accomplishments. Your children

Find a gentle slope and practise skiing

Jon is one of a handful of instructors

tears and missing mum and dad

kid’s garden, a private section

should leave the week with their

on one ski by holding the other ski

working in the Alps to hold the top qualifi-

should be forgotten.

on the nursery slope that is

badges proudly pinned to their

up in the air for 100% of the turn. Now

cations from France, Switzerland and Brit-

cornered off, and filled with toys

ski jackets, ready to tell their

try linking the turn and increasing the

ain. In his role as Ski School Director, Jon

and games to help the students

friends at home all about their

speed. This drill will help you to improve

is on hand to manage the different parts

learn and have fun.

skiing adventures.

your balance, and your ability to move

of the Altitude company portfolio, includ-

CONTROL & SAFETY OF THE GROUP

laterally from side to side. To make the

ing the Ski and Snowboard School, the

Do the kids leave the meeting

scooting around with just one

task more difficult try taking one ski off!

Futures instructor training programmes,

point in control and style?

ski, and then swapping onto the

(Recommended for strong intermediate

and Freeride Verbier, a new school dedi-

Hopefully with a human train,

other leg. This is great fun for

skiers only.)

cated to off-piste coaching in Verbier (+41

conga line, or perhaps a pirate

the little ones as they get the

277 716 006; info@altitude-verbier.com).

ship … singing a few songs …

feel for the snow and sliding

Wheels on the Bus.

around. After this, they might

this should not last long – as

4. ONE SKI

Tip: On a flat slope try making shallow turns to start with and not turning too far across the hill.

CR110914-JUNIOR-HALF-PAGE-HORIZONTAL.pdf

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12:29

Day one should include

prize-giving at the end of the

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 DOUCHEBAG SLIM JIM £99.99

 BLACK CROWS ATRIS

Fed up of floppy ski bags? Can’t find

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but still agile when it comes to skiing on-

Jim – an adjustable length, easily rollable,

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travel abuse. And it’s clever Shoulder Carrying System allows you to tow the bag behind you, freeing your hands for whatever else you may need them for.

 MONS ROYALE WOMENS 1/4 ZIP HOODIE £129.99 The 1/4 zip hoodie is the ultimate performance mid layer. Made from 260gsm jersey knit merino this top brings extra warmth while still delivering plenty of breathability. The emergency hood can be pulled under a hat or helmet for max coverage. surfdome.com

 ZAINI CAMERON BEANIE £20.99 Zaini hats are still the leader of headwear when it comes to snow sports and with a whole new 2014/2015 range they can’t be missed on the slopes! Just like this NEW ‘Cameron’ beanie. zaini.com

 SNOW SHEPHERD LEATHER SKI GLOVES £14.99 Snowshepherd the off piste equipmnet specialists sell what they test, avalanche equipment, skis and specialist clothing.

They have become well known as the only Ski retailer to sell the famous French ski worker leather gloves as used by ski instructors, guides and lift workers across the French Alps. Also stocking a full range of leather ski gloves. sales@snowshepherd.co.uk; snowshepherd.co.uk

044 // OCT14

 SCARPA F1 EVO £500 The innovative technology in these backcountry touring-focused boots will give you a superb combination of fit and power to the ski, but the best part is their auto-walk mechanism. No more issues

 SHRED SMARTEFY SHRASTAWOOD £130

remembering to put your boot into ski or tour mode, the F1 Evo does the thinking for you! With these

A wooden goggle strap … well, almost. After the popularity of the Shrastawood

boots you will be the envy of all

framed glasses, SHRED has now brought you a mock wood goggle strap!

your friends, who’ll still be bending

SHRED’s goal is to produce goggles that not only look unique, but also perform

down to adjust theirs!

when you need them. No distortion lenses, wide peripheral vision, NO BS easychange lenses, and, of course, a great fit.

SCOTT BLACK MAJIC SKI £525 A more piste-orientated version of Scott’s award-winning “The Ski”. They may be a

 CONTOUR ROAM 3 CAMERA

narrower shape, but you won’t believe what this ski can do until you take it out to play!

Nimble on any terrain, grippy in any turn shape, and smooth throughout the turn, this is one of the most rewarding and versatile piste-orientated skis we’ve skied with!

£189.99 Brand new from Contour, the Roam 3 is adventure ready right out of

 MAMMUT GUIDE WORK GLOVE £85

 SHRED BELUSHKI SHRASTAWOOD £130–£150

the box! Featuring an instant on record switch and quick photo mode, you can shoot exactly what

The Blues Brothers meets classic Italian design and craftsmanship!

you want, when you want! It sheds

The tough one – a durable warm glove

SHRED’s handmade frames and high-quality Carl Zeiss lenses, give each

bulk by working underwater for up

for years of use, or seasons of abuse! A

pair of these sunglasses a craftsmanship and unique finish that cannot

to 10m without a case. Versatile,

combination of waterproof cowhide with

be replicated. Classic, timeless sunnies that will not only guarantee you

sleek and easy to use – the best

sheepskin leather gives you durability and

experience superior protection, precision and performance, but also will

Contour camera yet!

flexibility, making these a super comfortable

make you look awesome!

contourshop.com

winter work glove to keep your hands warm in the mountains. If you’re a seasonnaire, mountain guide, instructor, or coach, you’ll

 PERILLA SOCKS £18

know quality when you see it.

Keep feet cosy in fabulous 75% baby alpaca ski socks from alpaca specialist Perilla; perfect for all winter sports.

Ribbed sides and soft cushioned soles

 SCOTT ALPRIDE AVALANCHE PACK £599 Utilising the same high-specification inflation system as airline life vests, the Alpride pack technology is fast inflating, super light (at only 1.2kg),

in a great palette of colours from vibrant rasberry and purples to cream and black.

One pair can be worn for a week! perilla.co.uk

MORE AT SKIBARTLETT.COM

and, of course, airline friendly!

With their renowned reputation for

Combine this with user-friendly

specialist expert advice, combined

design, low cost, and clever hidden

with their carefully selected and

features, and you have one of the

tested range of products, it’s no

best avalanche backpacks ever

surprise that Ski Bartlett’s word of

produced.

mouth reputation over the last 50 years has made them the UK’s most popular independent ski shop!

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

INTHESNOW.COM // OCT14 // 045

ELECTRIC CAR = CHEAPER PASS Les Gets in the French Portes du Soleil region has long been a campaigning resort on the environment.

It continues to encourage and reward visitors conscious of their environmental footprint. In addition to the two electrical car charging points in the resort, this season anyone owning an electric car may use special VIP parking places and receive a 20% reduction on their lift pass.

MAMMOTH BOWLING

“NEW” SCOTTISH SKI AREA Scotland is set to get its sixth ski

80km from the English border.

Scotland’s first commercial ski centre

run, and two shorter 100m-long lifts

centre more than 20 years after the

The plan to install lifts and create a

back in 1952. In actual fact, people

to serve separate nursery slopes, all

last one opened at Nevis Range, near

permanent ski area – likely to be able

have been skiing here for more than

above a clubhouse at 585m.

Fort William.

to operate with sufficient snow and

62 years; it just seems to have gone

Lowther Hills Ski Club is now seeking

Unlike the other five ski areas in the

volunteers for around 20 days each

largely unnoticed in the wider skiing

volunteers to help move them.

The new state-of-the-art Mammoth Rock ‘N

Highlands, however, the Lowther Hills

winter on average – is not new. This

world until now.

“My vision for the place is to have

Bowl and recreation centre will combine a

in Dumfriesshire, where the ski area is

is, in fact, the third attempt to establish

The new plan, put forward by the

a New Zealand style centre (low

12 lane bowling alley, high-definition golf

to open, is located near Wanlockhead,

a permanent facility in the past 62

Lowther Hills Ski Club (skiclub.

operating cost, financially sustainable)

Britain’s highest village, in southern

years, with previous efforts floundering

lowtherhills.com), involves the

with a few tows, snowgrooming and

tables, a laser maze attraction and a

Scotland, not far from the M74 up the

due mostly to bad luck. The site was

installation of one 600m-long tow

curling facilities,” said Anjo Abelaira,

restaurant run by local chef Matt Eoff.

west coast to Glasgow, and around

a contender to be the location of

up to 725m creating an intermediate

Chair of the Lowther Hills Ski Club.

A new 10 pin bowl complex at Mammoth Mountain in Californian will provide an apres ski alternative for skiers this winter.

simulators as well as darts, table tennis

Make your mark in The Three Valleys!

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From £275pp 8 days in resort, including travel and accommodation (based on 4 persons).

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t’s the all-to-common problem of the

non-resident guests they care to invite)

modern age. Our boss has given

can dance the night away while a DJ spins

us a small bonus and we’re keen

the disks on the twin turntable decks,

to splash out on something a little

the sound supplied through some of the

different for this year’s ski holiday.

world’s sexiest speakers.

But all those luxury chalets with

There are also various gaming tables and

their Michelin-starred chefs, private

a bar stocked with the finest champagnes,

spas, cinema rooms, chauffeur

and everything else.

service and champagne on tap are

“Gone are the days of getting the ‘choos’

all rather “samey”, aren’t they?

wet in the snow!” enthuses Alice Paisley

Well, fear not – your friends at

of The Oxford Ski Company, which lists Le

InTheSnow have hunted out those

Petit Palais among the 20 properties in their

properties that give you extra, and

annual Luxury Chalet Collection.

we’ve even found out how to secure them

Le Petit Palais offers six floors of designer

at a bargain price, if your bonus has not

decadence, has a ski-in, ski-out location

been quite as much as you’d hoped.

on the Bellecote piste and sleeps 12 in six

This month’s pick is Le Petit Palais (guess

bedrooms, which include an 885ft2 master

what that translates to?) in Courchevel 1850

suite and a VIP suite.

which, along with the inevitable private

You can save around 60% on the near

luxury spa, indoor heated pool, private gym,

quarter-of-a-million-euro rental price by

cinema and massage room features its very

booking at the start of the season rather

own nightclub, bar and casino.

than booking over the Russian oligarchs’,

The chalet’s dozen guests (and any

New Year.

048 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

THE MOUNTAIN IS CALLING

Kitzb端hel | Saalbach | Sestriere | La Plagne | Tignes | Whistler and loads more

At last the time has come.

Build your trip at crystalski.co.uk

ATOL protected.

For info please see our booking conditions.

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WORDS: PATRICK THORNE

DIGITAL REVOLUTION

Looking for a great ski holiday?

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Chalets, hotels and apartments.

Call us on 01858 466888.

Visit us at www.snowfinders.co.uk

C

and resort tips, local resort teams will send up-to-date snow conditions to customers’ mobile devices, and in most resorts, Crystal’s holidaymakers will arrive to find their skis and boots ready and waiting for them at the ski hire shop, avoiding the queues.

“We are combining the ski expertise of our resort teams with the latest mobile technology to give our customers a service they can’t find anywhere else,” said

LEARN SLOPESTYLE

Tamsin Todd, Crystal’s Managing Director.

“Personalised service direct from the slopes

Powder White (powderwhite.com) is launching a

rystal, the UK’s biggest ski tour operator, has

to your mobile means you can worry less, and

Slopestyle course to learn the tricks of the park

announced the launch of a swathe of digital

focus on enjoying and getting the most out of

with expert tuition from New Generation Ski and

technology initiatives for the coming season,

your ski holiday.”

Snowboard School Freeski Camp instructors on

which the company says will “transform

Also, version 2 of the Crystal Ski Explorer

the French Alps.

holiday experiences for Crystal customers.”

app, released this winter, is designed to

The holidays include three, 3h sessions

To begin with, iPads loaded with custom-built

help customers get the most out of their

spread across the week in which participants

software will be made available to all 700 of

mountain holiday, displaying the latest

will (hopefully) learn to master the art of riding

the company’s overseas employees to help

information about resorts, snow, and ski

switch (backwards, progressing to 180s and

them to deliver a personalised and real-time

routes. In addition, skiers will be able to use

360s, taking off and landing big air jumps

service to customers.

the app to locate friends and family on the

(with an airbag), boxes and rails before hitting

The service will include a pre-departure

mountain, and connect to Crystal’s resort

the half pipe.

video call from the resort team to the

teams.

For 7 nights’ fully catered stay on 11 April 2015,

customer to discuss all elements of their

Along with the customer benefits, Crystal

the cost is from £618pp, staying at the new Chalet

upcoming holiday, from childcare to

says its investment in technology also

Patrice in Méribel. The holiday is also available

catering arrangements, before they even

means it is even better prepared to deal with

in Val d’Isère, Tignes, Méribel, and Courchevel.

start packing.

the unexpected, and significantly reduces

You need to have twin tip skis, a helmet and

Online info packs will provide in-depth advice

carbon emissions.

appropriate insurance to participate.

Aspen House, Kings Head Place, Market Harborough. LE16 7JT 050 // OCT14 ABTA J5552. ATOL 9279.

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

 PROMOTION

HOME OF UK SNOW .....................................................

160M MAIN SLOPE

LARGEST LESSON SLOPE IN THE UK CLOSEST REAL SNOW TO LONDON

RAIL TICKETS TO THE ALPS ON SALE NOW

THE BEST WAX ON INDOOR SNOW

Tickets go on sale on 16 October for winter rail travel to the Alps during the first half of the ski season. If you’re planning to head to the ski slopes by train this winter, it’s important to book as soon as you can to secure seats on the service you require. Popular routes and dates sell out very quickly.

Graphite Training is the longest lasting

Winter bookings open early in the morning on Thursday

graphite wax there is, making it ideal for

16 October with tickets going on sale for trains operating

training sessions because equipment

between 14 December ‘14 and 6 February ’15, including

will have the protection, speed and

the Christmas and New Year periods.

nourishment for the entire session.

Reaching the ski slopes by train is becoming ever

Graphite Race is the hardest of the

more popular as increasing numbers of skiers realise

indoor Graphite waxes, making it

that it has many advantages over air travel. For one

the ideal race wax for indoor snow

thing there’s the generous luggage allowance with

surfaces. This wax has great protective

no additional charges for ski carriage. Then there

qualities but, more importantly, is fast

are the short check-in times, and you travel into the

and hard enough to resist the abrasive

heart of the mountains rather than a distant airport so

nature of indoor snow.

alleviating the need for long transfers.

erforming your own ski or board

All DataWax snow waxes are packaged

Rail is a more relaxing way to travel and it’s good

maintenance is easy – and

in 110g plastic clamshells for easy use

for your conscience too, being by far the most

on indoor snow it is highly

and safe storage. DataWax also stock

environmentally friendly way to get to the mountains.

recommended - according to

all the additional hardware you require

Best of all, you get more time on the slopes due to

DataWax. They are the UK’s biggest

to maintain your gear.

the early arrival and late departure of overnight trains.

manufacturer of ski and snowboard

DataWax.com is the place to find all

Routes popular with snow-sports fans include Paris to

care products, and with 30 years’

the products you need and contains a

Bourg-St-Maurice, Chambery, Moutiers and St-Gervais-

experience are experts on ski and

helpful and detailed ‘How To’ section.

Les-Bains from where you can connect to Chamonix.

board tuning. It is essential to know

This takes you step by step, in clear and

TGV France Italy services call at Sestriere, Oulx and

your own kit, so servicing will make

simple language, through the process

Turin, and TGV Lyria services call at destinations

your skiing or snowboarding easier,

required to service your equipment.

including Geneva, Lausanne, Aigle and Brig.

less tiring and more fun.

DataWax products are stocked in

If you’re looking to travel later in the winter, services

The snow in indoor snow centres

over 100 shops and snow-sport

operating between 7 February and 9 March will go on

can be different in texture to that in

centres across the UK, so look out

sale on 7 November.

regular outdoor ski areas and the

for them at your local slope or in your

Reservations and information – To find out more

build-up of static electricity can be

nearest shop!

about taking the train this winter, visit

significant. The addition of graphite

Use DataWax to keep your gear in top

www.voyages-sncf.com, call 0844 848 5848 or if

to indoor waxes ensures that your

condition any time, extending its life and

you’re in London pop into the Voyages-sncf Travel

bases repel the static build up.

making your skiing or snowboarding

Centre at 193 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EU.

DataWax Graphite Training and

easier, safer and more effective.

Graphite Race waxes are designed

info@datawax.com

especially for indoor snow use.

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051 // OCT14

CHALET SASKIA VAUJANY Perfectly located on the slopes of Vaujany, Chalet Saskia features two separate large lounges with log fires, two sun terraces, a big TV and games room, 10 en-suite bedrooms all with balconies and a hot tub. The cuisine is simply inspiring and complemented by the impeccable service and excellent wine selection.

01428 608070 | INFO@SKIPEAK.NET | SKIPEAK.NET

MARK WARNER OPENS NEW HOTEL IN TIGNES

M

Espace Killy ski area, located only a

therapy rooms and a range of

a chalet board basis, including

100m walk away from the resort’s five

treatments on offer from massages

breakfast, afternoon tea and three-

main lifts.

to manicures. There’s also an

course dinner with wine. The well-

The Chalet Hotel is built from timber

impressive swimming pool, sauna,

appointed restaurant offers small and

in the traditional Savoie style and

Jacuzzi and Turkish bath.

large group tables creating a lively,

oozes charm and luxury inside

For families childcare is available for

fun atmosphere.

and out. The interiors are cosy

children aged between four months

and comfortable with local wood

and 12 years run by Mark Warner’s

panelling and a large lounge at the

experienced and qualified British

heart of the Chalet with inviting sofas

childcare team with a light, colourful

Prices from £582 per person

ark Warner will be opening the doors

around an open fireplace.

crèche for younger children and

including flights (from London,

of the fantastic Chalet Hotel L’Ecrin

Twins, doubles, interconnecting

supervised ski school drop-off and

Manchester or Birmingham),

in snow-sure Tignes Val Claret this

and family bedrooms are available,

afternoon care for older children.

transfers and seven nights’

season.

all with balconies overlooking the

There’s also a free drop-in crèche

accommodation with breakfast,

The 56-room, 4★ plus Chalet

slopes, flat-screen TVs and free wi-fi

service from 7.30pm – 11pm.

afternoon tea and three-course

Hotel located above Tignes Le Lac

access.

Accommodation is based on Mark

dinner with wine. Lift pass collection

provides access to 300km of the

The chalet’s beautiful spa has four

Warner’s high standards and on

service also available.

PRICES

The

ShortSkiShop.Com . Adult Short Skis &

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY SHORT SKIS What are short skis and why do you need to know about them?

Short skis are like normal skis, only (surprise!) shorter, often 99cm long.

. Ski Blades from £99

They’re designed for adults, not children.

The smaller size aids turning, as the radius is small, which means that when

. Gents Clothing to 8XL

a skier points the ski straight downhill in a turn the ski will turn away from the fall line very quickly without too much help from the skier.

This results in rapid improvement due to better control, giving more confidence. People who struggle on regular skis find them very easy to use,

. Ladies Clothes to sz 30

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The Short Ski Shop has become a centre of excellence for short skis, with a big range to choose from and low-cost shipping worldwide available (01277

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052 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

THE OMNIA ZERMATT

HOTEL AVENUE LODGE VAL D’ISÈRE





HOTEL PLEIN SUD SERRE CHEVALIER



The Omnia is perfectly situated in the centre of Zermatt just off on a hidden back street, giving you the bustle of beautiful Zermatt right on your doorstep, but the peace and quiet you would expect from an escape to the mountains. The warm and friendly welcome is simply hard to beat.

The Hotel Plein Sud is situated close to the Écrins National Park, the mythical Cols du Lauteret Galibier and Izoard made famous by the Tour de France, and very close to the old town of Briançon, which now boasts UNESCO World Heritage status.

+41 (0)27 966 7171 // INFO@THE-OMNIA.COM THE-OMNIA.COM

+33 (0) 492 24 17 01 // LYNNE@HOTELPLEINSUD.COM HOTELPLEINSUD.COM

HOTEL FIREFLY ZERMATT



CHALET SASKIA VAUJANY

The luxurious Hotel Avenue Lodge is a superb base in one the world’s great ski areas, the exceptional Espace Killy. You’ll feel welcome from the minute you arrive with valet parking and the concierge service taking care of your luggage. The Hotel Avenue Lodge’s entire team is at your service to make your holiday in our resort an unforgettable stay.

The Hotel Firefly is the first address in Zermatt for travellers who expect luxury and lifestyle of the highest level. In the midst of the breathtaking scenery of the famous glacier ski area, the hotel is only 3 minutes from the Klein Matterhorn cable car and from the centre of Zermatt. Each suite is individual, spacious and luxuriously furnished.

Perfectly located on the slopes of Vaujany, Chalet Saskia features two separate large lounges with log fires, two sun terraces, a big TV and games room, 10 en-suite bedrooms all with balconies and a hot tub.

The cuisine is simply inspiring and complimented by the impeccable service and excellent wine selection.

+33 (0)47 900 6767 // CONTACT@HOTELAVENUELODGE.COM HOTELAVENUELODGE.COM

+41 (0)27 967 7676 FIREFLY-ZERMATT.COM

01428 608070 // INFO@SKIPEAK.NET SKIPEAK.NET

RESIDENCE & SPA VALLORCINE CHAMONIX 

CHALET DES ALPES CRANS MONTANA

HÔTEL L’HÉLIOPIC CHAMONIX

Nesteld in the charming village of Valllorcine, in the Chamonix MontBlanc valley, Vallorcine Mont-Blanc offers a relaxing atmosphere.

The 5 Residence gives guests a choice of 50 cosy apartments with services. Facilities include an indoor heated pool, two saunas, an SPA, a tea-room, a ski shop and a private ice-rink. Less than 10 minutes from your breakfast to the ski slopes !

Quality B&B accommodation offered at great value. Evening meals available most nights. Prices from CHF72 per room. All rooms en-suite, free wi-fi, parking, heated ski room, full UK TV channels.

2 hours from Geneva. 10 min drive to Crans Montana ski lifts with 140km of pistes. Situated in the small picturesque village of Lens, owned and run by British couple.

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

+33 (0)4 5054 7520 // CONTACT@CHAMONIX-VACANCES.COM CHAMONIX-VACANCES.COM

+41 (0)27 483 23 09 // INFO@CHALETDESALPES.CH CHALETDESALPES.CH

+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 // RESERVATION@HELIOPIC.COM HELIOPIC-HOTEL-SPA.COM

SKIACCOMMODATIONGUIDE.COM



053 // OCT14

ODLO

 PROMOTION

Jon Olsson Jon Olsson is a professional freeskier and

lifting, cross fit and so on! For cardio I like

alpine ski racer. He has won 11 medals

crossfit and rowing. Usually not a cardio

at the X Games in multiple disciplines

guy myself, but I have gotten a lot better

including Superpipe, Slopestyle and the

since I started with cross fit! Makes it easier

gold in Big Air. He has also won many

for me to push myself!

other events including The US Free Skiing Open in Vail, The Red Bull Big

How did you hit upon the idea of shooting

Air in Åre, Scandinavian Big Mountain

a film about life as a free skier?

Championships in Riksgränsen and the

JO: The idea came to life back in 2007

World Superpipe Championships in

when I was building a jump in Norway. All

Whistler BC.

you see in ski movies is the perfect shot, not the fact that we had to wait 3 weeks

Free Skiing also means the readiness to

to get good weather, so I wanted to show

take a risk. How crazy are you?

what really goes on behind the scenes.

JO: Not crazy at all, I love to do big stuff,

Now it is just a super fun way to document

but I like to do it in a very safe way. People

all the fun stuff we do!

have a hard time believing this but I am as far from crazy as you can come in my

Why did you choose Odlo as your

opinion!

clothing partner?

JO: I knew that their under layer was

How important is your outfit on the slope

incredible so I was intrigued when I heard

for you?

about the ski collection, so getting to work

JO: Well since I am always in the spotlight

with such a good team was great. From

I need to feel comfortable with what I am

the new collection I like the Revolution

wearing so the outfit is of course super

Technical Warm Wool underwear with the

important. Both to look good on the

hood and the facemask. I can wear it up on

pictures, but it also needs to be super

my face in the morning when it’s cold and

functional as I spend every day all winter

down around my neck when it’s warmer.

long on the slopes!

And I really like the Air Cocoon down jacket.

Think it looks killer with a colourful down

What kind of feeling do you associate

jacket under a fairly neutral coloured jacket!

with the Free Skiing?

JO: Total freedom, I might have a million

What’s the best way to strengthen your

thoughts in my head, but when I get on the

core pre ski season?

lift I am 100% free!

JO: To do a million boring crunches. No way around it, I am not a fan but I try to do

What are your top tips for getting in

as much of them as I can!

shape before ski season?

JO: Try to work out every day in some

A very special day in your life?

sort, skip the bread and go for tons of

JO: Every day I wake up and see 50cm of

protein to avoid a heavy body for the

fresh snow on my car is a special day!

winter! To strengthen your legs just be active. I don’t think it matters too much

Jon Olsson is an Odlo Ambassador. For

what you do as there’s variety like running,

more information head to www.odlo.com

054 // OCT14

@INTHESNOWMAG //

FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW

WWW.SINNER.EU

THE ART OF LAYERING FALL-WINTER 14/15

ODLO.COM Available at www.snowandrock.com