kier
2024
SPRING I S S U E
& SNOWBOARDER
COOLING OFF IN FRANCE From ice floating to dancing with robots, we take a look at this season’s offerings
INSIDE: RESORT REPORTS • EQUIPMENT ROUND-UP • HOLIDAY NEWS + MUCH MUCH MORE
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4 - 5 and Ski Oddity FRANCE Tignes 6-7 FRANCE Les Arcs 8-9 FRANCE 11 - 12 Tignes FRANCE 14 - 15 Manigod FRANCE 16 - 17 Vaujany ITALY 18 - 19 Plose AUSTRIA 21 News TURKEY 22 - 23 Erzurum SWITZERLAND 24 News AMERICA 26 - 27 Snowbird NEWS 28 -29 HOLIDAY Latest information & SERVICES 30 SALES Equipment & clothing DIRECTORY 32 Company listings SLOPE & CLUB NEWS 34 UK Latest news NEWS
Frank ‘Scoop’ Baldwin stops to admire the view before making another run in Les Arcs (p8-9)
Welcome
With the season well underway, if you are looking to book in another holiday while you can or plan for next winter we have got lots of features to inspire you on the destinations to visit. We check out France with trips to Tignes where you can either chill out or dance with robots, Les Arcs which offered a trip down memory lane for former editor Frank ‘Scoop’ Baldwin, Vaujany where you can ski like a local and Manigod – offering a little mystery. Or take a break in five star luxury in South Tyrol, Italy, put your skills to the test at Snowbird in America and mix city and ski in Turkey. Plus we round up the latest news from Austria and Switzerland – including award wins, resort sale news and an innovative new booking platform prioritising sustainable transportation – as well as our usual holiday round-up pages. And don’t forget you can always keep up to date with the latest news and special offers on our website at skierandsnowboarder.com
Editorial Email: skierandsnowboardermag@gmail.com Tel: 01892 677 740 Advertisement Manager
SHARON MASLEN Editorial
JOANNE LEWIS
Email: sharon.maslen@spacemarketing.co.uk Tel: 01892 677 742
Content Consultant
FRANK BALDWIN Publisher
SPACE MARKETING LTD
Front Cover Photo: Photo by Matthieu Pétiard on Unsplash. La Rosière, Montvalezan, France.
While all reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included in Skier & Snowboarder magazine, the publishers take no responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, cancel, amend or suspend an advertisement or insert and no liability can be accepted for loss arising from non-publication or late publication of any advertisement or insert. Skier & Snowboarder magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited features, images, products or any other materials supplied. © Skier & Snowboarder magazine. Space Marketing Ltd. Co Reg: 06025172. A member of SIGB (Snowsport Industries of Great Britain).
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NEWS & SKI ODDITY
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DOLOMITES DIRNDL SKI DAY
PHOTO: © www.andreas-senoner.com
Record-breaking disabled adventurer Darren Edwards will, in December 2024, attempt a new world record – the longest sit-ski expedition in the history of polar exploration. Darren’s epic undertaking to reach the South Pole will see him ski 333 kilometres in just 20 days in -20 degree temperatures. Currently, the furthest distance travelled by a sit-ski to reach the South Pole is 111 kilometres. Darren, who is paralysed from the chest down, will be supported by a team of friends, including Matt Luxton, the man who saved Darren’s life on the day of his lifechanging climbing accident in 2016. Working together, the team will face the risk of extreme temperatures, altitude sickness, exhaustion, and adverse environmental conditions. In addition to changing perceptions of disability, the purpose behind Darren Edwards’ South Pole Challenge is to raise £300,000 for the charity Wings for Life which seeks to find a cure for Spinal Cord Injury. Previous record-breaking challenges undertaken by Darren since he was paralysed at the age of 26 include in June 2021 becoming the first person with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) to Kayak 1,400 kilometres from Land’s End to John O’Groats, in May 2022 becoming the first disabled adventurer to lead a crew of six to row across the English Channel, in October 2022 becoming the first disabled person to complete the World Marathon Challenge and in April 2023, Darren was part of the first all-disabled team to cross Europe’s largest Ice Cap. Darren is hoping that his South Pole Challenge will raise £300,000 for the charity Wings for Life. You can support Darren by visiting his website DarrenEdwardsSpeaker. com and donating at JustGiving/SouthPole Challenge2024. You can follow Darren on Instagram @darrenedwards_adventurer
PHOTO: Darren Edwards
ADVENTURER’S BID FOR NEW SKI RECORD
Val Gardena in the heart of the Dolomites mountains has decided to celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March by hosting an exciting, colourful sport event. The women’s parallel slalom will see all
participants wear a ‘dirndl’ (a traditional South Tyrolean dress). Participants will meet at the Baita Sanon on the Alpe di Siusi at 9.30am where they start off with an aperitif with DJ Simon. After that there will be a parallel slalom and a dice game at the finish line right at the slope next to the Baita Sanon. The prize giving ceremony will take place at 2.30pm. The race is open exclusively to women competing as a pair (friends, sisters, mother/daughter, etc) between the ages of 18 and 99. valgardena.it/en
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SAY YES TO SKIJORING WHILE IN AVORIAZ
INSET PHOTO: Darren Edwards © www.worldmarathonchallenge.com
Originating from Scandinavia, skijoring is a sport in which competitors wear skis and clutch reins attached to a wooden harness fitted onto one or more horses, ponies or dogs. The sport can take various forms, namely precision-based events, obstacle races or flat races around an oval track. Interested guests can try this exhilarating activity with a horse in Avoriaz. Meet with the instructor, and horse, before taking the reins and walk, trot, canter and then gallop off into the sunset. Prices from €39/£34pp. avoriaz.com/en/
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ACTION OUTDOORS LAUNCH MORE SKI TOURING HOLIDAYS THAN EVER BEFORE Action Outdoors, the UK arm of the not for profit UCPA organisation, with all-inclusive holidays centres across the French Alps, is offering more ski touring courses this winter than ever before, with over 90 weeks and short breaks available to book across the winter season. With a recent survey of UK skiers suggesting that nearly 30% of them want to try ski touring this winter, it has become the fastest growing area of the industry and numbers continue to rise. Ski touring holidays with Action Outdoors are suitable for every level of skier including
those without any off-piste experience – but all skiers must be confident on red runs as a minimum level for any ski touring course. There’s ski touring holidays across seven different resorts in the French Alps including Argentiere, Les Contamines, Les Arcs, Tignes, Val d’Isère, Serre Chevalier and Val Thorens. Prices start at £623pp for a 4 night stay, including 1 night in a mountain refuge with food, 3 nights full-board accommodation, lift pass, guiding and instruction and ski touring equipment including skis, boots, skins, crampons, poles and any avalanche safety equipment required for the higher level off-piste courses.
Celebrating success at the World Ski Awards 2023 Switzerland’s Best Ski Resort Continuing with the success of winning awards in 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022, Verbier has been voted Switzerland’s Best Ski Resort 2023 for the fifth time in six years during the World Ski Awards 2023. The World Ski Awards also honoured the W Hotel Verbier, which for the eighth consecutive year won the Best Ski Hotel in Switzerland and the Best Ski Hotel in the World. While Le Chalet d’Adrien won the title of Switzerland’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel 2023, the travel agent Leo Trippi has once again been voted World’s Best Ski Travel Agent 2023. Best Ski Resort in the World Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe at 2,300m, has again been named Best Ski Resort in the World at the annual World Ski Awards. This is the eighth time in 11 years it has won which reflects the passion that consumers have for Val Thorens given they’re actively involved in the selection process. Verbier and Kitzbühel are the other destinations to have awarded this accolade in the past decade. In addition, Val Thorens has been awarded Best Ski Resort in France 10 times. World’s Best Ski Tour Operator Sunweb has been announced as winner of World’s Best Ski Tour Operator 2023 at the World Ski Awards. The feat means that the leading holiday operator has picked up the award for an unprecedented seventh time, as it continues providing first class holidays at affordable prices. worldskiawards.com
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Chill out in Tignes From cool runs to an ultimate chill out experience, Mark Nicholls discovers the highlights of Tignes
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Mark Nicholls ice floating
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here are many ways to chill and unwind after an invigorating day on the slopes; apres-ski drinks, a hot chocolate on a sunny terrace, sauna, swim or massage. Yet in Tignes, donning a vivid orange dry suit and plunging into a hole in the ice for up to an hour adds a new dimension to rejuvenation after a long ski day. Slipping into the cold pool is easy – getting out can be a different matter with elements of wriggling and leverage onto the ice shelf. But as our helpful host Albon Machon observes: “If you can’t do it, first I laugh, and then I help you.” Totally insulated in oversized suits against the cold, the water temperature in the 4m square is just above freezing in December with the air temperature a fresh -3c. Bobbing
around with chunks of ice floating beside as you stare up at the sky and reflect on a wonderful ski day is surprisingly relaxing. And Albon even brings you tea, if you wish. I was in Tignes pre-Christmas when the resort had enjoyed a healthy snowfall leading to excellent early season conditions. The skiing is gorgeous and fulfilling for all abilities, with seamless links to Val d’Isere and a lift pass that covers the 150km of piste in each resort. Fabulous runs are aplenty with freeriding fun through to pleasant blues for an afternoon cruise, plus invigorating reds and blacks. I stayed at Tignes Val Claret, the highest village of Tignes at 2,300m, at the new Ynycio apartments, with the four-star residence sitting just above the Bollin chairlift with skiin-ski-out access to the slopes.
PHOTO: Mark Nicholls
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‘The eye of the needle’, Tignes With 186 beds, the ambience is South American; the colours are inspired by the Argentinean haciendas while The Bazurto Restaurant sees Columbian chef Juan Arbelaez offering dishes of empanadas, ceviche with monkfish and beef, and cocktails and spirits from Argentina. A discreet spa, pool, outdoor jacuzzi and saunas and hammam as well as massage rooms offer a chance to unwind, while the lively apres-ski destination of Cocorico is just across the slope. And there’s always someone with an intriguing backstory to show you around the ski terrain. Our guide was Léa Chapuis, 26, a potential euro freeride champ, who has lived in Tignes all her life. More used to picking out a line for cliff jumps with risky tricks and techniques, she was equally at home as a resort ambassador. “Tignes has a great atmosphere; it is sporty and has famous restaurants but if you want to ski all day and just stop for a sandwich you can do that also,” she tells me. “It can be fun
and it can be serious. There is something for all abilities, with everything from off-piste or freeride. There are steep parts and also easier runs and all with great views.” The Grand Motte is a high point at 3,656m but the famous landmark and photo stop is the stunning Aiguille Percee (the eye of the needle) at 2,748m, which opens onto the longest run in Tignes, around 10km all the way down to Les Brevieres (1,550m). If you want an early start, book up for first tracks skiing (€16) and take the funicular just opposite Ynycio up towards Grand Motte for exhilarating and undisturbed early-morning skiing. Good visibility is not always guaranteed but with a guide and pisteur to open the way – in this case ski stunt specialist Julien Lange – the skiing is a delight. Consisting of several villages, Tignes is navigable with regular free buses from early until late and the resort has committed to tackling global warming with the Flocon Vert (Green Snowflake) initiative to become a fully eco-responsible resort by 2030.
PHOTO: © andyparant.com
The chairlift up towards the ‘eye of the needle’ Beyond the skiing, there’s the chance to strap on snow shoes and go off for a hike in the woods, either all day, half day or for an evening exploration (€39). While ice floating is fun at Tignes Le Lac, ice-diving is also an option when conditions permit. And when he’s not serving up tea to ice floaters, Albon is a polar explorer and loves swimming with polar bears and conducting scientific experiments in sub-zero temperatures. Like I said, everyone here has a fascinating backstory. Whether you ski, snow-shoe, or hike, bobbing around an ice hole in a giant orange dry suit is a brrr…illiant way to round off a visit to Tignes.
T R AV E L FAC T S Accommodation: Mark Nicholls stayed at the Ynycio (ynycio.com) apartments in Tignes Val Claret, which are part of the Montagnettes group. Rates for a sevenday stay for four people start at €1,764 for an apartment. Flights: Several airlines fly daily from UK airports to Geneva, transfer is about three hours. Lift pass: Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area (open until 5 May): Adult pass is €396 for six days, free ski passes for children under 8 with discounts for 8-18s, see tignes.net Ice-floating: With Evolution 2, €55 (daytime), €77 (evening), visit evolution2.com/en/tignes/ice-floating
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Frank stops to admire the view of Mont Blanc before making another run
A ski trip down Memory Lane A chance encounter during a visit to Les Arcs helped conjure up a whole series of reminiscences for former Skier & Snowboarder editor Frank ‘Scoop’ Baldwin
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am standing in the middle of Arc 1950 village and before I tell you more about my visit I have to admit to a special interest. The Les Arcs ski area, of which Arc 1950 is part, was the first place I ever skied on snow back in 1986 and it is where I became hooked on skiing. I loved the sensation from day one, even when my efforts consisted of a timid snow plough while looking like I was trying to sit down on a toilet. And what sealed it for me was the beauty of the snow-covered mountains, and my love for these has never diminished.
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On my recent visit while staying at Hotel La Cachette at Arc 1600, I bumped into, and had a ski with, Joanna Yellowlees-Bound, an old friend whose links with Les Arcs go back even further than mine. And in another coincidence, she also has past connections with Erna Low, the company I was staying with in Les Arcs. Joanna started working for Erna Low in 1982. The tour operator, which has just celebrated its 90th anniversary, began selling ski holidays in Les Arcs after Arc 1600 opened in 1968 and Arc 1800 in 1974. Joanna eventually became MD of the
company in 1996 and four years later she found herself standing in an empty mountain meadow which had been earmarked for a new Les Arcs development – Arc 1950. She recalls: “I remember it particularly well as it was a beautiful sunny day – the kind of day when you just want to do a Julie Andrews and sing ‘The Hills are Alive’ at the top of your voice. I also remember trying to imagine what it would be like after its transformation into a vibrant ski village. It seemed unreal to me.” Although Erna Low played no part in the development of the existing Les Arcs
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Enjoying a photo opportunity at the top of the mountain! villages, other than being a tour operator partner, the company was asked by the Canadian developers Intrawest to assist in the creation of Arc 1950 and its promotion to the UK market. In 2003 I was invited to the official opening of Arc 1950 to see the new ski-in skiout pedestrianised village with 5* residences for myself. This season the village is holding celebrations to mark its 20th anniversary. These were launched on 16 December and coincided with the Les Arcs Film Festival. Other events included: The Magic of Christmas (23-30 December) and New Year’s Eve celebration (30 December to 6 January) with parades, fireworks, live music and magic; Live Concert and M Radio (12 January); XXL Ski Show (14, 21, 28 February and 6 March) – where the Barrebus team put on a display of freestyle tricks; plus every Thursday throughout the season there will be a programme of concerts and dancing to pop, rock & roll, and soul groups live in the village squares, together with free aperitifs from the retail stores. The development of Les Arcs, which includes another village at Arc 2000, means skiers and snowboarders already have a vast array of choice in terms of accommodation and terrain, and this was extended even further when the area linked with La Plagne to form the massive Paradiski, which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary this season. Joanna decided to step down as MD of Erna Low Travel in 2010 to give herself more time to develop the growth of Erna Low Property, which was formed following the early success of Arc 1950.
Joanna explained: “I discovered that there was a huge demand for the British to buy properties in the Alps as homes – and many of those purchasers had been old travel clients.” Erna Low Travel was sold in 2019 to NUCO, another ski and snowboard holiday specialist, and in January 2023 Joanna sold Erna Low Property. Joanna said: “I reached the time of my life where I wanted new challenges and my husband’s career had exploded as he was the Director of Exploration of the expedition that discovered Shackleton’s ship, the Endurance, 3,000m down under the ice pack of the Weddell Sea. “He then went on to write a Best-Seller book – The Ship Beneath the Ice – and we have both enjoyed the most amazing year doing book tours all over the world, since it was published in October 2022. Next Autumn 2024, a cinematic film will be released on the discovery of the ship – so it is non-stop!”
Frank and Joanna in the centre of Arc 1950
T R AV E L FAC T S Frank Baldwin travelled to Les Arcs with Erna Low – ernalow.co.uk /en-gb – which is part of NUCO Travel – nucotravel.com Erna Low offers holidays across all the Les Arcs villages. He stayed at Hotel La Cachette at Arc 1600 – ernalow.co.uk /en-gb/france/arc-1600/hotel-la-cachette For more information on Les Arcs go to lesarcs.com And for more information on the 20th anniversary celebrations and other winter events in Arc 1950 go to arc1950.com
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Lighting up the dance floor. Robots invite Club Med guests to join them
Join the Club Dancing around with a trio of eight-foot-high robots adorned in flashing LEDs is not what Hilary Everitt expected from her trip to the traditionally tranquil resort of Val Claret in Tignes
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y companions and I were still digesting our supper when a siren summoned us to get up and dance with a group of gyrating robots who had entered the buffet restaurant where we were eating. From here the robots led us down to a theatre where a spectacular light and music show got the evening’s activities underway. This was Club Med entertainment at its most bizarre, part of what you can expect at a spanking new resort in the company’s vast alpine portfolio. Among the guests during my stay in Tignes were Olympic Bronze medalist and snowboarder turned TV Presenter Billy Morgan and former Olympic team-mate Aimee Fuller, who were there as Club Med ambassadors.
The tour operator has another new Espace Killy resort in neighbouring Val d’Isere. With these two new offerings, Club Med now boasts 14 resorts in the French, Swiss and Italian Alps. Traditionally aimed at families, for which it is ideal, the company is keen to entice couples, groups and even stag and hen parties. Plus, singletons are positively encouraged. Anyone who is familiar with Club Med knows that entertainment is the name of the game and ‘all Inclusive’ is the deal. Children of all ages are well catered for with plenty of activities to keep them amused and a huge team of ESF instructors on hand to keep them, and anyone who wants a lesson, busy on the slopes. There is a dedicated ESF desk to make life easy. The humongous ski room is connected to the hire shop if you need any help with
Hilary Everitt with Club Med ambassador Billy Morgan in Tignes
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T R AV E L FA C T S
The new Club Med Tignes has been recognised for its environmental credentials your equipment or just want to try another set of skis or snowboard. Club Med is partnered by Rossignol and the hire shop has huge racks of brand new shiny skis and boots to choose from. And there’s no time wasted queuing for your equipment because when you arrive it will be waiting in your locker for you, which is opened with a remote wristband presented to you for the duration of your holiday. The ski room leads straight onto the snow, a few metres from the Tichot chairlift which whisks you into the vast Tignes/Val d’Isere ski area. The all-Inclusive arrangement means you can return for lunch if you want. A huge privilege for me was being able to hit the slopes with Billy and Aimee for a couple of hours. I was able to admire the two
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Olympic teammates cruising the pistes and nipping off onto the sides to demonstrate a few little tricks and jumps. Compared to Billy’s incredible performance in the inaugural Big Air competition in PyongChang in 2021 which secured his ‘brown’ medal, as he calls it, this was merely playful messing around. Club Med gives guests a fun and hasslefree experience. And if you love the campest of camp entertainment – that includes après ski with a string quartet playing Queen’s Greatest Hits, accompanied by a lady twisting and curling around on a hoop suspended from the ceiling – then it’s right up your street. Robots, DJs, live bands, dancing until the early hours, plus all you can eat and drink with ski pass and lessons included – the new Club Med Val Claret has it all.
Club Med Tignes is the first project that has BREEAM accreditation at ‘Very Good’ level, recognising its environmental credentials with photovoltaic solar panels, heat pumps and responsible insulation. The company has also planted 100 local species of tree around the resort. Instruction in skiing, snowboarding , and cross country, is available for all levels from beginner to advanced, plus there are ski kindergartens. Also offered are Nordic walking, snowshoeing, fat biking, paragliding, bungee jumping on skis, ice driving, glacier walks and sledging. The ‘Exclusive Collection Space’ – Le Sommet – offers large suites with balcony and lounge with a communal Welcome Lounge, exclusive room service, a concierge service, private drinks and private ski room. Visit: clubmed.co.uk for full details including child discounts.
from £29pp
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Mystery in Manigod
Colin Nicholson uncovers a latterday whodunit on his visit to Manigod
PHOTO: MGM/Hameau de l’Ours Manigod
Hameau de l’Ours, Manigod
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t is a beautiful development – a semicircle of wood-fronted apartments with a bar and a spa and a pool rounding off the end of the pistes. Completed just in time for the start of this season, this is what the French call a ‘front de neige’ or snowfront – as it has all the charm of a village seafront, except that it is skiers and snowboarders who ride in on waves of snow to seek refuge in this snug harbour, rather than boats. Set in the traditional Savoyard resort of Manigod, linked as it is to La Clusaz making for more than 100km of runs, what could be more enticing? But there was something not quite right when I spied the site – still under construction – from one of the area’s 45 lifts on my visit a
year ago. It was as if the Hameau de l’Ours – or bear’s lair – had been in hibernation for quite some time, decades even. Little did I know I was about to uncover a latterday whodunit as dark as the one of the chimney sweep accused of murdering the great novelist Émile Zola in his top floor apartment in Paris. But while that was the debate in Savoie a hundred years ago – as it was mainly these mountain folk who migrated to the capital to become sweeps, so adept were they at climbing – I was to come across a much more recent mystery. When I enquired about the Hameau de l’Ours, everyone assured me that it was a new project. Nobody melted, not even over a glass
PHOTO: Manigod/Aravis
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T R AV E L FAC T S Colin stayed as a guest of the Aravis region at the Chalets-Hôtel la Croix Fry (hotelchaletcroixfry.com; +33 4 50 44 90 16), which is 75 minutes from Geneva airport. Manigod also offers many activities to non-skiers including dogsledding, snowshoeing, snowtubing, paret sledding and marshmallow evenings. Visit manigod.com
of mulled wine at the free sledging evening which the resort hosts every Monday evening on Manigod’s unique, bicycle-like ‘paret’ sledges. Similarly, I could get no answers at the restaurant Aux Sapins, despite the bonhomie and accordion playing at its Tuesday night Savoyard evening, nor at the Vieille Ferme, known for its regional specialities such as cheese and stone grilled meat. I felt the trail was becoming as thin as the pistes in last year’s difficult start to the winter. But of course… I was making a simple gumshoe error. Everything is more easily done on skis, and I needed to get talking to an instructor. Since snowmaking is such a wonderful thing, even in what was probably the worst winter week in living memory, I was still able to ski with Eric on strips of snow – and pump him for information. So, in between honing my skills to the backdrop of the spectacular Aravis massif
– “knees apart, Colin!” – he explained how in 1999 the businessman Xavier Flactif had arrived with his family and bought the site. The first Eric knew of something being really wrong was in April 2003, when his daughter’s classmate – one of Flactif’s three children – didn’t turned up to school. The family had disappeared – and fast. In their house, the lights were on, a fire was blazing in the grate and dinner was still in the oven. But the car was gone, soon to be discovered at Geneva airport, and for a long time everyone assumed he had done a bunk. I continued with my instructor up to the 2,400m peaks of La Clusaz, well above the snowline, before snaking down ribbons of white piste to the village. And over a coffee Eric continued his story. After the disappearance, a relatively junior employee, David Hotyat, explained that Flactif had handed ownership of the venture to him.
This was too much to swallow, and the police interrogated the 31-year-old mechanic. Then the truth came out. He had murdered the entire family of five and burned their bodies in the neighbouring resort of Grand Bornand. It was this gruesome revelation that – understandably – left so many people reluctant to discuss the affair. Finally, after dinner at the charming Chalets-Hotel la Croix Fry, where I was staying, officials told me that, yes, the Hameau de l’Ours was a development of the site that Flactif had started. And there was a feature film made about it starring Gérard Depardieu’s daughter. At least now the scar that the affair left for 20 years on the landscape is gone. And the dream of that charming ski-in-ski-out addition to a quintessentially French resort has come to fruition – promising happier skiing days ahead.
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Ski like a local There is so much more to Vaujany than skiing and snowboarding, as Ashley Green discovered when he visited the area in the Oisans canton to find out what it is like to ‘ski like a local’
PHOTO: © Julia Guerre
I Vaujany’s link with the Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine means skiers and snowboarders have plenty of terrain to choose from
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t may seem unusual to start a feature about skiing in Vaujany with details about its museum, but skiers and snowboarders visiting the resort in the Isere region of France should make sure they find time to pay it a visit. There they will find the EMV (Espace Musee de Vaujany) an immersive museum which injects serious amounts of fun into learning about the resort’s history, its future and natural surroundings. The EMV’s clever multimedia animations ensure a playful experience where families can learn to track animals and forage in an animated forest, step into the shoes of
snowmakers and mushers, and even fly over Vaujany in a pro flight simulator. There’s a strong educational element with sections about the challenges of tourism development and avalanche control, but the emphasis is very much on learning, playing, and engaging the senses – for all ages. Perched on a sunny hillside in a sector of the Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine, Vaujany offers a lesson in sensitive tourism development. It combines traditional architecture and the laidback feeling of a preserved mountain village with modern facilities and impressive views of the Massif des Grandes Rousses.
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Fly over Vaujany in a pro flight simulator at the EMV
T R AV E L FAC T S The Skier & Snowboarder magazine flew to Geneva with EasyJet and was a guest of: France Montagnes – en.france-montagnes.com Vaujany Tourism office – vaujany.com/en Avoriaz Tourism Office – avoriaz.com/en
Vaujany offers a lesson in sensitive tourism development
A gondola linking the village to Alpe d’Huez was constructed in the 1980s by locals using money from the compulsory purchase of land for France’s largest hydro-electric station. This means that while Vaujany guests sleep in a relaxed village in the heart of the Oisans canton, they can easily access all slope levels from beginner to expert in the Grandes Rousses ski area. As a Famille Plus resort, Vaujany caters particularly well for young families with a state-of-the-art nursery/creche and snow garden for little ones. On the slopes at Montfrais, beginners and early intermediates will find their ski legs with 70km of pistes (from 1,250 metres) with seven green, 11 blue, nine red and three black runs available on the Oz-Vaujany lift pass. More advanced skiers in the family can take the gondola to explore Alpe d’Huez’s 250km of slopes – 42 green, 37 blue, 39
PHOTO: Lionel Gehin
In Vaujany, accommodation was provided at the Hôtel Les Cimes. As well as skiing, other activities included ski touring in Plan des Cavales, sunset snowshoeing with mountain guide Alain Hilion, relaxing at the Spa de La Fare, and the visit to the Vaujany Museum.
red and 17 black runs accessed by 84 lifts. Depending on snow conditions, confident intermediates will want to take the Pic Blanc cable car to reach the 16km-long Sarenne run which is classified as the longest black run in the Alps, while it takes skill and nerve to ski the Tunnel run, one of the steepest in the Alps. Off-piste skiers and snowboarders should experience La Combe du Loup itinerary with its views across to La Meije and La Grave or on snowy days, simply enjoy fun-filled powder laps off the Herpie chair lift. Vaujany isn’t big on shopping or nightlife (which will suit families) but there are enough restaurants to satisfy during a week-long holiday. Stay at the newly-refurbished Hotel Les Cimes and eat at Le Chalet Gourmand for mountain specialities in the heart of the village. There are also plenty of activities on and off the snow to entertain guests. Local mountain guide Alain Hilion leads customised
In Avoriaz, accommodation was provided at the Hotel Mil8 and Hotel des Dromonts. Other activities included snowshoeing and a tour of Avoriaz with its architect Simon Cloutier. Ski-joering and e-biking was also available.
(including sunset) snowshoe and winter Nordic walking tours while ski touring fans can explore Plan des Cavalles, a high plateau which leads to iconic routes and descents in what locals call ‘the secret Alps’. Amongst the secrets that skiers will discover in this area are powder stashes and tree skiing amongst Vaujany’s lesserknown terrain. The leisure centre is a focal point for families with a 25m swimming pool, Olympic size indoor ice-skating rink, bowling alley, water slides and games for children and relaxation for adults at Le Spa de la Fare – again, newly renovated – with Jacuzzis, sauna and hammam. There’s a strong focus on activities for children and teenagers with sledge parties, curling classes, biathlon practice and backstage tours to discover how the resort is run.
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ITALY
Hit the slopes, then sleep in the treetops At a unique hotel perched on stilts in the Dolomite mountains, David Hobden discovers a stunning winter escape offering five star luxury by the slopes
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he Plose ski region is located a mere 7km from Bressanone/Brixen, and is renowned as one of the most sun-drenched ski destinations in South Tyrol. It provides an ideal winter getaway for skiers, with the sun-kissed slopes offering breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites. Known for its diverse terrain, Plose caters to both beginners and advanced skiers with slopes ranging from gentle and wide for beginners to challenging and steep for those seeking a more exhilarating experience. The slopes are well-groomed, providing smooth and enjoyable skiing experiences and equipped with modern lift systems – including cable cars and chairlifts – skiers are efficiently transported to different parts of the mountain, helping to minimise wait times. Often praised
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for being family-friendly, Plose has a welcoming atmosphere for skiers of all ages, with areas specifically designed for children and beginners. Nestled among the towering fir trees at the base of the Plose mountain with easy ski-in-skiout access to the cable car is My Arbor, where my wife and I found ourselves welcomed to five star luxury. Commanding breathtaking views of the Eisack Valley and the South Tyrolean town of Bressanone, the hotel is situated just 40km from the Austrian border. The region has a rich history influenced by Austria, Italy and Germany, but there is an unmistakable Bavarian ambiance, which is underscored by the fact that despite being in Italy, German is the native language. At an elevation of 960m My Arbor is perched uniquely on stilts to help blend in to the mountainside, enveloped by lush forests
My Arbor Nest Suite
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My Arbor Forest Sauna entrance. Following the European tradition of nude spas, though a towel can provide a modest shield for the more reserved, this subterranean sanctuary is a labyrinthine masterpiece. Carved in stone, it hosts multiple saunas, a steam room, an inviting outdoor pool, a bracing cold plunge, and a cosy snack bar. For those seeking a novel experience, engaging in various ‘sauna rituals’ is an option, each progressively increasing in temperature throughout the day. If you manage to endure the heat, you might witness the sauna master’s captivating performance, involving the artful dropping of ice balls on heated stones and a rhythmic waving of towels to circulate the aromatic steam. For post-sauna indulgence, don your plush gown and make your way to one of the relaxation huts. While Plose may be considered a bit off the beaten track, the travel effort is well-rewarded. The secluded location offers a genuine retreat, providing a sense of tranquility and detachment from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
T R AV E L FAC T S From the UK the most convenient options for reaching My Arbor hotel at Plose are to fly into either Innsbruck or Verona. Innsbruck offers the advantage of being approximately an hour’s drive from the hotel, ensuring a swift and direct journey. Alternatively, Verona provides a scenic option with a two-hour train ride to Brixen, or if like me, you prefer to drive it’s an easy 2¼ hour journey. Ski schools and instructors are available for beginners or those looking to improve their skills.
PHOTOS: © Benno Prenn
and mountain tops which combine to create amazing backdrops – and one of the highlights of skiing at Plose is the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomite mountains. The seamless integration with the natural surroundings makes My Arbor a destination that stands out, along with the attention to detail in the hotel’s design and the quality of service – from the moment guests arrive, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of serenity and luxury. As you walk through the doors you cannot fail to be wowed by the immaculate sense of calmness and relaxation – in the entrance hall’s double-height area tree trunks hang down from the ceiling and the fireplace is welcoming. The lounge bar features floor-to-ceiling glass windows, which are common throughout the hotel, helping to bring the outside in and enabling you to enjoy the fantastic views which surround the property. The accommodation offerings at My Arbor span a spectrum of sizes and luxuries, from the intimate 38 square metre Nest to the expansive suites that boast private hot tubs and saunas. Despite the diversity in sizes, each room resonates with a cohesive treehouse vibe. During our stay, we opted for the Nest, the most modest of the room categories, and yet, it surprised with a sense of spaciousness. The
room, designed with a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic, exuded a serene charm with its neutral tones and wooden interiors. Every room, regardless of category, boasts a balcony that extends the living space into the outdoors. The resort offers après-ski activities, including cosy mountain huts where skiers can relax, enjoy local cuisine, and socialise after a day on the slopes. My Arbor’s culinary offerings present a harmonious fusion of nourishing and indulgent experiences. The day begins with a fresh and hearty breakfast. For those that feel the need, a good selection of lunches are available at the lounge bar, however during our stay, we never felt the need to indulge in more than a drink at lunchtime, such was the breakfast. Come evening, the hotel’s restaurant transforms into a vibrant culinary hub, featuring intimate private booths for each room. The extensive à la carte menu offers a delightful array of options, allowing guests to choose between well-loved classics and a daily changing selection of specials. The menu’s unique characteristic lies in the concept of smaller portions, suggesting around five orders per person. However, at the heart of this haven of unhurried, luxurious living lies the spa facilities. Unlike many hotels where spas are a mere “add on”, at My Arbor it stands as the focal point, an expansive oasis spreading across two floors encompassing 2,500 square metres. The first floor of the spa complex incorporates a captivating blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. A generously-sized swimming pool includes an indoor pool leading to outdoor infinity pool, via the electronic sliding glass doors. The outdoor pool enjoys spectacular views and a Jacuzzi bench. On this floor you will also find the wellness studio featuring a well-equipped gym and a multifunctional space for classes. However, the true essence of the spa experience unfolds a level below – and be prepared to shed your swimwear at the
For the hotel, visit my-arbor.com
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AUSTRIA
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PHOTO: © Kitzbühel Tourismus
BLACK EYED PEAS TO ROCK ISCHGL
Kitzbühel wins ‘Austria’s Best Ski Resort’ title Kitzbühel, the scenic alpine region, secured the title of ‘Austria’s Best Ski Resort’ for the 11th consecutive year at the World Ski Awards 2023. This consistent recognition reflects Kitzbühel’s enduring excellence and reinforces its standing as a premier winter destination. The World Ski Awards, a global initiative established in 2013, celebrates excellence in the ski tourism industry and sets the standard for outstanding achievements. The awards span various categories, ranging from infrastructure providers to accommodation, with winners determined by a panel of experts and the public through online voting. Kitzbühel faced strong competition, yet emerged victorious, showcasing its unparalleled commitment to providing an exceptional winter experience. Not only did Kitzbühel secure the title of ‘Austria’s Best Ski Resort,’ but its Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel also clinched the esteemed ‘World´s Best Ski Resort Company’ award. The A-ROSA Resort Kitzbühel 5* and Hahnenkamm Lodge continued their winning streaks as ‘Austria’s
Best Ski Hotel’ and ‘Austria’s Best Ski Chalet’ respectively. The Rasmushof Hotel Kitzbühel earned the accolade for ‘Austria´s Best Ski Boutique Hotel 2023’. Thanks to the early arrival of snow, the winter season officially kicked off with the opening of the first lifts in Kitzbühel on 11 November. Kitzbühel invites winter enthusiasts to revel in its award-winning offerings. Whether it’s the world-class ski facilities, luxurious accommodations, or the unique charm of boutique hotels, Kitzbühel sets the stage for an unforgettable winter adventure. The ski resort has a long history of hosting international ski events and is known for its challenging slopes and stunning scenery. The resort has a total of 233km of slopes and 58 gondolas and lifts, making it an ideal destination for skiers of all levels. Kitzbühel promises an exhilarating winter experience, blending tradition, festivities, and world-class sporting events against the stunning backdrop of the Austrian Alps.
In an electrifying crescendo set to resonate through the Austrian Tirol, the Black Eyed Peas are poised to headline Ischgl’s winter season finale with a breath-taking Top of the Mountain Closing Concert. On 30 April, the iconic hip-hop legends will grace the picturesque ski resort of Ischgl, promising a performance that will echo through the snow-laden peaks. Access to the open-air extravaganza is bundled with a free concert for valid ski pass holders, an irresistible opportunity for both adrenaline junkies and music lovers. As the Black Eyed Peas bid farewell, the Silvretta arena slopes will remain open until 1 May, offering a continuation of winter excitement. The Spring Blanc event series, featuring culinary delights and live music, ensures Ischgl’s winter season concludes with a thrilling climax, setting the stage for a summer of alpine fun. ischgl.com/en
BE ON TOP OF THE WORLD A must see on a visit to Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau is the new landmark ‘Top of Alpbachtal’, which is a viewpoint on the highest point in the ski area. The viewing tower can only be reached on skis or snowboard in the winter, but the reward is the marvellous panoramic view of the Tyrolean mountains. To get there, Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau say: “If you use the Wiedersbergerhornbahn gondola to access the ski area, you can then take the Gmahbahn or Kohlgrubenlift. From there, continue to the Hornbahn 2000 bottom station and comfortably take the chairlift up to the ‘Top of Alpbachtal’. “From the top station of the Pöglbahn gondola, you can ski directly to the bottom station of the Hornbahn 2000 and enjoy a comfortable ride to the viewing tower.” Situated at 2,030m, there is also an indoor area which has large panoramic windows and a seating corner. skijuwel.com/en
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TURKEY
Turkish delight Y
ou don’t think of Turkey as a snowy country but as you arrive here you’ll be mesmerised by dramatic views of the central Anatolian Plateau, Koroglu and Pontic mountains – about 60% of the country is mountainous. I started my trip in lofty Erzurum at 1,950m surrounded by the peaks of the Eastern Taurus not really knowing what to expect. Erzurum was known as “The Rock” as the most southeasterly NATO airbase in the Cold War and it sits on the old Silk Route. This is the heart of Eastern Anatolia and it holds Turkey’s highest peak, the biblical 5,156m Mt Ararat. Erzurum has always been a major commercial and military centre and is now a vital rail station on the Ankara-Iran route. Erzurum applied to host the 2026 Olympic Winter Games, which eventually went to
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Cortina d’Ampezzo. Turkey hasn’t given up on a Winter Olympics yet. They’ve already held the World University Games here in 2011 and there’s a massive modern ski jumping complex. The best intermediate skiing is spread across the Palandöken mountain range just outside the city. I stayed half board at the Polāt Hotel right by Ejder 3200 (Dragon Mountain). For après-ski, the Sway Hotel’s Lounge 2400 offered a glimpse into eastern ski fashion and Turkish House Music! It’s not St Anton’s Mooserwirt but the service is slick and you look down to the plains of historic Erzurum. Mountain ranges stretch south as far as the eye can see. Both the Sway and Polāt hotels have private pistes and well-appointed ski rooms. The quality of ski hire is sadly fairly average, so
PHOTO: © Pierre Teyssot / Agence String
Rob Rees brings us the most leftfield “city and ski” combo this side of the Urals. A few days in Istanbul mid-winter and three days skiing out east by the Armenian & Iranian border make for a truly unique ski trip
TURKEY
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you’re better off bringing your own equipment. It’s effectively ski-in-ski-out for the whole area. From the Polāt’s front door it’s possible to catch an ancient lift that accesses the main gondola. There’s a secondary smaller ski area 25km away at Konakli, on the flanks of Karakaya Hill at 3,170m. Across the two areas, there are 19 ski lifts (2 gondolas and 17 chairs of various vintages) and 65km of skiing. The vertical is almost 1,000m and the longest combined run is around 10km. The skiing set-up is basic but the landscape is surreal. I loved the rudimentary huts to warm your hands by the woodfired stove, doubling as the oven for baking potatoes. You always get a big smile, a warm welcome and the shared ritual of the local sweet lemon tea kitlama for 20p. The skiing is exceptional value at 15 Euro a day with night skiing included. In many hotels, the holiday package price includes the ski pass. Two persons sharing a room is around 200 Euro per night, full board four star accommodation. Half-board dining tends to be huge buffets of vegetarian and meze dishes. The particular local favourite is lamb Cağ kebab taking its name from the “cağ” skewers. You will ski both areas out in two to three days, so catch the morning flight back to Istanbul for uncrowded, winter sightseeing. Spanning both Europe and Asia, the capital city contains more than 15 million people. Once home to the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires, synagogues rub shoulders with churches and mosques. I’ve visited Istanbul many times over the years but it’s still a city that delights and surprises me. Beyond the obvious sites of Taksim Square, Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace, I discovered Fener, a bustling area rapidly gentrifying with vintage-style cafes and brightly painted buildings. The narrow, cobbled streets tumbling down the hillside to the Golden Horn waterfront, were once the preserve of the city’s Jewish, Armenian and Greek communities. A ‘must see’ is the
St George Greek Orthodox Cathedral but don’t miss the spooky Red School too. The red bricks came from Marseilles and the land was donated by the Prince of Moldova. Its official name is the Phanar Greek Orthodox College and is the oldest surviving and most prestigious Greek Orthodox school in Istanbul. It’s best to invest in a cultural guide to help you uncover and navigate what is a large, complex and hilly city. I breakfasted like a king with my guide Damla in the Karakoy district at her favourite breakfast spot, Namli Gurme. It has the most diverse breakfast table in Istanbul and an organic food market. It’s not just a meal – it’s a whole experience. Designed to be social, shared, and savoured for two hours, Turkish breakfast consists of many small plates, both sweet and savoury, accompanied with hard bagel-like bread simit and endless cups of çay. After taking all day to digest that feast, guide Damla finally succumbed to my fascination with Turkish baths! I just had to try a top notch hamam before flying home. Cleanliness is an integral part of Islamic culture and in the days before most homes had their own water supply, the hamam played a key role in the life of the city. Close to the Beşiktas football ground is Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı, constructed between 1578-1583 to serve the conquering sailors of the Ottoman Navy. The Turkish bath is quite a ritual. Times are allocated for men and women separately. You need to book ahead and have spare change to tip. You don a peştamal (the classic cotton hamam wrap) and meet your tellak (hamam attendant) at the entrance to the hot room. To relax and soften your skin, as well as helping your body to adjust to the heat, you lie
T R AV E L FAC T S For skiing and accommodation, visit ejder3200.com Turkish Airlines fly from Heathrow to Erzurum via Istanbul, visit turkishairlines.com You can use a local Turkish ski operator to package your trip, skiturkish.com To hire the cultural guide Damla Arslan, you can WhatsApp her on +90 (532) 560 28 88 For general information, visit goturkiye.com
down on the Göbektaşı, the hexagon heated marble slab in the middle, for at least 10 minutes. Your tellak will next take you to the marble water basin the Kurna where he exfoliates your body with the kese, a special scrubbing mitten. After rinsing, the final step of the ritual is the Köpük where you get a bubble soap wash. You’re then rubbed very firmly with a loofah to create the feeling of purification and to rid you of all dead skin and muscle knots. Alas, overheating just five minutes from the end of the ritual, I had to be doused in ice cold water and literally lifted out by two strong tellaks. Cooling down for half an hour in the camegah on comfortable sofas, I eventually reenergised with the traditional refreshing drink of quince sherbet. The whole hour long event is to be recommended nonetheless! It’s not your obvious ski trip but if you really want a fascinating cheap winter week away, you’ll be hard pressed to beat Turkey for variety, culture, new food discoveries and heartfelt hospitality.
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SWITZERLAND
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PHOTO: © Verbier 4 Vallées
Indulge in first tracks within the Verbier 4 Vallées area
Make first tracks while in Verbier This winter, indulge in the exhilarating activity of first tracks within the Verbier 4 Vallées area. The unique concept allows participants to carve their initial ski tracks before the official slopes open, culminating in a delightful breakfast served at an altitude exceeding 2,700 metres. This exclusive experience is tailored for skiing enthusiasts seeking authenticity and seclusion. Picture a freshly groomed slope, the sun casting its first rays over snow-capped peaks, and an unparalleled serenity preceding the arrival of fellow skiers. This extraordinary adventure is available
for booking every Friday until the conclusion of the season. Meet at Place de Médran under the giant screen at 7.50am, where a Verbier 4 Vallées staff member will be waiting. Subsequently, participants arrive at Les Ruinettes and are transported by a patrol boat at 8.10am. Take part in two exhilarating descents (Attelas – Ruinettes), guided by a patroller, followed by a continental breakfast in the Attelas restaurant. The first tracks experience is priced from 40 CHF / £37 pp. verbier.ch
INNOVATIVE NEW BOOKING PLATFORM As part of its Mobility Plan, Verbier Tourisme has introduced a multi mode of transport booking service developed by Antidots. This innovative booking platform will incorporate all modes of transportation, covering entire journeys from any location worldwide. As a result, it will now be possible to plan, book, and pay for your journey to Verbier through a single platform. This solution marks the first integration of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) with a valley lift, specifically the one connecting Le Châble and Verbier. It provides travelers with an all-inclusive transportation package,
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encompassing train and plane services, VTC and taxi options, car rentals, buses, and coaches, as well as free shuttles and the Châble-Verbier gondola. All of these services are conveniently bundled together on the Go Verbier platform, allowing for a seamless experience with a single payment. With this innovative technology, the Swiss resort, twice voted the best in the world, is committing to a positive transformation of its region by prioritising sustainable transportation alternatives. goverbier.ch/en
VAIL RESORTS SET TO ACQUIRE MOUNTAIN RESORT Vail Resorts, Inc. has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Crans-Montana Mountain Resort in Switzerland from CPI Property Group (“CPIPG”). Crans-Montana Mountain Resort spans over 1,400 metres of skiable vertical terrain, and 140 kilometres of trails. Accessible from five airports and by train, Crans-Montana Mountain Resort is located in the Valais canton of Switzerland, approximately two and a half hours from Geneva and less than four hours from Milan and Zurich. The resort is two and a half hours away from the company’s other owned and operated European resort in Andermatt-Sedrun. “Crans-Montana is an iconic ski destination in the heart of the Swiss Alps, with a unique heritage, incredible terrain, passionate team, and a community dedicated to the success of the region,” said Kirsten Lynch, Chief Executive Officer of Vail Resorts. “Our acquisition of the resort aligns to our growth strategy of expanding our resort network in Europe, creating even more value for our Pass Holders and guests around the world.” The transaction is expected to close during the 2023-24 ski and ride season, subject to certain third-party consents.
AMERICA
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Not for the faint hearted Jimmy Petterson discovers how the terrain at Snowbird will put you to the test all day long
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nowbird is one of the toughest ski resorts in the world. The mountain offers almost 1,000 vertical metres of extremely challenging terrain, and the skiers and boarders who call this their home mountain definitely know how to ride the steep, cliff-laden chutes and gullies. It is home to only four hotels, and my friend, Ortwin Eckert, and I checked into the Cliff Lodge, a grey, concrete building that looks as if it were designed by the Pentagon. The architecture is reminiscent of a Cold War bomb shelter – but it was built to withstand avalanches rather than bombs. With Snowbird listed as the ninth snowiest ski resort in the world, it was probably not a bad idea to build
a structure that can withstand the worst that Mother Nature can throw at it. Snowbird was the dream project of Ted Johnson, the longtime manager of the Rustler Lodge in Alta, a couple of kilometres up the valley. After a few seasons learning to ski in Sun Valley, Ted came to Alta for the winter of 1954, and never looked back. He started, according to him, as an “unhandyman” at the Rustler Lodge, did some of this and that, tried photography, instructed skiing, and ultimately ended up as the manager. During those many years, Ted often skied past the Alta boundary into Peruvian Gulch and hitchhiked back to Alta. He saw the possibility of what could be done with the
PHOTOS: Jimmy Petterson
Ortwin Eckert carves his way down toward the Cliff Lodge, at the bottom of Little Cottonwood Canyon
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A ride up one of the chairlifts in Snowbird offers a stunning panorama of parts of the Wasatch range and the Salt Lake City Basin below huge open bowls, chutes, and gullies in both Peruvian Gulch and Gad Valley beyond, and he was able to realise his dream when he talked multi-millionaire, Dick Bass, into becoming a major financier. Their dreams united, they opened Snowbird in 1972. The strangest thing happened early on our first day in Snowbird. Ortwin and I pulled up to the Wilbure Lift, an older double chair, and I asked the young lift operators if it was an original lift. They had no idea, but a woman behind me overheard my question and replied, “I can help you with that, because the lift was named after me! My name is Wilma, and I was married to Ted Johnson for quite a few years. We had a cook at the Rustler Lodge back in the sixties who used to call me Wilbure and hence the name . . . and yes, it is original”. It was clear to me that Snowbird had heart and soul. We lunched with Wilma Johnson and skied the long, beautiful, black-diamond groomer with her that was named after her husband – Regulator Johnson. We thanked Wilma and went off to try the off-piste. Ortwin and I were blessed with a spring dusting of about 10 centimetres of new snow, and we used all the high traverses on the mountain that give access to so much territory at Snowbird. We followed the high traverse to
AMERICA
Ortwin Eckert sprays up some powder off-piste in Snowbird
the perimeter of Gad Valley, where we found some choice powder turns. Then we explored Mineral Basin, the newest development on the mountain, first opened at the beginning of the millennium. This used to be their primo heliski terrain before they built a couple of lifts up from the bottom of the Basin, one coming back to the top of the Tram and one connecting the area with Alta.
They basically prepare one piste from the top of each of the lifts and the rest of the gigantic bowl is left for the powder skiers to pack down over time. Ortwin and I skied some steep cuts in the trees to below the lift a couple of times and hiked a few minutes back to the lift. We finished the day in the steepest and least skied section of Snowbird – Peruvian Gulch. There are a myriad of death-defying entries between the rocks off the Cirque Traverse, and I dove into one of them. I must admit that my inspection was too cursory. As I got down to the narrowest part of the hourglass shaped couloir, I realised that I had bitten off more than I could chew. My skis were longer than the width of snow between the rocks. I began to hike back out, when a voice of one of the local Snowbird faithful called down, “Hey, I assure you the easiest way is down”. With that, he jump-turned the upper half of the hourglass, side-slipped a bit, and then set his freeride skis into a schuss and straightlined the 40 degree narrows. I was impressed, but kept sidestepping back up to the point that I could cut over to a somewhat less exposed entry into the Gulch. I had to conclude that Snowbird is not a resort for posers or wannabees. All the terrain puts you to the test all day long.
SKIING AROUND THE WORLD Jimmy Petterson is one of the world’s most published ski journalists, with photos and stories having appeared in 20 countries. Jimmy has spent a lifetime in search of the cosiest ski village, the most spectacular mountaintop view and the ultimate powder descent, and for the past 38 years, he has been writing about and photographing his experiences for ski and travel magazines. You can find all of Jimmy’s work compiled in his seminal two-volume set of books, Skiing Around the World, Volumes I and II. In these two books, Jimmy takes skiers on an odyssey through all seven continents to visit 500-plus ski resorts in more than 70 countries. More than 1,000 pages and more than 1,800 fullcolor photos describe skiing possibilities virtually everywhere on the planet. skiingaroundtheworldbook.com
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HOLIDAY NEWS
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AMERICA
COLORADO: Steamboat Resort in Colorado is celebrating the completion of its huge expansion, the Full Steam Ahead Programme, as it draws to a close. Visitors to the resort can enjoy the programme’s latest additions including the unveiling of Sunshine Peak Terrain, featuring four lifts and 21 trails. The grand opening of North America’s longest and fastest 10-person gondola, the Wild Blue Gondola, spans 16,000 horizontal feet and 3,371 vertical feet. Sample this incredible expansion which opens an additional 600 acres and introduces five lifts, making the resort 30 percent open with over 60 trails and 1,100 acres. colorado.com
AUSTRALIA
NEW SOUTH WALES: Located within Kosciuszko National Park in the Snowy Mountains, NSW’s four snow resorts — Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass and Selwyn Snow Resort — each has its own style and personality. The resorts, all about a 5.5-hour drive from Sydney, have invested heavily in recent years to extend the winter snow season and make sure skiers and boarders have optimal conditions. The season generally runs from the third weekend in June to October. sydney.com
CHILE
VALLE NEVADO: Located 90 minutes East of Santiago at an elevation of 10,000 feet in the Andean Mountains, Valle Nevado is Chile’s premier ski resort, offering the largest amount of terrain and the most modern lift system in the Southern Hemisphere. Spread along the spine of a dramatic mountain ridge, the resort is perfect for travellers looking for some summer skiing and snowboarding. The resort is renowned for its wide-open terrain, worldclass heli-skiing opportunities and, due to its high altitude, incredible snow conditions. chile.travel
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KEERE DETAILS OENR HOLIDAY
MO OTH N S A N D AI L A B L E O R E I R O V E A D ST E R R A BOA N E WS N OW S H & T I KI ER NG W THE S E, ALO AL OFFERS T I S B I WE SPEC T: ES ON E ASON A DER.COM T A D S R UP S A I O H FOR T SNOWB
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Steamboat, Colorado
EUROPE
SWITZERLAND, FRANCE & AUSTRIA: Flexiski launched its new winter programme for the 2023-24 season with a number of new properties and a selection of new destinations. Switzerland’s Crans-Montana has been added to the new destination list, offering a chance for a luxury short break with easy access to Geneva and a large choice of 4* and 5* hotels including the new Six Senses (5*) and Faern Valaisia (4*). Also, new hotels in Wengen, Grindelwald, Zermatt and Davos (Switzerland), Meribel, Alpe d’Huez and Chamonix (France) and Kitzbuhel and St Christoph (Austria) have been added to the programme too. As well as hand-picked hotels across the Alps, Flexiski also operates its own luxury chalets, including the 5* ski-in-ski-out Chalet Renard Blanc in Avoriaz. flexiski.com
FRANCE
ISÈRE: Why not try the Sarenne sunset ski ? As the majority of skiers and snowboarders wind down for the day or seek respite in the resort’s centre to explore the shops, a select few embark on a different journey back up the mountain, ready for a unique adventure on Pic Blanc in Alpe d’Huez. With one final cable car ride, they ascend
to admire the breath-taking sunset from the lofty heights of the Grandes Rousses mountain range. The allure lies in Sarenne, renowned as the world’s longest black piste, offering an uninterrupted 16km stretch of skiing and a thrilling 2,000 metre descent. For those seeking extraordinary experiences, Tuesday evenings beckon with the last cable car ascent and a downhill run that promises an unforgettable adventure. The Sarenne sunset ski takes place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the winter season and is priced from €65/£56pp. isere-tourism.com
FRANCE
LA PLAGNE: As the days become longer, the sunny terraces more popular, and spring skiing hits its peak, the seventh edition of Subli’Cimes will return to La Plagne from 6-11 April. Free for anyone who has a valid ski pass, this wacky and exciting festival is spread out across La Plagne’s five spectacular summits. laplagneresort.com & en.la-plagne.com
FRANCE
SELF-DRIVE: Peak Retreats, the French Alps ski specialist, is offering a new concept to help its clients break up their self-drive journeys to and
HOLIDAY NEWS
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Spring Race Party, taking place on 1 April – a fun obstacle challenge that takes skiers from the Seceda meadow right to the centre of Ortisei. Participating teams come up with funny costumes, from bathrobes to funny hats, and wear them as they ski, with the winners and the most creative team awarded various prizes. After the event there is a huge party with local DJs with live music, food stalls and wine tasting. valgardena.it/en
PHOTO: Steamboat and Alterra Mountain Company
ITALY
from the French Alps. Adding to their range of en-route hotels, the ‘en-route escapes’ concept allows skiers to explore more of France on their way to or from their ski holiday. Each accommodation has been selected to offer a true sense of escapism while being located a short drive from the
main routes between Calais and the Alps. peakretreats.co.uk/winter/getting-there/enroute-escapes
ITALY
VAL GARDENA: Dolomites Val Gardena invite you to the
VAL GARDENA: On 23 March the longest giant slalom in the world – The Gardenissima – will take place in Val Gardena. The 6km slalom course starts from Monte Seceda and ends at the Col Raiser Valley Station. Then on 24 March children take centre stage with a 2km course weaving from Monte Seceda to the Fermeda Valley Station. valgardena.it/en
MONTENEGRO
KOLAŠIN: For those wanting to venture to a lessertravelled ski slope, Kolašin in Montenegro is the perfect location for 2024. With ski pass prices being as low as £21, there’s all the more reason to travel to this beautiful Balkan island. The ski resort now extends to an altitude of over 2,000 metres, which helps to ensure reliable snow conditions. With 45km of slopes available and seven lifts for guests, it is now the largest and most modern winter sports resort in Montenegro. The slopes for skiing and snowboarding are mainly easy and intermediate, making it a great spot for families. montenegro.travel/en
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SALES & SERVICES
Ski clothing brand Maier Sports’ new winter range includes a number of ski touring related garments, ideal for first time ski tourers, including jackets, trousers and mid layers, alongside winter walking trousers that are also suitable for any mountain weather. With a recent survey conducted by the Ski Club of Great Britain suggesting around 30% of skiers would like to try ski touring (18% of respondents participated last winter), it’s clear that the activity is the fastest growing area of the sport and set to continue rising as skiers search for adventure and a way to increase exercise. Linda Torstensson of Maier Sports UK, said: “Maier Sports has been developing its touring range for quite some time but it’s fantastic to see such a growth with UK skiers now touring more and more. For anyone thinking about getting into ski touring for the first time, the Maier Sports clothing is ideal because it’s fantastic quality at a good price point – hence why it’s marketed as entry level kit. The fit of the jacket and trousers is even more important when it comes to ski touring too, and with Maier Sports’ huge range of sizes, it means skiers can find their perfect fit.” maier-sports.com
DISCOVER PROTEST’S FW24 COLLECTION Gear up for a winter like never before with Protest’s FW24 collection which blends the timeless allure of Retro Newstalgia with the sleek visions of tomorrow’s Digital Daydream. In the Retro Newstalgia theme you’ll find some redefined classics – involving giving a modern twist to timeless elements from the past. It’s about combining the best of both worlds by making nostalgic styles feel fresh and relevant today.
For women, the theme introduces fitted jackets like the PRTLUCID snowjacket, tighter pants like the PRTBABOU, a super stretch softshell snowpants, geometric lines, and bold back prints like on the PRTLUNAR zip top. The PRTSAGA snowsuit (pictured) will give you nostalgic vibes on the slopes. protest.eu
Protest Sportswear
Going on tour
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PHOTO: Archive Fischer
CELEBRATING A CENTURY OF EXCELLENCE IN SPORTING GOODS
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CEO of Fischer Franz Föttinger
Fischer, a global leader in the sporting goods industry, is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Since its inception in 1924, Fischer has been at the forefront of innovation and quality in the world of sports equipment, and this milestone is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Founded in Upper Austria by Joseph Fischer, and still headquartered there, Fischer has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of ski equipment and a trusted name in skiing, hockey, and outdoor sports. Over the past century, Fischer has continuously pushed the boundaries of technology and design to deliver superior products that enhance the performance and enjoyment of athletes at all levels, following its vision to be the athlete’s number one choice. As Fischer celebrates its centenary, the company reflects on a rich history of remarkable achievements. From pioneering
advancements and groundbreaking technologies in ski and boot manufacturing, such as FISCHER VACUUM®, Hole Ski Technology, Fischer CROWN®, Air Composite Core, Cold Base Bonding and TURNAMIC®, to introducing high-end hockey and outdoor equipment, Fischer has consistently demonstrated its ability to stay ahead of the curve to meet the evolving needs of athletes worldwide. “We are immensely proud to reach this momentous milestone in our company’s history,” said Franz Föttinger, CEO of Fischer. “For 100 years, Fischer has been driven by a passion for sports and a dedication to providing athletes with the tools they need to succeed. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction remains as strong as ever, and we are excited to continue shaping the future of sports for the next century.” fischersports.com
DIRECTORY CUMBRIA
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ESSEX
LANCASHIRE
LINCOLNSHIRE
Rivington Alpine
Tallington Lakes Pro Shop
Skee Tex Anything Technical Ltd Sand Aire House, New Road, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4AY Tel: 01539 734701 Email: info@skiequipmentuk.co.uk Web: www.skiequipmentuk.co.uk Ski boot fitting and ski/ board servicing experts. Ski boot spare parts specialists. Technician training courses.
DORSET
The Old Mill, Battlebridge, Essex, SS11 8TR Tel: 01268 768282 Email: info@skee-tex.co.uk Web: www.skee-tex.co.uk Specialist snowsports shop, established over 70 years. Experienced boot fitters, full service workshop. Main dealers for Dahu, Salomon, Rossignol, Head, Armada, Picture, Hestra, Scott, Olang, Spyder, Henri Duvillard and Protest to name a few.
HAMPSHIRE
The Old Methodist Church, Market Street, Adlington, Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 4HE Tel: 01257 483999 Email: sales@rivingtonalpine.co.uk Web: www.rivingtonalpine.co.uk Specialist ski boot fitting, modification and footbed manufacture. All major brands stocked and all levels of skier welcome. Free parking outside. Call for an appointment.
LEICESTERSHIRE Snowtrax Limited
Matchams Lane, Hurn, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 6AW Tel: 01202 499155 ext 5 Email: andy@snowtraxstore.co.uk Web: www.snowtrax.eu Snowtrax Ski and Snowboard Store in Dorset, is your trusted Ski and Snowboard Equipment Specialist Est. 1989. At Snowtrax we rigorously test all equipment to ensure quality #wetestweknow. Shop top brands like Salomon, Burton, Dakine, Hestra, Atomic, Black Crows, Capita, and Union. Our onsite workshop services skis and snowboards ready for your next trip. Step into performance and comfort in The Boot Lab, where our experts craft the perfect ski boot fit.
EAST SUSSEX
Snowtogs Southampton. One of the oldest family run ski shops in the country, established in 1969. Well known for our custom ski boot fitting with boots from the worlds best brands. We have a full ski workshop on site providing servicing and binding fitting. We also stock a massive range of helmets and goggles and loads of other essential accessories. We now have an onsite booking system for custom boot fitting appointments. Please see our website for more details.
KENT
Snowlab UK Ltd
Knockhatch Ski Centre, Hailsham Bypass, Hailsham, BN27 3GD Tel: 01323 848410 Email: shop@snowlab.co.uk Web: www.snowlab.co.uk Specialist winter sports retailer. Custom boot fitting service available. All major brands stocked.
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Captains Cabin Sevenoaks
113/115 St Johns Hill, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 3PE Tel: 01732 464463 Email: sales@theski-shop.co.uk Web: www.theski-shop.co.uk Fantastic choice of ski clothing and equipment. All major brands stocked. Professional boot fitting service, hire and workshop repair.
sales@tallingtonlakesproshop.com
Web: www.tallingtonlakesproshop.com Est 1975. An independent ski and snowboard retailer, with years of experience, including custom ski boot fitting service. Large selection of quality clothing and hardware from quality brands. On-site dry ski slope and equipment servicing workshop. Free delivery with online orders over £100.
Snowfit
Unit C & D, Yarefield Park, Old Hall Road, Norwich, NR4 6FF Tel: 01603 716655 Email: info@snowfit.co.uk Web: www.snowfit.co.uk Norfolk’s premier ski and snowboard store. 25 years experience, expert advice, fitting and service. Equipment and accessories from the brands you would expect to find in a proper winter sports specialist – instore or online.
SCOTLAND
LONDON
Snowtogs
429/431 Millbrook Road, Southampton, SO15 0HX Tel: 02380 773925 Email: info@snowtogs.co.uk Web: www.skishops.co.uk
Barholm Road, Tallington, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 4RJ Tel: 01778 347000 Email:
NORFOLK
Banks of Perth Love & Piste
Alberts Barn, 33 Costock Rd, East Leake, Loughborough, LE12 6LY Tel: 01509 853944 Email: sales@loveandpiste.co.uk Web: www.loveandpiste.co.uk Independent Local Skiwear Specialist for 20 years catering for the whole family; clothing, helmets, goggles, sunglasses & luggage. Brands include; BUFF, CMP, Coolcasc, CRAFT, Hestra, Killtec, Manbi, Oakley, Protest, Reusch, Rossignol, Salice, Snokart, Steiner, Uvex, Weedo. Shop online or in our East Leake store where we have an inhouse Coffee Shop and large free parking area. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @loveandpiste.
Finches Emporium
25-27 Perry Vale, Forest Hill, London, SE23 2NE Tel: 0208 699 6768 Web: www.finchesemporium.com Finches Emporium is a family run business established since 1947. Our main departments are ski, snowboard, cycle and skateboard with everything you might need for your sport as well as experienced workshops in each discipline.
LONDON
Profeet Ski Boot Lab
867-869 Fulham Road, London, SW6 5HP Tel: 020 7736 0046 Email: info@profeet.co.uk Web: www.profeet.co.uk/skiing Profeet are ski boot specialists – extensive selection for all foot shapes and skiing abilities. The latest, alpine, freeride and touring models. By appointment custom fitting with custom ski insoles, custom liners and boot heaters. Comprehensive comfort guarantee.
29 St John Street, Perth, PH1 5SH Tel: 01738 624928 Email: enquiries@banksofperth.co.uk Web: www.banksofperth.co.uk Large range of equipment plus junior and adult ski clothing. Specialists in boot fitting and custom insoles.
SUFFOLK
Active Snowsports
Suffolk Ski Centre, Bourne Hill, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8NQ Tel: 01473 487474 Email: info@activesnowsports.com Web: www.activesnowsports.com Custom boot fitting, service and repair, skis, snowboards, boots, clothing and much more.
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UK SLOPE & CLUB NEWS
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In the second year of fundraising for Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK), a charity whose mission is to open snowsports to all, Iglu skiers and boarders have donated almost ten times the sum raised in the previous, inaugural year of the partnership. At the time of booking, either online or via the Iglu Ski reservations team, those booking ski holidays are invited to contribute £1 per passenger for the benefit of Disability Snowsport UK. Total sums raised this ski season to date are £3,704, versus £425 to the same date last year. This means that 247 adults and children will be enabled to enjoy a ski session on a UK slope, bringing smiles, self-confidence and the opportunity for friendships, built on sport. CEO of Disability Snowsport UK, Virginia Anderson said: “Snowsport is such a great way of getting out and trying something new, having fun and challenging yourself. “These opportunities for disabled children and adults can be life changing as well as a lot of fun. We’re so grateful to Iglu Ski and their customers for helping make this happen from Cairngorm to Hemel Hempstead.” Head of Product and Commercial at Iglu Ski, Gordon Ritter said: “It’s heartwarming to see our guests consider the needs of others, and make healthy donations to the
K charity. Skiing can be so inclusive, and we love to see every guest on a slope, in the UK or overseas, enjoying the atmosphere, exercising and having fun. We’re looking forward to raising even more for DSUK this season and in the future.” igluski.com/guides/ski-tips/dsuk
DISCOUNT SCHEME TO HELP CHILDREN TRY OUT SKIING A new study carried out by Sports Direct has revealed the rising costs faced by parents who are looking to get their children into a new sport. For skiing, the research found that parents are required to pay an average of £385 for their child’s first year participating, with equipment costing £185, excluding the skis themselves, and training or participation fees costing an average of £200. With equipment costs making up a large part of the initial cost parents face getting their children involved in sports, Sports Direct is launching an indefinite discount scheme, offering savings of up to 70% across a range of core products for multiple sports. To find out more, visit sportsdirect.com/kids/sports-accessibility
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PHOTO: ©DSUK
Travel agency’s fundraising for DSUK increases almost tenfold
BRITISH SKIMO CHAMPIONSHIP The 2024 Dynafit British Skimo Championship is due to be held on Saturday 16 March at Glenshee, conditions allowing. Combining athletic skiing with mountaineering skills, ski mountaineering racing sees competitors take on multiple ascents and descents, with the fastest racer completing the course being crowned the winner. Aiming to provide an introduction to the sport, Skimo Scotland races are open to ski mountaineers, ski tourers, split boarders and telemark skiers and are suitable for serious and non-serious ski mountaineer enthusiasts. There are different types of courses, the races are short, lasting 60-90 minutes, and each has been designed around the resort it is taking place in. If the conditions are unfavourable the race may be held on the Sunday. ski-glenshee.co.uk/Skimo-2024