INTHE SNOW
ROSS WOODHALL
ISSUE 44 | OCT 2015
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T h e wo r l d ’s l a rg e st s k i a re a
JON OLSSON ‘‘GOOD PREP STARTS WITH THE FIRST LAYER’’
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THE ART OF LAYERING
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IN THIS MONTH
ENGADIN ST. MORITZ
FEATURES
016 BEST IN SWISS GET THE BEST DEALS The country where we’ve been taking our winter-sports holidays
022
longer than any other still manages to keep improving, and they
@INTHESNOWMAG INTHESNOW
INTHESNOW
FRESH TRACKS THE AGE OF THE SKI TRAIN The choices for rail travellers to the Alps just keep getting better, with new connections and faster services making travel ever more seamless and the time and price difference between travelling direct and the transfer-airport-flight-airport-transfer regime smaller.
LES 2 ALPES 21ST CENTURY RESORT The snow-sure glacier resort in the southern French Alps has always had a different outlook to its neighbours. Now after one of the biggest earth-moving projects in ski resort history, it has a new home run too. OT LES 2 ALPES AND B.LONGO
INTHESNOW
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also have lots of new deals to take advantage of for 2015-16.
REGULARS
GEAR
GEPA PICTURES
NEW
062 10 MINUTES WITH MARCEL HIRSCHER
FIVE-PAGE BOOT ROOM 051–055
The Austrian skiing superstar set a new all-time record for winning the overall World Cup last season, leading some to say he’s the greatest racer ever. He talks to our editor about what’s next.
A new season means new equipment so this month we
patrick@inthesnow.com Hoorah it’s a new ski season! “Well, nearly” … you may quite reasonably respond, but the truth is that if you
FREERIDE 010
delve into some of the greatest gear we can get our
MY SLOPES: BANFF 037
Vantage skis (that we tested earlier this year) and the
up to one of the glacier ski areas that’s already opened
very cool honeycomb Slytech back protector … enjoy
for “winter” 2015–16.
hands on, including the Smith Quad Goggles, the Atomic
ALTITUDE TUITION 048
really want to, you can get out on the slopes today, or at least tomorrow – you just need to get to the Alps and
The good news is that after an unexpected 30cm of fresh snow at some glaciers at the start of September (when it was still officially summer), Sölden in the Austrian Tirol last month – so it’s already into its second month of the season. We’ve got pictures and details of the other areas open in October within these pages. Besides the snow there’s an awful lot to look forward PUBLISHER
DOMINIC KILLINGER dom@inthesnow.com MARC BERENGUER
031
TEAM PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
MATT NICHOLSON matt@inthesnow.com EDITOR
PATRICK THORNE patrick@inthesnow.com
BLOW THE BONUS CHALET OWENS
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
DEBBIE GABRIEL debbie@inthesnow.com SALES MANAGER
Super-luxury chalets are a dime a dozen these days, and the problem faced by many people renting them is to how to spread the love? That’s not a problem at one chalet thanks to a huge entertainments space.
decided it was worth opening early – back on the 12th of
GIANCARLO GAMBARDELLA giancarlo@inthesnow.com
SUB EDITORS
NICK JONES MARION ADAMS CONTRIBUTORS
SAM THORNE OLIVIA PARRY-JONES ANDY BLEAKLEY ANDY TAYLOR DANIEL ELKEN
ROSS WOODHALL
to in winter 2015-16. I did a bit of “back of the beer mat” maths and reckon expenditure on things like big ski lifts
Printed in the UK.
and new swimming pool complexes add up to around
No part of this publication
a half-billion-euro spend by many of the big-name ski
may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored
areas over the summer ahead of this winter, and that’s
in a retrieval system or
without all the new chalets and hotels that are opening.
transmitted, in any way or
The better-still news is that it’s all cheaper for us Brits
means, either by recording or otherwise, without permission
thanks to the pound riding high against the euro and the
SALLY BARTLETT ANNA BARTLETT
of the publishers in writing.
currencies of many other ski nations including Canada
COLUMNISTS
INTHESNOW LTD
for seven or eight winters, and the pound is now up
THE SNOW STUDIO
20% against the euro compared to two seasons ago, so
EQUIPMENT EDITOR
JON WEST PHIL SMITH JACK STEELE JENNU BLETCHER DESIGN BY
PICTURE EDITOR
© Copyright 2015
ROCKET BASE rocketbase.co.uk
and Norway. We’re back up to exchange rates not seen
KINGS LANE, BUCKS HP16 0QY
everything suddenly seems much more affordable. This season we’ll continue to bring you all the biggest and
+44 (0)1494 862 423 DOM@INTHESNOW.COM INTHESNOW.COM
latest news stories from the winter-sports world. If you go online you’ll see we’ve revamped our website so it is even better than before, and we’re marching on towards 50,000 followers on Facebook who are receiving instant updates on big snowfalls and other big stories. We’ll also be increasing our video presence across all our digital outlets. Along with all the news, and an expanded “Boot Room” gear section for this season, this month’s features include profiles of Les 2 Alpes in France and Zell am See in Austria, as well as an interesting study in to where all the money we spend on our lift passes actually goes to. Think snow.
Follow us @inthesnowmag
005 // OCT15
WWW.SINNER.EU
SAAS FEE
WILL IT BE SNOWY THIS SEASON?
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
t’s the time of year when we ask
Rather than open early it had been feared some
season in June but were then deluged by the
in Italy will reopen for the start of their 7-month
the million-euro question – will next
might delay planned openings as the snowpack
biggest snowfalls for 20 or 30 years with up to
winter seasons. Most glacier areas offer the
winter be a snowy one?
at many had been severely depleted by high
2m falling in several storms in July, so perhaps
chance to attend season opening parties and
The Daily Express has no doubts and
summer temperatures causing significant
that’s a good sign.
test our next season’s gear early.
is already forecasting catastrophic
thawing until the snow arrived. So the signs
There was good snowfall too in Australia
winter snow cover, in the UK at least,
are better than hoped for the start of autumn.
and New Zealand and even ski areas
this winter – potentially good news
Whether they will continue and we will avoid
in southern Africa enjoyed a good 2015
for Scottish ski areas if they’re right,
a repeat of last year’s catastrophic start to the
winter season during our summer. With
although they do tend to post similar
2014-15 ski season remains to be seen and no
a month of the season still to go in early
stories every year about this time.
one can truly predict.
September Queenstown’s Coronet Peak
Is there more tangible evidence?
Across the Atlantic, where Western North
was surpassing its previous all time
Well, spirits have been raised by
America had a generally lousy winter 2014-15
snowfall record of 3m, set in 2010.
significant last summer and early
(while the East Coast enjoyed some record
“This is the winter that just keeps on
Social media filled with snowy images
autumn snowfall in the Alps and
accumulations), hopes are also high of a very
giving! We’re thrilled that the awesome
from across the Alps as we went to
the Rockies. Lake Louise in Canada posted
snowy winter ahead. Here there is slightly
conditions our guests have enjoyed
press in the last week of September
pictures of an intrepid gent skiing on about an
more science involved in the forecasting as
throughout the season are continuing
as up to 35cm (14 inches) of snow
2.5cm of snow there in mid-September, but
a strong “El Niño” weather pattern has been
and we’d love to get as many people
was reported in the first few days of
Sölden ski resort in Austria’s Tirol province
predicted in the Pacific Ocean which typically
up the mountains to enjoy our record
Autumn. There were powder conditions
went further and actually opened to the public
means more precipitation and, if it’s cold
snow,” said resort operator NZSki’s CEO
for the last weekend of last month on
for glacier skiing several weeks earlier than
enough, more snow.
Paul Anderson.
the glacier slopes that were already
it had planned, on Saturday 12th September,
Ski resorts in the Western US are forecasting
Skiers and riders had been able to access
open, bringing thrills for the first skiers
after significant snowfall on high slopes in
MUCH more snow after five seasons of
the whole of Coronet Peak for the majority
of the 2015-16 ski season.
Europe at the start of last month, when resorts
drought, and The Daily Telegraph has gone
of the season, with continued fresh
including Saas-Fee in Switzerland, which had
so far as saying the El Niño affect will extend
snowfalls making for great off-piste and
reopened in July for its 9-month ski season,
around the planet, bringing the snowiest winter
on-trail skiing in snow that as recently as
reported up to a 30cm of fresh snow, meaning
to Europe for 65 years, rather than just being
this week was described as “light, dry,
skiers could enjoy powder conditions on the
felt on the Pacific coast as is normally the case.
winter powder”.
Across the Atlantic we can expect
first weekend of September there.
If there are any signs that it will happen we
This month will see eight glacier ski areas open
snowmaking to get underway at high resorts
Other already-open ski areas include the
could look south of the equator where ski
in Austria, five of them in Tirol, more than in the
in the Rockies like Arapahoe Basin and
Hintertux, Pitztal and Molltal glaciers in Austria,
areas in Argentina and Chile in the Andes
rest of the northern hemisphere combined for
Loveland which – if it’s cold enough – may be
Passo Stelvio in Italy and Zermatt in Switzerland.
mountains had a poor start to their 2015 ski
that time of year. Tignes in France and Cervinia
open by the end of the month.
STOP PRESS SEPTEMBER SNOW!
007 // OCT15
BULGARIAN RESORTS BOOMING Bulgarian ski resorts reported a great winter last season despite a steep drop in Russian visitors. Instead there was strong growth in skier numbers arriving from other countries, particularly Turkey. Turkey has seen a rapid growth in ski areas itself in the past 5 years as well as the expansion to “international status” of more of its existing areas, installing highcapacity high-speed chairlifts and gondolas.
SKI IN YOUR SWIMSUIT IN SPAIN VICTOR MOSCARDÓ
At the end of last season, a week after 1800 bikini- and swim-shorts-wearing Russians set a new world record for the number of people skiing simultaneously in swimwear, the southern Spanish resort of Sierra Nevada staged its third annual “ski shorts-clad ski day is known as “Bajada en Bañador” (or “Slopes in Your Swimsuit”).
SWINDON INDOOR SNOW CENTRE
BRITISH SPEED SKIER SETS INDOOR RECORD
Plans to redevelop Swindon’s existing Oasis
SKI SAFARI OFFER 21ST-CENTURY RESORT SILVANO ZEITER
in your swimsuit” day. The bikini- and swim-
fastest speed achieved on an
“It was a long day with 12 runs,
indoor snow slope.
four at over 104kph!” said Jan. “A
including an indoor snow slope have been
Jan reached 104.956kph
special thanks to everyone involved
unveiled by developers Moirai Capital. The
(65.2166mph) on the 620m-long
(witnesses, officials, Snowhall
slope at Snowhall Amnéville in
Amnéville personnel and spectators);
country’s longest indoor ski-slope,” as well
North Eastern France – one of the
they almost froze to death!”
as a 5000-seater arena, an extreme sports
world’s longest indoor snow slopes
The record was made according
Tour operator Ski Safari is offering holidays to
venue and a hotel. The company says the
and the only one in France.
to Guinness World Records
the Norwegian resort of Myrkdalen next winter.
facility could be up and running by 2018.
The previous record holder was
specifications, with 10m timing.
Myrkdalen is unusual for two key reasons.
German Klaus Schrottshammer
Jan, who competes in world-
Firstly it’s a very rare genuine 21st-century ski
who managed to hit 104.440kph
class speed ski racing on the
resort, one of just a handful of new ski areas
(64.896 mph) on the 550m slope
international tour too, says the
created in western Europe since the turn of
ritish speed skier Jan Farrell has
at Landgraaf in the Netherlands
record is the first of several he
the century.
broken the world record for the
in 2011.
intends to set in coming years.
The first lift opened in Myrkdalen in 2003, and
leisure centre into a regional attraction
plans include what’s described as “the
NEW CAIRNGORM DRAG LIFT
the resort is growing steadily with more modern
CairnGorm Mountain ski area above
infrastructure. The latest resort addition is a
Aviemore in Scotland are upgrading their Shieling ski tow in time for the coming winter. The 50+-year-old drag lift was brought to Cairngorm second-hand in the early 1960s and has become increasingly
£99 FARES TO THE USA
difficult and expensive to maintain. The new lift will be a low-level tow with no intermediate towers.
EXPANDED TERRAIN FOR SILVER STAR Visitors to Silver Star ski resort in BC,
second six-seater chair opening up further terrain. The other reason, and probably why its location was selected when it was created, is its uncanny ability to get dumped on with lots
factors in excess of 90% ever since.
and lots of snow. This happened last season
“Modern travellers are smart travellers.
when Myrkdalen, which is located around
They prefer to spend less money on
30km from the coastal town of Voss, reported
airfares so that they can spend more
snow almost daily while many other areas in
on experiencing their destination,”
Europe were struggling.
said Skúli Mogensen, owner and CEO
In total it’s blessed with an average snowfall
of WOW air. “We are thrilled to be able
of 5m, a high average for a European and
to make transatlantic travel accessible
particularly Scandinavian ski area. Its snow-
for people who otherwise would not
sure terrain ensures a long season from
WOW air is offering tickets from
exclude baggage.
be able to afford it.”
December through to May and is normally
enjoy over 100 acres of additional skiable
£99 including taxes to Boston this
The company believes that its low
Flights from Reykjavik to the USA
good for anyone looking for good early or late
terrain, a new race centre and expanded
winter. Flights from Gatwick travel via
prices on the route year round have
are operated using WOW air’s fleet
snow conditions.
winter sports options. Popular with skiers
Reykjavik in Iceland, to the gateway
been responsible for reducing prices
of new Airbus A321 Extended Range
There are 28km of runs, most suited to
and boarders, gladed tree skiing at the
airport for ski areas in New England.
market-wide between London and
aircraft. The airline’s Airbus A320
beginners and intermediates, but experts have
intermediate and expert levels is being
The fares are available on selected
Boston by 14%. The service was
family aircraft carry passengers from
extensive off-piste options and guests staying
expanded including 21 acres of expert-level
dates to 15 December and from
introduced in March and the company
London Gatwick to Reykjavik on the
at the 4★ Hotel Myrkdalen with Ski Safari
tree skiing in Powder Gulch.
10 January to 10 March 2016, but
has reported consistent average load
first leg of the journey (wowair.co.uk).
(skisafari.com) receive a free lift pass.
Canada this 2015–16 winter season will
008 // OCT15 // INTHESNOW.COM
@INTHESNOWMAG
OT LES 2 ALPES
Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices
“LEARN HOW TO SKI WEEKS” FOR SINGLES
LES CARROZ GOES 100% RENEWABLE POWERED
For solo travellers who have always fancied learning how to ski, the
Les Carroz, one of the five resorts making up the Grand Massif ski area
singles specialist holiday company Friendship Travel is featuring its
in France (along with Flaine, Samoens, Morillon and Sixt), has announced
“learn to ski” weeks on a choice of dates this winter.
it will be 100% green energy powered as of next year (2016).
These 7-night holidays are available between December and March –
In 2012 all of five resorts within Le Grand Massif earned AlpEnergies100
including Christmas – and are based at the Chalet Hotel la Berangere in
certification for their long-term commitment to reduce CO2 emissions
Les Deux Alpes in the French Alps.
and for committing to exclusively using renewable energy sources
“Everyone on the holiday will be a beginner – the atmosphere is laid-back
(hydro, wind and solar power).
and friendly – and everything is included such as return Gatwick flights,
Les Carroz already has a wide range of “eco-measures” in place to
transfers, chalet board accommodation, hire of boots and skis, lift passes
combat climate change.
and 5 full days of group lessons,” a company statement reads.
Photovoltaic panels provide some power to signage on the slopes, and
The Chalet Hotel la Berangere has social areas where guests can relax
there’s a solar water heating system at the resort’s nursery.
around an open fire and compare notes on the day’s activities. It also has
The resort has also acted to reduce energy consumption by lowering the
an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, as well as a treatment
voltage of public lighting and cells detecting the luminosity.
room for aching muscles. Prices start from £1205pp (£1325 at Christmas)
It encourages car pooling via the envoituresimone.com website and runs
including the above, plus accommodation in a single room and the
a free shuttle bus service around the resort and base lift station.
services of a local host. Departures are also available from Heathrow,
And even the resort’s sewage treatment system has decided to generate
Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow (singlesskiholidays.com).
power from methane gas to heat the buildings.
CORBIS
THE STYLISH LIFE SKIING Le Breton, who has skied at some 130 resorts
founders, superstars, influence on design and
around the world and contributed to the
entertainment, and the evolution of its resorts,
Financial Times, Condé Nast Traveller, Vanity
fashion, equipment and much more.
Fair and even our humble InTheSnow, the
Along with the informative and entertaining
book is described by its publisher as “an
text, the book is also a treasure trove of images
entertaining walk through the captivating
with 140 glorious colour and black-and-white
and glamorous history of the traditional yet
photographs within.
modern sport of skiing.”
The Stylish Life Skiing retails at £29.95 from
In particular the book looks at how skiing
good bookshops.
High Quality Catered + Self Catered Accommodation French and Swiss Alps Snow Sure Resorts
has evolved to attract daring athletes, tourists and locals on winter holiday right
On / Near Piste locations
up to the chic and wealthy leisure class, and international royalty. In the process the
No Hidden Extras
exciting and well-groomed stars of the ski world and the jetsetter destinations they
Financially Bonded
head for each winter have come to define a distinctive and popular global culture and
The Stylish Life Skiing is a nostalgic and
hit the shelves from art publishers teNeues.
spectacular journey through alpine history and
Compiled by the excellent ski writer Gabriella
beyond, including this singularly unique sport’s
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
CORBIS
aspirational lifestyle. A very sexy new “coffee table” ski book has just
0151 625 1921 mountainheaven.co.uk 009 // OCT15
DYNAMICPICTURES.CO.UK / POLLY A BALDWIN
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L E S S O N
WITH ICEBREAKER BASE LAYERS
N O . 7
WHAT ARE ”OPEN & CLOSED” SPORTS? “Closed” sports are where the environment does not change: running in lanes, swimming in lanes, javelin throwing, figure skating, gymnastics and indoor high diving are all examples. “Open” sports are where the environment is constantly changing, such as football, rugby, tennis, sailing and surfing.
hil Smith from Snoworks Ski
IS SKIING “OPEN” OR “CLOSED”?
Courses talks about how you can
Skiing is probably one of the
improve your skiing, cope with more variation in the mountain environment and experience more than you ever thought
possible at whatever level of skiing you have achieved so far. In his first article Phil talks about going OPEN.
skiing hit what is commonly called
INSULATES
a learning “plateau”. Plateaus can happen at any point in your skiing and can often be associated with the
BREATHES RESISTS ODOUR
terrain becoming what we call more “open”. The intermediate plateau is the first of these, where the terrain moves from being well groomed to more varied. To make the transition through the intermediate plateau
icebreaker.com Icebreaker is sustainable, renewable, merino clothing from the Southern Alps of New Zealand. For stockists information telephone 01572 772437
and beyond, the first step is to understand what we call “open” and “closed” sports and the difference in how they are learned and how they are performed.
for “open” skills would be trying
- I’m OK if it doesn’t get steep.
to describe (and then teach) the
- Other skiers put me off.
movement patterns of running
- I’m OK providing the bumps are
through a crowded bar carrying
nicely spread out.
a tray of drinks! To accurately
- I struggle in bad visibility.
describe what is happening and
- I struggle in slush.
how to copy it is impossible. The
- I struggle on narrow paths.
probability of the same thing
- Trees put me off.
happening again exactly is like winning the lottery twice. The same movements would only work if you ran through the bar where each time everyone and everything always stayed in the same place. Of course this would never happen; more people may have arrived, the furniture may have
methodology. This is because
moved and the floor may be
skiing begins in a “closed” slopes and well-groomed blue
terrain, ice, powder, difficult blacks and off-piste. Most intermediate skiers do indeed confine their skiing to where the terrain is more closed, such as well-groomed pistes. But is this because they
PHIL SMITH SNOWORKS Phil Smith is founder of Snoworks All-Mountain Ski Courses. Snoworks run Off-Piste and Backcountry courses throughout the winter along with Off-Piste Adventure trips to destinations around the world. info@snoworks.com
limited to groomed pistes due to the way they have learned?
ARE YOU AN “CLOSED” OR “OPEN” SKIER? Do you find yourself saying any (or all) of these? Are you what we call a “variables victim”? In other words, do
more slippery.
HOW DO YOU GO “OPEN”? The first step is to understand the “open” philosophy. Then simply learn “skills” that can be adjusted and varied to match the changing environment. Learning to ski “open” may sound rather scientific and
want to or is it because they are
you need the environment “closed”?
010 // OCT15
A simply analogy I constantly use
is heavy or varied, I struggle.
their journey with a “closed”
goes “open” – bumps, steeper
Many skiers at some point in their
be a victim of skiing variables.
- I can ski light powder, but when it
there is, yet many skiers begin
environment, with nursery
O P E N
- I’m OK providing it doesn’t get icy.
most “open” and dynamic sports
and red pistes, but eventually
FREE-SKIER
G O
intense. At the very beginning, Each of the above statements has
this may be true because you’ll
a variable attached to it: slope
no longer be told exactly what to
steepens, hazards appear, visibility
do. You’ll learn skills that you can
changes, snow texture varies,
adjust according to your task and
other skiers get too close. If any
the environment so it may all sound
of these statements ring true, then
a bit, could I say “open” to begin
it’s time to go “open”, because
with. However, learning “open”
if you have learned a “closed”
skiing comes with a warning: you’ll
method of skiing, you will always
wish you’d discovered it years ago.
SNOWORKS.COM
#DolomitiSuperSki
IN THE HEART OF THE DOLOMITES
ere is an extra magical sensation when a dream comes true. is sensation is such when you ski on 1,200 km of slopes which are daily prepared to perfection. is dream is made up of wellness and relaxation, to be experienced in an oasis of pleasure which transforms your vacation into a regenerative lift for body and mind. Relish the typical cuisine in the mountain huts, take in the extraordinarily brilliant landscapes in this Unesco World Heritage paradise. e magic of the Dolomites captivates, and their purity, distinctiveness, plus the promise of fun moments galore is a tale to tell all. Post your pictures with hashtag #DolomitiSuperSki and share your wonderful times on the mountains!
DOLOMITISUPERSKI.com
A New Sensation According to recent reports, the demand for “all
gym complete with fitness classes and hammam.
With support from former Olympic skier and
inclusive” ski holiday packages is increasing
The spa, which has ten treatment rooms
Club Med Ambassador Graham Bell, the report
year on year, and as the Alps continue to be the
including a double treatment room for those
found that the “thought of going on an extended
most desirable destination for ski holidays, it’s
couples looking to spend quality time together,
family holiday” seems to be an increasing
good news that the masters of the genre, Club
offers a spot of relaxation after those long
trend. Graham Bell supports the results of this
Med, have opened a new resort at Val Thorens,
days on the slopes, and the two restaurants to
report stating that he has “often skied with both
the highest ski resort in Europe, offering access
choose from offer produce sourced from local
generations. With the older generation staying
to the vast Les 3 Vallées with its 600km of piste.
suppliers. Although one of these restaurants
fitter for longer, there’s no reason you can’t
Compared to most of the other companies out
is a buffet-style dining experience, there is an
bring your parents on your next ski trip, as well
there offering this experience, Club Med certainly
alternative option if this isn’t your scene.
as the children.”
ensure that their packages are without doubt
The hotel ski room is stocked with the latest
Club Med report that results from this particular
“all in”. Their “4 Trident” resort offers a worry-
equipment from Rossignol, and Club Med Val
study show that more families than ever are
free stay with even your lift passes and ESF ski
Thorens are also offering a new choice of
looking at going on holiday with not just their
lessons included in the price of your holiday.
snow-based activities including speed riding,
family but with their extended family also.
Located in the heart of the village, the new hotel
boardercross, snow scooters and winter
The report also shows that “gramping”,
is certainly something to marvel at. The newly
mountain biking.
otherwise known as holidaying with
built “Sensations Club Med Resort” not only
The launch of the new family-friendly resort
grandparents, has risen in popularity, with a fifth
offers exceptional ski-in/ski-out access to the
came hand in hand with the latest report from
of holiday makers having skied in the last two
slopes but also boasts a range of other positive
Club Med concerning on-ski trends. The report
years with extended family. This is attributed to
features. An impressive indoor climbing wall
looks into the idea of the traditional family skiing
the shift in the ski generation and “The Rise of
features in the hotel lobby, as well as an on-site
holiday and how this is now evolving.
the Silver Skier”.
012 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
JESSONE MORILLON / ALCA FILMS
VALAIS/WALLIS PROMOTION
VERBIER CUTS LOWSEASON LIFT PASS PRICE
CRYSTAL SKI HOLIDAYS REPORTS 7% GROWTH
ANDORRA’S KIDS AREA REACHES NEW HEIGHTS
Les 4 Vallées ski area in Switzerland, which is dominated by Verbier,
There are no longer any annual reports published to give us an idea of
Andorra’s Grandvalira ski area has been working on a new snow-sports
has responded to the strong franc and a drop in lift ticket sales by
how the British ski industry is moving, but individual pronouncements
area for children called Mon(t) Magic.
announcing a cut in low-season lift-pass prices for 2015–16.
from some of the big holiday companies are largely good.
The team, reported to be also involved with Andorra’s participation
The resort says it will look to introduce more “dynamic pricing” for
The biggest jump in business so far reported comes from the country’s
in the International Ski Federation’s SnowKidz programme, say that
lift tickets moving forward, similar to that employed in other areas of
largest ski operator, Crystal Ski Holidays, who say that despite below-
Mon(t) Magic takes characters from several Andorran legends to create
travel, particularly airlines and hotels, with ever-changing ticket prices
average snowfall and frequent changing snow conditions during the
an area adapted for children aged from 3 to 10.
varying according to demand.
course of the season, they grew their business by 7%, with families and
For the 2015–16 season, a new children’s magic slalom will be
The concept of dynamic pricing first appeared a few seasons ago in
under 35s in particular returning to the mountains in force, showing
implemented and a new zip line 500m long and 40m high will allow
North America, pioneered by companies like Liftopia. In some cases
double-digit increases – hopefully a good sign for the future.
children and adults to fly “like an enchanted fairy” at a maximum speed
resorts no longer publish a table of lift-ticket prices but ask skiers to
France was once again the most popular ski destination for British skiers,
of 80km per hour.
type in season dates and stay duration to be delivered a price, which
and the new direct flights last season from Southampton, Bournemouth and
Mon(t) Magic already includes specific signage, themed gondolas,
varies according to demand. As with hotel beds and flight tickets,
Cardiff provided easier access to the slopes for many skiers, Crystal reports.
a kindergarten and several slopes with 3D characters, banners,
bargains can be had at certain times.
They will add Châtel and Sainte-Foy to their programme this winter.
obstacles, jumps and even a witch’s skiable hut.
The Verbier/Les 4 Vallées model so far announced does not seem
Andorra and Bulgaria saw increased business and “Canada and the
The main attraction of the project to date is the Magic Forest, an off-
to be quite so sophisticated; in fact it seems to be more a low-
Nordic countries remained popular” last winter, while the countries
piste route for the whole family where children will find goblins, fairies
season price reduction, common in most major ski nations although
where the pound did not perform so well, Switzerland and the USA,
and witches along the route. The character Tamarro (an imaginary
less so in Switzerland where prices are often fixed from (at least)
“were stable,” says Crystal.
animal that nobody has ever seen) is the star of the area, and children
Christmas to Easter regardless of how busy it is or how much
Among new destinations Crystal have on offer this coming winter is
can have fun skiing while trying to find him.
terrain is open.
Ruhpolding in Bavaria – believed to be the first German resort in a major
In addition to the area, Grandvalira Ski School has also designed
Les 4 Vallées has initially announced a 10% reduction in pass prices
operator’s brochure since last century. It offers skiing alongside a range of
specific ski and snowboard lessons along the Mon(t) Magic slopes with
in the low-season week after the peak New Year holiday week and a
other activities like cross-country skiing and driving piste bashers. Novice
daily entertainment activities with the mascots (Puk the goblin, Endha
further 5% discount for booking in advance online.
skiers can ski on the local mountain there for free (crystalski.co.uk).
the fairy and Mel the witch) (grandvalira.com).
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© ÖTZTAL TOURISMUS | FOTOGRAF: ALEXANDER LOHMANN
rom
Tignes • Val d’Isère • Les Arcs • Val Thorens • Meribel • Morzine 3 Valleys • Chamonix • La Plagne... and many more!
www.snowexpress.co.uk
– for full list of resorts and prices
OBERGURGL-HOCHGURGL Obergurgl-Hochgurgl is located in the Ötztal region of the Tirol, high up at the head of the valley and close to the neighbouring resort of Sölden.
ALL INCLUSIVE FAMILY SKI HOLIDAYS ded All intchleu price: in ation accommod
7 nights All meals Lift pass hire Equipment struction in s ur ho 12
The no-frills family ski holiday that offers the easiest and cheapest option for parents wishing to treat their little ones to a winter holiday in the Alps. Both adults and children have a few hours instruction included each day allowing everyone the opportunity to improve at their own pace whilst ensuring plenty of quality time to ski together as a family.
CHRISTMAS, HALF TERM & EASTER
Prices from
£414
For more information and to book: www.action-outdoors.co.uk THE UK PARTNE
STUNNING VIEWS
It is one of the highest villages in the Alps with one of the continent’s
For breathtaking panoramic views of the Ötztaler Alps, stretching out
longest, most snow-sure seasons.
to the silhouette of the famous Dolomites in the south, head to the Top Mountain Star viewing platform 3080m up at the summit of Obergurgl-
SNOW-SURE FROM NOVEMBER TO MAY
Hochgurgl’s ski area. From here there are fabulous, unparalleled views
Located at 1930m above sea level, Obergurgl-Hochgurgl is one of the first
Obergurgl -Hochgurgl, Top Mountain Star is more than just a viewing
of 21 mountain peaks, each higher than 3000m. Of course, this being
resorts in the Alps to open for the season in the first
platform; it’s also a stunning piece of
half of November, and then it stays open for almost
architecture in its own right, complete with
6 months, right through to the following May. The
designer bar serving food and drinks.
resort has 110km of piste which begins at 1800m above sea level – a height which is near the top of
OFF THE SLOPES
the slopes for many ski areas, but for ObergurglHochgurgl the top is at over 3000m! Fortunately
It’s not only skiers and snowboarders
the area has invested in fast, comfortable lifts, so it
who keep coming back to Obergurgl-
only takes a few minutes to whizz up to the top to access the wonderful powder snow runs down.
OBERGURGL-HOCHGURGL FURTHER INFO
Hochgurgl year after year, but non-skiers do too. Winter hiking, snowshoeing and the wide Nordic skiing tracks create a winter wonderland feeling. Visitors can also enjoy
SKI-IN, SKI-OUT CONVENIENCE
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl has one of the
Thanks to the fast, comfortable, modern lift
in the Alps, running from November to
network, getting around this big ski area is
May. Its extensive slopes are more likely
easy, and those queue-gobbling lifts mean the
to have powder snow cover for longer,
TOP SKI SCHOOLS
snow-sure slopes remain crowd-free. Skiers
thanks to their higher altitude, and are accessed by some of the most modern,
The ski schools in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl
and boarders from complete beginners to experts can enjoy runs and terrain for all ability
comfortable ski lifts in the world. Many
levels. And the icing on the cake is that most of
of the resort’s hotels also provide ski-in,
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl’s 4 and 5★ hotels offer
ski-out access.
longest and most snow-sure ski seasons
tobogganing on a 3km-long run for a bit of après-ski fun too.
are highly regarded as having some of the best English-speaking instructors you’ll find anywhere. They’re fully prepared to teach everyone from complete beginners through to
ski-in, ski-out convenience. The area upgrades
experienced skiers in need of extra tips and
its lifts almost every winter making sure it always
can also turn their hands to any technique
has the newest innovations and state-of-the
that may interest you – snowboarding,
art lifts. The fast, comfortable ten-seat Kirchenkar mountain gondola is the
freestyle or freeriding perhaps? For the little ones, gentle guidance is
latest new lift to access Obergurgl-Hochgurhgl’s slopes, opening this winter.
offered by caring ski instructors in special learning areas.
R FOR
014 // OCT15
OBERGURGL.COM | VISITTIROL.CO.UK
INSET PIC: © ÖTZTAL TOURISMUS | FOTOGRAF: GUIDO MANGOLD
Free and reasonable luggage policy Free ski/snowboard carriage Generous leg room
CHILL FACTORE
NASA
IRAN “BACK IN THE SKI BROCHURES”
SURFACE OF PLUTO “LIKE ROCKIES”
CHILL FACTORe REPLACES ITS SNOW
An unexpected “peace dividend” of the easing of nuclear tensions
NASA has confirmed that the surface of Pluto is very similar to the North
The Chill Factore indoor snow centre in Manchester has replaced all
between Iran and the US and the removal of sanctions is that ski
American Rocky Mountains, opening the possibility that future generations
of the snow on its 180m slope. The “Slope Scrape” takes place every
holidays to Iran from outside the region might rise in popularity, perhaps.
of humans, or indeed any particularly cool alien species, may be able to
3 to 4 years, and involves using a PistenBully trail groomer to literally
Even before the current easing of tension, the USA edition of Vogue was
ski or board the distant dwarf planet at some future date, providing they
scrape the 128 tonnes of snow off the slope over 36 hours before
suggesting that Iran could be the world’s next luxury ski destination,
have good thermals on.
replacing it with fresh machine-made snow over the next 5 days.
although it wasn’t too clear what they were basing that assumption on.
The first detailed pictures of Pluto’s surface were revealed after NASA’s
Befittingly, the slope was reopened by two of Chill Factore’s most notable
Iran does have around a dozen ski areas and a colourful skiing history.
New Horizons spacecraft flew by after a 9-year, 4-billion-mile trip to the
guests, Rowan Cheshire and Dave Knowles, aka Downhill Dave.
The first lifts are reported to have been installed by German engineers
distant world.
Rowan Cheshire is part of the Team GB skiing team and has trained
building the country’s first railway lines, and skiing was popular in the
“These are pretty significant mountains. They’d stand up respectably
at Chill Factore for 3 years, while Downhill Dave is arguably the snow
1960s and 1970s with the deposed Shah, who strove to develop ski areas
against mountain ranges on Earth like the Rockies,” said John Spencer,
centre’s most loyal guest, having skied nearly 5000 miles during his 5
along the lines of the French purpose-built resorts. After the Revolution
a mission scientist, adding that they appear to reach around 3300m in
years as a Chill Factore regular.
in 1979, some reports claim skiing was banned for several years as it was
height and extend for several hundred miles across.
To formally reopen the slope, Cheshire presented Downhill Dave with a
seen as Western and un-Islamic, and that when the slopes were reopened
The mountains are believed to be quite young in comparison to the 4.6
jar of the “old” snow as a memento, before the two of them graced the
they were segregated so men and women skied on separate slopes.
billion-year-old solar system, perhaps only 100 million years old, and to be
fresh snow for the first time.
These reports were disputed by some Iranian tour operators as Western
formed from water ice crowned with a thin layer of nitrogen and methane
Chill Factore has calculated that the old snow furnished over 6,076,000
propaganda. More recently even the more conservative elements in Iran
snow. It’s the first time mountains formed with water ice have been found
miles-worth of skiing and snowboarding, which is equivalent to lapping
seem to have fallen in love with skiing, with some senior clerics quoted as
in the solar system, except on giant ice moons orbiting other planets.
the earth 27 times. During its time on the piste, the snow has also
seeing mountain sports as expressions of the glory of God.
NASA has not yet revealed the likely quality of what we are calling “Pluto
played host to countless competitions, a few Guinness World Records,
In practical terms, Iranian ski areas have a lot to offer, including some
Powder”, but they have said they’ll be analysing the data received for at
and even the UK’s first-ever pumpkin-rolling championships.
of the world’s highest ski slopes and reputedly best powder. Lift-ticket
least the next year, so we’re hoping more details will be forthcoming.
It isn’t like the old snow went to waste, either – Chill Factore used some
prices are very low, several areas are close to the capital, Tehran, and
Temperatures on Pluto are believed to range between -223°C and -233°C,
of it to host what they believe were the UK’s first-ever Car Park Rail
the Iranian people are usually very welcoming and hospitable.
so powder quality is likely to be good, we think.
Jam Championships.
Thinking of a short ski break - Think ski weekends the experts in short break skiing for more than 30 years
ENGADIN ST. MORITZ
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
016 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
there’s a wide range of choices for
immortalised in a classic James Bond film.
your stay from unspoilt villages to
Today there are 260km of pistes
glitzy St. Moritz, the FIS Alpine World
and nearly 250km of sledging and
Ski Championship host in 2017, with its
winter-walking trails too, among other
amazing luxury hotels, frozen lake and
attractions, which provide everything from
stunning scenery.
adrenalin kicks to pure winter romance.
One of the world’s most snowsure destinations, the ski season
THE PORTES DU SOLEIL
as early as 17 October 2015.
One of the world’s largest ski areas,
Deal: Engadin St. Moritz ski pass offer,
whichever way you measure it, the Portes
“Hotel and Ski Pass”, is available on
du Soleil officially encompasses more
stays of 2 nights or more and entitles
than 650km of groomed pistes, divided
you to buy your Engadin lift pass
into almost 300 runs, served by nearly
for just CHF35 (£22) per day from 17 October to 22 May.
witzerland, the home of winter holidays, was
The region has one of the strongest
200 ski lifts – all on the one ticket. The
where we Brits first fell in love with winter in
connections with the Brits of all the world’s
list of superlatives goes on – 13 snow
the snow more than 150 years ago.
ski areas – dating back to the late 19th
parks, 90 mountain restaurants … the
We’re still drawn back every season to
century when the first Brits tried skiing
stats are staggering.
see the most spectacular peaks and vistas
here for the first time and later pioneered
in the Alps, arguably the whole world,
what has since become downhill ski
enjoy the great quality and service and, of
racing. Venerable organisations like the
course, some superb skiing and boarding.
Kandahar and Downhill Only (DHO) ski
There are hundreds of great Swiss
clubs are still based here, and British
destinations to choose from, then fall in
guests are counted as “locals!”
love with, but some are better known
jungfrauregion.ch
than others and have their particular
engadin.stmoritz.ch
ENGELBERG
charms, as well as, happily, some special offers this winter.
Around a dozen villages sit below the
Here are five of our favourites that we
slopes of the Portes du Soleil as the giant
The glacier-capped slopes of Engelberg
have already fallen in love with …
area seamlessly crosses the border to
are located 2000 vertical metres above
include French and Swiss resorts. On the
this famous ski resort and offer amazing
Swiss side the pass covers the picturesque
views which you can even enjoy from
villages of Champéry and Morgins.
Europe’s highest suspension bridge,
The border is marked by the infamous
a slim metal footbridge suspended
“Swiss Wall” – a steep, giant mogul field
3000m up, if you can overcome your
that advanced skiers will wish to tackle,
vertigo! But if you just want to ski, the
but there are easier routes, including a
great news is that along with a ride
Another resort that’s been welcoming
chairlift ride down the side of the slopes,
on the remarkable Titlis Rotair cable
Brits since the early years of winter sports,
for those who don’t. Once at the bottom
car, which rotates through 360° as you
the traditional winter spa resort of Davos
on the Swiss side, the wonderful Paradise
ascend the last stretch to the glacier
combines mountain magic with urban flair
run is a very different affair – a long,
and the very top of the slopes and was
while its neighbour, Klosters, is a quaint
easy slope that goes for miles through
replaced with an all-new lift last winter,
village and foodie heaven, with outstanding
stunning scenery.
this season will see the opening of a
DAVOS KLOSTERS
THE JUNGFRAU REGION
#INLOVEWITH SWITZERLAND
starts up on the Diavolezza glacier
The Jungfrau in the stunning Bernese
gourmet restaurants. Pristine valleys lead to
new eight-person gondola from the
Oberland dominates a winter-sports
dreamy winter walks, and skiers are in their
resort to the base station of the Rotair
region of powder slopes rising to
element with endless downhill runs and
at 2428m, cutting the ascent time by
3000m – with attractions
rustic and relaxed mountain huts. That’s not
two-thirds to just 15 minutes. From
culminating in the thrilling
to mention the parks, pipes and parties for
the top, one of the world’s longest
ride up the Jungfraujoch
snowboarders and freeriders.
ski runs awaits, a glorious 12km run
– Top of Europe (Europe’s
through stunning scenery on great
highest railway station and
snow. Indeed snow-sports enthusiasts
also home to the continent’s
enjoy superb conditions from October
highest chocolate shop,
ENGADIN ST. MORITZ
among many other
to May and fans of Engelberg’s Olympic gold medallist, Dominique Gisin, will
If you’ve already skied in
attractions!).
Switzerland, you’ll already
The resorts of Grindelwald,
Combing the four large ski areas of
downhill ski racer’s “home run” and one
have fallen in love. Switzerland
Wengen, Mürren and
Corviglia, Corvatsch, Diavolezza and
of Switzerland’s longest descents.
Tourism are asking anyone who
Lauterbrunnen together
Zuoz, as well as five more smaller but
wants to, to tell them their love
form one of Switzerland’s
Deal: Guests who stay in a partner
charming areas, skiers and snowboarders
Deal: Early booking deals are already
story at MySwitzerland.com/
most varied snow-sports
hotel or holiday apartment of the
will find 350km of beautiful pistes on the
available for skiers and boarders
yourstory or using the hashtag
regions – extending from
destination between 21 November and
Engadin St. Moritz pass, waiting to be
ready to hit the slopes between
#INLOVEWITHSWITZERLAND
the Lauberhorn race above
20 December 2015 get a ski pass for
explored.
the start of the ski season on 14
to share it via Facebook,
Wengen, one of the biggest
free for each night.
The high-altitude valley is framed by
November and 17 December 2015.
Instagram or Twitter.
events in the annual World
Switzerland Tourism will pick
Cup downhill calendar every
enjoy that 12km descent known as the
snow-capped peaks – yet also strikingly davos.ch
wide, and flooded with sunlight, and
engelberg.ch
their favourite stories, and you could win a trip back to the destination you fell in love with!
017 // OCT15
INSET IMAGE CREDITS: GRINDELWALD TOURISM / SWITZERLAND TOURISM /JAN GEERK / IMMANUEL MEIER PHOTOGRAPHY / JEAN-BAPTISTE BIEUVILLE / ROGER GRUETTER
S
January, to the Schilthorn above Mürren,
20% OFF JUNGFRAU LIFT PASS
Lifted in to position by Kamov helicopter
Anyone heading to Mürren, Wengen or Grindelwald can now save 20% on the cost of their 2- to 14-day “Sportpass” lift ticket so long as they buy it online at least 21 days prior to the first day of validity. The Jungfrau Sportpass covers the three Jungfrau Winter areas of First, Kleine Scheidegg and Mürren-Schilthorn ( jungfrau.ch).
BLUE VELVET IN AVORIAZ A new slope, referred to as number 87, in
View ing Area
the Brochaux area of Avoriaz, has been given a new name. The piste has been named “Blue Velvet” in honour of the film directed by David Lynch which was awarded the top prize in 1987 at the International Fantastic Film Festival staged at the avantgarde French resort.
SIX-SEATER CHAIRLIFT AT SQUAW Squaw Valley has announced that it will replace its Siberia Express chairlift this winter. The lift, one of the most popular lifts at the Californian resort, accesses
O
SNOWMASS TO ADD 63 ACRES TO SKI SLOPES
The first ski cabin was built there in
terrain park to prove you’re never
1927 and the first rope tow installed
too old, featuring a two-jump large
in 1941. The North American Chair
line with a 30’ jump and a 40’ jump.
or “Big Chair” has been providing
The additional intermediate rail line
riders with Bow Valley views since
has everything your hard-core jibber
1948, making it one of the oldest
would love, featuring a seven-rail
chairs in North America.
and box line that lets people get all
Ski racing has always been a part
kinds of wacky as they tear through
of Norquay’s heritage with the first
the middle of the park. The park will
slalom courses set back in 1929,
also cater to the little shredders with
The Aspen Skiing Company has been building
ne of North America’s oldest
and Norquay was host to the North
a small to medium line followed by
a new High Alpine chairlift at its Snowmass
ski areas, and the oldest in the
American Champions races in 1937.
small boxes.
base over the summer, replacing the old
Canadian Rockies, Banff’s local
To mark this 90th anniversary, Mt
Norquay is one of the easiest ski
fixed-grip quad chairlift with a high-speed
ski area on Mt Norquay celebrates
Norquay will be celebrating with
areas to reach from Calgary, just
detachable version.
destination, and now the huge Montafon
90 years of operations this winter
many special events throughout
off the main highway through Banff
The route of the upgraded lift has also been
pass, which includes 225km of slopes, is
having originally opened in 1926.
the season. There’s also an all-new
National Park (banffnorquay.com).
realigned, allowing the area, already one of
and is being upgraded from a high-speed quad to a high-speed six-passenger chairlift to improve reliability, efficiency and operational effectiveness, the resort says.
DOUBLE PRIZES FOR BRAND The Austrian ski area of Brand has two reasons to celebrate this winter. Firstly it’s back in British brochures, with leading tour operator Inghams including it as a “new”
America’s largest, to add 63 acres more gladed
adding the “Brandnertal” area with its 64.4km
terrain over the next five years.
of piste to its pass, expanding the area to
The 63 acres include six glades with terrain,
290km – although there is not a physical link.
TWO CALIFORNIAN AREAS PLAN LIFT LINK
JEREMY SWANSON
intermediate- and advanced-level terrain
BIG 9-0 FOR NORQUAY
NEW GONDOLA FOR LAAX
once the trees are thinned, suited to intermediates to expert-level skiers. They are reported to be already skiable but with dense forestry so previously only experts could
The ultra-modern ten-seater
The new gondola will run from
tackle them.
Two of the USA’s leading ski resorts, in
gondola will offer an extended uplift
Sogn Martin to La Siala, climbing
“(Snowmass) doesn’t have the ability to expand
California, have announced plans for a
length which will result in more
831.87 vertical metres over its
the ski area boundary, so we want to take
skiing being possible around the La
3.37km length.
advantage of as much of the terrain within the
bases. Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows
Siala sector.
Initially carrying 1800 people
permit area as possible,” Rich Burkley of the
have been under single management for
The lift has been designed by
per hour (due to be increased to
Aspen Lift company told The Aspen Times,
several years and have a joint lift ticket in
Pininfarina, who also work as
2000pph), it will take 9 minutes,
adding, “On powder days, these give you
place already, and the plan to link the two
designers of Ferrari cars.
21 seconds to make the ascent
another several hundred lines.”
It follows an earlier chairlift that was
travelling at 6m per second.
Uplift on the new lift will be cut in half from 11
Laax in Graubünden, Switzerland,
designed by Porsche and has seats
The lift will initially carry 63 cabins
to 5.5 minutes, but capacity will be maintained
is working on a new gondola to
which can tilt sideways to better
(due to be increased to 70) and has
at 1200 skiers per hour by spacing the chairs
replace its old La Siala triple chairlift.
take in the surrounding scenery.
a price tag of CHF16 million (£11.2m).
further apart.
gondola inter-connection between their two
goes back decades. Their joined area would be one of the biggest in North America.
018 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
PITZTAL ADDS SOLAR POWER FARM Austria’s Pitztal glacier, the country’s highest ski area, has built a solar farm 3000m up, which has already begun operating. The system, which was tested with a smaller facility last winter, will generate approximately 1,450,000kWh of power annually, energy equivalent to the needs of 380 to 420 households per year and representing around a third of the ski centre’s energy requirements. The farm covers 5800m² (100m² is the size of the foundations on the whole farm) and has solar panels suspended on a steel construction on seven rows that are 1500m long in total. These are tilted at an angle chosen to keep them free from the snow build-up. It also works much more effectively than solar farms closer to sea level. “I hope more skiing areas will produce their energy themselves,” said Florian Jamschek of the Ehoch2 (ehoch2.co.at) company behind the new solar farm. The Pitztal Glacier also has one of Austria’s longest ski seasons and is already open for the 2015–16 season.
8-DAY SKI HOLIDAY Ski Total (skitotal.com) is offering an 8-night holiday in Val d’Isère to start the season. The chalet tour operator is offering the holiday in their Chalet Bonnevie for £419pp for 8 nights from 5 to 13 December at the start of the season – equating to less than £53 per day. Set in Le Fornet, the chalet is approximately 4 minutes’ walk from the main Le Fornet cable car directly into the Espace Killy ski area, and for those who fancy off-piste, you can ski almost to the back door. The price is based on two adults sharing and includes return flights from Gatwick to Geneva, transfers, free wi-fi and 8 nights’ accommodation with chalet board including buffet breakfast, afternoon tea and a four-course evening meal with complimentary wine. Plus if you pre-book your equipment with Ski Total you receive a 50% discount.
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
019 // OCT15
RACE AT YOUR PEAK VEC TOR EVO 130
SU
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R AC E P E R FO R M A N C E M E E T S F U L LY C U S TO M I S A B L E C O M FO R T A N D E A S Y- E N T R Y T EC H N O LO GY I N T H E V EC TO R E VO 1 3 0 , P R OV I D I N G O N - P O I N T R E S P O N S I V E N E S S , S U P R E M E FO OT H O L D A N D D U R A B I L I T Y.
R IN W H
L T IS
Our new columnist Jack Steele has been a keen skier from an early age and has been living in Whistler for the past two years, working as a liftee during the ski season and making the most of the renowned BC powder fields and world-class terrain parks in his time off. He’ll travel to more BC resorts and the Alps this winter.
M
The hardest part of living the
have felt in the past when the
the day to explore the now visible
dream is the speed and inevitability
conclusion of ski adventures has
lakes and waterfalls. The typical
of its ending. The snow starts to
all too abruptly led to the return
ski resort bubble feel evaporates
melt and the friends you’ve been
to work. There are also so many
somewhat without the draw of
sharing far too much with over
other ways to scare/hurt yourself
skiing every day keeping me in
the last 6 months begin to drift
in the mountains in summer that
the same lift-fed area of Whistler
away. Rather than flying home to
adrenaline junkies can get their
Blackcomb, and I have therefore
seek a more stable routine away
fix 365 days a year in Whistler.
found the time to seek out vistas
y first summer living in the
from the mountains this spring, I
Between downhill biking, rope
and activities further afield.
mountains has come to an end.
decided to battle on through the
swings, cliff jumps, mountain
Overall, I would definitely
Before the ski season really gets
rather depressing “dead season”
climbing in unsuitable footwear
recommend at least a holiday
going, I would like to reflect on the
to see what Whistler has to offer
and floating down a river in a
to the mountains in summer. Ski
positives and negatives of living in
in the summer. I was by no means
blow-up boat filled with beers, I
towns often have more to offer
a ski town during summer.
disappointed.
almost forgot that it was the snow
than meets the eye. Just exploring
Doing a ski season is an
Staying in the mountains has
that brought me here in the first
the insane terrain on foot gives
amazing experience and I would
actually numbed my pain
place!
you a whole new perspective
recommend it to anybody. Despite
from the end-of-season blues.
I have also enjoyed seeing this
on the speed at which skiing
squandering savings, drinking
Summer has flown by and winter
amazing environment in a different
and snowboarding allow you to
slightly excessively and often living
is rolling in already! The fact
light, and a lot more light for that
travel around the mountains. This
in some pretty grim conditions, you
that I was still skiing a lot in
matter. It seems that the days are
experience has strengthened my
get to partake in the best sport in
May and occasionally in June
almost double in length in July
passion for skiing and allowed
the world and make an amazing
on the Glacier has reduced the
compared with December, and this
me to broaden my horizons on
range of crazy international friends.
withdrawal symptoms that I
means there is so much time in
mountain culture in general.
020 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
p in e e x p ll our al
erts tod
ay
0 6 9 0 9 8 2 023 9 ca
FREEZE RETURNS TO LONDON AS A WORLD CUP EVENT
T
thanks to Lottery funding into what
on the capital’s Olympic Park to
one of the most important annual
the organisers say will be the biggest
take on a huge real-snow jump
Olympic Big Air qualifiers on the
snow-sports event in British history.
measuring 120m x 41m – that’s 15m
calendar in the lead-up to the 2018
Freeze also has a new venue –
longer than the Wembley Stadium
Winter Games in South Korea.
London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic
pitch – created with 360 tonnes
“The news that Snowboard Big
Park – and a new status as an FIS-
of snow.
Air will be an Olympic discipline
sanctioned Snowboard World Cup
British Olympic bronze medallist
in 2018 is huge for British
Big Air competition – Freeze Big Air.
Jenny Jones is the official event
snowboarding and skiing,” said
The event will take place on
ambassador, and British Olympian
Jenny. “British riders like Billy
Saturday 14 November and early-
Jamie Nicholls will be competing
Morgan and Katie Ormerod are
bird tickets are on sale now priced
alongside a field of world-class
real medal prospects in 2018. And
at £37.50 from the event’s website,
snowboarders and skiers.
the fact that we’ll be able to see
freezebigair.com.
And, with Snowboard Big Air now
the best riders in the world battling
he city-centre freestyle snow-sport
The Freeze Big Air event will
set to become an official Olympic
it out in the middle of London will
and music festival Freeze is back
see over 60 of the world’s best
event, Jenny Jones is confident
be an amazing start to each winter.
this autumn and is being revamped
snowboarders and skiers descend
that Freeze Big Air will become
I can’t wait!”
PR029 SkiCo_100x175_SnowMag_V1_AW.indd 1
LIVE THE GREAT OUTDOORS
FOR THE RE-DISCOVERY OF WINTER SPORTS WINTER 2015-2016
ZILLERTAL TOURISM USG MBH / LEO HIMSL
NEW PENKENBAHN FOR MAYRHOFEN giving a huge uphill transport
the summit and base stations.
capacity of up to 3840 passengers
The new Penkenbahn has also
per hour on this key route for the
been designed so that, in case
famous Tirolean resort.
the system comes to a standstill
The new lift, work on which had
due to a technical defect, an
been delayed while negotiations
emergency or a power failure, for
with a land owner were completed,
instance, the gondolas can be
will have a quicker uplift time of
retrieved using two independent
8.2 minutes which combined with
standby drives. Therefore, once
the greater capacity should ensure
the 3S Gondola Lift is completed,
little or no queuing.
a rescue gondola will no longer
Construction work on the new
apace all summer.
There will also be separate
be needed.
Penkenbahn at Mayrhofen in the
The new 3S Lift will have 24
entrances for ski schools with
The new lift will be ready to
Austrian Tirol has been continuing
comfortable seats in each gondola
children and large storage areas at
operate this coming winter.
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
021 // OCT15
snow-sure pistes • 192km resort for beginners • Ideal & intermediates Friendly • Family Off -piste runs through the trees • Views of Mont • Close to Geneva,Blanc • Chambery airportLyon and
Book Now with Peak Retreats
02392 839 310 PeakRetreats.co.uk
09/09/20
2 I S T
C E N T U R Y
S K I
R E S O R T
many returning year after year. Everyone I
years, although one of the instructors
met was very chatty and social, including
from the European Ski School told me
the resort staff – despite being hard at
they would give lessons to kids from as
work. This is definitely a place I would
young as age two.
happily return to year after year.
In addition there is a nanny facility offered here with English-speaking
IT’S BIG
nannies (snowangelnannies.co.uk) who will look after the kids on or off the mountain with activities including
Les Deux Alpes has one of the biggest
snowman building, sledging and
ski areas in France (and indeed the
snowballing. They will also bring the
whole world) with more than 90 runs
children up to the mountain to meet the
served by nearly 50 lifts (five of them
parents for lunch or hot chocolate.
es Deux Alpes is a resort with a long
gondolas) and a huge lift-served vertical
history and, I predict, a great future.
(one of the planet’s 20 biggest). On the
I say “great future” because there is
slopes the mountain is spread out to
a couple of things that are making ski
give you a good day’s skiing without
holidays at some resorts less enjoyable
a lot of waiting around for lifts or
than they once were, and if the pundits
overcrowding on the slopes.
There are loads of shops, pubs, bars,
are right they’re set to get worse as the
Besides slopes for all standards and
nightclubs and restaurants in Les
years go by.
extensive off-piste areas that you can
Deux Alpes – it’s the complete resort.
Firstly there’s overcrowding – on the
tackle with ski school or a guide, there is
Everything you could want for après-ski
slopes and in the airports and roads
also a free safety training facility on the
and all in a relatively compact resort so
that serve those resorts. Les Deux
mountain called “freeride attitude” where
you can stay close to the slopes and to
Alpes scores highly here, as it’s just
they will train you on how to ski off-piste
the off-slope action.
a 90-minute transfer from Lyon, an
safely and show you how to operate
Non-ski activities hosted at the resort
airport that has been investing heavily
your transceiver and other equipment.
and on the mountain include paragliding,
in its support for incoming skiers,
Every Wednesday there is an opportunity
snowmobiling, snow shoeing, swimming,
rather than being subject to the usual
to ski on the fresh snow before the lift
an ice cave, an ice rink and helicopter
Geneva congestion of many of the
officially opens. This includes breakfast
rides. There is also the chance to try night
big-name French resorts. The smaller
at Le 3200 restaurant.
skiing or boarding which can be combined
and even quieter airport at Grenoble is
For first-timers there are free beginners’
with wine tasting and restaurant service
even closer.
slopes at the base of the mountain for
on the mountain, followed by a moonlit ski
Secondly, in this era of climate change
learners and skiers wanting to get their
down to the resort.
there’s snow reliability. Even though Les
ski legs back. There is also a ski/board
There’s also a good selection of shops
Deux Alpes is one of the more southerly
park with a half pipe and other obstacles
and several supermarkets to serve the
resorts in Europe, its slopes are among
for those inclined.
mostly self-catering market.
the highest, crowned with a glacier,
There are seven cafés and restaurants
Accommodation is quite mixed, but
and it now has the longest summer ski
and four bars on the mountain with
predominantly self-catering and mostly
seasons in France.
large outdoor decking areas. The food
in the 2 to 3★ rating bracket, aimed at
Add to the mix a resort with history and
everywhere is excellent – I couldn’t fault it.
families and groups of people aged
character, extensive slopes, modern
Large portions, very high-quality food and
from teens to 30 rather than the higher-
lifts and a huge vertical, and Les Deux
delivered very quickly with great service.
end 5★ accommodation. There is one 4★ hotel in the resort so far which has
Alpes starts to tick all the boxes for ski
WORDS: ANDY TAYLOR
holiday success. They’re even dealing with one of the main moans from less advanced skiers
OFF THE SLOPES
FUN FOR FAMILIES
full spa facilities. As mentioned, the drive from Lyon – from where there are car rental, taxi and bus services – takes around 1 and a half
about the ski area’s set-up this coming season, with a huge investment in the
I would also be keen to come back
hours. A taxi transfer is around €100pp.
creation of an easy piste down to the
with the family, as there is heaps for
Grenoble Airport is closer still, only 70
heart of the resort, an option that hasn’t
them to do here, and I would feel very
minutes away, and the taxi fare is nearer
existed before.
confident that they would be well
to €50pp from there.
looked after and catered for. There’s not
SNOWSURE
much traffic here so you wouldn’t be overly concerned about young children
ALL IMAGES: OT LES 2 ALPES - BRUNO LONGO
running around. I visited last winter when the Alps were
Since 2009 the resort has been awarded
suffering from poor snow conditions but
the “Family Plus” label demonstrating
found that while the slopes were not
a level of high-quality services for
in perfect shape, there was plenty of
children including childcare, safety
terrain open. Besides the glacier skiing
and entertainment. Only 116 tourist
up top, more than 200 snow cannons
destinations in all of France have the
cover key routes, and they were hard at
Family Plus label. There is a large, kinder
work keeping the lower slopes covered
ski area at the bottom of the mountain
to enable skiing all the way back down
with activities and play for kids of any
to the resort.
age, not just for them to learn to ski but
I liked the laid-back atmosphere in Les
also so they have fun in the snow.
Deux Alpes, where around 80% of
There is also, of course, ski school for
international visitors are from the UK –
kids officially starting from around four
023 // OCT15
LES 2 ALPES IN NUMBERS Autumn Opening: 24 Oct–1 Nov Main Season: 5 Dec–30 Apr KM Piste: 220km Runs: 96 Metres of Vertical: 2300m Highest Point: 3600m 6-Day Adult Pass: €212–€237
LES2ALPES.COM/EN 023 // OCT15
JP.NOISILLIER/NUTS.FR
YOUR PERSONAL VAL D’ISÈRE GUIDE
V
best way to stay on top of it all
you will find anywhere, and for all
and make the most of your few
budgets.
days in resort, especially if it’s
“I feel I know this beautiful resort
your first time there?
incredibly well, and I set up
The answer, thankfully, is “No,”
Simply Val d’Isère when I realised
as human experience still wins
that there was no specialist,
out – so long, that is, as the
experienced agency available,
company concerned really knows
dedicated to assisting people
Val d’Isère. And there is one small
in Val d’Isère to make the right
specialist agency that has built
choices and get the best value for
a reputation as THE Val d’Isère
money,” says Company Founder
al d’Isère is launching an all-new
experts for nearly two decades
Kim Rippin. “Over the years I
resort app this winter which it
and who are currently finalists in
have seen time and time again
hopes will be the greatest ski resort
the Best Ski Travel Agent category
skiers arriving here but having
app yet – having been created
of the 2015 World Ski Awards:
their expectations quashed due
as the result of a collaboration
Simply Val d’Isère.
to the lack of knowledge of their
between some of the world’s
Simply Val d’Isère is run by a
travel agent or lack of experience
greatest computer experts.
dedicated team of Val d’Isère
themselves.”
But will an electronic gizmo ever
aficionados who have lived and
If you wish, Simply Val d’Isère can
replace human expertise? Val
worked in the resort, winter and
also book the right ski school for
d’Isère is of course one of the
summer, for more than 17 years
you from their personal experience
world’s great resorts with its
and actively enjoyed everything it
of all the options, have lift passes
ski area part of the vast Espace
has to offer – so they know what
waiting for you on arrival and work
Killy and with a huge choice of
they’re talking about! The company
with the only ski shop in the resort
accommodation and always lots
offers the widest selection of
offering overnight ski storage. Will
going on, but is a machine the
accommodation in the resort that
the new app be able to do that?
024 // OCT15
0345 021 0222 | SIMPLYVALDISERE.COM
THE MOUNTAIN IS YOURS Whether you’re a Mile Muncher, Powder Hound or Après Animal it’s the love of the mountain that brings us together
Winter worshippers assemble Find your perfect mountain at crystalski.co.uk ATOL protected. For more information please see our booking conditions.
“NO SNOW” CLAIMS RISE IN 2014–15 Travel insurance policy provider
Alpha Travel Insurance has reported that after ski resorts across Europe suffered from poor snowfall and unusually warm temperatures at the beginning of last season, the proportion of “no snow” claims it has received sharply increased this year compared to after 2013–14. During the previous winter, 7% of claims were for no snow, whereas last season almost half (44%) were for that reason.
Zermatt is replacing a more than 50-yearold T-bar lift with a high-speed six-seater chairlift that will open this winter. The new
ION CAMERAS
SIX-SEATER CHAIRLIFT FOR ZERMATT
chairlift will replace the old Hörnli lift which
WOODSY STARTS 2015-16 ON HIGH
was built in 1964 and provides spectacular views of the north face of the Matterhorn. It is scheduled to open in December.
T
EDDIE THE EAGLE BIOPIC FOR 2016 The film about the famous exploits of Michael Edwards, better known as “Eddie the Eagle”, at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, making him the most famous ski jumper in British history (and in many other places around the world), is set to be released on 29 April 2016 in the USA. The film stars Hugh Jackman as Edwards’ trainer.
PANORAMA: MORE ZONES AND GLADES The Panorama ski area in BC, Canada, says the new gladed sections of Taynton Bowl and Extreme Dream Zone it unveiled last
.SKI DOMAIN GOES ON PUBLIC SALE
World Cup competition of the
run you’re like ‘my goodness, I’ve
2015-16 season staged at Cardrona
only got two runs,’ said Woods.
in New Zealand in August.
“Whereas it definitely gives you that
Described as “unbeatable from
buffer and the pressure is always
start to finish” in the competition by
different. You know there’s a big dog
local media, Woods from Sheffield
coming behind you.”
beat Norway’s Oystein Braaten and
It’s the latest in a long line of
American Joss Christensen in silver
successes for Woods learned to
and bronze to win the event.
ski at the Sheffield Ski Village
Woods was the top qualifier for the
near his family home and won
A new global website extension .ski has gone
finals and scored 90.2 out of a max
five consecutive British national
on sale after several years of planning.
100 points in his first run, the only
championships in slopestyle
Anyone will be able to buy a domain name with
wenty-three-year-old British
performance by any athlete scoring
between 2007 and 2011 when he
the .ski extension from lots of online domain
freestyle skier James ‘Woodsy’
above 90 points.
also took bronze at the 2011 Winter
name registration businesses with costs
Woods won the first Slopestyle
“Even three runs, if you bin the first
X Games Europe.
ranging from £30 to £50 per year. Around 800 ski resorts, brands, associations and athletes are reported to have already secured .ski extensions for their websites
winter were so popular that the resort plans
ÅRE GIVES MASCOT HIS OWN LAND
to add some more. The area affectionately known as the Disco Zone, specifically designed for beginners and novices, was
during a private sale period ahead of the public launch Tuesday 8 September. Britain’s top female ski-cross skier, Emily
they can practise their first small
Sarsfield, is one of them, having registered:
specific trails will be added there too.
jumps and ride some small boxes.”
emilysarsfield.ski
The idea of Valle’s Skidland is to
“The .ski domain is perfect for me as it instantly
inspire kids and teens to have even
identifies with my sport and what I do – it feels
more fun on the ski slopes, the resort
great to be part of something like this right at
statement continues.
the start,” said Emily.
“Valle is incredibly kind and wants
The brand new gTLD (Global Top-level Domain)
to hug all the children who visit his
.ski is powered by internet registry StartingDot
world. Valle holds competitions and
who say they have worked with the support of
arranges other ingenious activities for
the International Ski Federation (FIS).
HAPPY UNBIRTHDAY LIFT TICKET Quite a few ski areas offer free lift tickets on your birthday, but what if you weren’t
SKISTAR / JONAS KULLMAN
also popular last season, so more kid-
born during the ski season? Diamond Scandinavia’s leading resort of Åre
adventurous ski trail for kids in
the whole family to make the days out
Millions of .ski domain name options will be
in Sweden has announced that their
Valle’s Skidland,” a resort statement
on the slopes even more fun.”
available to purchase at over 60 online resellers
where you just had to prove you were born
child-friendly mascot Valle will be
confirms. “The trail has something
Valle is also founder of
such as 1&1, GoDaddy.com and Name.com –
between 30 March and 19 December to get
granted his own “ski land” in the
exciting in store around every corner.
Vallemansrätten, a bill of child skiers
simply decide on the name and purchase it, just
resort’s Rödkullen sector next winter.
He’s also built up a mini-park for the
rights that includes, “The children’s
like you would with any other domain name.
“Valle has designed his very own
youngest skiers amongst us, where
right to the world’s best ski holiday.”
Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Peak in California staged an “UnBirthday Celebration” at the end of last winter
a free “UnBirthday” lift ticket.
026 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
JACKSON HOLE MOUINTAIN RESORT
AIRBAGS GIVE FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY
NEW LIFT FOR JACKSON HOLE’S 50TH SEASON
ALTITUDE FESTIVAL MOVES TO JANUARY
Safety gadgets such as avalanche airbags are giving skiers a false sense
Jackson Hole in Wyoming, USA, plans to complete 3 years of
The Altitude Comedy Festival will be back for its tenth annual staging
of security with many taking unnecessary risks while going off-piste,
expansion and construction in time for the start of its 50th
this ski season but is moving forward in the calendar a couple of
according to travel insurance policy provider alphatravelinsurance.co.uk.
season this winter.
months for a mid-January staging. Along with most music festivals,
While the contentious subject of skier safety and helmet usage has been
Following construction this summer and autumn, the opening of the
Altitude, which started off in Méribel but moved to Mayrhofen, normally
brought to the forefront of consumers’ minds in recent years, there is a risk
new Doppelmayr-built Teton Lift is scheduled for 19 December 2015
had a start-of-spring March time slot. Tickets are now on sale for Altitude
of creating an illusion of safety, with several reported incidents of safety
and will be celebrated with a gala, fireworks, live music and more.
2016 which promises “5 hilarious nights” from 11 to 15 January 2016 via the
gadgets causing harm instead of protecting their users, the company says.
The Teton Lift is a new high-speed quad lift that will carry skiers and
Ticketline website (ticketline.co.uk).
In one case reported to the company this year, a skier was caught in
riders 1650 vertical feet (495m) to an area of around 200 acres, The
Over the past 10 years, Altitude has brought the world’s top comedians,
an avalanche while skiing off-piste. Although he was prepared and
Crags, half of which has previously only been accessible via hiking. It’s
including Eddie Izzard, Jimmy Carr, John Bishop, Tim Minchin, Bill Bailey,
was wearing an avalanche airbag, the deployment apparently sent him
the first in-bounds terrain expansion at Jackson Hole since 1998.
Micky Flanagan, Jo Brand, Frankie Boyle, Sean Lock and avalanches
hurtling into a tree.
The area will include three new runs along with gladed terrain. The
more to some of Europe’s most charming and intimate venues. The 2016
“Attitudes in the holiday industry are changing, with the onus being put
runs include the Kemmerer run, the lower part of which (in the picture
line-up has not yet been announced, but the organisers say that “To
back onto the customer when it comes to safety,” said Chantelle Dadd,
above) has been open this season, as well as an expanded version
celebrate a decade of lederhosen-clad laughter, Altitude HQ are busy
Brand Manager for alphatravelinsurance.co.uk.
of the existing intermediate-level “Wide Open” trail and Crags Run,
sculpting a line-up bursting with top-drawer favourites, along with the
She added, “With that in mind, injuries that involve another person
another blue groomer which will follow the ridgeline and provide
most side-splitting new acts around. All will be revealed soon.”
carry a risk of being part of a liability claim later on, with the injured
spectacular views of the Grand Teton National Park.
Tickets options include the Early Bird Full-week Festival Wristband
person(s) able to make a claim within 3 years after the incident, and
Throughout the 2015–16 winter season there will be exciting events
for £155 (plus booking fee), or a VIP option for £225 (plus booking
children being able to do so until the age of 21. The rising popularity
for guests and locals to enjoy. The party continues when Jackson
fee) which includes some free beer or wine at Gala shows, reserved
of personal injury lawyers reflects the way in which our culture is
Hole hosts a throwback reunion weekend, 5–7 February 2016, which
seating, meet and greet with the comedians, a T-shirt and entry into
changing, showing that incidents while on holiday can extend beyond
will include the return of the famous Powder 8’s Contest. Carrying the
the clown downhill race. After the Early Bird periods, prices rise to £185
your own personal claim for medical expenses, often incurring
celebration into the spring, the third Annual Rendezvous Festival on
and £280 respectively (both plus that booking fee). Day tickets will go
hundreds of thousands of pounds, if not more.”
17–20 March 2016 will be bigger and better than ever before.
on sale during the festival (altitudefestival.com).
SC_intheshow_jnr-HP.qxp_SC_intheshow_jnr-HP 11/09/2015 13:42 Page 1
Photo accreditation: Agence Zoom
rom k f d e r boa er we & p Ski pp ering 6 2 €2 cat n just c self- datio in mo s!* m o acc ski pas &
Ski and board the secret of the French Alps
*Selected dates apply
serre-chevalier.com
Tel: +33 (0)4 92 24 98 98
ALPE D’HUEX TOURISM
A
M.MARTEL & OT LES GETS
WORDS: DANIEL ELKAN
launch of a new Eurostar route from London to Lyon is great news. This direct service,
Alpe d’Huez
MÉRIBEL
Les Gets
calling at Ashford en route, opens up some
Alpe d’Huez has 250km of pistes,
Located at the heart of the huge Les 3
Cute Les Gets, located at one end of the
very interesting possibilities. The journey
which look onto some of the Alps’ most
Vallées ski domain, Méribel has an enduring
huge Portes du Soleil ski area, has a laid-
departs from St Pancras at 07:20am, taking
breathtaking panoramic views, particularly
popularity with British and French skiers alike.
back vibe and endearing, unpretentious
4 hours and 41 minutes, arriving at Lyon
those of the Écrins peaks. At either
Its various villages are lined with attractive
appeal. There’s epic skiing terrain to
at 1pm. There, you only need to change
end of the ski area, the slopes remain
wooden chalets, and the lively après-ski
explore in the wider circuit, linked with
platform onto a local train to reach a wide
consistently and blissfully quiet. Try
bars that dot the slopes are great to rock
nearby Morzine and Avoriaz. But don’t
range of ski destinations, many of which
the Sarenne black run, one of Europe’s
up to after a day’s exploration. The resort is
miss the local slopes at Mont Chéry, a
would have previously required a change of
longest, but don’t overlook the thrills of
well placed to explore nearby Courchevel
haven on a powder day for local skiers who
station in Paris.
the red runs that plunge down into Villard
and La Tania, or for an on-slope expedition
know how quiet it remains. The resort is
This new route also provides an alternative
Reculas, Vaujany and Oz too.
to Val Thorens, via the peaks of Mont de La
activity-packed, including chocolate-making
new train route to the Alps via Lyon
to the direct Ski Train, particularly useful
Travel: Lyon to Grenoble takes 1 hour 35
Chambre and Roc des 3 Marches.
workshops, lantern-lit walks, paragliding
launches this winter – meaning that you
on peak dates such as New Year and
minutes then 50 minutes by bus or taxi;
Travel: Lyon to Moutiers takes 2 hours 30
and husky rides – and the charming village
can reach a range of splendid French ski
February half-term, when the Ski Train has
rail fares from London start at £123 return.
minutes then 25 minutes by bus or taxi;
has a weekly local market too.
resorts more easily than before.
already sold out.
rail fares from London start at £139 return.
Travel: Lyon to Cluses takes 2 hours 55
For skiers who prefer the idea of speeding
So where can it take you? Here’s our pick
minutes then 25 minutes by bus or taxi;
to the Alps on trains rather than planes, the
of some of the best destinations.
rail fares from London start at £139 return.
028 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
La Clusaz AND Les Arcs Le Grand-Bornand Intermediates visiting Les Arcs will be in
Saint Gervais
Serre Chevalier
Les Contamines
One of the birthplaces of skiing in the
A little further afield from Lyon, friendly
The remarkable thing about Les Contamines
The average British skier may not have
sheer heaven here. The 425km of pistes are
French Alps, grand old Saint Gervais has
Serre Chevalier in the Southern Alps is a
is that you can come here during February
heard of these two villages, and if that’s the
beautifully interconnected, and the linked
a relaxed pace, quiet slopes, and lots of
wonderful destination, not least because so
half-term and yet find yourself on long,
case, they are missing out. Each resort has
areas of Peisey-Vallandry and La Plagne
them, sharing 325km with neighbouring
many of the runs are wooded, with plenty of
empty blue and red runs. The resort can
some fabulous, scenic skiing combined on
make the possibilities endless. What makes
Megève. The village was originally a spa
north- or north-east-facing slopes that hold
confidently claim to have some of the best
the same ski pass – giving access to a total
this such a great place to learn, too, is that
town, and is home to some impressive
their snow well. When it snows here, it can
views over Mont Blanc, while the descent
of 222km of pistes. La Clusaz is the more
there are plenty of high-altitude blue runs,
buildings and thermal waters for a soak
be a powder playground, particularly the
into Hauteluce is often made above a lake
vibrant, sporty village, with streets that curl
such as the pistes that descend from the
after the slopes. For mountain dining, you
runs above Villeneuve. The resort also has
of clouds – which on a sunny day is quite an
around a 17th-century church in the centre
2600m Col de La Chal, leading to tree-lined
are well catered for here with rustic huts
some exemplary beginner zones, making
extraordinary sight. In the evenings, a stroll
and lively bars in the evening. By contrast,
runs down into Villaroger, 1400m below.
like La Terrasse du Freddy, great for a long
this a great place for beginners and families
through the quiet village will reveal homely
Le Grand-Bornand is more family orientated
Travel: Lyon to Bourg-St-Maurice takes
lunch or a hot-chocolate stop while you
with younger children.
restaurants so welcoming that you feel as if
with an equally beautiful setting. It’s also the
3 hours 8 minutes, then a 10-minute
take in the views of Mont Blanc.
Travel: Local train from Lyon to Briançon
you are dining in a friend’s home.
birthplace of Reblochon cheese and home
funicular ride to Les Arcs 2600; rail fares
Travel: Local train from Lyon to St Gervais
takes 4 hours 41 minutes; rail fares from
Travel: Local train from Lyon to St Gervais
to a cross-country skiing and biathlon circuit.
from London start at £139 return.
takes 3 hours 13 minutes, then 10 minutes
London start at £157 return.
takes 3 hours 13 minutes, then 20 minutes
Travel: Lyon to Annecy takes 1 hour 59
by bus or taxi; rail fares from London start
by bus or taxi; rail fares from London start
minutes then 35 minutes by bus or taxi;
at £139 return.
at £139 return.
rail fares from London start at £131 return. For more information about how to travel to the Alps by train, visit snowcarbon.co.uk
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SNOWCARBON.CO.UK
BY PATRICK THORNE
RESORTS GO 100% SOLAR It’s not well known how much effort ski change – not only by cutting their own CO2 emissions but in some cases generating clean green energy on site, sometimes more than they use so they become carbon neutral and net exporters to the grid. Ski resorts are often located in exposed, windy areas so can be good for wind turbines, but the big move in the past few
INGHAMS LAUNCH NEW LAPLAND BROCHURE
I
ACCOMMODATION FOR SEASONNAIRES PORTES DU SOLEIL / SACHA DITTEL
resorts are putting in to fighting climate
n a company
staple of many people’s travel
Sámi people and try husky-sledding.
first, Inghams has
bucket lists” according to Perrin)
But the fjord region offers
launched a brochure
as well as the growing trend
additional dimensions too, so these
dedicated solely to
for enjoying new and thrilling
breaks also include elements such
snow adventures
experiences while on holiday,
as a high-speed RIB-boat safari, a
above the Arctic
this brochure highlights Inghams’
3-hour Hurtigruten cruise, a scenic
Circle in Finnish
“Top Ten Snow Adventures” in two
rail journey into neighbouring
Lapland and
regions of northern Scandinavia.
Sweden and a visit to Norway’s
Northern Norway.
Favourite activities in Finland
Polar Wildlife Park (inghams.co.uk/
Parents never stop worrying about their
“Although we
include husky and reindeer safaris,
lapland).
children, even when they’re legally adults,
have operated in
and snowmobile adventures both in
and tour operator Ski Morzine has a solution
Lapland for 18 years
the daytime and evening, with trips
for those who fear their kids might take in
already, this is the first time we
in search of the Northern Lights and
too much fluid, but not enough solids, to stay
have highlighted all the inspiring
overnight stays in glass igloos or
properly healthy when taking seasonnaire jobs
adventures and experiences
the Lainio SnowHotel.
in the famous French resort.
that you can enjoy north of the
The brochure also introduces two
The company is offering 5 months’ catered
Arctic Circle,” said company CEO,
new Explorer Tours in Northern
accommodation in its Chalet Le Nantégué
The three areas – two of which were venues
Andy Perrin. “This dedicated new
Norway, served by new Inghams-
for £3500 (equating to approximately £700 a
for the 1932 and 1980 Lake Placid Winter
brochure and website aim to shine
exclusive charter flights in March 2016
month or £160 a week).
Olympics – will buy in the solar power from a
a well-deserved spotlight on these
from Gatwick to Evenes. The region
“Having good-quality accommodation and
company which produces solar power locally
increasingly popular ‘snow holidays
shares many features with Finnish
food covered will allow the seasonnaires to
for non-skiers.’”
Lapland, including the chance to
concentrate on more important things such
Responding partly to increased
explore snow-covered scenery, see
as honing their skiing/boarding skills, making
interest in the Northern Lights (“a
the Northern Lights, meet the local
new friends, partying and, of course, earning
years has been solar power with many new buildings and new lifts fitted with solar panels. In the last two seasons the first lifts to be 100% solar powered have also been unveiled. Placing solar panels at higher altitude can make them twice as efficient although there can be the problem of snow settling on them. One new project at Pitztal in Austria aims to get round that by placing the tops and bottoms of the panels on two wires which can be moved to tip the panels horizontally so any snow slides off. Other resorts are buying in solar energy, and just a few months ago three state-run ski areas in New York State, USA, announced they’d be running on solar energy.
in a 25-year power purchase agreement. “This is a perfect example of how our administration is jumpstarting New York’s clean energy economy and reducing the
a living in preparation for their return to the
state’s carbon footprint – which is good for all
UK with valuable experience and in advance
New Yorkers,” Governor Cuomo told media.
of the next year’s graduates,” said the owner
“This initiative will substantially reduce our carbon footprint akin to removing over
CHAMONIX LIFT CO. TO RUN MEGÈVE LIFT CO.
of Ski Morzine, Paul Sugg. He added, “As a concept we believe that our offer is unique. We have been operating this chalet for 15
46,000 cars from the road over the life of the agreement,” said Pat Barrett for the resorts.
Megève holiday specialists Stanford
with Megève to take over the running
the Mont Blanc Unlimited Skipass
years so worried parents can rest safely
For more information on ski resorts’ efforts
Skiing (stanfordskiing.co.uk) have
of the Megève lift system.
covering Chamonix, Courmayeur
knowing that their loved one is being looked
reported that The SEM Compagnie
“Long overdue investment and new
and Verbier. They hope to be
after during their time in the Alps. We’ve never
du Mont-Blanc, Chamonix’s lift
lifts have been promised, and as
building new lifts next summer,” a
lost anyone yet!”
operator, are finalising discussions
a first step Megève is included in
Stanord Skiing statement reads.
skimorzine.com/nantegue.com
to fight climate change visit: saveoursnow.com
030 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
MARC BERENGUER
Blow Bonus THE
CHALET OWENS WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
O
extensive wine cellar.
scheme which adds to the sophisticated décor.
The property has recently joined the illustrious
For children there’s their own playroom while
list of the 20 most unique, spectacular and
the adults can retreat to the spa facility which
high-quality ski chalets in the world, The Luxury
includes indoor/outdoor swimming pool,
Chalet Collection, updated each season by the
Jacuzzi, sauna, private gym, two massage
experts from The Oxford Ski Company. “There is no coincidence that Chalet Owens is geared towards entertaining as it is owned and designed by the same owner as Le Mangeoire in Courchevel 1850. Rated as one of the top hotspots to visit, Le Mangeoire promises fun, raucous adventures with its DJ after a decadent evening of great food, wine
K, you’ve booked your luxury chalet for your
and live music,” commented Rupert Longsdon,
ski week, it’s come complete with amazing
Founder of The Oxford Ski Company and The
spa, sublime service and gorgeous gourmet
Luxury Chalet Collection, adding:
cuisine naturellement … but what’s the use of
“At Chalet Owens size does matter; not only
all that if you can’t have a few pals round to
can the ‘Mangeoire’ party continue at the
rooms, hair salon and that party room.
share it all with?
chalet with its vast entertainment area but the
The Oxford Ski Company reports that service
Fortunately Chalet Owens in Courchevel
attention to detail in creating space in every
levels are exemplary with chalet manager,
1850 (somewhat inevitably … ), France, has
room has been thought through extremely
chef, butler, housekeeper and chauffeur at
the answer with its own “venue” extending
well, so everyone’s a master!”
your request.
over 250m2 which can comfortably cater for
Chalet Owens was renovated last season
“The Luxury Chalet Collection is always a hot
up to 100 guests at a time. It comes complete
and is one of the most recent newcomers to
topic and often a contentious one among
with bar, lounging areas, cinema room and
the chalet scene, meeting the ever-evolving
the specialists in the office – none more so
luxury standards of the market, and The
than this year as the standards of property
Oxford Ski Company rate it as one of the top
are continually improving. We finalise our
chalets in the area (which is, after all, home to
portfolio based on service levels, attention
the greatest collection of remarkable luxury
to detail, value for money and location. It is
ski chalets that exist anywhere on the planet)
not, perhaps surprisingly, based on simply the
if not the world.
cost of the property to rent – this would be a
Located moments from the Bellecôte piste,
completely different list. Instead our value of
its six bedroom suites sleep 12 people and
true luxury is based on how memorable the
all provide a calming and serene ambience
stay is for our clients,” says Rupert.
with muted colours and luxurious fabrics. The
Rental rates for Chalet Owens range from
marble bathrooms each have their own colour
€90,000 to €200,000 per week.
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LUXURYCHALETCOLLECTION.COM
+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 reservation@heliopic.com
heliopic-hotel-spa.com
SWITZERLAND TOURISM/STEPHAN SCHACHER
ZILLERTALTOURISMUSGMBH / HELGE KIRCHBERGER
NEW CHAIRLIFT FOR YEARROUND SKI CENTRE
After several years of investing in improved on-mountain facilities such as restaurants, Austria’s only year-round ski centre (and along with Zermatt one of only two worldwide) Hintertux has resumed its investment in ever better, faster ski lifts. The centre’s new high-speed six-seat Lärmstange 2 chairlift is scheduled to begin operation this November ahead of the next winter season. The new lift will have a capacity of 2800 skiers per hour and climb to 3135m in altitude near the very top of the slopes. It will carry 62 chairs, all equipped with heated seats and weather protection hoods. The construction work in the high alpine terrain and especially in the glacier area is reported to be very
SWITZERLAND
complex and technically challenging, and the Zillertaler Gletscherbahn lift company have been working with Doppelmayr on the installation, creating a separate temporary lift to carry materials up for the construction.
GUARANTEED SNOW
ST ANTON SKI SHOPS FINED FOR PRICE FIXING
When it comes to scenic majesty, no other Alpine nation quite beats
children often don’t have to pay for their lift ticket at all until they are as old as
Switzerland for the jaw-dropping “Wow!” factor. The country boasts 52 peaks
ten and at most resorts they then pay half price or less until they’re adults (much
that have summits above 4000m including some of the world’s most iconic
better than in most other ski nations).
mountains such as the Matterhorn and the Eiger. Located in the heart of the Alps, the high-altitude
AMAZING INFRASTRUCTURE
slopes and ski lifts mean that snow is guaranteed. Indeed the highest ski lift in Europe is here and,
Swiss ski areas have been building
weather permitting, you’ll find ski slopes open
remarkable on-mountain facilities for over
every day of the year.
a century which are amazing to visit and wonderful to make use of to get up the
Four ski shops in St Anton have been fined more than €400,000 between them by an Austrian court for agreeing to fix prices on equipment and clothing retail, rentals and servicing, according to a report in the Tirol Daily newspaper. The court found that the practice led to prices being inflated by an average of 17% above the retail average and that it dated back to at least 2002. The shops involved were Sport Pangratz & Ess, Alber Sport, Sport Jennewein Martin and (in a minor role) Fauner Sport. Each was fined individually, with fines ranging between €11,200 and €144,000. The case was brought after an anonymous tip-off in the 2013/14 season. The court reached its decision and the fines were levied in April, and the shops have now decided not to appeal against the ruling. It was stressed that hotels and other travel companies that partnered with the shops to send their customers to them were not involved in the price fixing.
Tirol Daily reports that similar investigations are underway in other (unspecified) ski resorts.
032 // OCT15
AUTHENTICITY
mountain quickly and comfortably.
Swiss ski resorts are primarily picturesque Alpine
employed car designers to make them even
villages that have been built up organically
more stylish and functional. These include a new
around original mountain communities and offer a
eight-seater gondola at Lenzerheide designed
traditional atmosphere with centuries-old values.
by Porsche and a ten-seater gondola at Laax
Switzerland has been in fact the original winter holiday destination since 1864 when the first Brits were persuaded to come and visit in the winter. They did, they fell in love with Switzerland, and generations have been doing the same ever since!
Several new Swiss lift manufacturers have
SWITZERLAND FURTHER INFO
designed by Pininfarina who design for Ferrari.
It’s all too easy to fall in love with Switzerland. The hassle-free access, friendly but efficient staff, state-of-the-art lift networks,
QUALITY AND VALUE There’s an old saying that you get what you pay for, and while Switzerland may not be cheap, you can expect the highest quality of service and facilities in every aspect of your ski holiday – right from arrival by air, road or train. High-value services are the norm in Switzerland
extensive ski areas, great accommodation, wonderful food and simply stunning mountain scenery will all make you want to return year after year. This winter the country’s ski slopes are in better shape than ever with some exciting new lifts to take you up to the top of them.
where being polite, punctual and offering the best at the most affordable rate possible is second
EFFICIENT PUBLIC TRANSPORT Visitors can best enjoy their winter holidays in Switzerland by using the country’s public transport system – rather than attempting to drive along congested roads. The best way for guests to reach their holiday destination is with the Swiss Transfer Ticket, which takes travellers from any Swiss arrival airport/border station to their destination – and back again at the end of their stay. The Swiss Transfer Ticket costs £94 (2nd class) or £151 (1st class) and is valid for 1 month. Under-16s
nature, not just some target to aim for. Families are especially well looked after.
travel free of charge on Swiss trains, when accompanied by an adult holding
There are lots of lift pass and accommodation deals, and at some resorts
a Swiss Transfer Ticket or Swiss Travel Pass.
MYSWITZERLAND.COM/WINTER
WIN A PEAK PERFORMANCE MAROON £275 SRP JACKET
InTheSnow have teamed up with award-winning brand Peak Performance to give you the chance to win a Men’s Maroon Jacket worth £275.
I
nTheSnow have teamed up with award-
padding to expertly control your body
winning brand Peak Performance to
temperature. It’s the perfect “year-after-year,
give you the chance to win a Men’s
don’t-ever-want-to-change jacket”.
Competition ends midnight 30 October 2015.
-The prize must be claimed before 31st December 2015.
ski jacket which will live up to all the
Colour of jacket will either be orange, navy or black
and windproofness required by serious skiers. It is constructed in HiPe Core+ fabric to ensure it lives up to high
standards of weather protection and quality, and is insulated with intelligent Thermocool®
To enter visit InTheSnow.com/competitions and simply enter your name and email. Good luck.
BOOK NOW !
Terms and conditions
Maroon Jacket. It is a high-performing demands of comfort, waterproofness
Summer is gone, Winter is coming…
depending on availability.
-This prize is not transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash or other services other than what is noted above, and may not be used in conjunction with any offers. Use is subject to availability.
5% Extra Discount
SNOW5 Savings of up to 60%
in 500 professional ski shops
Over 300 partnered resorts in the Alps and Pyrenees
Ski and snowboards picked & fitted by mountain professionals
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033 // OCT15
www.skidiscount.co.uk
ANDYPARANT.COM
034 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
SHUTTERSTOCK
WHERE THE MONEY GOES? 28.2% DEPRECIATION 20.2% RUNNING THE LIFTS 14.5% ADMINISTRATION / INFRASTRUCTURE 12.5% SNOWMAKING, PISTE PREP, REPAIRS 9.2% BANKING 3.6% VEHICLES 2.9% BUILDINGS 8.9% PROFIT
W
SNOWMAKING
the number of foreign workers. But wherever
Depending on the conditions, snowmaking
they’re from, worker standards just keep
also typically continues all night, and
getting higher.
sometimes all day too. In these days of
“A professional and well-trained workforce
climate change concern and heavy usage
is the vital part of ski resort operations,”
of slopes, new snowmaking systems are
confirms Angelica Wilk of Bergbahn AG
one of the biggest annual capital spends
Kitzbühel, the famous resort’s award-winning
of ski areas, often running into millions
lift operator, adding, “and they must be highly
of euros. Again newer systems are more
motivated.”
environmentally friendly and produce more snow for less energy and expense.
We all get annoyed when we have to queue
e all moan about how much our ski lift pass
SLOPE SAFETY PREPARATION
for a lift (or anywhere), and the traditional
costs (and rightly so!), but do we realise quite
Avalanche control is another vital service
solution is to build a bigger, faster lift to
how much ski resorts deliver to (hopefully)
continuing around the clock in ski areas, but
increase capacity. As with building new
make our ski day seamless?
typically teams arrive at 4–6am to ensure
roads, this doesn’t always work, as more
Just as teachers don’t turn up at the start of
slopes are safe to open at the start of the day.
people use the new lift and clog it up again,
the day and magically start teaching without
You’ll often be woken by blasting to set off
but still, resorts always want to build a new
having had to do a bit of preparation the
avalanches in the resort’s usual danger areas,
lift, with many putting the onus on chairlifts
night before, so ski areas can’t start running
particularly after heavy snowfall.
and gondolas that can be used for summer
the lifts until the slopes are ready, and
business too. The only trouble is that bigger
preparing for that normally starts as soon as
DIGGING OUT
lifts have bigger price tags, with €10million a
the lifts close the previous night.
If a lot of snow does fall overnight (yay!), then
common price quoted for a big new lift these
whilst all the powder hounds are chomping
days – that’s a lot of lift tickets sold.
PISTE PATROL
at the bit to get up there as dawn breaks, it’s
Along with patrolling the slopes all day to
often a mad rush for slope crews and liftees
THE REST
offer assistance where needed and control
to clear lifts of snow so that they can operate
The other things a ski lift operator has to pay
unruly skiers and boarders, the piste patrol’s
efficiently and safely.
for? It’s a long list – staffing costs for all these
ski day ends after everyone else’s, and
roles; insurance in case someone sues them
usually after the grooming teams have
TICKET SALES
when something goes wrong (even if it wasn’t
already started their work preparing the
Although now done largely online at most
something they could do much about and
slopes for the following day, as they check
bigger ski areas, the humble lift ticket office
maybe the individual concerned should have
everyone has got safely off the mountain at
still needs staffing before the lifts operate.
thought about things a bit themselves before
the end of the skiing day.
All those electronic ticketing systems and
whatever happened, happened); power
the websites and apps that come with them
costs; marketing; “servicing debt” (interest
TRAIL GROOMING
don’t come cheap either – resorts are often
fees), bank charges, even good old tax – it
As mentioned, grooming work normally starts
investing large sums in new technology to
all has to come out of your lift pass cost. In
as soon as the lifts close and continues all
make things operate more efficiently.
fact figures we were sent by Les 4 Vallées in
night as the resort tries to create pristine
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INFRASTRUCTURE
Switzerland (see stats opposite) indicate that
terrain, again, the following day and sharpens
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
running the lifts only accounts for a fifth of
the edges on those terrain park features. The
Of course a large, professional and to a
their expenditure.
piste bashers are now costing towards half a
greater extent “temporary” group of staff is
So next time we’re stood in a lift queue or,
million euros each new to buy, but the newer
required to make everything happen. Finding
hopefully, have had no queue to stand in,
models use less fuel, some are even hybrid
staff can be a challenge for big resorts in
ascending on the lift, it may be worth a quick
and an all-electric version has been tested in
some locations – often not because there
mental run-through of all that lift companies
Les 3 Vallées. The latest tech (which doesn’t
aren’t plenty of young people looking for
have to do 24-7 to keep the slopes running,
come cheap either) uses sonar to check snow
work but because sometimes the best staff
safely, all winter. The more you think about
depths, so snow is moved where it’s needed
want to come in from overseas and they can
it the more amazing it seems, and the better
but not where it isn’t.
fall foul of employment laws designed to limit
value your lift pass!
035 // OCT15
YOU’VE GOT A TICKET TO RIDE ... SNOW
Global surf travel and adventure brand Ticket to Ride (tickettoridegroup.com) is launching a range of snowboard
performance, freeride, freestyle and instructor. The options range from week-long camps through to 11-week qualification-led
MARK BADER
holidays this winter for the first time. The company is offering a selection of snowboard experiences and courses spanning
courses and include the freestyle mecca of the Espace Killy and the spectacular Banff National Park. And winters need never end
TOUR OP OFFERS FREE GUIDING AND TEACHING
with Ticket to Ride’s southern-hemisphere-based snowboard experiences on the active peaks of Mt Ruapehu in New Zealand. “Having a love for both sports and understanding the boardsport ethic shared by both surfers and snowboarders, I wanted to bring the two sports together as one,” said Company Director Will Hayler. “Since our launch back in 2005 we have enjoyed developing our surf adventures and offering unique experiences in a host of different countries. As a team, we are very much looking forward to Ticket to Ride’s next step and the forthcoming winter in the snow.”
TOMAS ZUCCARENO
ASPEN BECOMES A NO-DRONE ZONE
N
provide the service, avoiding the
Hotel Del Clos in El Tarter, Andorra,
The legal actions between
controversy of recent years with
the Hotel Turquoise in La Plagne,
tour operators and the French
prosecutors, particularly in France
the Hotel Aalborg and the Hotel Le
authorities over their ban on ski
but also now in other countries,
Cret, both in Les Deux Alpes, and
hosting by tour operator staff
questioning whether staff
the Hotel Escapade in Alpe d’Huez.
who do not have the highest
offering hosting and guiding have
There are also a range of chalets
French ski school qualifications,
acceptable qualifications.
in France, Andorra and Italy
a separate case against the Ski
For example, Neilson is working with
included within the Neilson
Club of Great Britain for using
the ESS (European Ski & Snowboard
Mountain Collection.
guides without the highest French
School) in Les Deux Alpes.
Targeted at those who can already
ski school qualifications, and a
Neilson are calling the service
ski on blue and red pistes the service
third case against a British ski
eilson are to offer free-of-charge
“mountain experts”, and it is not
will offer a weekly timetable of
school for offering ski lessons
ski guiding in France and other
being offered to all guests but
classes for various ability levels and
from teachers who did not hold
countries this season.
to those staying in their Neilson
on different types of terrain. Guests
the highest French ski school
The tour operator will use
Mountain Collection properties.
can choose whether to be guided or
qualifications are all ongoing in
established ski schools to
This includes guests staying at the
to get performance tips too.
the meantime.
BIGGEST RESORTS SALE IN HISTORY … BUT SKIERS WON’T NOTICE
Aspen in Colorado has announced that drone flying will no longer be allowed on its slopes.
resorts, as part of a portfolio of
Sugarloaf in Maine and Crested
has become an increasingly problematic issue for ski
more than 100 travel and leisure
Butte in Colorado. The company
resorts around the world as the affordability, availability and
companies, nearly a decade ago.
also own ski areas in states
popularity of drones have grown in recent years.
However, the company does not
from the US East to West Coasts
actually run the resorts day to day
including New Hampshire,
and brings in other companies as
Vermont, Utah and California.
operators. This has led industry
Reports in US media have
experts to say skiers and boarders
suggested that CNL are looking
are unlikely to see any immediate
at an “exit strategy” from their
changes, and perhaps no changes
“investment model” and that they
In the US there are already restrictions on drone use on publicly owned land, where many of the country’s ski areas are located, but many drone owners are unaware that they are legally required to obtain special permission to use them from the country’s Federal Aviation Administration.
SUGARLOAF AND GARY PEARL
The announcement clarifies the resort’s position in what
In its announcement regarding the blanket ban, the Aspen Skiing Company mentioned the dangers of drone use near
Plans by an investment company
all sold to one buyer, it will be the
at all, at individual areas if a sale
expect to make a decision by 31
lifts and the proximity of one of its four ski areas, Buttermilk,
which owns 16 of the leading ski
biggest sale of ski resorts in one
goes through.
December. They have recently
to the local airport. Around the world ski areas are becoming
areas in the US to sell them all,
go in the history of the world.
Internationally well-known
agreed to the sale of a large
possibly, is unlikely to impact
Florida-based CNL Lifestyle
ski areas currently owned by
number of golf courses they
skiers, say experts. But if they are
Properties began snapping up ski
CNL include Sunday River and
also own.
increasingly concerned about drone use and the possible dangers to safety, particularly in relation to ski lift operations.
036 // OCT15
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CALL A SKI SPECIALIST 07827811477
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CODA AD_SEPT 15 RESIZE.indd 5
Every month we ask somebody who lives in the mountains to give us some insider pointers on where to head when we go visit their resort. This month: Banff in Alberta, Canada.
Best Spot For Selfies?
is the perfect spot to stop, indulge and refuel.
lead you on a picturesque journey through
It’s also the ideal place to soak up the sweeping
mountain valleys. For added excitement, try
Take a ride to the top of the Divide Chair at
panoramic views and spectacular scenery, which
mushing the sled yourself and guiding a team of
Sunshine Village Ski Resort and snap a pic
ranks high amongst the world’s best, whilst
dogs down the trail!
of yourself in front of the spectacular Mount
tucking into some mouth-watering cuisine and
Assiniboine, an image that includes both
enjoying the authentic Canadian mountain’s
the provinces Alberta and British Columbia.
casual vibe.
Alternatively, over at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, capture the epic mountain views and the iconic
Favourite Locals’ Après-ski Hangout?
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise seen hiding in
The Banff Ave. Brew Pub not only provides
Alberta, which is why there are many hotspots
the background.
a location for après-ski but is also one of
in Banff where you can find this refreshing drink
Best Lift?
the locals’ favourites for great food, a fun
with various twists. Allow the Park Distillery’s
atmosphere and of course delicious micro-
resident mixologist to mix you up a delicious
Canada’s first heated chairlift debuts at Sunshine
brewed beer. Locals love the secret keg of
Caesar that features their 100% homemade
Village just in time for the 2015–16 ski season.
cask ale which is tapped every Friday along
vodka, or, for an authentic Canadian-inspired
The new Tee Pee Town high-speed quad chairlift
with one of their amazing authentic Canadian
experience, check out the award-winning Maple
features heated seats, footrests and protective
poutine options.
Leaf Grill and Lounge.
orange bubble covers. The state-of-the-art lift runs
Best Adventures Besides Skiing?
Feeling a little more adventurous? Don’t miss the
Best Mountain Restaurant?
When the legs are tired, there are endless
there is definitely no shortage of pubs, bars and
outdoor activities to keep you warm in the
restaurants in Banff that are happy to whip up
Canadian winter. One of the most fun is
their version of this delicious cocktail.
Located at 2042m above sea level, the
dogsledding. Cosy up under a blanket on a
Whitehorn Bistro on the slopes of Lake Louise
traditional dogsled and let a team of huskies
cruise up the Grizzly Gondola, and at the top,
at a speed of 1000ft per minute and features an impressive 47 bubble chairs.
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Best Place To Grab A Canadian Caesar Cocktail?
TRUSTED BY 2015 WORLD CHAMPION & X GAMES MEDALLIST FILIP FLISAR
Canada is known for the Canadian Caesar, a cocktail that was actually invented right here in
Caesar Bar at Toque Canadian Pub for a unique selection of Caesar Creations. As you can see,
Welcome to Banff!
037 // OCT15
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F
or decades skiers and snowboarders have been
JAMIE NICHOLLS WITH #HEMELRUN2
Amneville, France! With a speed of 104.956kph,
He’s not just done it once, he’s done it twice.
indoors in any discipline!
Team GB’s Olympic snowboarder, Jamie
The Snowhall’s main piste where Jan achieved
Nicholls, and Hemel Hempstead’s real-snow
the record is 620m long, 35m wide, and has a
indoor skiing and snowboarding destination,
90m vertical drop. Given the time it took Jan
The Snow Centre, built two of the most extreme
to reach his top speed, he would expect to
indoor snowboard park lines ever seen!
have only 50m for braking, so it’s not surprising
Complete with jumps and rails, both ‘Hemel
that during this record attempt he was close to
Run 1 & 2’ started outside the back of The Snow
ending up in the nets at the bottom of the slope!
Centre building, ran down the indoor slopes
For most skiers, half Jan’s record speed would
and back outside into the centre’s car park.
do nicely indoors or on the mountain!
to become the fastest non-motorised man
Videos of both the 2014 and 2015 “Hemel Runs” saw the Olympian complete big snowboard tricks on some of the most creative man-made features yet, including a gap jump over a fire
ROB WILKINSON’S DRY SLOPE SKI JUMP
exit stairway! Who said you have to be on the
The Guinness World Records recognised the
mountain to ride an awesome park?
highest ski jump from a quarter pipe on an
pushing the boundaries in the snowy mountains, but in recent years, indoor real-snow centres
Jan beat the previous record holder’s 104.44kph
artificial slope as 3.4m.
JAN FARRELL’S “WORLD INDOOR SPEED RECORD”
Achieved in October 2014 by Rob Wilkinson at
Check out the people and places shifting the
Speed skier Jan Farrell beat the World Indoor
proved that going big on skis on real snow and
meaning of indoor skiing and snowboarding …
Speed Record in May 2015 at The Snowhall at
vast mountains is not a necessity!
and dry slopes have shown us what pushing the limits of UK snow sports really means!
039 // OCT15
Aberdeen Snowsports Centre, on a Snowflex slope which is 80m long and 40m wide, Rob
THESNOWCENTRE.COM
ZELL AM SEE-KAPRUN TOURISMUS GMBH DIETMAR SOCHOR
SKIING BY THE LAKE WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
ZELL AM SEE zellamsee-kaprun.com/en Total Slopes: 138km Total Lifts: 53 Mark Warner’s excellent new high-spec apartment complex, Lake Mountain Resort, is superbly located 2 minutes’ walk from the City Express gondola and a few steps from the resort centre too. markwarner.co.uk
040 // OCT15
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O
two cable cars that leave from a base above Zell. All are linked by a ski bus, which is free to lift pass holders. Beginners normally start up by the aforementioned Sonnenalm cable cars and will find the easier blue runs up on top of the mountain, with the option of taking the lift back down if the long run back is too daunting in the early days. Intermediates will enjoy Zell am See’s skiing the most with more than 50km (32 miles) of red and blue runs to whizz around on, including a wonderful 6.5km (4 mile) trail, the Schutt, descending the full 1200m back down to the resort and affording great views as you descend. Advanced skiers have several long medium-steep blacks descending through the forest to enjoy, some usually mogulled, and Zell has a reputation for good
ne of the delights of ski resorts is that they come in all
off-piste powder when conditions are right.
shapes and sizes. You have pretty, traditional Alpine
Zell am See’s sunny slopes do have good snow-
villages that have been around for centuries and just
making cover on nearly two-thirds of the piste,
happened to discover they had a good ski mountain
however most skiers will wish to visit Kaprun’s glacier
next door when they became popular, and there
skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier during their stay.
are high-altitude, purpose-built “moon base” resorts
This is accessed by a ski bus which runs every 20
that are ghost towns outside the ski season. Some
minutes in high season, and once an hour during
big cities have little ski areas you can access on the
other periods. Journey time is around 30 minutes and
metro line, and you can even find ski hills in unlikely
the service is free to lift pass holders.
locations like Cyprus or in the Atlas mountains of
The Kitzsteinhorn is celebrating 50 years in operation
Morocco. The list goes on …
this winter (and since becoming Austria’s first glacier
The attractive lakeside town of Zell am See in
ski destination) and will have an even better setup
Austria’s Salzburgerland falls somewhere between
than before, thanks to new lifts improving access
traditional village and city. Travelling there from the
to the slopes. Two new modern lifts will allow
UK, you’re quickly reminded of all that’s good about a
skiers to enjoy a new 41km “Glacier Round Trip”
ski holiday to Austria even before you arrive – namely
that will stretch from the 3029m-high peak to the
an efficient little airport at Salzburg followed by a
Langwiedboden at an altitude of 1978m.
short transfer on mostly main roads to the historic
Freestylers will also enjoy the Kitzsteinhorn’s three
resort. It’s quick, easy and pleasant.
snow parks, including Austria’s biggest super pipe,
Zell am See does feel a little different to most
mogul slopes and five freeride ski trails that invite
Austrian ski destinations. Perhaps it’s because of
winter-sports enthusiasts to freestyle to their heart’s
its size or its waterfront location; it is not the normal
content. The latest thrill is the Black Mamba, a
mountain village made up of giant wooden chalets.
1000m-long piste that covers 250m in altitude, has a
On the other hand, the mountains are still there,
maximum gradient of 63% and offers a true challenge
towering high above to altitudes capable of maintaining
for good skiers.
glacier skiing at neighbouring Kaprun (which has been included on a joint lift pass for nearly 50 years), so the comparatively low altitude of Zell am See doesn’t prevent guaranteed skiing throughout the season.
THE REST
But even though it doesn’t meet the standard
There are several dozen bars, pubs and discothèques
Austrian resort model, it’s still a very scenic spot, with
in Zell am See meaning a lively night life is feasible
the lake in front and the mountains behind. Another
for those who want it, with quiet, sophisticated night
factor making Zell seem that bit different is the feeling
spots for those who don’t.
of history that oozes from the medieval centre (now
The Villa Crazy Daisy is normally one of the busiest
pedestrianised) and the culture of the place which
spots in town, but there is so much more to do
stems from it.
than just party in Zell – bowling, tobogganing, night
The water sports, beach parties, classical concerts,
skiing, cinema, swimming, skating and a host of
festivals and theatre performances at the castle all
other opportunities. Try to fit in a day trip, or even an
combine to prove that Zell am See was around long
afternoon in Salzburg if you can.
before winter sports were thought of, and still has a
One other unusual aspect of Zell am See is that it
life beyond them. It’s a great resort in which to just
has made it big with the Arabian market, particularly
wander around the compact centre between eclectic
in summer, but there are also a few Eastern-themed
little shops, stopping for a coffee in one of the many
Halal mini markets which are helpfully open when
cafes or a drink in a bar every now and then.
the Catholic-run establishments are not. There are restaurants and even bars where you can puff on a hookah pipe should you wish, or watch others doing
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THE MOUNTAIN(S)
the same – it’s very surreal in the snowy Alps but all
Zell am See’s 77km (48miles) of trails are largely located
resort that is such a cultural melting pot.
on the Schmittenhöhe mountain directly behind the
The final bit of good news regarding Zell am See and
town. There are various access points to the area, but
Kaprun is the value. Even when the euro was strong,
most people staying in central Zell will take the City
prices here tended to be lower across the board
Express gondola, the base of which is a few minutes’
for all aspects of your ski holiday cost, but with the
walk above the town centre. Alternative access is via
pound strong this winter, the area feels ever more like
the neighbouring village of Schüttdorf or via a choice of
a bargain.
the more fun for it, and it feels great to be at a ski
ZELLAMSEE-KAPRUN.COM/EN
10
26
Tignes Re-opens, France: The French
Skiplex Taster Sessions, Basingstoke and
Half-term Ski Lessons, Hemel
2015–16 ski season officially kicks off on
Reading: Indoor Skiplex centres will offer
Hempstead: Half-term ski lessons are on
Saturday 3 October when the Grande
free 15-minute skiing and snowboarding
offer at the Snow Centre (thesnowcentre.
Motte glacier in Tignes re-opens for
taster sessions from 10am–5pm at
com). 2-day courses start Monday 26th or
snow sports. It joins already open Saas-
Basingstoke on the 10th and Reading on
Wednesday 28th or there’s 2- or 3-hour
Fee, Zermatt and others.
the 11th as part of 30 Days of Snowsports.
Alpine Ski School courses on Friday 30th.
3
24
This Girl Can, Bracknell: Snowsport
World Cup Season Starts, Austria:
England are re-running their “30 Days of
The first races of the 2015–16 ski season
Snowsport” campaign through most of
take place on the glacier above Sölden
October with events and deals almost
in the Austrian Tirol. It’s the ladies race
daily. This one encourages female snow-
on the Saturday with the gents following
sport participation.
on the Sunday.
October
30 Ski Show, Manchester: The Ski Show returns to Manchester’s EventCity for a third year when up to 10,000 visitors will browse over 100 retailer and tour operator stands at this 3-day event.
25
31
Ski Fit Night, London: Profeet are
Last Day of 2015 Southern Hemisphere
High Test, France: The second French
running a Ski Fit night with Graham Bell
Season? After a snowy winter south of
glacier to open for 2015–16, Les Deux
of Ski Sunday and Craig McLean from
the equator this could be the last day
Alpes, will stage an all-new equipment
Putney Chiropractic Centre. Tickets
of the 2016 season at Mt Ruapehu, NZ,
test weekend especially for the pan-
cost £5 from Profeet (profeet.co.uk) with
usually the last to close, but we’re betting
European Decathlon sports stores.
proceeds going to ski charity Back Up.
an extension to “Snovember” is likely …
7
CAMP HP
ROSS WOODHALL
© MONICA DALMASSO
3
BRUNO LONGO / OT LES 2 ALPES
COURCHEVEL TOURISM
NEW €63M SWIMMING COMPLEX FOR COURCHEVEL
NEW BLUE RUN TO LES DEUX ALPES Les Deux Alpes in France has
built its new run with the aim of
been building a new blue run
avoiding causing any damage
this winter that has been 20
under a carefully planned
years in the planning, two
environmental policy with a
summers in the making and
total budget of €10m.
has cost €10m to build.
“This investment is more
It’s big news for the southerly
beneficial than a new ski lift
French ski area, as it has an
because it means completely
unusual slope orientation
reconfiguring the ski area
meaning that its easier runs
and the summer area (for
are mostly high up with more
mountain biking) to provide
difficult runs at resort level,
simplified return access to
so less confident skiers and
the resort,” said a resort
boarders have either had to
spokesperson, adding, “Above
descend a lengthy green run
all, it makes the journey back
or take the lift back at the end
to the resort safer.”
of the day.
Along with blue run access
This will change with the
to the resort base, Jandri 1
opening of the new Jandri
connects with higher blue runs
1 blue, the construction of
to mean that more than 2000
which has been a huge and
vertical metres of descent on
specialised project which the
blue runs will now be possible
resort believes is unique for
– one of the world’s top 10
the French Alps for its scale.
biggest lift-served verticals
More than half a million
down from 3600m to 1600m.
cubic metres of earth have
Work is due to be completed
been moved (550,000m³ in
this month, and the new run
fact), as well as 12,000 trees
is scheduled to open on 5
replanted, as Les Deux Alpes
December 2015.
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043 // OCT15
A major new indoor water-fun, sports and
environment. Architect Eric Frisch says that one
The wellness area is equipped with a JetStream
wellness centre will open to visitors at
of the main issues at stake was “to build such a
pool, a saltwater pool and a bubble pool, and a
Courchevel in early December.
large facility on a highly sensitive Alpine site. We
wide variety of treatments will be available.
It includes indoor and outdoor swimming pools,
worked to make it disappear into nature.”
Aquamotion is completely open onto its
a 4m-deep diving area, a 10m-high climbing wall
The centre’s water-fun area, which has been
environment and enjoys natural light on all
and an indoor surf wave – the first indoor wave
specially designed to blend into its surrounding
sides, thanks to its vast bay windows. The roof,
of its size in France along with spa facilities.
environment, will also incorporate a three-lane
which follows the form of the land and looks
Built at a cost of €63m, the complex, named
water slide and a 110m-long area of wild-water
like a vast green wave, is entirely covered
“Aquamotion”, was entrusted to German
rapids. There will also be a 170m² outdoor
with vegetation. A wood heating system
architecture firm, Auer Weber, which is renowned
lagoon heated to 34°C and a 190m² indoor
was chosen for all the buildings and pools
for its work in integrating buildings into their
lagoon heated to 32°C.
(aquamotion-courchevel.com).
JANFARRELL.COM
Prepare For The Winter With Britain’s Fastest Skier This Year
JAN FARRELL
J
He’s the British speed ski downhill
us ready for our annual ski holiday,
the muscles the right kind of energy to
blocks and work their way up to blue and
category record holder, overall world cup
but plucking ideas out of an athlete’s
ensure they are strong and healthy. Then,
maybe red. For experts there’s a black
speed skiing champion of 2014 and top-
training programme and implementing
it’s just about pumping those weights.
version that is a real challenge for any
ranked British skier from 2012 onwards.
them yourself goes a long way to help
Gyms are great but you can get some
level. It’s the closest balance exercise to
Jan’s top speed is 231.660kph; that’s
make skiing more enjoyable. We caught
weights in at home and do squat thrusts
real skiing that I can do in the gym!”
bonkers to you and me.
up with Jan to ask him what his three
too – this should be enough for most
Even the downhill skiers you see racing
most important training tips are for this
holiday skiers if done over a few months
on courses such as the Hahnenkamm
coming winter.
two or three times a week”.
make turns and don’t go anywhere
Physiological Preparation How can you mentally prepare yourself
in Kitzbühel or Lauberhorn in Wengen
for what you do during the winter?
near those speeds – these guys just go
Physical Strength
Balance & Co-ordination
straight, all the way down.
How can you get your legs in shape for
How can you improve your balance
component of concentration and mental
In order to achieve that you need to
handling the forces you’re under on a
during off season?
strength. Practice makes perfect;
have thighs of steel, nerves of iron
speed skiing course?
“There’s many ways to improve your
nothing compares to standing on
and exceptional control over your
“During the late summer and through
balance – in the summer I live in Spain
the top of the very steepest run and
balance and timing. Preparation for
the autumn it is high gym season – no
and I like to water ski; it’s fun and you
knowing that in a few seconds you’ll
that takes months, and throughout the
pain, no gain! You need to train at 100%
need to be delicate on your feet. Also, I
accelerate to over 200kph. I believe
an Farrell is a speed skier – an insane
autumn Jan is on a highly structured
capacity and that means a good night’s
like to use the SkiA Ski Trainer which is
speed skiing is something that you can
branch of ski racing where shiny, skin-tight
training programme that takes a holistic
sleep and a 4000-calorie diet. Of course,
fantastic to specifically target the central
either handle or not; I guess if you can
suited athletes in weird-looking helmets
approach to fitness.
that doesn’t mean fast food, I’m talking
balance you need for good skiing and is
jump out of a plane with a parachute
hurl themselves down the steepest slopes
Of course, most of us don’t require
pasta and protein mixed with healthy
really portable so you can train anywhere.
then you have a chance of being able to
reaching speeds in excess of 200kph.
that level of intense preparation to get
vegetables. Diet is really important to feed
Beginners can start on the green balance
handle speed skiing, mentally, at least”.
044 // OCT15
“You can’t! My sport has a huge
SKIA.COM
TOURISM WHISTLER / MIKE CRANE
WHISTLER BLACKCOMB GOES SMOKE-FREE
W
car parks as well as in all Whistler
staff to provide a safe and healthy
Vancouver Coastal Health who
Blackcomb bar and restaurant
environment for work and play.
have stop-smoking resources
locations, including patios.
We believe implementing this new
available.
“We have made the decision to
policy aligns with this goal.”
“We know many young people ski
introduce a smoke-free policy at
Whistler Blackcomb’s new
and snowboard, and youth who
Whistler Blackcomb to preserve
smoke-free policy will apply to
haven’t started using tobacco by
the pristine alpine environment our
both guests and staff. While the
the time they are 26 years old
guests come here for,” says Dave
policy is already in place for
will most likely never start,” said
Brownlie, President and CEO at
visitors, Whistler Blackcomb staff
Vancouver Coastal Health Medical
histler Blackcomb ski area in BC,
Whistler Blackcomb.
will be permitted to smoke in
Health Officer, Dr Paul Martiquet.
Canada, has introduced a new
“We also recognise as a leader
designated smoking areas until
“Eliminating smoking in public
smoke-free policy across the resort.
in the outdoor adventure
June 1, 2016 as they adjust to
places, such as on our mountains,
The policy prohibits smoking
and wellness industry and as
the company’s new policy, after
sets a good example so youth,
anywhere on Whistler Blackcomb
the largest employer in the
which the smoke-free policy will
and others, are less likely to even
property, including in lift queues, on
Whistler community, we have a
also apply to all staff.
consider using tobacco.”
lifts, ski runs and the base area and
responsibility to our guests and
The resort is working with
whistlerblackcomb.com/smokefree
SKIMILES
LIVE TO COURSES
LIFT PASS PRICES DROP FOR BRITS With the pound riding high in the eurozone the savings are substantial there too. Even though the cost of a 6-day pass at the giant French areas is creeping up towards €300 (€291 at Paradiski), whilst this would have meant a British equivalent of only a
SK I
• All Terrain • Off Piste • Adventure • Backcountry • Race • Backcountry Access • Pro Training • Junior Race
few pounds less when the two currencies were matched at almost The costs of skiing in the Alps and
typically average 10% on last winter,
cross-border Swiss-Italian ski area.
£1 = €1 a few seasons ago, the price
most other ski regions are continuing
in some cases more.
At CHF434 for a 6-day pass it costs
currently is just £206. The pound
to drop for Brits due to the strong
The most expensive pass remains
around £285, but that’s back down
is also at a high against other
pound. With some lift tickets already
the Zermatt-Cervinia ticket when
below the £300 mark it passed at the
currencies including the Canadian
on sale for winter 2015–16, savings
bought on the Swiss side of the
peak value of the franc last January.
Dollar and Norwegian Krone.
PA R T N E R S
OVER 50 SKI COURSES ACROSS 12 COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE
0844 543 0503 / +44 870 122 5549 info@snoworks.co.uk
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045 // OCT15
w w w. snowor ks .c om
TM
046 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
T
2 QUALITY TIME
Again, if you have your equipment serviced in the UK before your holiday, you know it’s in pristine condition
You don’t want to arrive after a long trip to a resort only
on day one.
to have to join a queue in a rental shop to get some illfitting gear, or worse still, find they’ve run out of your size altogether – only then to have the old issue of returning
5 WORRY-FREE WARRANTY
your gear to the shop at the end of your stay and having to work out how to have shoes with you after you drop the
It’s one you may not have considered, but when buying
ski boots off to get back to your hotel. Much better to have
from a UK retailer, customers will avoid potential warranty
your own gear, fitted at your leisure to suit you in your own
or customs issues.
time back in the UK. You arrive in resort ready to go. No
Faulty, damaged or broken equipment can cause big
worries, no time wasted, no hassle.
issues as the contract exists between the buyer and the seller. You don’t buy a loaf of bread in Tesco and if it’s
3 SOUND, CLEAR ADVICE
not perfect expect a refund in Waitrose. Ski equipment is exactly the same, and the first point of contact in any warranty enquiry has to be the original seller.
Buying from a UK specialist retailer, especially a member of SIGB, will also ensure you are offered a high level of
So any complaint or return is a lot easier when dealing
here’s never been a better time to buy your kit in good old
service and advice. Being able to see, hold and try on kit,
with a UK retailer – it’s closer to home and everyone
Blighty, and to prove it the SIGB has just launched a new
especially ski and snowboard hardware and outerwear,
speaks English and comes under the same legal
campaign called ‘Go UK, Buy UK’ to encourage us British
has no substitute.
jurisdiction. Correct binding, fitting and adjustment are
skiers and snowboarders to buy our kit and equipment
I fondly remember a trip with a group of male friends some
also important in terms of warranty validity.
before we head off to foreign slopes.
years ago when one of our number decided to splash out
The SIGB, if you don’t already know, is a trade association
on a “bargain” pair of skis he saw in a shop in the resort.
with the full name of the Snowsport Industries of
These were sold to him no questions asked, but the next
Great Britain (SIGB), which currently has 159 member
day, in the middle of the slopes, the binding cracked in half
organisations from the retail, supplier and travel sectors of
and fell off. He returned to the shop, where the staff were
British athletes are having their best ever run of results,
the industry – all working hard to promote snow sports at
unapologetic and did not refund his money, insisting that
and James ‘Woodsy’ Woods is already topping the World
all levels in the UK. So that’s a good thing.
they had not realised that he was buying them for himself.
Cup Slopestyle 2015–16 table thanks to a win in the first
So why buy in Britain? Let us count the reasons!
“But these are women’s skis!” they said in wide-eyed
contest in New Zealand in August, before most of us
astonishment. He hasn’t lived it down.
have even booked our flights to the Alps this coming
Getting good-fitting boots in particular can be a deal
season. But it’s almost as big a battle for British athletes
breaker in terms of how much you enjoy your skiing or
to win funding as it is to win the competitions. Thankfully,
snowboarding holiday. Getting your boots professionally
though, there’s a supportive, active UK snow-sports trade
Yes, the pound may currently be riding high in some ski
fitted in the UK by an expert who speaks your language
working with our competitors at all levels, and the industry
nations, and you may see what appears to be a bargain in
and can analyse your feet and the fit of the boots is a vital
has invested over £1.2 million to promote skiing and
some exotic ski shop, but is it really?
part of being ready for a snow-sports trip.
snowboarding, from local amateur events to world-class
1 VALUE
international competitors, over the past 20 years. So the
“It is very rare that I’m in a resort and see standard shop prices for skis and boots that are cheaper than in Britain,” says Steve Wells, Ski Hardware Manager at
6 SUPPORT THE SPORT
4 AFTER-SALES SUPPORT
more support we give to the British snow-sports trade, the more they can give to the British team.
retailer Ellis Brigham. “I think back to when I started
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in the industry 18 years ago and advanced/expert ski
Follow-up after-sales, whether it’s boot-fitting adjustments,
boots were £300+, with good intermediate boots only
repairs or maintenance, is an important part of any UK
slightly less than they are now; that’s a long time for
specialist shop’s reputation and service standard. Buying
very little rise. Expected price rises have never really
at home gives confidence in terms of ongoing support.
happened, and since then the UK has in general been in
“The most common problem we see in the stores is
parity with Europe. The misconception of resorts being
boots bought abroad where all the shop has cared
cheaper is nearly gone.”
about is getting the sale,” says Steve. “Skiers end up
Even if you do find something that seems cheap in resort,
with boots way too big that felt fine initially but quickly
it probably is just that: cheap.
loosened up. The shop isn’t looking to impress and
And once you’ve paid out for something that seemed
create a repeat customer, they just want a sale. Getting
To support the Go UK, Buy UK campaign
cheap in the Alps and got it home and realised it doesn’t
the right product wasn’t so much of a concern because
and ensure you are buying British, you
fit or isn’t very good, you’re stuffed. But in the UK you
with boots it takes time and lots of communication,
can find your nearest SIGB retailer by
know you can easily return it, plus the shop wants you to
something we do focus on in this country. In the UK we
visiting sigb.org.uk/directory/shops
be a loyal customer so they’ll sell you the best thing for
want to do a great job and bring repeat business, even
you in the first place. That’s a high-value service.
if that means more time and effort.”
GO UK BUY UK
SIGB.ORG.UK/DIRECTORY/SHOPS
PAUL KEPPEL PHOTOGRAPHY
ALTITUDE-VERBIER.COM | ALTITUDE-FUTURES.COM | FREERIDE-VERBIER.COM
BEGINNER’S FIRST TIME DOS AND DON’TS
ON THE SNOW
EQUIPMENT
FITNESS
JON (AKA WESTY)
Learning to ski can seem quite
When skiing it’s advisable not to
Sliding – This is likely to be one of
I’d recommend renting your boots
Skiing, like other sports, can be
Jon holds the top qualifications from
daunting; however, there has
learn from loved ones – I would
your first experiences. Stand above
and skis on your first ski trip, and try
demanding on your body. To limit
France, Switzerland and Britain,
probably never been an easier
advise you to tell friends and
the centre of the ski and enjoy the
to borrow the rest of your kit from
your chance of any injuries or
and we can say firsthand that he is
time to learn to ski! The latest
family they won’t be teaching you
ride – look forward, skis parallel,
friends and family. It’s an expensive
aches and pains each night, and to
a great ski instructor! Jon heads up
skis, comfy boots, warm clothing,
and book a lesson with a local ski
and keep your skis hip width apart.
hobby so definitely worth checking
help you have more pleasure from
the team at Altitude Ski School –
comfortable lifts, and great native-
school.
Try not to assume any strange
that you enjoy it before spending
the sport, it is recommended that
Verbier’s most established British ski
speaking instructors mean the first
Choose a resort which has a good
positions; just stand in a slightly
too much (of course you will love it!).
you prepare your body in advance
school. Each month Jon or one of
lesson should be a very enjoyable
snow record and a few beginner
flexed position. The instructor
of the holiday. Try and start at least
his team will provide us with a few
experience.
slopes – this will mean the slopes
should pick terrain where you will
Skis – Make sure they are 20–30cm
6 weeks before the beginning of
tips and words of wisdom to help
As a beginner you should feel safe
are likely to be less busy and the
stop naturally.
shorter than your height – shorter
your holiday and you’ll notice a
improve our understanding of skiing.
and not be asked to do anything
snow will be in good condition,
skis are easier to turn!
big difference.
you are not comfortable with. The
making it easy to turn.
Snow plough – This will soon be
slopes should be very gentle, the
Pick a school that employs
your new best friend. Push the
Boots – They need to be relatively
even going for a brisk walk will give
pace of the lesson should be in line
instructors who speak your
backs of the skis out in a V shape
comfortable and supportive! You
you a good cardiovascular workout.
with your fitness level, and while
language – you have more chance
– this will create resistance against
should be able to move your toes, but
Think about using the stairs instead
The Altitude winter company portfolio
you might fall your instructor will
of improving if you understand what
the snow and enable you to slow
your heel should NOT come up in the
of escalators and up your level
includes the ski and snowboard
be there to help you understand
they are asking you to do.
down. You will practise varying the
boots once they are done up. When
of exercise any way you can. Try
school, the Futures instructor
how to avoid the same thing
Practise on a dry slope or indoor
size of the plough and seeing how
walking it’s often easier for a beginner
whenever possible to get yourself a
training programmes, and FREERIDE
happening again on the next run.
snow dome if you have the chance.
this affects your speed.
to undo the boots, but remember to
little bit out of breath.
VERBIER, a new school dedicated to
do them up before you ski!
Activities such as cycling, running,
off-piste coaching in Verbier.
048 // OCT15
If you’re not keen on the gym, then
TIP: Don’t ski in powder – it’s not a
TIPS – Try not to cross the skis,
beginner’s friend.
vary the width of snow plough and
Tip: For best comfort learn which
three times a week will provide a
practise on a very flat slope.
ski boot is your left and right!
solid base.
ALTITUDE
rowing or stepping for 20 minutes
info@altitude-verbier.com +41(0)27 771 6006
KIDS’ GROUP LESSONS Every school holiday week during the winter, ski schools around the Alps have lots of children’s lessons running. Children’s group lessons are divided by age and ability from 6–8 years, 8–10 years, 11–13 years and 13–15 years, and between Levels 1–5. Last winter we had a chat with Sandy, one of the instructors who was teaching one of our Level 4 aged 6–8 years groups. “Today was the last day for our group, which has run for 5 days each morning from 9am–12pm. We started this morning at Lac des Vaux, which is a great area of the mountain for wide blue runs, and easier reds. We all warmed up on our skis doing some slow exercises that we had used earlier in the week. These included balancing a pole on the back of your hands, and holding a pole out in front of you, to improve balance while skiing. As it was our last day skiing together, we were concentrating on completing the tasks for Level 4 so that the children would receive their certificate and badge and be ready to move on to Level 5 lessons next time they were skiing. These included: Lifting the inside ski during a turn Crabbing turns Skating on the flat Plough-parallel turns To make our lesson fun, we did different activities through the day, interspersed with going fast which always goes down well! We did some fun skiing, went through the park, and also played some games on our skis. It’s important when skiing with children to be as enthusiastic as possible throughout the lesson, to make sure everyone stays motivated and has a good time!”
info@ ultrasporteu.com www.ultrasporteu.com INTHESNOW.COM // OCT15 // 049
DENIS ROUVRE
JM BAUD / OT LES GETS
MICHAEL PORTMANN
SECOND LIFT TO KLEIN MATTERHORN
FIFTH OFF LES GETS/ MORZINE LIFT PASS
THE HIGH-ALTITUDE MICHELIN-STARRED CHEF
Zermatt has announced that it will be building a second lift to the Klein
A ski pass for the Les Gets/Morzine ski area in France will cost less
Val Thorens, Europe’s highest ski centre, is situated 2300m up – good news
Matterhorn, Europe’s highest ski-lift-served point at just under 3900m, in
this year for Brits thanks to the pound riding high against the euro,
for snow cover, but it provides particular challenges for chefs working in the
time for the 2018/19 winter season.
but it will also cost a further 20% less if purchased before 31 October,
resort’s burgeoning foodie scene. So it’s quite an achievement that this year
The new lift will also be the world’s highest 3S gondola (sometimes
as there’s an online early booking offer on.
the resort has added its third Michelin-starred chef.
known as “Funitel”) lift, carrying 25 giant cabins, each capable of
The offer applies to 6–14 consecutive day ski passes and excludes
The challenges of cooking at Val Thorens’ high altitude include the fact
carrying 28 people, on twin cables for added stability like a cable car,
peak weeks from 19/12/15 to 01/01/16 and 06/02/16 – 04/03/16 in
that water boils at 90°C instead of 100°C, so boiling an egg takes twice
but operating on a continuous loop like a gondola or chairlift.
conjunction with an accommodation booking.
as long as usual. Also, due to the low humidity rate, bread dries very
“The new lift to the Matterhorn glacier paradise (Klein Matterhorn) will be
Les Gets is also offering a 20% reduction for environmentally
quickly and packaged food sometimes explodes because of the high
significantly quicker, and the modern cabins will ensure the ride is more
responsible visitors arriving in electric cars. The resort has two
level of air pressure. Wine also matures more quickly and of course
comfortable than ever. The 3S gondola lift made by LEITNER ropeways
charging points available, and in addition electric car drivers enjoy
products can’t always be delivered on time when access roads are
will complement the existing cableway and increase the carrying
reserved VIP parking places before 11am in the Perrières car park.
blocked by the snow.
capacity to Europe’s highest cable-car station by 2000 passengers per
There’s also a Family Ski Pass saving of 10% on the total cost
Val Thorens’ newest Michelin star has been awarded to chef Jéremy
hour,” said a statement from Zermatt’s Lift Company.
throughout the season when a minimum of four Les Gets/Morzine
Gillon who works at the Montana restaurants. He has joined the
The lift will be built over three successive summer seasons, beginning
ski passes, for between 6–14 consecutive days, are booked together,
resort’s existing Michelin-starred chefs , twice-Michelin-starred Relais &
this summer, with 100 working days per season. The 25 modern cabins,
online, at least 3 days before arrival.
Châteaux Grand Chef Jean Sulpice, and Eric Samson, Head Chef at the
designed by Pininfarina, renowned for its work on marques such as
The ski area is open from: 19 December 2015 to 17 April 2016 with
5★ Koh-I Nor.
Ferrari and Maserati, will be fitted with seats inspired by car manufacture
some early opening weekends planned from 21 November depending
The list seems likely to continue to grow in coming seasons with
and huge panoramic windows. The lift, which will climb 900 vertical
on snow conditions. lesgets.com/pass
more lux hotels and restaurants opening at Europe’s highest resort.
metres in 9 minutes, will convey visitors to the Matterhorn glacier
The area is part of the larger Portes du Soleil ski area which
This season sees the fourth 5-star hotel, Le Pashmina, open with two
paradise in that time. The new cableway is set to start operation in the
incorporates the skiing above a dozen villages on either side of
restaurants, “Les Explorateurs” and “Le Base Camp” offer gourmet
winter of 2018/19, bringing a significant improvement to the connection
the French/Swiss border with 650km of piste between them. Early
cuisine created by chefs Romuald Fassenet (holder of the ‘Best
between the skiing areas in Switzerland and Italy.
booking discounts are available for the full regional pass too.
Craftsman in France’ award) and Josselin Jean-blanc.
+33 (0)4 79 06 18 88 RESERVATION@HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM EN.HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM
POLLY A BALDWIN
BOOT ROOM Sponsors of Boot Room
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LINE TODDLER AND BABY SKIER FOREVER TEE Now EVERYONE can tell the world they’re a skier (or that they intend to be!). Spread your love of skiing with these gorgeously cute toddler and baby Line Skier Ts, whether it’s for your own kids or your friend’s newborn. £22 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
ATOMIC VANTAGE 95 Looking for a one-ski quiver? Wanting to charge and grip
SWEET BLASTER MIPS HELMET
on piste, but still need float for powder? New Tank Mesh construction makes these lighter, stronger and higher
ZAINI HATS
A new take on lightweight helmets.
piste performing than previous
Combine hard shell sides to reinforce
all-mountain skis. These really
where you need more protection,
are agile and manoeuvrable in
Zaini hats are still the leaders in headwear for the mountains
MIPS brain protection technology to
whatever conditions you take
– with over 150 new designs online there is a beanie to suit
Achieving perfection means Eric constantly feels
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them through.
everyone! Our beanies are handmade, fleeced lined and
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SLYTECH BACKPROTECTOR NOSHOCK XT NKD SLYTECH NOSHOCK™ Honeycomb spreads impact and forces multi-directionally dissipating force from an impact. Flexible memory foam softens from the warmth of your back and hardens on impact, making this one of the most unrestrictive back protectors you could wear. £130 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
052 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
VOLKL KENJA WOMEN’S SKI
ATOMIC REDSTER 120 PRO MEMORY FIT
It’s new and it’s even bigger and better than in previous
The great boot customisation features from Atomic’s race models
years. Wider under foot for ease of use in soft snow, easy turn
have now been integrated into the new Redster Pro range, giving you
initiation and very smooth on an edge. The Kenja has always
impressive performance. Combine this with a heat-mouldable Memory
been a ski that can ski everything with a performance edge for
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ATOMIC REDSTER XTI SKI Looking for the versatility of being able to ski long and short turns, rip on piste with ultimate stability and grip on hard snow and ice? Utilising their race heritage, Atomic have produced a user-friendly race-inspired ski with impressive piste performance. This ski gives you agility, power and speed whether you’re a high-level skier, instructor or high-speed ripper! £550 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
SCOTT HELMET SYMBOL MIPS
LEVEL OFF-PISTE LEATHER GLOVE
Low profile, modern looking and super
Level pro riders’ favourite and soon to be yours!
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Whether you prefer off-piste, piste or even standing
System for one of the safest technologies
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FISCHER RANGER 98TI SKI LANGE RX 110 W’S LV (WHITE/CORAL)
The new Ranger 98Ti is the real freerider. With a unique lightweight carbon nose for great manoeuvrability. The
Whether you’re skiing on or
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INTHESNOW.COM // OCT15 // 053
BURTON STARSHA MITT
VOLCOM FIRST LAYER THERMAL CREW
These mitts are designed for women who
This thermal crew is designed to offer
want a low-profile mitt without all the bulk
high performance and look great at
that comes from warmer, more insulated
the same time. It is made from a soft
styles. They have a screen grab palm which
moisture-wicking fabric, which offers
allows you to use your phone without
great breathability keeping regulated
having to remove your gloves, and a
temperature control. The Elastane in the
brushed microfibre fixed lining.
fabric gives the top a stretchy feel, which makes it comfortable to wear.
£44.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM £49.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
THIRTY TWO LASHED FT SNOWBOARD BOOTS Thirty Two Lashed boots have mid flex which means they suit a great deal of riding styles from piste to park, and beginner to advanced. They have a 100% heat-mouldable liner that provides exceptional comfort, warmth and support. The Fast Track lacing system means you can be out on the slopes in minutes. £219.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
CAPITA BIRDS OF A FEATHER SNOWBOARD BURTON BURKE HOOD
This is one of the most popular women’s boards
BURTON TUNING VICES
in the industry, the do-anything, go-anywhere
Snowboard-specific vices that use suction grips to
hybrid-camber construction that offers great edge
board that will change your riding forever. It has a
The Burke Hood fits snugly over your head and can be adjusted with drawcords under
hold under the feet but keeps a fun feel due to its
keep the board horizontally secure during waxing
the chin. It has a DRYRIDE Ultrawick fleece
rocker nose and tail.
or scraping, while also providing a vertically stable slide-in setup for sharpening edges. Portable and
lining, which will keep you both warm and dry. Available in two sizes, regular and over
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packable enough for road trips with a design that
the helmet.
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UNION FORCE BINDING A stiff base combined with dual density injected
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A stolen board is every rider’s nightmare. Prevent that
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VOLCOM STUDS STOMP PAD This six pack of non-corrosive zinc alloy studs, are designed to add traction onto the
Sputnik is one of the UK’s largest
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independent snowboard shops. We
where you only have one foot strapped in. It offers you a place to rest your boot so it is
offer great choice and service to all our
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have a great day on the mountains.
054 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
CUSTOM HEATMOULDABLE SHELL BOOTS BURTON GONDY LEATHER GORE-TEX GLOVE For a lot of people choosing a new set of gloves is all about comfort, warmth, waterproofing and breathability. These gloves are made from Gore-Tex which guarantees them to be waterproof, windproof and breathable. They also have Thermacore insulation for warmth, and
BURTON RAMPANT LTD SNOWBOARD BOOTS
screen grab leather so you can use your phone on the go.
The Burton Rampant boot is soft flexing but still offers
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like to have the flexibility to tweak out tricks, but still
great support. If you are into your park riding and you with the support for big landings, this is the boot for you. The traditional lacing system ensures the boot is lightweight and the EST sole offers great board feel.
Are your boots comfortable? With modern boot technology your boots
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don’t need to be the first thing you want to take off at the end of the day! Most manufacturers now include some form of heat-mouldable customisation in their boots, including the plastic shell. Heat-mouldable boot plastics contour
K2 TURBO DREAM SNOWBOARD
to the individual lumps and bumps of your unique foot shape, whether you’ve got bunions, a high instep, big calves or the complete opposite and can’t get
Designed as a quiver of one, the Turbo
BURTON THROWBACK SNOWBOARD
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Dream is built to float powder, rip groomers
Atomic has Memory Fit and Salomon
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Wood award-winning AT Baseline strikes the
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A resurrection of the 1981 Burton Backhill, this
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with rope, wooden handle and pad. Why not get one to put on the wall for your own piece
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of snowboard history?
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can be set at differing pressures to push more or less around your foot dependent on how close a fit you want. The vacuum process allows the shell to mould in both
K2 CINCH CTX BINDINGS
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The K2 Cinch CTX binding is designed to offer ease of use with high-end performance. The cinch system allows you to insert your boot into the binding without undoing the straps at the front. You simply pull a handle down on the high back, insert your boot, pull the handle back up and away you ride. £209.95
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Mid-layer thermals aren’t what they
Always a favourite amongst multi-
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Not only will heat-mouldable shells be the most comfortable boots you’ve ever worn, they’ll also help you ski better. Combined with a shaped footbed, the anatomical shaping gives you a secure fit and hold around your foot and better alignment and balance on your skis – the result is more control and direct transfer of movement to your skis. A pair of the latest custom-moulded boots will be more comfortable than you could ever imagine and will provide better performance than your old boots ever could. When people say these are the most comfortable boots they’ve ever had,
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055 // OCT15
threevalleetransfers www.3vt.co.uk | +44 (0)1323 351964
PRIVATE & SHARED TRANSFERS TO LES 3 VALLÉES
TO
Reaching the ski slopes by train is becoming
charges for ski, boot or board carriage.
ever more popular as increasing numbers of skiers
Passengers can carry two items of luggage plus
realise that it has many advantages over air travel.
hand luggage on board most European trains, and ski equipment is simply classed as an item of luggage. It’s a relaxing experience too, with a short and simple
GO DIRECT
check-in process – no need to arrive at the station 2 or 3 hours in
You can travel to the heart of the mountains with a
advance or separate liquids from other
variety of routes to choose from, including direct
luggage! Once on board, seats are
services from London on Eurostar to Bourg St
comfortable and roomy. Passengers can
Maurice during the day or overnight.
move easily around the train to visit the on-
There’s no need to get a shuttle to the airport,
board bar/buffet carriage for a drink or snack.
or drive there and pay for parking, then hang
On arrival at the station, transfers to resort
around going through security, then fly, then
are usually much shorter than for passengers
hang around, then get another transfer to
travelling by plane – some resorts even have
resort; at every stage wondering how long each
their own stations.
security queue will be, whether you’ll get your hand baggage through and so on.
NO NEED TO CHANGE IN PARIS An all-new additional direct Eurostar service this year can take you to Lyon from where local services run to stations close to famous ski resorts at Bourg St Maurice, Chambéry, Cluses and other destinations. It means you no longer need to change stations in Paris; just change platforms at Lyon Part Dieu station. If you do fancy a quick Parisienne stop-over en route, however, there are also overnight services from Paris to Bourg St
TRAVELLING BY TRAIN FURTHER INFO Reservations and information – to find out more about taking the train this winter, visit voyages-sncf.com, call 0844 848 5848* or visit the Voyages-sncf Travel Centre at 193 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EU. (*Calls to 0844 numbers cost 7p per minute plus the phone company’s access charge.)
LONGER IN RESORT You’ll get more time on the slopes due to the early arrival and late departure of overnight trains. Leave London at the end of the day and board an overnight train in Paris. With flat-bed accommodation on board you’ll get a good night’s sleep as you whizz south through the night, then wake up ready for a full day of skiing while most people are still waiting for their flights to depart from the UK, fighting exhaustion after having to get up at 4 or 5am to get to the airport.
Maurice or high-speed day services (TGV) from Paris to Bourg St Maurice and a host of other ski destinations. It’s not just France either; ski areas in Italy, Switzerland, Andorra and Austria can also all be reached by train.
TRAVEL GREENER Finally, it’s good for your conscience – rail is by far the most environmentally friendly way to travel to the mountains and up to ten times greener than
NO BAGGAGE WORRIES
flying, which is normally the least environmentally friendly way to go skiing.
Unlike with air travel, there’s a generous luggage allowance and no additional
for future generations to enjoy.
056 // OCT15
So you can feel good and know you’re doing your bit to help save the snow
VOYAGES-SNCF.COM
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THE WORLD’S FIRST
FLATSPIN 180
Y
Love the Mountains advert (100x175).indd 1
I got out to Les Deux Alpes, we went
landing looked soft enough to hit
posted it on my Facebook page and
to the local trampoline centre to get
– right about the time that the lifts
the almost instant media attention
ready for the next day up on the hill.
shut off for the day in summer!
was amazing! Newschoolers posted
Some of my friends started trying
But because I knew I would be able
it on their Facebook page and,
flatspin 180s, so naturally I tried it
to do the trick, I hiked from the chill
obviously, the trick caused some
too. After a few tries, I realised I was
zone to the top of the jump line (and
controversy. After multiple other
getting pretty close and so just kept
anyone who’s been to Les Deux
shares from IF3 Festival, Extreme,
on doing them over and over again,
Alpes knows that’s a pretty long way
Daniel Hanka and 100,000 views on
each time with a slightly different
and a steep-ass hill!). Both attempts
Newschoolers, I am still as stoked
technique. By about the fourth day
were unsuccessful and that left me
as the day I did the trick.
of my 10-day trip, I was getting them
feeling pretty bummed, especially
To see a cleaner version of the
with a grab pretty cleanly every
as I knew it was my last day.
trick and all my other clips from
oung freeskier Calum Welch landed
time. Then one night, one of my
Later in the evening I Skyped
this past season, check out
the world’s first flatspin 180 this
buddies suggested I try it on snow,
my parents and after a period of
Perspective Studios’ new film
summer on the glacier high above
as a joke, but then the idea was in
begging and grovelling, they agreed
Misconceptions at the IF3 Festival
Les Deux Alpes in France. Here he
my head, so the next day up on the
to let me stay out an extra 3 days,
this year and later on their website
exclusively reveals to InTheSnow
mountain I started to look at jumps
so I changed my flight and arranged
(perspectivestudios.co.uk).
how he did it (although if you really
that I thought I could do it on.
an alternative transfer to get to
Also check out a great crew called
want to see what it actually is, you’ll
I found one and on my last day I
Grenoble Train Station (thanks to
Ski The Kingdom, who put all their
need to watch the video):
was determined to try it; however,
John and Viv Rowlands!).
efforts into showcasing the talent the
Landing the world’s first flatspin 180
for the majority of the day the
The next day was great weather and
UK freeski scene has to offer, and
was a great achievement for me, and
landings for the jumps were pretty
the jumps had softened up enough,
also my upcoming project with them
I was really stoked that some of my
solid and I didn’t really feel like it
so I tried the trick once again and
called Ones to Watch, which follows
closest homies were there to share
was the day for it. But it was just
on the fourth or fifth try I landed it,
some of the UK’s most promising
the experience with me! As soon as
my luck that at 1pm the jumps and
and on video too! Later that night I
athletes (skithekingdom.co.uk).
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46 years
of world class Canadian Heli-Skiing Canada’s Highest Heli-Operation
057 // OCT15
www.rkheliski.com
07/09/20
INDIA BANS SKIING AT SKI AREA In what is believed to be a world first, India has enforced an environmental protection law in one of its main outdoor mountain sports areas which makes skiing there illegal. The Rohtang Pass has one of the country’s best snowfall records and was used as a spring and summer training centre by the country’s elite professional skiers before the ban.
NEW FUN SLOPE IN LES 4 VALLÉES A new fun slope is being created on the Taillay run in Switzerland’s Savoleyres / La Tzoumaz area within Les 4 Vallées. It will contain elements such as a tunnel, bridge, snail, bends and small jumps intending to generate loads of thrills. This area is designed to give children an opportunity to learn the basics of freestyle while enjoying themselves.
DISCO KIDS PARTY The Crêperie des Glaces mountain restaurant at Val Cenis in France has announced new “Disco Kids” afternoons this winter. The idea is entertainment, snacks and music for children (accompanied by their parents) once every week. The Crêperie is located between the “Escargot” slope – the longest green run in the world – and the Mickey Park, a fun zone dedicated to toddlers.
BIG 1-0 FOR SKI COLLECTION
VAIL TO CROWD SOURCE LIVE LIFT QUEUE INFO
V
NEW MERIBEL CHALET OPERATOR
showing traffic flow, like Google
instead uses signals from mobile
Maps or Waze, we’re applying
phones and similar devices carried
unique and sophisticated analytics
by skiers and boarders automatically.
to aggregated, anonymous location
They do not need to opt in to the
data generated by smart phones
service, and Vail Resorts say the
and other mobile devices across the
data is collected anonymously and
distinct topography and layout of our
discarded after use. Similar systems
chairlifts to calculate reliable wait
A new chalet operator, Meribel Mountain
are already being used by Disney
time information for our guests. We
Retreat, will be opening its doors for the first
and at JFK Airport.
are truly leading the travel industry
time in the picture-postcard village of Le
The results showing where queues
in how to incorporate technology
Villard, Méribel Les Allues, this winter.
ail Resorts have announced that
are building up are then delivered
into the guest experience.”
The company will operate two traditional stone
the latest version of their high-tech
to users of the EpicMix app so they
“EpicMix Time delivers time
chalets and aims to offer guests peace and
app will use “recently available
can take alternate routes if available,
transparency to our guests, showing
tranquillity rarely found in major ski areas, giving
technology” to provide live data on
thus helping to better distribute
them lift line wait times across the
them the opportunity to take in the beautiful
lift queues across its four Colorado
skiers around the mountain.
mountain, providing them with
Alpine views and setting at their own pace.
ski areas next winter.
“Providing real-time lift line wait
information to choose where to ski
With six bedrooms with an individual art
“EpicMix Time” is the fifth annual
times is a first for the ski industry,”
and ride, and giving them more time
deco interior, access to the glass roof and a
update of the US-based ski
said Robert Urwiler, Vail Resorts’
on the slopes,” said Kirsten Lynch,
generous 16m dining table to accommodate all
For the second time in this third annual
resort chain’s app which the
Executive Vice President and Chief
Executive Vice President and Chief
of the guests together, the main chalet offers
event, Crystal Ski Holidays won the Best
company says will “crowd source
Information Officer. “Similar to apps
Marketing Officer of Vail Resorts.
both style and comfort. The little chalet offers
Ski Operator at The Travel Awards 2015,
anonymized Bluetooth and wifi
stunning views and sleeps four to six.
organised by The Times Group and voted
signals” to estimate lift queuing
Les Allues is a 4-minute private drive away
for by their readers. Thousands told them
times for 55 lifts at Vail, Beaver
from where skiers are whisked up to Méribel
Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone.
Centre on the Olympe Gondola directly
accommodation in a huge range of leading French resorts, celebrates 10 years in operation this season. New properties include Le Natalia, which combines both Alpine charm and authenticity. Located in the 3 Vallées resort of Les Menuires, the residence boasts ski-in/ski-out apartments, fully furnished and equipped and decorated in a contemporary style, yet respecting the Savoyard tradition. skicollection.co.uk
CRYSTAL VOTED BEST SKI OPERATOR
their favourite destinations, hotels and travel companies, and last month they rewarded
The technology is not in fact
the best with a coveted gong at a glittering
connected to the radio-frequency
ceremony in Tel Aviv, Israel.
058 // OCT15 // INTHESNOW.COM
identification (RFID) chips in the
JACK AFFLECK
Ski Collection, which offers 4★
BUISSARTJEREMIE
EpicMix electronic lift tickets but
into Méribel Chaudanne, where major lifts access the whole of the 3 Vallées ski area. meribelmountainretreat.com
@INTHESNOWMAG
THOMAS TRINKL
ALPBACH OFFERS FREE SKIING TO UNDER-15S Austria’s Alpbachtal ski region will offer free skiing to children aged up to 15 during special “family weeks” next spring. The offer from the resort, which shares the Ski Jewel region, one of the 10 largest in the Tirol with the neighbouring Wildschönau, is available to families skiing in the area between 19 March and 10 April 2016, next season. The free ski pass offer, for any child born on 1st January 2000 or later, is available when an accompanying parent purchases a lift pass valid for 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Special family packages including accommodation and lift passes are also available at low prices during the “family weeks” period. Alpbach is an ideal beginner resort oozing Tirolean charm and has been voted the most beautiful village in Austria by Austrians themselves. The village’s 2500-year history has not been compromised by modern development, which includes an excellent indoor pool complex.
DICK BASS DIES Richard “Dick” Bass, the first man to climb all seven of the highest peaks on seven continents and the co-founder of Snowbird Ski Resort in Utah, has died in Texas aged 85. Bass graduated from Yale University with a degree in geology in 1950 before seeing active service in the Korean War. He became the first person to achieve the Seven Summits on April 30, 1985 and at the time, aged 55, he was also the oldest person to have climbed Mt Everest. He was living in Texas in his later years having found it more difficult to stay at altitude. Having been one of the original investors in Vail Associates when the company was founded in the early 1960s (and later a majority shareholder before selling his stock), Bass founded Snowbird in 1971 and remained owner until last year when he sold his majority share, remaining chairman of the Snowbird board.
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059 // OCT15
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T H E VA L D ’ I S E R E AC C O M M O DAT I O N S P E C I A L I S T
GEOFFREY VABRE
The Widest Selection Of Val D’isere Accommodation Anywhere Over 150 Chalet Holidays Over 300 Self Catered Apartments 30 Hotels
BRITISH 2015/16 ALPINE SKI TEAM ANNOUNCED
Fully Bonded | Very Experienced | Here To Help
UK: 0345 021 0222 OVERSEAS: +33 (0)634409097 simplyvaldisere.com
SkiA SkiTrainer
B
(21, East Sussex) and existing team
the world in GS for his year of birth.
nine new U21 and U18 additions,
members Jai Geyer (25, Devon)
Another name to look out for is
40 athletes in total make up the
and Roy Steudle (21, Berkshire).
Max Baggio (20, Hertfordshire) who
Senior, U21 and U18 British teams.
For the women, Alex Tilley (21,
finished as overall Delancey British
After a groundbreaking season for
Aberdeenshire) will look to capitalise
Champion last season. Darcie Mead
Slalom specialist Dave Ryding (28,
on her fantastic 2014/15 season which
(19, Kingston upon Thames) also
Lancashire), he continues to be the
saw her finish ranked 31st in the
retains her place on the U21 Team.
highest-performing British Alpine
world for Giant Slalom, and Charlie
There are many rising stars in the
athlete, with a top 30 World Cup
Guest (21, Perthshire) continues to
British U18 Alpine Team, including
Slalom start looking hopeful.
make great progress following injury
six newly selected athletes: Esmie
Other male athletes in the Senior
last year. They are joined by overall
Davies (15, Savoie), Alannah Lawrie
Team are Jack Gower (20,
Delancey Ladies’ British Champion
(16, Midlothian), Isabella Colley
ritish Ski and Snowboard have
Chichester), who had a great
Cara Brown (21, London).
(15, Kingston upon Thames), Scott
announced the Delancey British
season on the North American
For the U21s, Charlie Raposo (19,
Buchan (15, Perthshire), Angus Wills
Alpine Ski Team for the 2015/16
Cup circuit last winter, Bath
London) had a fantastic winter,
(16, London) and Nathan Breese (16,
season. With a Senior Team
University student Nick Moynihan
ending the season in the top 3 in
Worcestershire).
ERNA LOW ADD FRENCH PYRENEES
Emily Sarsfield
Train and Prepare Anywhere, FAST
consisting of eight athletes and
chosen are Cauterets, La Mongie, Peyragudes and Saint Lary to which they are offering short-stay breaks to connect with Ryanair’s
Recommended by:
skia.com
CAUTERETS
direct flights from London Stansted to Lourdes. “Cauterets and Saint Lary are beautiful French villages with easy The long-established tour operator
with the variety of skiing and great
are a fantastic alternative to the
lift access to the ski areas above
Erna Low (ernalow.co.uk) has
value for money that each of the
French Alps for families looking for
the village centre. Peyragudes
introduced the French Pyrenees as
resorts I saw offers,” said Jane
something different, perhaps an
and La Mongie are purpose-
a new destination option for their
Bolton, Managing Director of Erna
adventure to somewhere new or
built villages offering ski in/out
2015–16 programme.
Low. “We chose four resorts to
for beginners to have a great value
properties. All four ski resorts have
“I visited the French Pyrenees
kick-start our new French Pyrenees
short break first ski holiday.”
spa facilities where skiers can relax
last winter and was so impressed
programme and believe they
The four resorts the company has
in thermal waters,” added Jane.
060 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
LA MARMOTTE LES GETS
CARLTON HOTEL ST MORITZ
HOTEL PLEIN SUD SERRE CHEVALIER
Located on a sun-soaked plateau above the lake of St Moritz, the hotel boasts captivating views from all of its 60 suites and junior suites. A complete refurbishment now showcases the historical values of the property, built a century ago, with a contemporary re-interpretation. The hotel exhibits the signature unconventional style of interior designer Carlo Rampazzi and a colour palette affording the hotel an unrivalled self-assured luxury.
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) 81 836 7000 // INFO@CARLTON-STMORITZ.CH CARLTON-STMORITZ.CH
+33 (0) 492 24 17 01 // LYNNE@HOTELPLEINSUD.COM HOTELPLEINSUD.COM
HOTEL CHALET DEL SONGO MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO
BELLE EPOQUE HOTEL VICTORIA BERNER OBERLAND
Located slopeside in central Les Gets, in the giant Portes du Soleil ski area, La Marmotte is perfectly placed for snow-sports fans. With a friendly atmosphere and attentive service, here you will find the ambience of a traditional chalet. There’s beautiful antique furniture, a spacious lounge with open fire, and each guest room has a really cosy atmosphere and modern amenities.
It is now possible to stay in one of the world’s classic ski resorts, in a luxurious hotel, and still be kind to the environment, thanks to the efforts of Domenico and Miriam Schiavon, owners of the beautiful Hotel Chalet del Sogno in Madonna di Campiglio. Gourmet cuisine prepared by expert chefs is the norm too. There’s also a wonderful spa complete with pool, gym, hammam, biosauna, and treatment rooms.
Kandersteg is an ideal family ski resort and cross-country paradise. The idyllic and cosy village is in the heart of the Bernese Oberland and can easily be reached by train or by car. The Hotel Victoria is centrally located and offers a beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains. You will find a cheerful and familiar atmosphere combined with Swiss hotel tradition. The ideal place to relax and enjoy oneself.
+33 (0)450 758 033 // INFO@HOTEL-MARMOTTE.COM HOTEL-MARMOTTE.COM
+39 (0)465 441 033 // INFO@HOTELCHALETDELSOGNO.COM HOTELCHALETDELSOGNO.COM
+41 33 675 8000 | INFO@HOTEL-VICTORIA.CH HOTEL-VICTORIA.CH
RESIDENCE & SPA VALLORCINE CHAMONIX
L’ AIGLE DES NEIGE VAL-D’ISÈRE
HÔTEL L’HÉLIOPIC CHAMONIX
Nestled in the charming village of Vallorcine, 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, a spa, a tea-room, a ski shop and a private ice-rink. Less than 10 minutes from your breakfast to the ski slopes !
Located in the very heart of the old village of Val d’Isère, this hotel is among the most fashionable in the region. Perched at 1850m altitude, it is superbly located just a few steps from the snow, meaning you can be on the slopes straight from your front door. The 109 rooms are spacious and comfortable, seamlessly blending wood and natural colours. It has all the equipment and services of an international hotel with a world-class reputation.
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
+33 (0)4 79 06 18 88 // RESERVATION@HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM EN.HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM
+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 // RESERVATION@HELIOPIC.COM HELIOPIC-HOTEL-SPA.COM
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0061 // OCT15
Marcel Hirscher Austrian World Cup alpine ski racer
you have not yet achieved?
Marcel Hirscher has had an illustrious
MH: Of course I have! What do you think
career which reached new heights last
about a 5th overall? Honestly, I’m still
winter when he dominated the giant
thirsty and looking for the perfect turn. I
slalom standings with five wins, including
think that is ambitious, isn’t it?
one with an amazing winning margin of 3.28 seconds in Garmisch, becoming
Anything you particularly like to do away
the most successful Austrian World Cup
from skiing when you are not racing or
slalom skier of all time. Hirscher also
training?
won the GS title for the second time last
MH: Spending quality time with my
winter. It was just the latest in a long
girlfriend, my family, my friends and our
line of achievements for this remarkable
dog, Timon.
skier, born in the village of AnnabergLungötz in Salzburg. Hirscher made
The FIS has approved airbags for racers
his World Cup debut in March 2007,
but reports say that no one is using them
aged 18, and joined the Austrian World
yet?
Championships team at the age of 19
MH: I’m sure improvement continues. And
(he has since won four golds from six
if they are ready, then they’ll be used.
medals at three World Championships) and competed in his first Olympic Games
Are there any ski resorts you especially
a year later aged just 20 – by which time
like, and if so what makes them special
he was already a triple Junior World
for you?
Champion and Austrian Champion.
MH: I love the Austrian slopes because
In the final race of last season in Méribel,
that’s my home base. But all the slopes I
Hirscher overturned a 55-point deficit in
have got to know over the years each have
the standings by winning his 16th World
their special attractions. I don’t think I want
Cup slalom, and with it he won the slalom
to rank them!
title for the third year in a row. Most remarkable of all, Hirscher became the
Is there any innovation in ski equipment/
first male alpine skier in history to win the
clothing you are particularly impressed by?
overall World Cup title four times in a row,
MH: Yes, nearly every innovation since I
which some argue makes him the greatest
learned to ski! Just think of your own first
skier of all time – and he is still only 26!
ski suit or remember videos from early
GEPA PICTURES/ WOLFGANG GREBIEN
World Cup races … crazy! But indeed I think When did you first start skiing, and how soon
one of the most important ones was the
did you know you wanted to be a racer?
ski helmet.
MH: In my memories I learned how to ski before I was able to walk. So I think I was
Any advice for any young people getting
born as a ski racer. ;-)
into ski racing? MH: The most important thing is fun. And
You have achieved so much already. Do
it’s an underestimated strength. Things go
you have any ambitions remaining that
easily when you’re having fun.
062 // OCT15
@INTHESNOWMAG
Whistler Experience is a year round experience company based in the very heart of world renowned Olympic resort Whistler Blackcomb. Owner operated, we offer a huge range of accommodation in Whistler from spacious apartments to luxury hotels. Our local resort team are Whistler experts
And we don’t just cater for the adrenaline
We offer all our services in both Canadian
and can arrange every aspect of your stay,
junkies, we can arrange spa sessions, dining
Dollars and British Pounds so you get the very
from a private pick up at Vancouver to ski or
tours and give you the lowdown on the best
best exchange rate on the day you book. And
snowboard lessons, lift tickets and so much
apres spots in town. Travelling with kids?
thank to our partnership with currency experts
more including snow-mobiling, dog sledding,
Whistler is hard to beat for families, and our
you’ll get a much better rate than through the
heli-skiing, zip lining, snow shoeing and much
resort team will collect your little (or slightly
banks. Our service starts from the moment
much more. We even give you a free GoPro to
bigger) ones from your accommodation and
you contact us and doesn’t end until we wave
use whilst you are with us and we’ll produce a
deliver them safely to their lessons or other
you goodbye at the end of your holiday. We
video of your amazing trip for you to keep and
activity, so you can enjoy your day and meet up
promise when you leave, you won’t just have
share with your friends.
to discuss the days adventures later on.
visited Whistler, you’ll have experienced it…
Visit whistlerexperience.com Email hello@whistlerexperience.com Call 020 3239 6213
fb.com/whistlerexperience @whistlerexp
a skier knows. henrik windstedt in heli vertical. haines, alaska