ISSUE 51 | NOV 2016
NATHAN WELTON PHOTOGRAPHY
IN THIS
039
FEATURES
WHAT'S NEXT FOR WHISTLER CELEBRATING 50 YEARS It’s a fascinating time for Whistler Blackcomb, and after celebrating
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50 years the famous Canadian resort has produced a series of
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ROSS WOODHALL
Crystal, the UK’s biggest ski tour operator, is brimming with ideas and offering plenty of deals for the 2016-7 season ahead. There are new flight routes and new ski destinations to choose from too.
TRY TELEMARK SKIING IN LA PLAGNE You may have seen people skiing but bending one leg at the knee to turn, their heels lifting off their skis. This is the original downhill version of skiing, Telemark, invented 150 years ago. Why not give it a go?
ROSS WOODHALL
INTHESNOW
GET MORE THIS WINTER WITH CRYSTAL SKI
TRISTAN SHU
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thought inducing videos about what may lie ahead in the next 50.
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063
BOOT ROOM
048 SWITZERLAND’S BIG NEW ‘MUST SKI’ DESTINATION
GEAR
ROSS WOODHALL
REGULARS
Sponsors of Boot Room
Sponsors of Boot Room
5-PAGE BOOT ROOM 063–067
The lift connection of Arosa and Lenzerheide a few seasons ago to create one of the country’s biggest ski destinations has created an exciting new choice for skiers with numerous attractions to enjoy.
Another season is upon us (nearly) and all the clothing and equipment manufacturers have their new winter
COMPETITIONS 021 / 054 / 062
collections up for your perusal. Here’s our pick of some of the best new kit for 2016/17.
patrick@inthesnow.com Of course it’s too early to tell yet whether winter 2016/17 will be a classic for snowfall right from the start, but if the early signs are anything to go by, things are looking good. Snowfall swept across the Northern Hemisphere when it was still late summertime, with those lucky enough to be on the
10 MINS: TOBY PHIPPS 078
fresh powder in September. Lake Louise wasn’t one of those
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slopes in already-open glacier resorts in the Alps enjoying open back then, but it got global attention when it posted
TEAM
visible as they can be before the season proper kicks off. PUBLISHER
DOMINIC KILLINGER dom@inthesnow.com
SUB EDITORS
NICK JONES MARION ADAMS CONTRIBUTORS
EDITOR
PATRICK THORNE
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
DEBBIE GABRIEL debbie@inthesnow.com SALES MANAGER
GIANCARLO GAMBARDELLA
Tirol is one of the world’s great ski regions, home to many of the world’s
This edition of InTheSnow is usually the biggest each season as the tour operators, ski resorts and everyone else in the ski industry is keen to make themselves as
patrick@inthesnow.com
LIFE IN PICS TIROL THROUGH THE AGES
pictures of a foot of fresh snow falling overnight.
giancarlo@inthesnow.com
most famous ski resorts. Several of these have played a key part in the
PICTURE EDITOR
evolution of skiing over the past 110 years, as we detail here.
ROSS WOODHALL
SAM THORNE GABBY LE BRETON EMMANUELLE CHÂTEL ANDY TAYLOR GIANCARLO GAMBARDELLA EQUIPMENT EDITOR
© Copyright 2016 Printed in the UK. No part of this publication may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any way or means, either by recording or otherwise, without permission
This year – our 10th anniversary season – is no exception. The great thing is this means we have more pages in which to bring you all the latest news, and we have lots of great features too. You can find out which are the main new destinations on offer from Britain’s tour operators and find out about Big Sky, an incredible ski area in Montana which is now much easier to reach thanks to a new direct
SALLY BARTLETT ANNA BARTLETT
of the publishers in writing.
COLUMNISTS
INTHESNOW LTD
a report from the up-and-coming Japanese destination of
THE SNOW STUDIO
Myoko, or closer to home you can read about telemarking
JON WEST PHIL SMITH JACK STEELE JENNY BLETCHER DESIGN BY
ROCKET BASE rocketbase.co.uk
flight from Heathrow to Utah. Still on the long haul there’s
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in La Plagne, or learning about hitting the backcountry safely in the Portes du Soleil. If you’re looking for one of Europe’s more off-the-beaten-piste destinations, we also feature skiing in Greece for the first time. There’s always something happening in the ski world, and if you can’t wait to hit the slopes there are already 20 or so ski areas open in the Northern Hemisphere. Our November calendar will tell you which are opening next. But whether you head off to the slopes this weekend or wait for the main season to start, only a few weeks away, I hope you have a great season. Let’s just hope that snow keeps falling.
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S T O R E S N AT I O N W I D E I 0 8 4 5 1 0 0 1 0 0 0
S N O WA N D R O C K . C O M
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
TOP SNOWSPORTS ATHLETES LOOK TO HOLIDAYMAKERS FOR FUNDING n the ongoing battle to both provide
such as Crystal and Inghams, and retailer Ellis
Cara Brown, a member of the Delancey
the backing that developing
Brigham, as well as many other top names in
British Alpine Senior Squad, said, “Funding is
snowsports stars need to progress
British winter sports including AMS Rentals,
vital to the success of the British snowsports
up the rankings, and then to secure
Ben’s Bus, Butler & Wilson, Element Ski
athletes. The biggest skiing nation in the
enough funding to help our top ski
School, Esprit, Le Ski, Mark Warner, Meriski, Ski
world is probably Austria – and the funding
and snowboarding stars compete on
Bartlett, the Ski Club of Great Britain, SKISET,
they put into the sport is reflected by how
To find out more about The British Snowsports
the world stage, two new initiatives
Ski Total, Ski Weekends and Stanford Skiing.
many athletes they get on the podium! We’re
Fund and The British Ski and Snowboard
have been announced that it is
Paul Carter, Chief Operating Officer of
not miles behind these guys, we’re less than
National Foundation, visit bssnf.uk. Find
hoped will bring more money into
Inghams, one of the confirmed partners of
seconds, and any kind of support makes a
The British Ski and Snowboard National
competitive British snowsports at the
the British Snowsports Fund, said, “It’s been
huge difference in a sport which is all about
Foundation on Twitter at @Britishssnf. The
elite level.
proven that the success of elite athletes drives
marginal gains!”
British Snowsports Fund will be tweeting as
In a significant move by the UK
participation among the general public, and
Coming from a largely lowland nation (at the
@Brit_Snowsports.
snowsports industry, the first of the two new
it is our hope that by supporting our future
southern English end), the costs for British
initiatives, The British Snowsports Fund, will
Winter Olympians we’ll see more people
snowsports athletes are often high due to the
target the passion of the UK’s recreational
putting on their skis or boards and joining us
necessity to travel for training and competition.
skiers and snowboarders by asking them to
in the mountains! I’m sure that our customers
For example, the family of a 13-year-old
make a small donation when they book a ski
will get behind this initiative, and I hope that
snowboarder participating in a Home Nations
holiday or make a purchase from one of the
it will be supported by the whole of the UK
Academy programme would need to meet
scheme’s confirmed industry partners.
snowsports industry for many years to come.”
annual costs in excess of £10k for training,
Olympians to replicate the success of their
This is the first time that a scheme of this scale
The second new initiative is the British Ski
equipment and competition travel. For elite
summer compatriots. The British Ski and
has been launched in UK snowsports, and
and Snowboard National Foundation, a
athletes these costs are significantly more, with
Snowboard National Foundation and the
funds raised will go to support Britain’s future
new grant-making charity which will provide
an alpine skier participating in a British Ski and
British Snowsports Fund will help us to
Winter Olympians – from those on the cusp
financial support for talented young skiers
Snowboard Europa Cup programme needing to
fulfil this ambition by providing long-term
of qualifying for the 2018 Winter Olympics in
and snowboarders. Grants will be available
cover the £35.5k programme cost themselves.
sustainable funding with which we will be
South Korea, now less than 18 months away,
to cover costs such as competition travel and
Rory Tapner, Chairman of British Ski and
able to support our coaching programmes
right through to kids who are just entering their
accommodation, coaching and equipment. It will
Snowboard, the national governing body
and athletes, and increase the pool of
first competitions, as well as to projects that
also encourage grassroots participation in skiing
for snowsports in the UK, said of the launch,
snowsport talent in the country. We are
support increased participation in the sports.
and snowboarding by funding projects that offer
“The success of Team GB at Rio and in
thrilled that so many industry partners and
Some of the big players supporting the
young people ways of becoming involved in the
London has shown that Britain is a sporting
other supporters share in our aims and join
initiative are the UK’s leading tour operators,
sports and developing their talents.
superpower. Our aim is for our snowsport
with us in planning a successful future.”
MORE INFO
005 // NOV16
NEW SIX-SEATER CHAIRLIFT AT TRYSIL Trysil, one of Norway’s leading ski resorts, with more than 70 runs served by more than 30 lifts, is adding a new six-seater chairlift: the new Skihytta Express. The lift will be 1,302m long and will have a vertical drop of 286m. The Skihytta Express and the Top Express will now meet just below the top of the mountain.
SKI DUBAI LAUNCHES INDOOR ZIP WIRE Ski Dubai has launched what the famous indoor ski centre in the Middle East believes is the first indoor sub-zero zip line! Christened the Snow DANNY NORTH
Bullet Ride, riders zip along the 150m-long line at a height of 16m above skiers and the snow slope. If they wish, it’s possible to race against family and friends on the snow below.
FASTER TRAVEL TO THE JUNGFRAUJOCH From December, the round trip up to Europe’s highest railway station at the Jungfraujoch above Grindelwald and Wengen will be shortened by half an hour. This miracle of Swiss timekeeping will be achieved by a combination of factors: the century-old line will include faster trains and will have only one stop in the tunnel. At 3,466m, the Jungfraujoch stands above the Jungfrau ski area with no ski route back down, but it is so high that it has a yearround snow-play area.
SCOTTISH ALL AREA TICKET ON SALE The 2016/17 Ski-Scotland All Area Season Ticket, valid at all five Scottish Highland ski areas all season, is on sale at £535 for adults and £300 for children aged 5–17 years as of 01/12/16, with a discount for those who bought it in previous
FIRST SNOWBOMBING ACTS ANNOUNCED
T
performing at its 2017 staging,
more than a decade, they have
once more in Mayrhofen, Austria,
sold out arenas the world over
from 3–8 April 2017.
and collaborated with the likes of
Chase and Status, MK, Gorgon
Novelist, Slaves, George the Poet,
City, Hot Since 82 and Eats
Bonkaz and Plan B.
Everything are amongst the first
With a fourth studio album about to
acts announced, along with party
drop and a rumoured collaboration
purveyors Elrow from Barcelona.
with Craig David on the cards,
One of the first big snowsports music festivals
Fans of Chase & Status are reputed
their show at Snowbombing is
of the 2016/17 season has announced the main
to include Rihanna, Snoop Dogg,
a major coup for the festival.
acts that will be performing this December.
Nile Rogers and Pharrell Williams,
Festival packages including hotel
Most of the big music festivals have traditionally
and the British duo have risen to
and festival wristband start from
taken place at the end of the season, but the
he annual Snowbombing
become arguably the UK’s most
£249, with booking possible for
Rise Festival takes place at the start of the
Festival, now in its 18th year, has
in-demand producers.
a £130 deposit + booking fee at
season, in Les 2 Alpes, France, from
unveiled the first acts that will be
In a career which has spanned
snowbombing.com.
10–17 December 2016. The Rise Festival will bring the best of house, drum and bass, garage and more to the French
years. Holders can choose which destination to head for on any day according to Scotland’s notoriously variable weather conditions, then
FESTIVAL AIMS TO GET THIS SEASON STARTED
mountains with Mercury-nominated grime
OREGON RESORT INSTALLS SOLAR ARRAY
skip any ticket office queues when they arrive.
kingpin Kano, house heavyweight Seth Troxler, Hospital records drum and bass master Metrik, electronic duo Bondax plus Monki, My Nu Leng,
The project cost around $115,000
Midland and Artwork topping the bill while the
(approx. £94,000), with much of
Artful Dodger will be hosting a special festive
the cost covered by grants, and the
Cirque Du Soul Xmas Party during the Thursday
ski area itself investing $25,000
night. In addition, parties on the snow are
(approx. £20,000), which it hopes to
promised by Applebum, Rum & Bass, Triple
Austria’s SkiWelt region, one of the country’s
recover from savings and electricity
Cooked, Shorebitch, Cirque Du Soul and Apex.
three largest, has installed another 100 snow
sales within five years.
There will also, of course, be snowsports aplenty
guns this winter and spent €10 million on
Along with powering resort facilities,
on offer, including snowshoeing, dog sledding
expanding the Kreuzjöchlsee snowmaking
any excess at peak generation times
and a series of “R Games” to see who’s master
reservoir. The expansion takes the total number
will be fed back into the grid. There
of the slopes. There’ll also be a German beer
of snow guns covering the area’s slopes to over
are 85 panels in the solar farm
market, ice disco and spa treatments available.
SKIWELT REACHES 1,700 SNOW GUNS
1,700, and 229 of the area’s 284km of slopes
Mt Ashland in Oregon, USA, has
longer view, providing those
which will be visible from some of
Tickets are on sale now, starting at £199
will have snowmaking cover. The SkiWelt is
installed a new solar array that it
electrons for many years to come.
the area’s ski runs.
incl. lift pass secured with a £50 deposit.
keen to stress that the huge system uses 100%
is hoped will supply 12% of the ski
That helps us to be more financially
Mt Ashland’s solar energy
Accommodation starts at £98pp, and flights
renewable energy from Tyrolean hydropower in
area’s annual electrical usage.
sustainable,” General Manager
production will be displayed on the
from London to Grenoble start from £50 return.
the operation of all its systems.
“We are trying to take a much
Hiram Towle told local media.
area’s webpage: mtashland.com
risefestival.co.uk
006 // NOV16 // INTHESNOW.COM
@INTHESNOWMAG
MICHAEL PORTMANN
Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices
NEW LIFT AND PASS CHANGES AT ZERMATT
NEW SKIING HOUSE PARTY FOR SINGLES
The old Gant-Blauherd gondola at Zermatt, installed in 1971, will be
Singles holiday specialist, Friendship Travel, is offering solo skiers the
replaced by a new, high-performance Garaventa chairlift this winter.
chance to sign up for an exclusive ski house party, having arranged
The new six-seat chairlift can carry up to 1,800 skiers each hour
sole use of the Chalet Maya in Alpe D’Huez. They say, “The chalet has
(almost double the old lift’s capacity) from the Gornergrat ski area to
been restored for up to eight guests and the atmosphere is relaxed and
the Rothorn ski area in just 3.6 minutes. The new lift is due to go into
friendly, making it ideal for single skiers.”
test operation on 15 November, around two weeks before the winter
Seven-night holidays are available from January to March with prices
season begins.
starting from £895pp inclusive of flights, transfers, seven nights’ chalet
This season Zermatt will also reduce the minimum duration of its "Peak
board accommodation and services of chalet hosts.
Pass" from three days to just one day – good news for parties with non-
They also feature “Learn to Ski” weeks at Chalet Hotel La Berangere
skiers in their group. The ticket includes all of the peaks surrounding
at Les 2 Alpes including group lessons on five days and an emphasis
Zermatt that can be reached by mountain lifts, along with train travel
on learning to ski whilst having fun. Starting from £1,195pp incl. flights,
from Randa to Zermatt and return.
transfers, accommodation, lift pass, equipment hire and lessons.
Added to this are admission to the glacier palace and use of the local
Choose from seven resorts in France, Courmayeur in Italy, or St
buses in Zermatt. The number of days for which the year-round Peak
Christoph in Austria.
Pass can be purchased now ranges from one to 30 days.
friendshiptravel.com.
5% DISCOUNT
QUOTE CODE 'ITS'
VAL THORENS ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR CINEMA-THEMED SEASON LAUNCH PARTY opening weekend of the 2016/17 winter season. Along with free equipment tests of all the new developments in skiing, snow fun gear and accessories, professional skiers and boarders from the major, most exclusive and alternative brands will be in Val Thorens.
High Quality Catered + Self Catered Accommodation
Every snowsport will be on the bill, including all varieties of equipment manufacturers: alpine skiing, snowboarding, ski touring, freeride skiing, freestyle and snowscoots, as well as brand new inventions to discover. Throughout the weekend a number of activity zones will be hosted by professionals in various CYRIL CATTIN
disciplines including mini snowpark, BigAirBag®, snowscoot trampolines, ski touring area and carving zone. The Rock On Snowboard Tour and
French and Swiss Alps Snow Sure Resorts On / Near Piste locations No Hidden Extras Financially Bonded
the Freegun Snowscoot Tour will also both kick off that weekend. Val Thorens has announced it will be running a
Snowsports fans will find themselves in a life-
There will also be non-stop entertainment, and
special event themed on “cinema” to mark the
sized cinematic wonderland, with accessories
ski instructors from UCPA will also be in the
start of the ski season on the weekend of
such as a giant clapperboard and a (real!) red
village to guide skiers around the ski area and
26–27 November 2017.
carpet, on the freshly groomed runs at the
show them all the best spots.
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007 // NOV16
0151 625 1921 mountainheaven.co.uk
EMMA CARRICK-ANDERSON, SNOWORKS INSTRUCTOR AND 4 TIME OLYMPIC SKI RACER DISCUSSES WITH HER GROUP SOME OF THE SKILLS IN ALL-MOUNTAIN SKIING.
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FREERIDE process all information and conjure
The group was over the moon,
skill development, I turned to him
up tactical decisions – by the time
praising the great delivery and
and said, “I’ve noticed your ankles
an instructor meets their students
great content. We were back to
are over-flexed.” His eyes widened
on the slope there is little that they
the 25% threshold of development.
as he turned to me, suddenly alert
are able to do about their physical
Slaves to technique.
and interested. “I never knew that”
capability.
he said. He had taken the bait,
To break out of this
so I continued, “Yes, your
dependency on technique,
ankles are generally flexed at
you first need to value the
about 20 degrees from the
other three categories, tactical,
vertical whereas they need to
echnique – for many it can
psychological and physical, as
be about 5 degrees less than
often appear to be what good
highly as technical.
that.” “Is that true?” he asked
all-mountain skiing is about.
I remember one of my lessons
with a sudden realisation he
Phil Smith explains why many
a long time ago with a group
was about to get some real
people are only fulfilling a small
of trainee ski instructors. I
tuition. “No,” I responded, “it’s
part of their true skiing potential.
had opted for a session which
Competence in sport can be
would develop tactical skills.
divided into four distinct categories:
After the lesson I felt pretty
"Technical", "Psychological",
smug with what I had done.
"Physical" and "Tactical".
I actually rated it as my best
Phil Smith is founder of Snoworks
ski everywhere on the
When we ask skiers what the
lesson ever. That evening
All-Mountain Ski Courses. Snoworks
mountain, but do not fit into
balance is, the answer is often
the head coach came up to
run Off-Piste and Backcountry
the perceived "technical
the same: “equal between all four
me and asked for a word and
courses throughout the winter along
model". They may have great
categories, 25%”. However, when
went on to tell me it was the
with Off-Piste Adventure trips to
competence in the other
following up with the question, “If
worst lesson he had ever
destinations around the world.
three categories that make
all-mountain skiing could be said to
witnessed. The group had
info@snoworks.co.uk
up 75% of performance. But
be equal in all four categories then
learnt absolutely nothing
as they do not adhere to the
how much of your time have you
and if I had been one of his
"technical model" they are
invested into each category?” the
instructors I would have been
answer is more or less always the
sacked on the spot. He requested
On another occasion I was with a
very good.
same: about 90% technical.
that I went back to developing
group developing psychological
If you really want to reach your full
It can appear that ski instruction
their technique which is why they
skills and no matter how hard I tried
potential and open up the other
often focuses mainly on
had all booked lessons in the first
to get the group to buy in and get
75% then it’s time to value the other
"technique". Why? Because we are
place. The next day I did a standard
involved there was one person
three categories, psychological,
often blinded by what we see. We
"run of the mill" lesson on some
who was just not interested. After
physical and tactical, the same as
can’t see the thought processes
aspect of ski technique that my
two hours of trying my absolute
technical. Spend equal time on
going on inside someone’s brain,
grandmother could have delivered
hardest to bring this particular skier
each, attach equal importance to
we can’t see how performers
by reading it from a sheet of paper.
on board with some psychological
each, value each the same.
08 // NOV16
PHIL SMITH SNOWORKS
utter rubbish, but it got you interested." I have seen many very competent skiers who can
often judged as being not
SNOWORKS.CO.UK
JOHANNES SAUTNER
TRAVEL COMPANIES' SALES UP DESPITE BREXIT VOTE
STONEHAM DEDICATES RUN TO PRO SKIER HERO
A NEW PORSCHE-DESIGNED CHAIRLIFT AT ST MORITZ
Specialist ski tour operator Ski Solutions has become the latest to
Stoneham Mountain Resort in Quebec, Canada, has renamed one of
It’s a big season in Switzerland’s Engadin region with the return of the
report business is up overall despite the Brexit vote, reporting that they
its steepest ski runs in honour of professional skier JP Auclair, who was
Alpine World Ski Championships and the restoration of the 110-year-
have seen growth of a quarter in advanced bookings. They join other
killed in an avalanche in Chile two years ago.
old Olympic Ice Centre to the world-famous Kulm Hotel (where the
companies to make the same claim including tour operators Club Med
“Aware of his incredible journey and grateful for his legacy to future
first winter-sports holiday took place in 1864 and the second Winter
and Ski Independence and transfer company Ski-Lifts.
generations of skiers and snowboarders, Stoneham wanted to dedicate
Olympics were staged in 1928).
“The message from us is so far so good,” said the company’s Managing
a trail to JP’s memory,” a resort spokesperson said. The trail, formerly
The Championships take place from 6–19 February 2017, when around
Director, Craig Burton, adding, “Despite the predicted doom and
known as “La Kamikaze”, situated in the expert sector of the mountain,
600 athletes from 70 nations will compete in six disciplines: it’s the fifth
gloom, our advanced bookings to Europe and North America are
has thus been renamed “La JP Auclair”.
time the bi-annual Championships have been staged in St Moritz, the
materially ahead of where they were this time last year, with departures
In the trail, there is a boulder from where skiers jump, which was
last time in 2003, the first in 1934.
for this winter up by 25%.
decorated with permanent graffiti to celebrate the memory of JP. It was
There are also permanent improvements on the pistes including a new
“We believe that our core skiers will always find a way to ski, despite
drawn by his close friend Sébastien Larose and executed by muralists
six-seater chairlift designed by Porsche.
the political or economic climate. The increase in demand this year for
from Sautozieux. The yellow bird in the graffiti was originally drawn by
The lift, accessing the Curtinella piste in the Corvatsch sector, is the
secondary ski short breaks is a perfect example of this. In fact, we have
JP himself for his girlfriend and used in one of his ski films.
second from the famously cool car manufacturer, which previously
expanded our weekend ski programme again this year to meet this
“We wanted to do something unique and special in JP’s honour,
designed a chairlift for Laax.
demand as clients book multiple ski breaks to make the most of the
something that would remind people of him. He left his mark on the
At 2.2km long, the new lift is one of the longest anywhere in the
season.”
ski industry worldwide, and we were always very proud that he called
Canton of Graubünden. It’s 750m longer than the previous lift and has
Burton added, “Half-term is now very heavily sold. Additionally, with
Stoneham his home resort,” says Daniel Rochon, the resort’s Vice
double its capacity, now able to carry 2,400 people per hour.
some great offers available, we are seeing stronger demand coming
President and General Manager. “This trail, one of the hardest glades of
The Curtinella piste is situated in the very heart of the ski area and
through for Christmas and New Year departures.”
the mountain, was selected by Stoneham as well as JP’s family because
links the two mountains of Silvaplana-Corvatsch and Sils-Furtschellas.
it represents perfectly the skier he was.”
It’s an especially popular run, according to the lift company, because of its sunny location and hilly terrain.
+33 (0)4 79 06 18 88 RESERVATION@HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM EN.HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM
TH
family ski holida specialist
010 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
PROMOTION
ay ts
the BAT discounts plus all the NY bonuses!”
toddlers. Toys and equipment are chosen for their
Besides those special New Year BAT Weeks, the
educational as well as play features and meet
usual BAT Weeks operate throughout all of January
stringent health and safety guidelines.
and for departures on 5 and 26 February (before
Children aged from as young as 17 weeks up to
and after the school holiday weeks) 2017.
40 months are welcome in the nursery, where
BAT Weeks offer a remarkable range of savings
a typical morning begins at 8.30am with free
totalling up to an exceptional £481 for all younger
play for the children while everyone arrives and
families with babies or toddlers aged two to four.
children settle in.
This saving includes free infant places (saving
Children will have a mid-morning snack after
£115 per infant), half price nursery places (saving
which it’s nap time in one of the nursery cots for
£159 per infant), and half price Spritelets (ski
the children that need it, while other children
class for three- and four-year-olds) and Snow
have a creative session with arts and crafts fun,
Club. Book both together to save £207 per
before a healthy supervised lunch.
toddler, plus there are BAT Week special offer
In the afternoon there is another nap opportunity
under-occupancy charges of only £99 for the
for the sleepy, and a structured session for
first empty bed in family rooms.
the more active toddlers, such as Music &
As strict staff/child childcare ratios apply with
Movement or making cookies, or some outdoor
Esprit it’s important to book as early as possible
fun if the weather permits. Depending on your
as places are subject to availability.
child’s age, this can include anything from a walk and playtime in the snow to a gondola-lift ride or a bus ride to a local attraction. Then it’s back
sprit Ski, the family ski holiday specialists, have been doing their thing now for more than
What’s The Best Type of Accommodation for Your Family?
three decades.
inside for more free play until pick-up time. There’s one nanny per two infants aged from 17 weeks to 12 months in the nursery, or to three
That means that children who first went skiing
Esprit offers a wide range of accommodation
infants for children aged 13–23 months, and for
with their parents with Esprit 20 or 30 years ago
types, with the common factor being that your
toddlers 24–40 months there’s one nanny for a
are returning with their own children now to
whole family is very well looked after by the
maximum of four children.
enjoy the company’s renowned service, which
whole team, whether it’s the childcare staff or the
There are many other Esprit services for families
Esprit are confident is the very best any family
chalet hosts and resort reps.
with young children including a special High Tea
will find in the Alps.
There are cosy chalets, ideal for just one or
at 5.30pm each evening, and for those travelling
Esprit operate catered chalets, Chalet Hotels
two families, through to larger chalets perfect
though Chambéry Airport to the French Alps
and their special Xtra Chalets in more than a
for extended family groups. Chalet Hotels have
there’s a great “free-for-Esprit-guests” exclusive
dozen leading resorts in three of the main ski
more facilities, such as a bar, and comfortable
playroom in the departures area. Here Esprit staff
nations – Austria, France and Italy.
communal areas, yet still offer the privacy,
look after the little ones to make the homeward
Esprit’s resorts are all world class and include
conviviality and informal atmosphere of a
journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
some of the best destinations on the planet,
smaller chalet.
including Méribel and Courchevel 1850 in the
Esprit Info
world’s biggest ski region, Les 3 Vallées, France, and St Anton and Obergurgl in Austria. Other leading French resorts are covered with chalets
Esprit’s IndustryLeading Nursery Service
in both Tignes and Val d’Isère in the Espace Killy,
Travel with Esprit Ski this New Year, and receive two FREE nights in all chalets and Chalet Hotels,
Belle Plagne, Peisey and Arc 2000 in the Paradiski
Esprit’s nursery service has been
area, and Les Gets in the Portes du Soleil. In Italy
refined over 34 years, and
the quiet and charming resort of Gressoney, in the
they are confident that
Monterosa area, is another appealing choice.
they provide a better
Esprit has such a fine-tuned programme for
childcare service
families there are different levels of care for
than any other
children of every age, but in this feature we’re
tour operator and
days for the price
especially looking at services (and special deals!)
even back this
of six!)
for families with children aged from 17 weeks up
up with a special
You also receive
to four years old.
Esprit Child care
two FREE days
After 34 seasons (to be precise), you might think
Satisfaction
of Nursery, Snow
that there wasn’t much more Esprit could do to
Guarantee.
Clubs and Sprite
cover every aspect of the family ski holiday, yet
As with all aspects
lessons, and there
this coming winter, as every season, they do
of an Esprit holiday,
are also lift pass and
have some new ideas and tempting offers.
the key part of the
which makes it nine nights for the price of seven! Plus, when you add your lift passes and ski hire at the time of booking you also receive two FREE days! (eight
ski hire specials and
Esprit nurseries' success is
enhanced New Year child
their amazing staff, all qualified
BAT Weeks For Babies & Toddlers
discounts. Add this to your BAT
British nannies or nursery nurses
Weeks savings in Alpe d’Huez and
with an NVQ Level 3 in childcare or equivalent
Méribel and celebrate with the family on the slopes!
“Esprit’s Baby And Toddler (BAT) Weeks are aimed
recognised Level 3 childcare qualification.
BAT Weeks:
at those families with pre-school younger children,”
Nurseries open six days a week from 8.30am
espritski.com/more/baby-toddler-weeks/
explains Esprit’s Catherine Edwards, “and this
to 5pm to allow you time to get on the slopes in
Nursery:
season we’ve added New Year’s week in the
good time and get to ski school lessons if you
espritski.com/childcare/nursery/
school holidays to our BAT Weeks, exclusively in
need to, and are structured to provide a happy
New Year Offer:
Alpe d’Huez and Méribel, so guests will receive all
and stimulating environment for babies and
espritski.com/offer-news/new-year-offer/
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ESPRIT
* Holidays to Italy depart on 30 December and are of an eight-night duration. Gressoney departures receive just a one-day free ski pack, nursery, Sprites and lift pass due to the Saturday return day.
ESPRITSKI.COM
ERIC BAILEY
UDO BERNHART
ALBERTO_CABALLERO
HUGE EXPANSION FOR SKI WEEKENDS
REPORT FINDS PRICES FALL IN ITALIAN SKI RESORTS
SCHOOL EXAM STUDY SKI HOLIDAYS
The tour operator Ski Weekends, which specialises in short-break
The annual Post Office Ski Resort Report has found that while prices at
A new Chamonix-based company has been launched offering academic
ski trips, has announced a massive jump in the number of ski resort
ski areas in most Eurozone countries have risen due to the weakening
coaching and revision courses for teenagers working towards their
destinations it operates to, going from just under 30 last season to more
pound following the Brexit vote, costs for Brits skiing in the Italian
GCSE, IGCSE and Common Entrance mathematics exams. Courses run
than 60 for 2016/17. The company which once offered overnight coach
resorts are unchanged as prices in resort have dropped in line with the
for half days by the company’s Director and experienced Maths Teacher
travel is dropping the coach option altogether as it believes the market
pound.
and Examiner Abina Wheeler. The rest of the day the child can go skiing.
has moved on, with customers wanting to use the ever-growing flight
The Post Office Report examines a small sample group of 26 resorts in
Courses will run over the Christmas, February half-term and Easter
network. Ski Weekends offer breaks from 17 UK airports and has also
Europe and North America, with data provided by Crystal Ski Holidays.
school holidays. Each week will involve 20 hours of teaching, with half a
upped its selection of properties to include seventeen 5★ properties.
It invariably finds Bulgaria the cheapest destination and this is the
day spent in the classroom and the rest of the day available for skiing or
New destinations include short breaks for the first time to Norway and
same again for 2016.
boarding. Groups will be a maximum of six and costs £700 (course only).
Sweden, the French Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada in southern Spain.
“Italy’s Sestriere (£354.98) has moved up to third cheapest place in
“After teaching at an international school in Geneva and delivering private
“Our skiers can now choose and book from what is the largest range of
the table from fifth position last year on the back of an 11% fall in euro
tutoring in Chamonix over the past five years, I realised there was a real
short breaks available from the UK,” said Dan Fox, Managing Director,
ski costs. Once the sterling rate is applied, prices in the resort are
demand for intensive tutoring over the school holidays,” said Abina Wheeler,
Ski Weekends, who also revealed that weekend breaks actually are now
level with last season – making this the best deal across the Eurozone.
who added, “Many families want to take their children on a ski holiday, but
only taken up by 51% of the company’s guests, with 42% opting for mid-
Elsewhere in Italy, local euro prices are on par with a year ago in
don’t want to jeopardise their academic success in exams. ‘Study and Ski’
week breaks and 7% a full week.
Livigno (£363.84) and Selva Val Gardena (£470.30), and down 4% in La
allows families to carry on skiing and benefiting from expert revision sessions.”
“The focus of Ski Weekends is to enable holidays of three or four nights
Thuile (£456.45),” say the report’s authors, who add:
Study and Ski have teamed up with chalet tour operator Marmotte
to locations within easy reach of an airport, while offering flights from
“By contrast, local prices have snowballed across the nine Austrian
Mountain (marmottemountain.com) to offer catered or self-catered
regional airports across the UK so the journey is quick and easy. This
and French resorts surveyed. Once the exchange rate is applied, skiers
accommodation next to the Grand Montets ski area. Course weeks run
ensures that Ski Weekend’s customers can spend the maximum amount
can expect to pay an average of 20% more than last season in Austrian
from 16 and 23 December, 30 January, 12 February or 2 and 9 April.
of time on the slopes,” Dan added. skiweekends.com
resorts and 26% extra in French ones.” postoffice.co.uk/skireport2016
studyandski.co.uk
CHILL-OUT AND ENJOY!
CHAMONIX AT YOUR SERVICE!
SPECIAL OFFER Hotel B&B and MBU lift pass -25% Early booking from 87 € pp/night Offer valid for bookings made before 30th November 2016 for the following periods: - January 7th to February 3rd, 2017 - March 4th to April 8th, 2017
How do you want
© Agence SWiTCH
TO LIVE YOUR LEGEND? at CHAMONIX MONT-BLANC
Chamonix Tourist Office: booking.chamonix.com BACK TO CHILDHOOD!
RIDE THE LEGEND! SERVOZ - LES HOUCHES CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC ARGENTIÈRE - VALLORCINE
HAFELEKAR, INNSBRUCK
LIFE IN PICTURES
INNSBRUCK TOURISMUS
TVB WILDER KAISER
PROMOTION
TVB WILDER KAISER
SALVENMOOS, 1967 OLYMPIC CITY, INNSBRUCK
TIROL
finally replaced in 2015 by a
any region in the world, and
together winning 27 medals
new gondola with spacious
they go back to the very
in the Winter Olympics and
cabins, heated seats and wi-fi.
start of skiing. The Ski Club
World Skiing Championships.
Things continue to develop in
Arlberg, founded in 1902 in
The Olympia SkiWorld
the Tirol to this day with big
St Anton, marked the start of
Innsbruck is, along with
new projects almost every
the style of downhill skiing
London, one of two cities
ski season, it seems. One of
we still enjoy to this day.
worldwide to have hosted
the biggest in recent years
Local boy Hannes Schneider
three Olympic Games. In
was the connection of the
was the first global superstar
Innsbruck’s case it was the
Alpbach and Wildschönau
of skiing, taking the sport to
1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics
valleys to form the new Ski
Japan and the USA.
along with the first Winter
Jewel area with 109km of
In the 1950s Kitzbühel’s
Youth Olympic Games in 2012.
pistes connected by 46 ski
“Ski Wonder Team” played
In the 1970s Ellmau in the
lifts, and this season the
a legendary role in the
SkiWelt conceived a visionary
Arlberg will become Austria's
history of Kitzbühel, with
project: the construction of the
largest interconnected ski
the town supplying the best
Hartkaiser funicular railway.
area with the opening of the
skiers in the world – Sailer,
Over four decades it carried
new Flexenbahn cable car.
HOHE SALVE, 1962
INNSBRUCK TOURISMUS
TVB WILDER KAISER
34 million passengers but was
Huber and Pravda –
WUNDERTEAM
LUTZ KORN
Hinterseer, Leitner, Molterer,
strongest ski traditions of
ALPBACHTAL WILDSCHÖNAU
KOPIE VON WINTERBELEGSCHAFT 69-70
The Austrian Tirol has the
INNSBRUCK TOURISMUS
THROUGH THE AGES
SKIGEBIET AUSBLICKE BERG, SKI JUWEL
014 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
AIVARS ZARINS MOTIONSTOPPERS.COM
SKI 16/17 BRITS 2017 TO INCLUDE PRE-OLYMPIC BIG AIR
T
Ski with Inghams this winter
break, is a Big Air Championships
at The BRITS. It always had the
best competitive experience and
in celebration of the event’s newly
best vibe, and was the event that
attracts Team GB athletes including
acquired Olympic status. Indeed, the
threw me into the spotlight back
Olympic stars Jamie Nicholls, Katie
event will be staged less than a year
in 2010, so yeah, I’d love to come
Summerhayes, Billy Morgan, Madi
before Big Air debuts at the Winter
back and reclaim the crown.”
Rowlands and many others,” a BRITS
Olympics in South Korea in 2018.
Also newly on board this year is
statement reads. The Championships
The 2017 BRITS will take place from
Delancey, a specialist real estate
also welcomes budding amateurs
2–9 April 2017 and will include
investment company who are also
and first-timers. For years it has
the British Championships in
principal sponsors of British Ski
been pushing the UK’s professional
Half-pipe, Slopestyle, Snowboard/
and Snowboard. Delancey will
athletes, whilst retaining an open-
Skicross, and the returning Big
offer a bonus prize pot of £3,000,
door policy for anyone wishing to
Air Championships thanks to new
rewarding the best overall male and
give it a go, and more recently for a
he British Snowboard and Freeski
sponsor Picture Organic Clothing.
female for both Ski and Snowboard
growing number that just want more
Championships, better known as
British Olympian, and the first man
across all disciplines.
than a traditional winter holiday. For
“The BRITS”, returns to Laax in
to land a quad cork, Billy Morgan
“The continuing support from
further information, bookings and
Switzerland next April, and on the
had this to say of the news:
Laax ensures that we give our
competition registration visit
competition list, after a four-year
“It’s great to have the Big Air back
promising young athletes the very
the-brits.com
Andorra From only
Austria From only
Canada From only
France From only
Italy From only
Switzerland From only
£439
£789 £399
SINISTER SKI HEAD WEAR BUFF®, the company that specialises
catalogue, features a number of
fit over a snowsports helmet.
in all forms of warmth-giving hats,
skull and similar sinister designs. For
Machine- or hand-washable and
balaclavas, bandanas and neckwear
a particularly “sinister” effect, the
non-iron, the hoodie will not fade
for use on and off the slopes, has
Sinister Black/Grey Vigore Hoodie
or lose elasticity, and the Thermal
developed a new range that’s
BUFF® is a special hoodie (the
Pro fleece fabric offers superb
guaranteed to turn heads on the
hood bit only, without the rest of the
insulation from the cold.
slopes this season, and not those of
jacket) that includes pull-up face
“One size fits most adults,” said a
the people wearing them.
and nose protection with a skull
BUFF® spokesperson, who added
The Sinister range, launched in the
design. Priced at £34, the XXL-sized
that the range was selling fairly well.
company’s Autumn Winter 2016/17
version of this hoodie is designed to
buffwear.co.uk
£539
Call 01483 345 268 or visit inghams.co.uk 0025
V4871
015 // NOV16
£415
Departures from 25 UK airports
Travel with confidence
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
£421
100% BONDED SECURITY
*Prices quoted are per person for 7 nights, include flights, transfers and catering as described on our website and are correct at time of going to print. All holidays subject to availability.
ALL PICS: ROSS WOODHALL
 PROMOTION
016 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
C
Get The Best Ski Holiday For You
people can even ski in the summer.
New Flight Routes
New Resorts
The colder temperatures at these altitudes mean that the snow is
Crystal’s huge choice of flight routes
Crystal Ski are always looking for new
Crystal’s huge choice of 130 ski areas to
maintained for longer, and they also get
to the mountains has got bigger still
destinations to offer each winter, and this
choose from, with destinations ranging
deeper snow through the season the
for winter 2016/17 with a number of
winter 2016/17 is no exception with five
from Western Canada to Japan, served
higher you go.
new options.
fresh choices.
by flights from 25 UK airports and with
Outside Europe, another place that gets
There are new flights with Thomson
In the Alps the onus is very much on
a range of accommodation options in
white stuff by the bucketload is Banff in
Airways from Gatwick to Kittilä in Finland
snow-sure again with the addition
most resorts means the choice available
Canada – the ski season here lasts for
to quickly reach the Lapland ski areas of
of the small, high-altitude option of
to you is huge, sometimes almost
more than six months and it consistently
Levi and Ylläs. You can also now fly from
Hochsölden, 2,900m up in the Austrian
overwhelming in fact if you haven’t
gets over 9m of snowfall every year.
Aberdeen to Geneva with Easy Jet and
Tirol. Not only is it one of the highest
already got a destination in mind.
from Norwich to Chambéry using FlyBE.
villages in Europe, but the 145km big
So having created such a huge choice,
New flights to Kittilä provide access
Sölden ski area which it shares uniquely
to new Crystal destination choices in
offers twin glaciers which are so snow-
Finland (for information on which, read
sure they’ve been open for skiing since
on and see our separate "What’s New In
September and even staged the first
the company knows it’s vital to guide you through all the options to help you find
The Crystal Ski Explorer App
the resort that’s right for you – and the accommodation that best suits your needs.
Crystal are all about giving you support,
The Brochures" feature).
of the 2016/17 season’s World Cup ski
“Our service at home and in resort is
and access to their expertise and
In terms of long-haul options, there
races in October.
what sets us apart – if you need us,
knowledge before, during and after
is a new direct service from London
Looking north there’s a definite
we’re there with help and assistance,”
your holiday. Over the past few years
Heathrow to Salt Lake City with Delta
Scandinavian feel to the new ski areas
says Crystal’s Ellie Eyles, adding, “We
the company’s Crystal Ski Explorer App
Airlines, providing access to Park City
on offer with Levi and Ylläs in Finland
know it’s more than just a ski trip – it’s
has become a key element of delivering
Resorts – now the biggest ski area in the
as well as Trysil in Norway added to the
a winter adventure, and we want our
this personal service to you whenever
USA, among the biggest in the world and
programme.
rystal Ski Holidays are the biggest
customers to take their winter ski trip to
you need it, on demand. Things have
located less than an hour from the airport.
Trysil has the largest ski area in Norway,
winter holiday company in Britain,
the next level with Crystal Ski Holidays.”
certainly moved on leaps and bounds in
In a further improvement, transfers
with everything from wide, confidence-
and they’ve reached that position by
the last few seasons.
from Geneva and Zürich airports to
building blue runs to tricky blacks and
offering more choice than any other
Before your holiday, Crystal’s Contact
all Swiss ski resorts will be by train
loads of off-piste. For Levi and Ylläs, those
Centre teams are primed and ready to
instead of coach.
unfamiliar with the joys of a Finnish winter
tour operator, by always innovating
Snow-sure Skiing
and by offering top-notch Crystal
help you. Once you’ve booked, they’ll
holiday may not realise that the range of
service before, during and even after
If you can’t wait for the New Year bells
give you the details you need (24/7 in-
your holiday.
before your skis meet their first piste
resort contact number, Twitter handle and
Crystal now offer over 130 places to
of the season, or you fancy some end-
in-resort email address) of Crystal experts
ski, with direct flights to the world’s
of-season snow when the weather is
out in the mountains who can make sure
leading ski regions from no less than
warmer, it’s important of course that you
you’re good to go for your trip.
Crystal Ski Holidays has a huge choice
do you need to know?!
25 UK airports, so it’s likely there’ll be
head for a snow-sure resort.
You can get all the info you need,
of holidays for families with children
The new Trans-Atlantic destination, Sun
departure offers from an airport
By "snow-sure" Crystal mean consistent,
whether it’s the latest snow conditions or
of all ages with a range of childcare
Peaks in Canada, is an intimate ski-in/ski-
near you.
quality snow conditions that are as
the events taking place in your resort, via
options, and it’s a programme that’s
out village surrounded by three unique
This winter, the company’s 35th season,
guaranteed as they can be. High-altitude
the App. It’s fully interactive and these
always reinventing itself and adding
mountains which contain the country’s
Crystal has added five new resorts
resorts like Obergurgl in Austria, Tignes
guys can also recommend restaurants,
fresh options.
second biggest ski area.
in four countries – Austria, Canada,
or Val Thorens in France, Kaprun in
activities, ski areas and more, so don’t
This season there’s new Crystal
Sun Peaks is nestled in British
Norway and Finland. Each has its own
Austria or Cervinia in Italy are great
be afraid to ask.
Childcare in the Hôtel La Brunerie in the
Columbia’s interior, so you won’t suffer
unique character as well as a strong
choices as they sit at above 1,800m (a
“In addition we know unexpected
snow-sure French resort of Les 2 Alpes.
from extremely cold temperatures, but
reputation for reliable season-long
height which for some ski areas is as
hitches can happen in the mountains. If
You’ll find a new Pepi Penguin nursery
you’ll still be able to experience the
snow cover, and they’ve also created a
high as you can get), but then their upper
things don’t go as planned, you can trust
there during the school term and a
wonderfully dry, fluffy powder that’s
shortlist of the most snow-sure resorts
slopes are above 3,000m, and in some
that we’re standing by, ready to offer you
Whizz Kids Club for children aged 4–11
amongst the best snow in Canada (and
from their full list of 130 destinations.
cases there’s a permanent glacier where
a helping hand,” says Ellie.
during school holidays.
therefore the world!).
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
Still More For Families
activities on offer is probably unmatched anywhere in the world. The skiing’s delightful, the snow is near-constant and the scenery is truly staggering. What more
CRYSTALSKI.CO.UK
JACK AFFLECK
BIG SPEND PLANNED AT VAUJANY
THE WORLD’S BIGGEST LIFT PASS
CHAMONIX’S SHUTTLE BUSES GO ELECTRIC
Vaujany, one of the small traditional ski villages sharing the huge ski
The American multi-ski-resort-owning giant Vail Resorts has announced its
Chamonix’s famous in-resort shuttle bus service, known locally as the Mulet,
area around Alpe d’Huez, has announced a planned investment of
Epic Pass season ticket is extending its global reach to cover more of the
is now an all-electric fleet.
€32.5 million (about £29.4 million) on upgrades, 21 million of that on
biggest ski areas in Europe.
These French-built 21st-century “mules” are 20-seater minibuses which
the ski area itself over the next four years, and the rest on other resort
The Epic Pass gives holders access to ski at any of its dozen ski areas in
provide free transport around Chamonix and are equipped with recyclable
projects.
North America (including Park City, Heavenly, Vail, Breckenridge, Northstar
batteries with energy recovery during deceleration.
Of the ski area investment, nearly half a million euros will be invested
and others, but not Whistler until winter 2017/18) and Australia’s largest
It’s the latest in a long line of initiatives in Chamonix to cut pollution and
in a redevelopment of the village’s base cable-car station. The cable
resort, Perisher, for a flat cost that’s not much more than buying a six-day
fight climate change – a constant battle in one of the world’s most visited
car, which whisks skiers straight up to the heart of the ski area, is one
pass at one of its American resorts – sometimes less if you buy it far enough
mountain destinations attracting nearly three million visitors per year.
of the largest in the world, climbing one of the biggest verticals. It is
in advance (but you’re too late for winter 2016/17!).
Since 2005, the public transport system within the valley has been free of
now more than 30 years since the lift opened in 1985.
Pass holders can now use it at several big European ski regions including
charge, and the trains and buses now have a capacity to carry over three
A further €3.5 million (about £3.2 million) will be spent on creating
two days in each of these: Les 3 Vallées, Espace Killy (Tignes and Val d’Isère)
million passengers a year. The valley now has a dozen electric and hybrid
a new blue run back to the base of the resort – a project due for
and Paradiski (Les Arcs and La Plagne); up to five days in the Swiss Les 4
buses operating.
completion for the 2017/18 season.
Vallées dominated by Verbier; and three days in the Arlberg ski area of Lech
Chamonix is committed to increasing electric vehicle use, and since last year,
Of the rest of the money, €7.5 million (about £6.8 million) will be spent
and St Anton in Austria. The Italian Dolomiti Adamello Brenta region, which
users of electric vehicles have benefited from a 50% reduction on the cost of
on a replacement for the Enversin gondola, probably for the 2018/19
includes Madonna di Campiglio, is also included for three days.
indoor car parking. More recently, the municipality undertook the installation
season, and another €8 million (about £7.2 million) for 2019/20 on
“This partnership with Vail Resorts gives skiers and snowboarders access
of four free double charging stations for electric vehicles or hybrids.
upgrading the Clos Giraud chair to a detachable lift.
to some of the most iconic winter destinations the world has to offer,”
In addition, an 18km bike route is under construction between Chamonix
Vaujany reported business up 2% overall last winter. The resort
said Vincent Lalanne, General Manager of Association Les 3 Vallées. “We
and Les Houches, with the aim of making it easier and safer for locals and
receives income from power company EDF Energy, who operate a
couldn’t be more excited to provide this type of value to our dedicated
guests to cycle on the scenic route, which Chamonix says will be without
large hydroelectric dam, which it re-invests in its tourist infrastructure.
guests who want to experience the best skiing in Europe and the USA.”
interruption and include rest and parking areas along the way.
For stockists information call: 01572 770900
It’s your ski holiday so it’s your choice… 60 resorts across 8 countries, 30 new for 2016/17! 17 regional airports - choose your flight times As long as you want - weekends, mid-weeks, weeks Hundreds of places to stay - catered chalets, apartments, 2* to the best 5* hotels We focus on making it easy and maximising your ski time
RESORT INSIDER
MEGEVE
Megève is a very different and very special ski destination. It is a smart French ski resort developed by the Rothschild family; its heart is a medieval village, criss-crossed by two mountain streams and centred on a picturesque pedestrian square overlooked by the church. By Kathryn Kinnear The centre still has the old ambience of a French mountain village, inhabited by some of the original families, but it is also a Parisian resort with smart shops and restaurants and is a base for the fourth largest ski area in the French Alps. The extensive skiing is full of interest and character and at just 75 minutes from Geneva, Megève is ideal for ski weekends as well as full-week holidays.
Best Runs:
very bling in decor but great service, friendly
Again, so many it’s difficult to choose, but the
staff and most importantly delicious food. We
8km blue run from the top of Christomet down
expect Michelin stars shortly!
to Les Giattaz past frozen waterfalls and icicles is always spectacular. In fresh snow, the black
Best Event:
slopes Bridans and Voltigeurs are never pisted
22nd BMW Polo Masters. Played in Megève on
and are deserted. They are so unknown that
snow. It’s a crazy spectacle, taken quite seriously
we have had returning saisonnaires discover
involving international players and not to be
them for the first time! The 7km run from the
missed. Plus it’s free! Starts 19 January
Grand Epaulet to Les Chatrix embodies the ski
this winter.
area. Starting on an exposed ridge with stunning
When To Visit:
views of Mont Blanc, it ends up winding down a
Best Après Ski:
Best time of day to be on the slopes: Any
pretty tree-lined piste to the remote village of St
After you’ve had your gourmet meal why not
time. Pistes are quiet outside of French
Nicholas.
dance the night away at the Club des Jazz des
school holidays (New Year and three weeks in
Cinq Rues? One of the oldest jazz clubs outside
February). In Megève if there are three people in
Best Regional Food:
of Paris, the Club de Jazz opened shortly after
front of you at a lift then that’s a queue!
If you haven’t had your fill of tartiflette and the
the end of World War Two in a tiny back street in
like on the mountain then head to the Vieux
Megève. It still hosts big-name stars and has a
Best Mountain Restaurant:
Megève Restaurant for the traditional cheese
cosy atmosphere and welcoming vibe. Or for a
There’s a huge choice so it’s a tough choice
fondue or Raclette. Delicious, but you won’t be
quick drink straight off the slopes, the St Paul Bar
but our favourite is Le Gouet near the Croix
able to move afterwards!
is where all the locals go. Situated behind the
du Christome:. a rustic restaurant with a
Helping you ski when, where and for as long as you want
village square, just next to a picturesque stream,
log burning stove, lovely sunny terrace and
Best Restaurant:
friendly staff. It does a fantastic Croute de
Spoilt for choice again. Obviously the Flocons
Gouet – bread soaked in white wine, ham,
de Sel with its three Michelin stars is amazing
Ski weekends and short breaks as well as
smothered in cheese and baked in the oven,
but if you don’t want to make the short drive
week-long holidays are available with Megève
then topped with a fried egg. That should keep
there (and why would you, you don’t need a car
specialists stanfordskiing.co.uk in catered
you going!
otherwise in Megève), try the M de Megève. It’s
chalets, self-catered apartments and hotels.
it’s cheap and cheerful.
Don’t just dream of snow,
book today…
Call one of our ski experts on
023 8020 6971 or email sales@skiweekends.com
020 // NOV16
STANFORDSKIING.CO.UK
DANIEL DURAND
Be Ha Ski Moppy, re.
WIN WIN A WEEK A WEEK
FOR 2 FOR 2 IN
IN ANDORRA ANDORRA WORTH WORTH A WEEK €1,750 FOR 2 IN €1,850
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full week to explore this fantastic ski area! Grandvalira is home to both European and World Cup ski events so is great for those of you Grandvalira the largest but skiable domain in the Pyrenees with 210km looking for ais challenge, if you’re a beginner don’t worry of slopes, and with the winner staying at Pierrefor & Vacances because Soldeu-El Tarter school is renowned awesome instructors Residence El Tarter having their lift pass included, you’ll have a many of whom areand from the UK, making it an excellent place to learn & Vacances Passki de laarea! Casa include your car rental and full week to explore this fantastic Grandvalira is home to Princesa as well as having their also includes both European andprize World Cup ski events isaccommodation, great for itthose of you Not only does the include car rentalso and accommodation, it lift pass included, you’ll have a two full area lift passes as well as looking for a challenge, but if you’re a beginner don’t worry also includes two full area lifttopasses well as skis for &the boots full week explore thisas fantastic youryour skis & boots week, for because Soldeu-El Tarter school is renowned for awesome instructors, ski area! is home to so all need to do is getand the the week, so all you need toGrandvalira do is get yourself toyouBarcelona many of whom from the UK,care making it an excellent place both European and World yourself to Barcelona and theto learn Andorra Resortsare team will take of Cup the rest!
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Myokao reas: ski The five
pes ts, 16 slo ara: 5 lif e Suginoh p 11 slo s a: 6 lifts, opes Ikenotair lifts, 10 sl Kanko: 7 ra u opes k sl a k A 14 lifts, 17 Onsen: s e p Akakura o sl 00 ts, 4 and ¥4,5 sen: 2 lif n ¥3,500 e Seki On e tw e so b re rt. ss costs g on the A day pa dependin s, lt u d a 4) for (£26–£3 n Japan: cific/japa lights to s/asia-pa Finnair F stination e /d b /g m/fi finnair.co ail Pass: j0095g Japan R om/?ap= il-pass.c a -r n a p ja house: Red Ware ouse.com h red-ware events. urs: , cultural ntry tours Itadaki To u o c e d uiding, si Resort g urs.com to ik a itad raphy. rts: l, photog nowspo ski renta l, o o Myoko S h sc ski nguage English la rts.com o sp w o myokosn ri: UK. Ski Safa from the to Myoko ys o k Holida yo an/m .com/jap skisafari
022 // NOV16
geographical situation
Myoko – an active volcano.
Kanko boasts some of the best freeride terrain
bringing in heavy snowfalls
We were booked into the Red Warehouse
in Myoko. Akakura Onsen, with its more gentle
from the Sea of Japan.
guesthouse, where we were greeted by Nic
slopes, slopes isisregarded regardedas asaafamily-oriented family-orientedresort, resort,
The resort is situated in the
Klar and his family. Klar, originally from Australia, Australia
although the area features a terrain park and
Niigata prefecture, 270km
married Myoko-born-and-raised a Myoko-born-and-raised Mami, Mami, whom whom
more challenging slopes as well. The powder
northeast of Tokyo and 45km
he met on the local ski hill in the mid 90s. They
stashes in the area might not get skied out so
have been running the family-oriented Red
quickly either.
Warehouse for two years now.
“Myoko is good for the families and those who
Besides the guesthouse, Nic keeps himself
like off-piste and powder, but there are no
busy running the most popular English website
steeps, so Myoko is not for the people coming
covering the area, called Destination Myoko
for steep runs,” says Nic. Nic, “But if you´re looking for
Kogen. From this privileged position, Klar has
good stashes, good side and backcountry, then
seen the number of international tourists boom
this is a good place.” place”.
in number, especially from Australia, since the
Suginohara is the southern-most of the five ski
north of Nagano. Today you can travel to the resort from either city using the famous Shinkansen bullet train, which reached the area only last year. We started our mid-February trip to Myoko by a
late 2000s. Niseko on in the theisland islandofofHokkaido Hokkaidogained gained
A LAINE
S: JUH IVU | PIC JÄRVENS O K K A JA : S
WORD
we skied first. It´s also the highest with the top lift
to look for information on other ski
elevation of 1,800m and the ski area promotes its
areas in Japan, and because Klar´s
vertical of 1,124m as the second biggest in Japan.
website was one of the few providing
We met Shinya, one of the owners and guides
information in English, Myoko started
of Itadaki Tours on the sunny parking lot in
to attract foreign visitors.
Suginohara. Shinya grew up in Myoko and has
“When I was skiing 10 years ago
been riding these hills for more than 20 years.
and I saw a foreigner, I went over
When we get to the top we follow him as he branches that on a normal snow year would all
Today foreigners, especially Australians and
be covered by snow.
sleepless hotel night in the infamous Shinjuku
Scandinavians, are a clearly visible segment on
As we continue the run Shinya makes his way
district district,we weheaded headedfor forthe thebusy busyTokyo TokyoStation. Station.
the streets of Myoko.
through the forest, finding small curves and mini
Pulling our ski bags while sleep-deprived through
Unlike Europe, where a single lift ticket might
half-pipes along the way. The run is not very steep
a constant stream of people, we tried to read the
connect ski resorts in several different valleys,
and there´s fresh snow up to the ski boots, so we
signs, which were written mostly in Japanese.
you have to buy a separate ticket for each area,
are descending pretty fast. The skiing is fun and
After a while we managed to find the right
with a joint ticket for two of the areas, Akakura
playful and it reminds me of the skiing I did with
desk and get our Japan rail passes stamped.
Kanko and Akakura Onsen, the only exception.
my friends in the forests of my home resort when
Relieved, we boarded the train and witnessed
Akakura Onsen is the oldest of the five areas,
I was younger. Later on, as we stop for a break on
the landscape changing from green pastures to
established as an international ski resort way
a sunny glade and Shinya offers me fresh coffee
mountainous snow country, and after only 100
back in the 1930´s. 1930s. In Inaatypical typicalsnow snowcountry country
from his thermos, it´s difficult not to smile.
minutes we reached the 1998 Winter Olympic
fashion, it had already been operating as an
After the ski day we enter a small and crowded
city of Nagano where we changed trains.
Onsen or hot spring resort since 1816. During the
restaurant called Asagao. One of Shinya´s local
From here we travelled on to Akakura Onsen,
post-war period when the first ski lifts were built
favourites, the restaurant specialises in Yakitori,
the oldest ski resort and the main village
here, the emerging ski tourism was seen as a
which according to Shinya is Japanese soul food.
centre in Myoko, arriving in the midst of a snow
lucrative investment. Rival ski stations were soon
We somehow manage to find empty stools at
blizzard. High snow banks lined the streets
built right next to each other. So where there is
the bar, which give us front front-row row seats to watch
and neon signs in Japanese advertised the
now is now Akakura Akakura Onsen, – Onsen, there there was was onceonce alsoalso Yodel,
the cooks in action preparing the dishes in a
local restaurants. This was classic Japanese ski
Kumado Yodel, Kumado and Ginrei and ski Ginrei resorts ski resorts – areas–now areas long
traditional way on the charcoal grill. While waiting
imagery portrayed in ski magazines around the
gone now long but still gone marked but stillonmarked the trailon map. the trail map.
for our dishes we order a glass of Umeshu, a
world. We had arrived!
Akakura Kanko, or Shinakakura – the new
Japanese plum wine with a subtle taste. I order
The Myoko ski resort is made up of five small,
Akakura followed in 1937 by building Japan´s first
fatty pork, liver and heart and really like all of
privately owned ski resorts, each located under
luxury mountain hotel – and the ski area around
them – a perfect barbecue dish to end a good
the towering peak of the 2,454m 2,454m-high high Mount
it. The hotel remains a landmark and Akakura
day of skiing in the Snow country. Country.
Helsinki to Narita Airport in Tokyo. After a
fame during the past few years as a powder skiing hot spot, due to its favourable
smoothly navigates his way through bushes and
was an English teacher or an expat,” says Klar.
direct flight from
yoko or Myoko Kogen has gained international
pearls of the Myoko ski resorts and it was here
popularity first, but soon people started
and said hi. And probably the foreigner
M
areas in the roughly north-south running string of
MYOKOKOGEN.NET
SAMY CHARDON
CHAMBERY SAVOIE AIRPORT IMPROVED
ation Accommod All meals Lift pass hire Equipment or guiding n io Instruct
BEGINNER COACHING TO GUIDED OFF PISTE & SKI TOURING Prices from
£452
UCPA IS EUROPE’S LARGEST PROVIDER OF SKI AND SNOWBOARD INSTRUCTED AND GUIDED COURSES Based in top resorts across the French Alps, they offer an unbeatable range of opportunities for all levels of skier and snowboarder, from beginner level instruction up to specialist off piste guiding.They also offer specific breaks especially for families. In addition, the UCPA offers a vast ski touring and split boarding programme, unmatched in both size and variety. The courses vary from introductory level coaching to advanced week long expeditions, including the Haute Route. For more information and to book:
www.action-outdoors.co.uk
c
free shop has also been relocated and extended,
no major city to pass through when you leave
and there’s been a total renovation of toilets for
the airport. That's set to get even better this
improved passenger comfort.
winter, VINCI Airports promises, following a total
“We are proud to welcome Crystal Ski Holidays’
renovation. The terminal has been completely
tens of thousands of British skiers every year
renovated and redesigned to provide a better
and to offer them a better quality of service
experience and manage passenger flows for
and make their journey to the ski resorts more
this coming winter 2016/17. The investment is
comfortable,” said Nicolas Pelerin, Chambéry
reported to be €10 million over the coming years.
Savoie Airport Manager.
“The airport has focused on improving the quality of
It’s especially good news because there are four
service provided to passengers,” said a statement
new routes this winter from London Stansted,
on behalf of VINCI Airports.
Doncaster, Manchester and Norwich. All flights
Among the improvements for departing passengers
start from 16 December.
is that all check-in points are now equipped with
British Airways now has flights from London
hambéry Savoie Airport is located in the heart
belts, facilitating baggage management and
City and London Stansted (including a daily
of the French Alps, making it a great alternative
reducing passenger waiting times. The security
flight from London City from 16 December
to Geneva for reaching many of the country’s
and customs control area has been reorganised
2016 to 9 January 2017), and Flybe has flights
best-known ski areas. So it’s an airport that’s
to improve passenger flow, and the boarding area
from Birmingham, Cardiff, Doncaster, Exeter,
becoming increasingly popular with tour
has been expanded and refurbished. The duty-
Manchester, Norwich and Southampton.
operators and scheduled airlines. There are now direct ski-season scheduled flights there from nine UK airports and many more from tour operator charters. Crystal Ski Holidays alone brings well over 30,000 British skiers via Chambéry Savoie Airport every year. Nearly half a million Crystal customers have used this route since 2004. The airport is only an hour away from Les Arcs, Méribel and Megève, one hour and 15 minutes from La Plagne, Courchevel and Les Menuires,
SAMY CHARDON
ded All intchleu price: in
to the Rhône-Alpes motorway network, as there’s
and less than one hour and 30 minutes from Val d’Isère, Tignes, Val Thorens and many other ski resorts reached via quick and direct road access
THE UK PARTNE
R FOR
024 // NOV16
INNTRAVEL.CO.UK
VILLARS AND LES DIABLERETS NEW CONNECTION The two classic Swiss ski resorts of Les Diablerets and Villars in the canton of Vaud have been connected for decades but by lifts that were decades old – an elderly T-bar and a slow double chairlift. That’s all set to change this winter with fast chairlifts installed on both sides: a high-speed sixseat chair on the Diablerets side and a detachable quad on the Villars side, cutting connection times by more than a third to JUST 10 minutes.
CHRISTIAN KAPFINGER
SNOWWORLD COVERS ROOF IN SOLAR PANELS SnowWorld’s two indoor snow centres in the Netherlands are the latest snow domes to announce that they’ll be covering their vast roof spaces with solar panels: the 8,000 panels will be capable of generating around 2.1MWp
SPECIAL WEEKS IN THE SKIWELT
(megawatt-peak) – enough for the energy needs of approximately 600 households. This means that on sunny days, the slopes at SnowWorld will be self-sufficient in their energy needs.
NY STATE HELMET LAW CANCELLED A bill to make helmet-wearing compulsory for children aged under 14 skiing at one of New York State’s 50+ ski areas, which attract four million skier visits annually, has stalled in the second house of the state’s government. The bill, which is supported by the state’s ski area association, had been passed by the New York State senate but stalled in the Assembly.
NINTH NEW CHAIR IN 10 YEARS AT VAIL
T
UAE MAY BUILD A MOUNTAIN
two open weekends of December
it’s the same deal for women every
at the SkiWelt in the Austrian Tirol
Wednesday. Towards the end of the
– home to resorts like Ellmau, Söll,
season, SkiWelt Skihütten Gaudi
Hopfgarten and Westendorf.
Weeks running from 4–25 March
“Expect perfectly groomed
2017 will see the après-ski taken up
slopes, live music and incredibly
another level.
inexpensive offers and say WOW!” a
The region’s Family Ski Weeks from
resort spokesperson said.
8–22 December and 11th March to
There’ll be Special Days every week
the end of the season mean kids
in 2017. From 10 January, it’ll be
aged under 15 get a free lift pass
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), home to Ski
"Men's Day" every Tuesday, when all
if a parent purchases a ski pass
Dubai, is reported to be considering building
he 2016/17 season will launch with
men pay youth rates for day or part-
that is valid for at least three days.
a mountain in a bid to increase the chance
SkiWelt Party Weekends on the first
day ski passes. Then from 11 January,
skiwelt.at
of rainfall in the country, one of the driest on earth with temperatures reaching 47°C. An international study, costing over £250,000, has recommended the idea as a natural way
Vail has announced its latest high-speed chairlift will go into operation when the season begins
A SKI HOLIDAY WITH RUGBY LEGENDS
on 18 November. Chair 17, the Sun Up lift, will be upgraded from a three-person fixed-grip lift to
to potentially bring rainfall to the region. The “man-made mountain” idea, which comes from the US-based National Center
a detachable quad and is the ninth new highskiers just over the border to enjoy
for Atmospheric Research, is said to be in the
back country heli-skiing in Italy.
“detailed modelling study” phase, and scientists
dozen leading operators of high-speed chairlifts,
The holiday, based in the ski-in/ski-
have admitted that even if viable it may be too
now operating 15 high-speed quads.
out Peak Chalet, will also include a
costly to build a mountain of suitable size (the
torchlight night ski and will take place
exact size has not yet been specified).
over four nights between 15 January
The UAE is reported to have spent more than a
and 5 February 2017.
third of a million pounds last year on “weather
Priced at £2,750pp (based on two
modification” initiatives, including cloud
people sharing a room), the holiday
seeding, to try to bring more rain to the region.
includes return flights from the UK to
The area has also been the proposed location
Geneva, private transfers, half-board
for many of the world’s most ambitious indoor
accommodation with a meal on the
snow slope plans, including one project
speed chairlift installed there in the past decade.
NEW SPA AND SPORTS CENTRE FOR MEGEVE The historic French ski resort of Megève is the latest to unveil a new state-of-the-art public spa
KONRAD BARTELSKI
The Colorado resort is one of the world’s half-
and sports centre complex. Le Palais boasts an Olympic-size swimming pool and also has a
Legend Holidays is offering the chance
Rugby stars Will Greenwood and
mountain one night, the helicopter
before the 2008 global economic crash that
large gym. The spa facilities include indoor and
to hang out on the slopes of St Foy in
Austin Healey and ski stars Konrad
off-piste pick-up, ski hire, ski pass, ski
envisaged a 2km-long year-round snow slope.
outdoor balneotherapy fitness pools, a "light
France, in the chalet, and even ride in
Bartelski and Bella Seel will be hosting
guiding, Legend ski jacket, torchlight
However, the man-made mountain and
therapy" room, indoor and outdoor saunas and
a helicopter with famous names from
the ski trip, which will also include a
night ski and one-on-one time with ski
indoor snow slope ideas have not yet been
a Turkish bath.
the world of British rugby and skiing.
helicopter pick-up from St Foy to take
legends. ourlegend.com
put together.
026 // NOV16 // INTHESNOW.COM
@INTHESNOWMAG
PEXELS.COM
PHIL GUEST
CHARITY SKI EVENT RAISES OVER £250,000
BOARDERS LOSE BATTLE AGAINST BAN
The Coeur Blanc Challenge, organised towards the end of last season in
A group of boarders who are battling to overturn a ban on snowboarding
the Méribel Valley and featuring Sir Steve Redgrave along with 124 other
at Alta ski resort in Utah have had their request to have their case heard
skiers and snowboarders, raised over £250,000.
again by a Court of Appeal rejected.
The challenge of the event is to try to ride all 52 lifts in the valley in one
Alta is one of only three known ski areas in the world, all of which are
day. Established in 2008 and supporting a range of charities, to date the
in the USA and two in Utah, to ban snowboarders. The group of four
event has raised £1.4 million.
snowboarders, known as Wasatch Equality, argue that the ban breaches
Snow-Camp, a snowsports charity supporting inner-city young people,
their constitutional rights and are particularly focusing on the fact that
came through a tough selection process to successfully become the charity
Alta operates on public National Forest land rather than private land,
partner for the 2016 event. In total, 23 teams attempted the Challenge,
arguing that this means they have the right to board there under the US
including two “Super Celeb” teams made up of Sir Steve Redgrave and
Constitution. Alta is the only one of around 120 US ski areas operating
Snow-Camp patrons Jenny Jones, Ed Leigh, Graham Bell and Warren
on public land to ban snowboarding.
Smith. At the awards ceremony in the evening, Co-founders of the event
Alta argues that as the operator on the land it has the right to decide
Rory Tapner and Pierre Taylor were greeted with huge applause as they
how people behave when they are there, and its view has been
announced that the fundraising total had passed a phenomenal £250,000!
supported by the US Forest Service, which controls the land and judges
“We are truly honoured to have been part of such a wonderful and
in initial court hearings. Wasatch Equality’s appeal to the 10th US Circuit
inspiring event,” said Dan Charlish, Founder and Director of Snow-Camp.
Court of Appeals was rejected by the court, and the group’s only
snow-camp.org.uk
remaining option is believed to be an appeal to the US Supreme Court.
10% OFF CHAMONIX LIFT PASSES FOR ONLINE ADVANCE PURCHASE and Planards area) brings the cost of a six-day adult ticket down from €252.50 (about £227.75) to €230 (about £207.50), and for children aged five to 15 and seniors aged 65 to 79 down from €214.60 (about £193.60) to €195.50 (about £176.30). The discount is also available on the Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass, which covers in addition Aiguille du Midi, Les Houches area, Courmayeur in Italy, the Verbier 4 Vallées area in Switzerland and the Evasion Mont-Blanc – St Gervais or Megève area (terms and conditions apply). A six-day adult lift pass is the most expensive in the Eurozone at €299 (about £269.50) but reduces to €275 (about £247.90) with advanced online purchase. A six-day child ticket is believed to be the most Anyone needing a six-to-nine-day lift pass for the
one-day-free deal.
expensive in Europe. It costs €254.20 (about
Chamonix Valley can save around 10% by buying
The discount, valid for the Chamonix Le Pass ticket
£229.20) for children aged five to 15 and seniors
their pass at least three days in advance online this
(covering the Brévent-Flégère area, Grands Montets
aged 65 to 79, or €233.80 (about £201.70) with
winter. Lift company the Compagnie du Mont Blanc
area (summit not included), Balme Tour Vallorcine
the online advance purchase discount. Buy via
say this is the equivalent of a buy-five-days-get-
area, Vormaine area, Chosalets area, Savoy area
compagniedumontblanc.co.uk/
+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 reservation@heliopic.com
heliopic-hotel-spa.com FB.COM/INTHESNOW
027 // NOV16
4-6
5
PRIVATE & SHARED TRANSFERS TO LES 3 VALLÉES
10 LEISA GIBSON
CHRISTOPH OBERSCHNEIDER
www.3vt.co.uk | +44 (0)1323 351964
WOW Glacier Love 2016
Opening Day Keystone
Opening Day Mammoth
KAPRUN, AUSTRIA
KEYSTONE, USA
MAMMOTH, CALIFORNIA, USA
Marketed as the largest winter opening party
Colorado has some of the world’s highest ski slopes
The Broadway Express at Main Lodge is the place
weekend in the Alps. The party starts at 8pm
and they’re also the earliest non-glacier areas to
to be at 8.30am as one of the longest ski seasons in
on Friday 4 November with international DJs
open. Exact opening depends on it being cold
the world gets underway with the traditional banner
performing on the WOW main stage.
enough, but Keystone is aiming for Bonfire night.
breakthrough and annual sundeck beer toast.
12-13
12-13
ADAM LOCKE
10
NICOLAS KOSICA - NKPHOTOGRAPHIES.COM
threevalleetransfers
Economy to Luxury | 2–6 bedroom | Self & fully Catered
www.chalets1066.com 020 7183 5082
Rock On Snowboard Tour Open Ski Tests
World Cup 2016 Tour
BANFF, CANADA
TIGNES, FRANCE
LEVI, FINLAND
Another ski area with a reputation for a long, snow- The biggest ski and snowboard brands set up
The World Cup 2016 tour gets underway on the
sure season is Sunshine ski area at Banff, which
camp at the foot of the Grande Motte glacier for
glacier in Solden, Austria in late October but
stays open through to late May 2017. It’s due to
the first big test of the season.
moves north for its next stage on the Levi Black
open the day after fellow Banff area Lake Louise.
tignes.net
slope at Lapland’s largest ski centre.
DIARY|NOVEMBER 2016
17
25-27
BRUNO HELBLING FOTOGRAFIE
CHOSE FROM 20 CHALETS & APARTMENTS... THE WIDEST CHOICE OF ACCOMMODATION IN LES GETS | FRANCE
Opening Day Banff
26
Opening Day Obergurgl
Zermatt Ski Test
FIS World Cup Men’s Downhill
OBERGURGL, AUSTRIA
ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND
LAKE LOUISE, CANADA
Austria’s highest traditional village is usually
Zermatt, open for snow sports year round,
Only a fortnight after its planned opening date,
the first non-glacier resort in the Alps to open,
offers ski test packages on weekends through
it’s time for the first full World Cup downhill
although in recent years Kitzbuhel has managed
October and November, with the final chance to
race of the season, due to take place in the
to open first; Obergurgl often has top-to-bottom
test 2017 season equipment before everyone
Canadian Rockies.
snow cover for opening day though.
else this weekend.
028 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
ADAM CLARK
MICHA ANDREAS PHOTO : DAVID ANDRÉ
NEW CABLE CAR BREAKS TWO WORLD RECORDS
NEW SWISS CHAIRLIFT WILL LASER-SCAN SKIERS
NEW HOLIDAYS TO ROBERT REDFORD’S UTAH RESORT
Sadly, it does not climb to any ski slopes. In fact, it only climbs 88.5m in
A new six-seat chairlift will open this winter at Klosters in Switzerland.
The new direct flights from London Heathrow to Salt Lake City in Utah
its 2,165m length in a country where temperatures generally top 30°C,
The lift is part of a CHF25 million (approximately £20.6 million), five-year
make accessing a whole swathe of ski areas in Utah and further north
but nonetheless a new cable car built by the Doppelmayr/Garaventa
investment programme which will also see new mountain restaurants,
much easier for Brits.
Group across Ha Long Bay in Northern Vietnam has broken multiple
snowmaking and a stadium for ski racing fans at the famous resort.
Most operators using the service are focusing on Park City, the largest ski
world records, putting all previous ropeway dimensions in the shade,
The new “Schaffürggli” chairlift in the Madrisa ski area, which the
area in the USA and only 45 minutes’ drive from the airport.
the company says.
resort shares with neighbouring Davos, will include a feature unique in
However, travel company Scott Dunn will also be introducing Sundance
Each of the double-decker cabins provides space for 230 passengers
Switzerland – the seat height of the chair will be controlled depending
Mountain Resort, Hollywood star Robert Redford’s rustic-chic lodge in
(a world-record size), and the cable car also boasts the world’s tallest
on the size of the skier.
Utah, to its US ski portfolio this season.
cable car tower with a height of 188.88m (the height is also symbolic
A laser will scan passengers and determine whether they are adults or
Scott Dunn describes Sundance as: “An exclusive winter playground,
because eight is considered to be a lucky number in Vietnam).
children. A hydraulic control will adjust the seat height perfectly so that
sought after by jet set powder hounds and perched on the slopes of
“In fact, pretty much everything on this installation can be described
even the smallest passengers can safely get onto the chairlift.
Mount Timpanogos in Utah’s Wasatch Range. A beguiling mix of Mother
as XXL,” said a Doppelmayr spokesperson, who added that Vietnam’s
The new chairlift has a price tag of CHF11 million (approximately £9
Nature and glamour, the resort consists of a series of spacious lofts,
current climate of investment in tourism infrastructure can be compared
million) and will be 1,860m long, climb 510 vertical metres over a seven-
suites, studios and mountain homes, each individually styled using rough-
to the upbeat mood seen in the Alps in the mid-20th century.
minute journey time at a speed of 5m/s and will be able to transport up
hewn wood that integrates them atmospherically into the environment.”
Ha Long Bay, in the north of the country, also ranks as one of
to 2,600 people per hour.
The ski area is of modest proportions compared to giants like Park City
Vietnam’s most popular tourist attractions. With the opening of the
In addition, a rising safety bar will ensure that smaller children cannot
with about 180 hectares and 41 runs of sprawling powder bowls and tree-
new tramway, the seven million visitors who head for this area every
slide out, and finally a hood will lower automatically to protect skiers
lined trails, and plenty of backcountry terrain too.
year will now be able ride across the “bay of the descending dragon”
from the cold and bad weather.
Après-ski activities are a little different to your run-of-the mill ski resort
in comfort. Travelling at 10m/s (36 kph), the lift is also one of the
In addition, the Schaffürggli chairlift will have heated seats, and sit-skis
with creative classes in pottery, photography, painting and sculpting on
world’s fastest yet.
for wheelchair users can also be transported. madrisa.ch
offer. Prices from £2,125pp. scottdunn.com
CHRIS HENDRICKSON FAIRMONT HOTELS && RESORTS
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
030 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
Altogether the three areas offer 334 runs set across
and museums. The locals are warm, open and
highway. As you leave Calgary, a wide, flat plain
a combined skiable terrain of almost 8,000 acres.
genuinely connected to the inspiring environment
spreads out in front of you, and then the iconic
All three resorts share an amazing record for
in which they live. The town of Banff offers you
Canadian Rocky Mountains tower up high into the
reliable powder snow cover that allows them
endless options for rejuvenation and exploration
sky. It’s one of the most spectacular sights on earth.
to be among the first in the world to open each
every day.
season in early November (this season’s opening
Lake Louise Village, a 45-minute drive away from
day is 10 November and Lake Louise stages some
Banff but located five minutes from the lifts and
Free Access To Banff National Park in 2017
of the first World Cup races here by the end of
linked to them by a free bus shuttle service, is
November each season too), and then to stay
a more intimate base with a dozen or so hotels,
It’s difficult to keep improving on one of the best
open to mid-spring, with sunshine closing after
each with their own restaurants, bars and other
ski holiday destinations there is, but there are a
nearly seven months in late May.
facilities, largely open to the public.
few ways in which a visit this season will be even
Pre-purchase your Tri-Area lift ticket and enjoy the
Banff & Lake Louise has a reputation also
better than before.
free daily transportation to and from all three ski
for being extremely good value and having
Firstly, all National Parks in Canada will offer free
resorts. Modern shuttle buses will pick you up at your
genuinely friendly inhabitants, and for
admission to visitors throughout 2017 in celebration
hotel and take you right to the resorts. New for this
being about more than “just” skiing and
of Canada’s 150th birthday, so it’s a great time to
coming season, visitors will receive a complimentary
snowboarding. There are dozens of other
take advantage of added value for money.
pass to check out the historic Banff Hot Springs with
activities to try here if you fancy a change, or
anff & Lake Louise is one of the world’s great
the purchase of 3+ multi-day Tri-Area lift tickets.
just want to add a little more to Your ski day. All
holiday destinations. Spectacular scenery, three
In 1883, three railway workers discovered a natural
manner of outdoor winter activities are available
world-class ski resorts, light and fluffy snow, friendly
Where To Ski
hot spring that ultimately brought rise to the
from ice skating to dog sledding or just take
locals, lots to do off the slopes, excellent dining,
One of the great things about Banff & Lake Louise
founding of Banff National Park. In the early years,
a plunge in those hot springs. There’s also a
shopping and après-ski, and it’s even great value.
is that you have a choice of three ski resorts all on
travellers lured by the healing minerals of the hot
world-class and eclectic collection of shopping,
There are few, if any, other ski resorts in the world
one lift ticket, so you can choose each morning
springs journeyed to the area via the Canadian
dining and après-ski entertainment venues for
that manage to tick every box for a successful
which one to head to, or even ski two in the same
Pacific Railway. Nowadays visitors can soak up
all budgets and all tastes.
ski holiday, and even fewer where it’s almost
day if the mood takes you.
these benefits after a day on the slopes.
impossible to find anyone who has stayed there and
Home to unparalleled mountain scenery in the
doesn’t want to return the next opportunity they get.
heart of the magnificent Canadian Rockies,
Genuine Ski Town
For the first time this winter, WestJet will operate
Well, it’s rare that I’m able to be quite so genuinely
with wide open slopes and world famous Rocky
There are few truly authentic ski towns around
a year-round direct flight from London Gatwick to
effusive about a ski destination, but thankfully, with
Mountain powder, there’s never been a better
the world, especially those with a choice of top
the gateway of the Rockies, Calgary, three times
Banff & Lake Louise I can be.
time to visit.
ski resorts on their doorstep. The town of Banff is
a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) offering
But while it’s all good, different people like
These aren’t any old ski areas either, but three
a spirited place, alive with adventure and wonder.
greater accessibility for UK travellers planning a ski
different things about the region to a greater or
of the world’s best, including Sunshine Village
In all directions you’re surrounded by strikingly
holiday in Alberta. This new route is in addition to
lesser extent depending on their personal taste.
and Lake Louise – two of the biggest and best
beautiful and rugged mountains that seem to burst
existing direct services offered by Air Canada, Air
For me, having visited hundreds of ski areas
ski areas in Canada and indeed the whole world,
straight out of the ground. You might see a herd of
Transat and British Airways throughout the winter
around the world, it’s the scenery that gets me first.
as well as Banff’s locals’ ski hill, Mt Norquay,
deer wandering down the main street during your
as well as non-direct flights with Icelandair and
Simply stunning.
which has decades of history and a fan list that
early morning jog. The lively streets of downtown
KLM, which offer regional departures via Reykjavik
After landing in Calgary on the direct BA flight from
has included many famous names, even Marilyn
are lined with top-class restaurants, bars and
and Amsterdam. Travel time to Banff from Calgary
Heathrow or the WestJet service from Gatwick, it’s
Monroe, over the years.
shops, as well as a vibrant range of art galleries
is just an hour and a half (90 miles).
PROMOTION
a 90-minute drive almost due west on a wide, easy
DARRENROBERTS.CA
More Ways to Get There
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WORDS: LUKE REES
D
loading, cracks and avalanches. Understand
indicator for steeper slopes. If snow collapses
the local snowpack by digging a snow pit to
– whumphs – beneath you, it means there
identify weak layers. Heed nature’s warnings
are weak layers in the snowpack, and cracks
and don’t be afraid to say no.
appearing around your board/skis indicates a cohesive slab that could slide.
Obey signs Don’t ignore closed signs. It may look safe
Where to stop
(and inviting), but ski patrol only close parts of
Don’t stop at the base of a slope. Move to
the mountain that are dangerous.
the side, preferably on a slightly raised area in case anyone above triggers a slide. Unless unavoidable, do not go out of hearing range
Steepness safe when heading off-piste, but the risk can be minimised by following these tips:
Gear
Most avalanches happen on slopes between
When heading into the backcountry, everyone
avalanche safe. So if the risk is high, stay
in your group should have an avalanche
away from the steep stuff.
Research
transceiver, shovel and probe. You also need
Before you even contemplate what off-
an avalanche course and regularly practise
piste routes you’d like to tackle, read, and
rescues. The Mint Snowboarding Backcountry
understand, the avalanche bulletin – there’s
35° and 45°; slopes under 30° are considered
or line of sight from your group.
Guide The Mint Snowboarding Backcountry Camp convinced me that a local guide is
to know how to use them, so get yourself on
invaluable for finding fresh snow and safe
Single file
lines. Avalanche safety is highly complex, so
Camp was excellent. Not only did we learn
When on a risky slope go one at a time.
I’ll still be hiring a guide for my backcountry
far more to it than an avalanche risk number. It
a huge amount, but we also spent five days
This reduces the load on the snowpack,
adventures.
informs you about the weather, snowpack and
freeriding fresh lines in the seriously underrated
decreasing the chances of a slide, plus you
how risk varies by altitude, aspect and time.
Portes du Soleil. There are avalanche courses in
won’t all get caught in an avalanche so can
Mint Snowboarding offer a range of off-
You can identify where wind loading could be
most resorts – some are even free.
perform a rescue if the worst happens.
piste courses. Backcountry Camp: €635.
a problem, what kind of slabs are forming and
uring 10 brilliant days in Morzine, I joined the
how recent and future weather could affect
Mint Snowboarding Backcountry Camp in
the snowpack. From this you can determine
exploring the excellent Portes du Soleil, while
combinations of steepness, altitude and
learning about avalanche and off-piste safety. I learned that ultimately you’re never 100%
032 // NOV16
LUKE REES
OFFPISTE SAFETY
despite now being armed with knowledge,
mintsnowboarding.com
Know when to say no
Stay vigilant
Morzine: morzine-avoriaz.com/
aspects to avoid, and decide which slopes will
Before tackling your intended route, look
On shallower terrain remain aware of the
Swiss Air: swiss.com
be safest at different times of the day.
out for danger signs such as cornices, wind
snow quality, as it’s a great avalanche
Rude Chalets: rudechalets.com
@INTHESNOWMAG
NEW INDOOR SNOW CENTRE IS SCI-FI THEMED
FREERIDE WORLD TOUR SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED
NEXT-GENERATION CHAIRLIFT FOR LA PLAGNE
First there was Ski Dubai, next year there’ll be Ski Egypt and right now
The famous Freeride World Tour is a decade old in 2017 and reloads
La Plagne is set to unveil a next-generation chairlift this winter, thanks to a
there’s the all-new Ski India.
with a five-stop journey, once again featuring the world’s top riders
partnership with The MND Group, a division of LST, which describes itself as
It’s not India’s first indoor snow centre – around half a dozen snow
competing on legendary competition faces from the Alps to Alaska.
“a leader in innovative solutions for mobility development in the mountains.”
experience facilities have opened there in leading cities over the past
The contest kicks off on 27 January 2017 at Chamonix with the
The company’s new detachable six-seater chairlift design is the result of
five years – but it’s the biggest indoor snow park so far with a reported
competitors facing off with a clean slate among the razor-sharp
several million euros spent on the design of a new range of devices which
9,300m2 of indoor snow space placing it in 20th place for size of the
Alpine needles of Mont Blanc Massif in the home of all that is extreme
were tested earlier this year and are now protected by new patents, MND
world’s 68 currently operational indoor snow centres.
in the ski and snowboard world.
report. How much of the new technology which MND has patented will be
In what’s believed to be a first for indoor snow centres, the facility has a
A fortnight later on 10 February, it’s down to the Pyrenees and Vallnord-
visible to skiers and boarders using the new lift is not yet clear.
“sci-fi” theme with entry via an illuminating “wormhole portal” intending to
Arcalís in Andorra, where creativity and technical innovation will be the
The company say they have “significantly improved” the detachable grip
give the impression of entering a different planet. Compared to Delhi’s heat,
name of the game as riders attempt to solidify their strategies at the centre
process that connects the seat (or with gondolas the cabin) to the cable,
there’s certain to be some other-worldliness, and the complex includes a ski
of the Pyrenean freeride capital straddling the frontier of Spain and France.
improving performance and making it easier to maintain.
run, tubing slide, sledging and tobogganing, ice-skating rink and a children’s
Three weeks further on, its back to the Alps but further east at
Perhaps more visibly, the departure and arrival stations and vehicle
play area “cave”, where it doesn’t stop snowing. Visits are limited to one hour
Fieberbrunn in the Austrian Tirol on 4 March, where pressure will
ergonomics have also been redesigned in consultation with operators of
45 minutes at a cost of INR1,200pp (approximately £14.60pp) which includes
be beginning to mount on competitors as the first cut is made with
many stations to meet their requests for change for a reduced impact on the
rental of a pair of gloves, shoes, jackets and skates as well as the chance to
only the very finest riders of the first three stops qualifying for the
environment, improving safety and passenger comfort.
try all or any of the attractions.
penultimate contest of the 2017 tour at Haines, Alaska, on 17 March.
“We were attracted by the innovative technologies offered by LST,” says
With another developer recently reporting plans to build five new indoor
1 April sees the grand final back in the Alps on the infamous,
Jean-Yves Salle, Director General of SAP, La Plagne’s lift company. “With
snow centres in India in the next few years, it looks like the world’s two
intimidating and mighty Bec des Rosses face above Verbier in
nearly 400km of slopes, the technical challenge is to enable many La
most populated nations are going head to head in indoor snow centre
Switzerland, which riders must ride and tame if they wish to be
Plagne skiers to evolve in the best conditions. The new chairlift will enable
construction; China already has nine facilities operating and at least five
crowned world champion of the 2017 Swatch Freeride World Tour.
better management streams of skiers, and more widely meet all our security
more under construction.
freerideworldtour.com
requirements, comfort and design.”
SKI-ALL-IN DEALS
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Price Includes: Flights | Transfers | 7 Nights Catered Chalet | Lift Pass | Ski & Boot Hire O ff e r s s u b j e c t t o a v a i l a b i l i t y. Te r m s a n d c o n d i t i o n s a p p l y.
0330 102 8004
skiworld.co.uk
JENNY JONES TO LEAD POWDER HOLIDAY IN JAPAN
HELMET COLLECTION
to snowboarding in Japan. Having
out some neighbouring resorts such
a powder tour of Japan’s northern
competed there years ago, I never
as Rusutsu, Kiroro and Moiwa.
island of Hokkaido in January.
really had the chance to explore
The Hokkaido Powder Week with
Based in Japan’s most famous
it until recent years. It really was
Jenny Jones will run from 15–23
resort, Niseko, home to some
worth the wait. Unbelievable terrain
January 2017 with space for a
of the highest snowfall records
and snow, mixed with an incredibly
maximum of 12 good- to expert-
and best tree skiing in the world,
unique and beautiful culture. From
ability snowboarders paying
Jenny will explore the mountain
fluffy knee-deep powder, the
£3,499pp. The price includes
with participants on the holiday
night riding, to trying amazing and
return flights to Hokkaido, twin or
being organised by Ski Safari.
healthy food served by the nicest
double-share B&B accommodation
Based in luxurious slopeside
of people, Japan is a truly unique
in the 4★+ Ki Niseko, 6-day lift
accommodation, the time off the
experience,” said Jenny.
pass, 5 hosted/guided days, 2
slopes will pack in as much as the
Participants will have a total of six
yoga classes and a cooking class
enny Jones, the only UK snowsports
time on, with activities throughout
days on the mountain, five of which
with dinner. A Tokyo stopover can
athlete to win and hold on to an
the week including après, yoga
will be spent with Jenny and local
be included at additional cost. For
Olympic medal, winning bronze
and a Japanese cooking class.
guides discovering Niseko’s on- and
more details, email:
in Sochi, and the holder of three
“I’ve always felt incredibly drawn
off-piste terrain, as well as checking
andrea@skisafari.com.
ARABBA GETS A NEW GONDOLA ALTO ADIGE MARKETING/ALESSANDRO TROVATI
DARE TO BEAT
J
X-Games gold medals, is to lead
off-piste terrain than most areas in
slope Alpenrose, doubling in width
the region.
from 35 to 70m.
The resort is located on the famed
Piste 13 (linking Ornella and
Sella Ronda circuit next to Alta
Seurasas) has also been widened
Badia and is part of the Dolomiti
and gets a new snowmaking
Superski pass, but its remote
system. A third run, Savinè (from
location led to it being all but cut
Bec de Roces to Plan Boè) has
off by the last severe snow storm in
been widened on its steepest
The cult Italian destination of
long, climbs 492m and can carry
the region a few seasons ago.
section and also gets a new
Arabba in the Dolomites will
2,400 people/hour.
In addition to the new gondola,
snowmaking system.
unveil a new eight-seats-per-cabin
Arabba, located next to the
the main slope N°1 Salère has
Finally, the resort’s Lezuo Chairlift
gondola lift this winter. The Leitner-
Marmolada Glacier, is known for
been widened from the top station
will be more comfortable to rise as
built Portados Gondola is 1.438km
having more-extensive steep and
Carpazza to the beginning of the
it gets new seats.
034 // NOV16
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WORDS: ANDY BLEAKLEY | IMAGE: TRISTAN SHU
036 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
What is telemark skiing?
Jaz Taylor
Telemark skiing is a skiing technique that
The only female member of the British team is
combines the elements of alpine and nordic (or
British number one and currently ranked eighth
cross-country skiing). These days alpine skis are
in the world rankings. She is also the first Briton
used but with nordic style “free heel” bindings –
to have won a World Championship medal in
so your toes are connected to the skis, but your
telemark skiing.
heels can lift off them. It’s easy to spot a telemark
Jaz has been telemark skiing since 2009,
skier on the slopes as they will be lunging into
beginning as a talented junior athlete. She
turns and bending their legs at the knee.
joined the British Ski Academy aged 12,
In the days before ski lifts and before ski touring
competing as an alpine skier back then, and
equipment the telemark was also popular
became the youngest British ski cross champion
because it was easier to climb the mountain
ever, aged just 15.
with a free heel binding, the natural option to
In 2009 she joined the England freestyle ski
best allow walking on skis.
team and during this time was first introduced to telemark skiing. Jaz is based in Chamonix
The Telemark World Cup
and is currently training for the 2017 World Championships with the ambition of becoming world champion.
Telemark ski racing is the oldest, hardest and most exciting form of ski racing! It is the only World Cup discipline that tests all forms of competitive
I Try Telemark!
skiing in one top-to-bottom event. Each discipline
H
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includes alpine, jumping and nordic skiing
In recent years telemark skiing has seen a
components. La Plagne has twice been the venue
resurgence among resorts, and many ski
for the Telemark World Cup, which has grown
schools and hire shops are jumping in on the
increasingly important over the past decade or so.
action, offering private and group lessons and
The World Cup race circuit starts in November in
equipment rentals. I was lucky enough to enjoy
Hintertux and ends with the final race usually in
a couple of hours with ski instructor Nicolas at
March, with each round in between hosted by a
the Oxygène Ski School in La Plagne.
different country.
I’m a confident downhill skier (at least I like to think
Each chooses which telemark races they want to
I am!) and I am quite happy tackling black runs and
host, from three possibilities: for La Plagne, it was
enjoy venturing off-piste (with a mountain guide),
Dual Sprint and the Sprint, but they could have
but trying telemark skiing brought my confidence
was developed in Scandinavia 150 years ago
done a Classic race too if they had wanted – not
and technique back to basics.
as a way of skiing down hills more effectively,
every round has to include all three disciplines.
Getting accustomed to the free heel and lunging
after thousands of years of cross-country skiing. It was first conceived in the Telemark region of Norway, hence the name. The
into turns was both challenging and rewarding.
The British Team
idea caught on and spread across to the
One big factor to get used to was having the outside ski in the front on turns, which can take some getting used to as that’s the opposite to
Alps in the late 18th century. Here, pioneers
There are 10 members of the GB World Cup
alpine technique. On the plus side I found it was
reinvented the technique to create the
team, Jaz Taylor being the only female on the
a great workout, the most lunges I’ve ever done
forerunner of the alpine technique we use
team; they are coached by Sébastien Mansart
in a window of two hours!
today. But telemark has kept going as a style
and based in Tignes for the pre-season and Les
The verdict? I’d highly recommend giving
all these years and in the past decade has
Houches for the main bulk of the winter.
telemark skiing a go. For first timers I’d definitely
seen a resurgence in popularity.
When I met them I found they were a young,
recommend investing in a lesson, as there
Anyone can try telemark just like any other
friendly, talented team of athletes who are
is a lot to the telemark technique that’s very
winter sport, and recently I was invited to the big
clearly passionate about their sport and striving
different to regular downhill skiing, and a lesson
French ski resort of La Plagne for a “Telemark
to push to the next level. I was impressed
will help get you started.
Experience”.
by their camaraderie and also by the mutual
The itinerary included watching the action in a
support between competitors from competing
stage of the Telemark World Cup, meeting the
nations. They showed a real respect for the
GB telemark team – who have scored some big
sport, with athletes of all different nations
ave you ever tried telemark skiing? Perhaps
successes in recent years – and trying telemark
encouraging and supporting each other during
Telemark World Cup: telemarkworldcup.com
you’ve never even heard of telemark skiing?!
skiing for myself! Needless to say, I was a little
the competition. It felt a real honour to have met
GB Telemark Team: gbtelemark.co.uk
Well, it’s the original way of skiing downhill. It
excited …
the team and to be part of the event.
Jaz Taylor: jaztelemark.com
More Info
GBTELEMARK.CO.UK
T H E A D VA N T E D G E 1 2 5 , W I T H E A S Y E N T R Y D E S I G N A N D P E R F E C T F I T C U S T O M I S AT I O N – I N N O VAT I O N YOU’LL FEEL. ONE OF FOUR FLEX OPTIONS IN OUR REVOLUTIONARY NEW RANGE.
EUROSTAR TO RUN EXTRA TRAINS IN HALF-TERM
LIFT TOWER TO CARRY MOST SKIERS IN WORLD
Eurostar has announced additional trains will be running direct to the French
Ischgl ski area in the Austrian Tirol is replacing an old quad chairlift
Alps from St Pancras on key February half-term dates in 2017. Tickets for the
ahead of the coming ski season and spending more than £10 million
additional services are already on sale with return fares from £309.
on its replacement – a swish new eight-seater.
The extra ski trains come in response to popular demand with the
But for lovers of ski statistics (and who isn’t?), one of the most
original half-term services. The four extra services will follow the usual
remarkable aspects of the new Flimjoch lift is not its snug heated
timetable – with two outbound trains departing from London on a
seats and weather-protection bubble but the fact that it will share
Saturday night, whisking travellers up to the mountains in time for a
one of its 16 towers with the another eight-seater chairlift, the
Sunday morning on the slopes. The journey home will depart on Sunday
Hollboden, as the two routes cross above one another.
mornings, arriving in London that afternoon.
With both lifts able to quickly carry more than 3,000 skiers every
“The services to the French Alps offer a hassle-free journey, taking
hour (that’s very high capacity) up the mountain, this means that
winter-sports fans direct from platform to piste and offering a generous
this one tower will support 6,900 skiers and boarders per hour –
baggage allowance including two suitcases plus hand luggage and skis
believed to be a world record.
or snowboards at no extra cost,” a Eurostar statement reads.
The new Flimjoch chair, which has a €14 million (approximately
The extra trains are on 11 and 18 February 2017 from London to the
£12.6 million) price tag, will have a new mountain station with an
French Alps, returning from France on 12 and 19 February 2017.
enclosed exit area. The lift it replaces had gone into operation
They depart from London St Pancras at 19:42 and Ashford at 20:28,
back in 1993.
arriving in Moûtiers for Les 3 Valleés and other resorts at 05:34, Aime
Other ski area improvements at Ischgl include new ski-run signage
La Plagne at 05:58 and Bourg St Maurice for Les Arcs, La Rosière and (a
and 40 more of the latest propeller snowmaking machines to help
bus transfer away) the Espace Killy at 06:17.
the area maintain its reputation for a famously long ski season from
Return trains depart from Bourg St Maurice 09:34 and Moûtiers 10:14 and
late November to early May. As reported last month, Ischgl has also
arrive in Ashford 15:37 and St Pancras 16:13.
unveiled a new 2km zip wire this season.
eurostar.com
HI TOP TECH Wra ps yo u r sh in for immedia te b o d y- to - ski en ergy tra n sfer.
NEW HOTEL TO OFFER HEALTH PLAN ALL THE WAY HOME The personal fitness plan looks at activity and recovery, performance and health, and nature and technology and is described as “an ideal starting point for a sustainable active lifestyle or to increase current sporting performance.” The service is accessible to all ages and fitness
DUOFLEX
levels and encourages guests to get active and
A l l ows m o re dow nwa rd flex from a n i n st i n c t ive, u pr igh t sta n ce.
immerse themselves in the outdoor lifestyle in one of the sunniest towns in the Kitzbühel Alps. The Sportresort Hohe Salve is in easy reach of the traditional market town Hopfgarten, where a cable car takes skiers directly to the top of the
CONTROL FRAME Bl e n d s two pla stics for better fit cu sto m i sa t i o n a n d rea r wa rd su ppor t.
Experts at a new ski hotel opening this
in the large SkiWelt region, introduces a healthier
Hohe Salve at the heart of the SkiWelt Wilder
December in the Austrian Tirol will work with
way to enjoy your ski holiday.
Kaiser-Brixental ski area.
hotel guests to put together an exercise plan
Working in co-operation with the Institute for
There are 104 rooms and eight suites with access
that can not only be rolled out on their trip but
Sports Science at the University of Innsbruck
to a large indoor “movement” area with private
even continue beyond the holiday once they’re
and experts from the sports programme, the new
yoga room, gym and outdoor training area, spa
back home. Opening in December 2016, the
accommodation offers a personalised service to
and regeneration zone and pool.
Sportresort Hohe Salve in Hopfgarten, a village
guests to enhance the healthy nature of their stay.
hohesalve.at
038 // NOV16
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GET MORE ALTITUDE IN ALBERTA
Escape to the Rockies for huge ski areas, staggering scenery and phenomenal snow records.
Banff | Lake Louise | Jasper Find your perfect ski holiday at crystalski.co.uk ATOL protected. For more information please see our booking conditions.
CRYSTAL MAKE ALL SWISS RESORT TRANSFERS BY TRAIN Crystal Ski, the UK’s largest ski tour operator, has announced that from the coming ski season transfers to all of its Swiss ski resorts will be by train instead of coach. “This change is due to the excellent existing Swiss transport system and encouragement from smart customers who were concerned about the carbon footprint. The positive side effect is that transfer times will also be shorter by train,” said a company spokesperson. As an additional incentive, all customers who book ANDREA BADRUTT
before 15 December 2016 will receive a first-class upgrade. “The Swiss train transfer is the ideal solution for skiing holidays as the
TIGNES LE LAC
integrated timetables between and Zermatt. All have stations in
when they arrive at the airport and
and Communications.
resort except Saas-Fee, which has
assist them on their train transfer, if
meet in the hub of the station, mostly
Crystal offer holidays to five of
a short inclusive coach transfer
needed. Ski holiday prices will remain
sharing the same platform, to minimise
the top Swiss resorts: Engelberg,
from the nearest station. Crystal
the same as before.
further transfer times,” said Sara Roloff,
Grindelwald, Saas-Fee, Wengen
representatives will meet customers
crystalski.co.uk
ROGER GRUETTER
Switzerland Tourism Manager, Media
the Swiss network are programmed to
CRYSTAL SKI
www.hotel-le-taos.com
interregional and regional services on
VAL THORENS LES MENUIRES
•
•
COURCHEVEL
LA PLAGNE
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TIGNES LE LAC
+33 (0) 479 10 49 15 INFOS@MONTAGNETTES.COM www.MONTAGNETTES.com
ANOTHER NEW SKI RUN AT KRONPLATZ
ENGELBERG’S SNOW AND SAFETY DAYS
Kronplatz in Italy’s Dolomiti Superski area has been one of Europe’s
Engelberg has announced it will be staging a number of Snow and
most rapidly evolving ski areas since the turn of the century.
Safety Days, each lasting three days, during the coming season.
The resort now operates more gondola lifts than almost any other ski
The Swiss resort, which has a reputation as a freeride and ski
area on the planet, has been building long new ski runs when most
touring destination, will have mountain guides introduce freeriders
resorts just stick with what they have these days, and a few years ago
to the secrets of skiing off-piste and use various methods to
they even built a new railway station next to a gondola base station
demonstrate the most important safety rules on the days.
making it easier to arrive by rail.
Highlights of the three-day programme, which is free of charge
No new gondolas this year but there is another major new run. The new
to guests staying overnight in Engelberg and therefore holding
Hinterberg piste that runs down from the top of Kronplatz on the right
a guest card, include avalanche transceiver training with
side of the Belvedere gondola to the bottom station of the Marchner
shovels and probes, powder riding and ski tours accompanied
gondola drops a huge 700 vertical metres over its nearly two mile (2.9
by mountain guides, as well as a checkpoint expedition
km) length. Other improvements include widening of the Furcia 9, 12, Piz
around the ski area.
de Plaies and Pedagà runs above San Vigilio di Marebbe, widening of
The course runs from Monday to Wednesday on four separate
the slopes, a new carpet lift with automatic body height recognition for
weeks in 2017: 23 to 25 January 2017; 30 January to 1 February
the safer boarding of children in Valdaora, and there are snowmaking
2017; 20 to 22 February 2017 and 27 February to 1 March 2017.
upgrades and improvements across the region.
engelberg.ch/safety
040 // NOV16
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ENGADIN ST. MORITZ
Bucket lists are for ticking
CRESTA RUN CELEBRATED IN NEW LONDON BAR
s
home of the famously hazardous
their descent of the infamous
recently James Cracknell.
Cresta Run.
“men only” toboggan run.
The Cresta Bar at The Goring will
Two early adventurers were Otto
The Cresta Run was first created
feature everything from archive
Goring and his son (also Otto),
back in 1885 when five guests
photos to paraphernalia used to
founders of the hotel with the
(four British; one Australian)
survive the Run, including metal
family name in London’s Belgravia,
formed the Kulm’s “Outdoor
and leather hand and elbow
who made it their winter escape in
Amusements Committee” and built
guards, steel boot rakes and
the 1920s and 1930s.
the splendidly dangerous three-
helmets, as well as the famous
All of this has inspired the
quarter-mile course down to the
Shuttlecock Club tie automatically
imminent creation of The
ancient village of Cresta, on which
awarded to those who leave the
Cresta Bar at The Goring this
the small metal sledges can hit
track at Shuttlecock bend.
December, in collaboration with
nearly 133kph.
As Jeremy Goring says, “If you
the Kulm Hotel St Moritz, home
The membership list of the
want to do the Cresta Run this
t Moritz has a history very much
to the Sunny Bar, the infamous
subsequent St Moritz Toboggan
winter, but do not have time or a
shaped by the British and their
toboggan run’s unofficial
Club has contained many famous
death wish, The Cresta Bar at The
spirit of adventure, and for more
clubroom where riders come for a
names through the years including
Goring is where you need to be.”
than 130 years it has been the
fortifying snifter before and after
Errol Flynn, Lord Lucan and more
thegoring.com kulm.com
CORTINA’S NEW STARLIGHT ROOM
BOOK BY NOV. 15, 2016 FOR THE BEST DEALS OF THE SEASONGUARANTEED! Ski & Stay Packages
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The Starlight Room is located
appear so close you can almost reach
2,055m up in Col Gallina, a few
out and touch them … and finally,
kilometres from the centre of
at dawn, you’ll see the Dolomites
Cortina, but far away from any
blushing pink as they are kissed by
source of light pollution. The room
the first rays of the rising sun.
comes equipped with adjustable
The Starlight Room Dolomites
seats to help find the perfect
is accessible by snowmobile
stargazing position.
from Rifugio Col Gallina (or by
On clear nights the famous
snowshoeing or on a fat bike) and
A new portable warm bedroom
has been created by Raniero
“enrosadira” sets the Dolomites
can be booked for one or two
with glass walls designed for
Campigotto, manager of the
ablaze at sunset with fiery shades
persons at the cost of €300 (£270)
stargazers to enjoy an amazing
Rifugio Col Gallina above Cortina
of red; then, during night time, the
pn (dinner and breakfast included).
night high in the Dolomites
d’Ampezzo.
multitude of stars across the sky
cortinadolomiti.eu
042 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
PROMOTION WORDS: PATRICK THORNE | PHOTOS: BLAKE JORGENSON & MARK GRIBBON
Whistler Blackcomb has just wound up the celebrations of its 50th anniversary season. It has been quite a year, to conclude five decades in which the once unknown ski hill grew to become the largest ski area in North America. Its way of operating is so successful that it has been copied worldwide, an achievement crowned a few years ago by hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics. But after the year of celebration and with their 51st season just around the corner, Whistler Blackcomb has decided it’s time to start looking forward and consider what the next 50 years may hold. The Canadian ski area has long been a world leader in some of the big issues that face the winter sports travel industry, becoming green energy self-sufficient with their Fitzsimmons Creek hydro power plant, for example, as part of a longBLAKE JORGENSON
standing resort-wide campaign to be as environmentally friendly as possible. So, in the hopes of creating a conversation among peers, Whistler Blackcomb has created The Big Picture Documentary Series, a four-part documentary broaching some of the bigger issues that the ski industry will face in the next 50 years.
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043 // NOV16
 PROMOTION 044 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
“Several questions were posed with few answers provided,
Part 1:
The point is also made that whilst ski areas themselves have
so we dug a little deeper into some of the issues facing our
Is Our Thirst For Adventure Threatening Our Environment?
made achievements in this area and are trying to do more,
industry”, said Whistler Blackcomb’s Emily Wright.
The first video tackles climate change, which as mentioned is
each one of us can look at what we do in our day-to-day lives
Each video in The Big Picture Documentary Series is around
a subject very near to Whistler Blackcomb’s heart. The resort
year round in our transportation, home energy and food-miles
six to eight minutes long and each is very thought provoking
has had longstanding ambitions to operate in a CO2-neutral
choices and even who we vote for.
whilst also, happily, a joy to watch. This is thanks in good part to
way as far as possible and even to be a net exporter of green
the efforts of Switchback Entertainment and Origin Design and
energy. To that end it has employed a team of staff whose remit
Communications who put it all together with additional support
is entirely focussed on making Whistler Blackcomb ever more
Part 2:
from Canadian Telecomms company TELUS.
environmentally friendly.
What if Kids Stopped Playing Outside?
The first film in the series looks at the state of the battle against
As with all four of the Big Picture videos, the film begins by
The UK gets a mention in the second documentary, which looks
climate change; the second asks, "What if kids stopped playing
pointing out the key facts, namely that according to the UN
at the issue of changing habits for children. The Big Picture
outside?" (Because sometimes it feels as if we’re going that
World Meteorological Organisation figures, 14 of the 15 hottest
stat comes from the UK where, according to The Guardian,
way). The third asks “Is the pull of the backcountry pushing our
years on record have occurred since the year 2000, and
75% of children now spend less time exercising outdoors than
limits?” … and the final instalment is “Survive or thrive. What’s
Whistler Blackcomb’s main 50th anniversary year – 2016 – this
prison inmates do! It’s very different to the era before modern
the future of ski resorts?”
year will be the hottest yet, according to NASA.
technology when children were bored inside and wanted to get
If this all sounds heavy going, fear not; there’s no lecturing,
The documentary then opens by interviewing pro-snowboarder
out; now the reverse is increasingly the norm.
only considered discussion; no demanding perfection, only
Marie France-Roy who points out that whilst losing the chance
The argument here is that out on the mountain, unlike in video
encouragement to keep trying, and fortunately it’s all presented
to enjoy snowsports is a big deal, it’s nothing compared to the
games, actions have real consequences, so you can learn,
consequences of the bigger picture for the planet.
and outdoor activities have a deeper satisfaction than winning
Whistler Blackcomb’s Planning and Environmental Resource
in video games. The conclusion: seek a tech/outdoor activity
Manager, Arthur De Jong, then voices the concerns many of
balance, and the good news, in North America at least, is
us have about the question of how we continue to enjoy the
that last year families with children were the biggest growth
snowsports we love, but have a lesser impact on the environment
segment in the ski market.
with a nice laid-back soundtrack playing and some gorgeous film of skiers and boarders playing in the snow and of resort operations. It’s a bit too easy to drift off to the music and video, in fact, but hopefully the words filter into our brains too.
and avoid contributing to the climate damage which is slowly killing off snowsports. He points out that it’s an issue to be dealt with by our generation, not passed on to the next.
Part 3:
The documentary then sums up the big picture – all the
Is the Pull of the Backcountry Pushing Our Limits?
different and sometimes apparently conflicting factors involved.
Another big issue – the booming backcountry scene (off piste,
The fact that it is the people who love the mountains and being
freeride, ski touring) – is tackled in the third documentary,
outdoors who most commonly understand best what climate
beginning with stats that indicate that two million Americans
change means, but equally they’re more likely to be heavier
tried backcountry last season and there was a 40% rise in
contributors to climate change than the average person by
backcountry skiers doing likewise.
using long-haul air travel to reach the mountains.
As with the other videos, interesting and often profound
Arthur De Jong discusses ways to counter these conflicts and
questions are posed. For example, with ski areas doing
area after their success in moving to green energy – cutting waste still further towards a 90% reduction and planned hydroelectric conservation projects which will have a potential impact of 3,210,000 kWh over three years.
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ever more to try to keep people safe, with clear signposting of hazards and sometimes gates that are closed when the avalanche or other risk is too high, does that give the (incorrect) perception that when the gates are open the backcountry is “safe” when it’s clearly not? Is it better to have no gates? The
WHISTLERBLACKCOMB.COM
BLAKE JORGENSON
details some of Whistler Blackcomb’s current priorities in this
Part 5:
and provides a front row seat to all the action in Skier’s Plaza.
their limit and that the issue is not with backcountry snowsports
What’s New For Season 51?
Steeps Grill and Wine Bar in the Roundhouse Lodge will also
themselves, but with the people who choose to do them,
Although 50 seasons have gone by and Whistler Blackcomb is
introduce a new heated patio this winter, offering diners the
particularly those not fully prepared.
looking at the big picture for the next 50, it’s business as usual for
opportunity to enjoy a full service fine-dining experience in a
The good news, according to the expert commentators, is that
winter 2016/17, which kicks off in a few weeks on 24 November.
comfortable outdoor setting in Whistler’s Alpine location.
good decision-making is now far more widely respected than
This winter sees improvements to the on-mountain dining
Whistler Blackcomb will also be enhancing their new WB+
“going for it” when you’re not sure if it’s safe, and enrolments on
experience for all, and a focus on improved facilities for beginners.
online interactive platform connected to the resort’s RFID
avalanche awareness courses are up 250% on a decade ago.
As part of its continued efforts to grow the sport of skiing
technology, which was initially launched last season. WB+ offers
As an added enticement to view, I can certify that this particular
and snowboarding, Whistler Blackcomb has invested in
guests the option to create a personal WB+ profile to collect
documentary has the most beautiful filming of the four.
improvements to the learning areas on Whistler Mountain this
stats and data about their days on the mountains simply by
season. Improvements include terrain grading in the Olympic
scanning their lift passes at the RFID chairlift access gates.
Zone to optimise learning for new skiers and snowboarders,
This winter guests will also be able to enjoy the WB+ Groups
Part 4:
new snowmaking to ensure a good snow surface and the
function, which enables skiers and riders to set up leaderboards
Survive or Thrive. What’s the Future of Ski Resorts?
installation of two new covered carpet lifts to help eliminate
with their friends and family to compare stats, such as number
The final documentary is at a slight tangent to the first three as it
congestion and improve learning progression.
of days on the mountain or total vertical skied.
is less about what the individual skier or boarder can do to help
The section of the Garibaldi Lift Co (GLC) patio overlooking
the environment, their families or to stay safe in the mountains
Skier’s Plaza at the base of Whistler Mountain has been
and more about the ski industry itself looking at ways to keep ski
expanded for the upcoming winter to allow for more outdoor
The Big Picture
areas healthy and viable, when the stats show the number of ski
seating. The enhanced patio space includes a new roof,
To see the documentaries visit:
areas in the US has dropped almost 20% in the last two decades.
heaters and fire pits to ensure the utmost comfort for guests at
whistlerblackcomb.com/bigpicture
To end on a positive though – as each of the four documentaries
Whistler’s signature slope-side restaurant all season long. The
Whistler Blackcomb offers great value on Stay & Ski
does – a million new entrants to snowsports were recorded in
patio expansion increases the all-weather capacity of the GLC
packages all year long and more information is available at:
North America last year, the vast majority aged under 35.
on a year-round basis with a total of 90 outdoor covered seats
whistlerblackcomb.com
046 // NOV16
MARK GRIBBON
PROMOTION
argument is that search and rescue services are stretched to
WHISTLERBLACKCOMB.COM
YETI SERIES 16/17 COLLECTION
Ide al for b ig pow de r days, b ackcountry kicke r sessions or stormy tre e l ap s. E ve ry thing you ne e d to ke e p you hunting pow al l day long.
You may have heard of Mount Olympus, the
In terms of regular ski areas, however, Parnassos
of the newest, established in 1988.
famous home of the Greek Gods, but did you
ski resort is the biggest in the country, with more
Ski hire, food and overnight accommodation
know you could ski there? Greece may be
than a dozen lifts, 620m of vertical and 25km
are all available by the slopes which continue
famous for its beaches and warm sun, but
of runs. This is one of the most spectacular
up to the 2,340m summit, making it one of the
what you may not realise is that Greece is a
mountains in Greece, covered with fir trees.
country’s biggest lift-served verticals. There
very mountainous country and it gets a lot of
There are wonderful views from the Gulf of
are 12 ski runs served by seven lifts and it is
snow in the winter. Greece is in fact home to
Corinth to the Gulf of Euboea. A combination
only 203km from Athens.
more than a dozen ski resorts and has a long
of altitude and north-facing slopes normally
More mythology is to be had at Mainalo ski
history of skiing, with the first centres opening
ensures skiing well into April.
resort, one of the country’s oldest and long
nearly a century ago in the 1920s.
According to Greek mythology Mount
ago still home to Panas, the shepherds’ goat-
There’s even a Greek heli-skiing operation
Parnassos has rather more significance than
legged god (who was half human and half
(heliskigreece.com), which will take you to ski
for just skiing, as it was here that Zeus granted
goat), and the nymphs.
on Mount Olympus. This mountain rises 2,917m
Deukalion’s wishes and the human race was
Or if you like your slopes fully modernised,
straight up from the Aegean Sea, making it one
created; so quite a heritage.
consider Pigadia ski resort, Greece’s only
of the biggest vertical rises in all of Europe. The
Kalavrita ski resort on the north west side of
centre with 100% snowmaking coverage
mountain has 52 summits and the snow often
Mount Helmos is another of the leading ski
and the one with the reputation as the best
lies several metres deep on these. It has been
areas in Greece that boasts a history dating
organised ski resort in the country, boasting
known to snow at sea level, which means some
back into mythology. At 1,700m this is one of
modern, up-to-date facilities as well as some
serious vertical can be had here!
the highest centres in Greece and is also one
of the steepest terrain.
TAILOR-MADE SKI HOLIDAYS TO THE USA & CANADA
CALL A SKI SPECIALIST 07827811477
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HELISKIGREECE.COM
PHOTO Biege Jones
GREECE
www.planksclothing.com
ASPEN VAIL TELLURIDE WHISTLER PARK CITY JACKSON HOLE LAKE TAHOE HOTELS, APARTMENTS & PRIVATE CHALETS, AIRPORT TRANSFERS, 24 HR SUPPORT, GROUP, CORPORATE & GUIDING SERVICES
info@codatravel.com
www.codatravel.com
AROSA LENZERHEIDE SWITZERLAND’S BIG NEW ‘MUST SKI’ DESTINATION
A
separately over the years; two classic
World Class Skiing
Swiss ski resorts, both famous names in
area’s west side.
and the Stätz Jib area, are both excellent too.
The slopes climb up to 2,865m above sea
The new fun slope in Stätzertäli is especially
Arosa Lenzerheide’s ski area is one
level meaning not only great long ski runs
popular with families.
Known for their well-designed, snow-sure
of the world’s best with an incredible
back down but also snow-sure altitudes to
Besides regular days on the pistes the
slopes, beautiful scenery, great facilities
range of terrain for all levels of skier and
help guarantee great conditions.
ski area organises lots of extra options to
and high quality in everything from
snowboarder and for every taste. Along
For experienced freeriders the Rothorn
make your Arosa Lenzerheide ski holiday
gastronomy to accommodation, they’re
with wide gentle, perfectly groomed pistes
in Parpan and the Arosa Weisshorn are
even more special. For example, with the
resorts all of us would be happy to visit.
for beginners and nervous intermediates
among the most well-known Swiss freeride
Early Bird package you can get out on the
But a few seasons ago things changed
there are big, steep-sided bowls for
mountains, with great lines descending
slopes at 6.30am (or perhaps lie in a bit
dramatically! Arosa and Lenzerheide were
freeride freaks, and every type of ski run
from the Rothorn and Weisshorn (second
longer and take the 8am option, hmmmm)
linked by one of the world’s coolest cable-
in between. On the slopes good skiers can
section) cable cars.
and have the freshly groomed slopes
car lifts to create one of Switzerland and
also tackle the World Cup piste.
Freestyle skiers and boarders can have a ball
to yourself before a great breakfast. Or
Europe’s biggest ski areas.
To add to the fun you can download the
in the Arosa Lenzerheide snow park, which
at the other end of the ski day, if you
This huge ski domain now offers 225km of
Skiline app and keep track of where you
extends to four different areas, again suitable
have not had enough of the slopes by
r osa Lenzerheide is the name of one
fully connected piste served by more than 40
skied, how fast and much more, and you
for all tastes and levels. The spacious
the time the lifts close, there are night
of Switzerland’s biggest and best
lifts. Arosa Lenzerheide went from being a
can practise your ski racing and also get
Tschuggen Park’n’Pipe is one of the best in
skiing options and even skiing under
ski destinations. You may well have
destination you might hope to visit one day to
an automatic film of your skiing on the
Switzerland, whilst the Wood Ranch on the
the full moon when it provides maximum
heard of both Arosa and Lenzerheide
becoming one that every skier needs to visit.
Skimovie route at Stätzertäli on the ski
descent to the Weisshornbahn valley station
moonlight each month.
LUDESCHER SIGI
the ski world.
048 // NOV16
PROMOTION
FURTHER Info: arosalenzerheide.ch 225km of piste / 43 lifts Holidays from the UK: inghams.co.uk
are plenty of other activities to try.
the two halves of the ski area. And there’s
and most spectacular spas you’ll find in any
this winter 2016/17.
For example, Arosa Lenzerheide is one
plenty more besides: curling and ice skating
ski area, created by the famous designer
The key idea behind "Ski School Included"
The choice and quality of dining experiences
of the world’s leading centres for the
or even ice hockey, sledging, snowshoeing
Mario Botta. You’ll find lots of special
is to get more young people skiing and fight
on the mountain and in the resorts are a big
exciting sport of biathlon, a combination of
and snow biking to name but a few.
packages available on the resort’s website,
back against the problem in Switzerland and
attraction for foodies in Arosa Lenzerheide.
cross-country skiing and rifle range target
and it’s easy to reach Arosa Lenzerheide
the wider world which is that fewer and fewer
You can expect a wide variety of culinary
shooting. It’s an intriguing mix of exertion
with a flight to Zurich followed by a short
young people are getting out on the slopes.
delights from Gault & Millau and Michelin
on your skis and then needing to calm your
transfer using Switzerland’s famously
Thanks to a partnership with many of
gourmet guide rated cuisine to genuine
body in order to shoot straight, and it is
efficient and uncrowded public transport
the resort’s hotels, all group and ski and
regional specialities, such as fondue and
great to watch the professionals doing it
Arosa Lenzerheide is big enough to be able
system from the airport terminal right to the
snowboard classes are free of charge
raclette in the Bündnerstübli.
on Eurosport each winter.
to offer every type of accommodation for all
resort. The leading tour operator Inghams
for children born in or after 1999 (so up
In Arosa Lenzerheide you can try it for
budgets. You can stay in almost every type
also offers holiday packages from the UK.
to around age seventeen or eighteen
yourself with a fun taster session; there
of property you can think of, from a youth
are even special classes for children aged
hostel right up to one of the most luxurious
from 10 years old.
ski hotels in the world, the incredible
Although you can ski all day from dawn
Winter hiking is also big in Arosa
Tschuggen Grand Hotel, which has its own
until dusk if you wish then just collapse
Lenzerheide with 140km of cleared and
private funicular railway lifting you from the
The "Ski School Included" programme has
snowsports schools in Arosa, which have
in one of Arosa Lenzerheide’s enticing
marked trails including the new Heidi & Gigi
hotel to the ski slopes like a James Bond
been one of the region’s most popular
a reputation for being amongst the best in
restaurants or bars for the evening, there
trail created as a result of the connection of
mastermind, as well as one of the biggest
promotions and is back for its fifth season
Switzerland for teaching children to ski.
JOHANNES FREDHEIM
Lots To Do
Wide-Ranging Accommodation
depending on the time of your holiday). This offer is valid for a minimum two-night
Ski School Included
stay in many participating Arosa hotels and holiday apartments and for the two
FERIENREGION LENZERHEIDE
Great Dining
MATT ALEXANDER
MORE THAN 1,000 SCHOOL CHILDREN TRY SNOWSPORTS
A
Snowsport England initiative.
including a Schools Race at Suffolk
By getting over a thousand
Complementing the success of the
Ski Centre and the Independent
children involved we have beaten
national snowsports participation
Schools Association Championships
all targets, and more importantly
campaign, GO SKI GO BOARD,
at The Snow Centre.
given the snowsports bug to
which was started by Snowsport
The week started with a launch
hundreds of children across the
England in 2013, National
event featuring National Schools
country,” said Dominic McGonigal,
Schools Snowsport Week gave
Snowsport Week ambassadors
Chairman of Snowsport England’s
opportunities for schoolchildren
Stacey Solomon and GB
Youth Development Committee.
across England to try skiing or
snowboarder Aimee Fuller (pictured).
He added, “A big thanks goes
snowboarding either for free or at
Thanks to Visit Andorra and school
out to all the schools, slopes and
low cost.
tour operator Equity, each child
volunteers involved.”
t the conclusion of the inaugural
The campaign, which ran at 21
who took part in the week went
The success of the inaugural week
“National Schools Snowsport
slopes across England, included free
away with a goody bag.
will act as a springboard for future
Week sponsored by Visit Andorra”
taster sessions at most slopes as
“2016’s National Schools
events, with plans already in place
earlier this year, 1,066 children and
well as recreational slope time and
Snowsport Week has exceeded
to run National Schools Snowsport
149 schools got involved in the
several events aimed at schools,
our expectations by a long way.
Week again in April 2017.
NEW IN CHAMONIX: ROCKYPOP OPENING DECEMBER 5
NEW HOTELRESTAURANT www.rockypop-chamonix.com reservation@rockypop.com 1476 AVENUE DES ALPAGES 74310 LES HOUCHES TEL +33 (0)4 85 30 00 00
ROCKY POP HOTEL
TH
described as a mixture of a hotel
and open space, with pop-art
and a hostel that offers cheap and
décor, a boutique hairdresser’s
cheerful accommodation in the
and barber’s, a photo booth,
famous ski region.
movies to watch and plenty of
Located in the village of Les
entertaining games. The first
Houches, the RockyPop has 148
floor includes a ski shop and a
bedrooms that can sleep from
storage area.
one to twelve people. The hotel
Groups of friends can stay at the
also has three food counters
RockyPop from as little as
serving gourmet burgers,
€10 (£9)pppn, families from
local specialities and pizzas
€25 (£22.50) pppn, and couples
A new accommodation concept
Chamonix valley this winter.
respectively.
from €60 (£54)pppn.
is set to open its doors in the
The 3★ RockyPop hotel is
The ground floor has a fun
rockypop-chamonix.com
050 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
Buy your
SKIGEAR IN BRITAIN It Has More Benefits Than You Think
052 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
see them for sale in stores there’s
sports stars.
probably a reason for that.”
He also feels that for people to get
Being able to see, hold and try on
the best out of their own snowsport
kit, especially ski and snowboard
and maximise their ski holiday
hardware, has no substitute. Local
enjoyment, they need to be using
ski shops have staff who are
the best kit for them.
knowledgeable about skiing or
Damon believes that buying kit
snowboarding, and about the
from a specialist shop in the UK,
products, and they have got time
particularly your skis, snowboards
for you, helping you decide what
and boots, can mean the difference
works best for you.
between an average and a great holiday, hence his enthusiasm for the Go UK, Buy UK campaign.
Maintenance
The Best Advice
How many times have you bought
price you pay. And even if there
To make the most of your next trip
very good?
wasn’t, the price you end up paying
to the mountains, it’s vital that you
“The internet is great for many
can often be much more than you
have properly fitted boots and the
things, but one thing it’s not very
thought if you don’t buy from a
right choice of ski or snowboard.
good for is waxing and edging,”
British specialist snowsports retailer.
That way you can maximise your
Damon points out. “If you buy
That’s the message that the Go UK,
snow-time fun.
online or in resort and things go
Buy UK campaign is trying to get
“Where are you going to get the
wrong, it is likely to be a headache
across this autumn.
best advice? Are you going to get it
to return or replace your item of
The basic message is quite
from searching the internet or from
kit, especially if it is a pair of skis
simple: there are multiple
going in to your local store and
or boots.”
benefits to buying in the UK from
talking one to one with someone
“If you’ve bought from your local
a specialist snowsports retailer
who is an expert in their field and
specialist you can pop back and
compared to snapping up an
knows what it is you’re going to go
change your item or put it in for an
apparent bargain in resort or
and do? Where are you going to
affordable servicing, and even
online. But to fully understand
go? What are the snow conditions
if it gets broken or damaged
why, it takes a little explaining.
typically like there?” asks Damon.
they’re much more likely to want
If you’re planning on buying
“You may have your eye on a
to try to help make things better
gear for your next ski holiday,
particular set of skis or board and
– the goodwill factor here on both
it’s worth listening to the words
are wondering if they’ll do you
sides is unquantifiable. Sometimes
of Damon Street, a man with a
for your next trip, and the answer
you will have to pay, sometimes
deep understanding of the British
might be yes, but your local retailer
you’ll get a discounted rate,
(and indeed global) snowsports
might be able to advise on different
sometimes you get lucky, but it’s
retail business. Damon has a long
equipment that will suit you better
all down to getting that quality
history in the snowsports trade
and last you longer. It’s really about
of service that we offer here
and is currently General Manager
getting best value overall.”
in the UK, and that’s massively
here’s a lot more to buying your ski or snowboard equipment than the
something in resort, got it home and realised it doesn’t fit or isn’t
for the famous snowsports brands
important.”
K2, Volkl, Marker, Ride & Dalbello
If you have bought it in the UK you
in the UK, as well as being a
Quality
know you can easily return it, plus
Great Britain (SIGB).
Local ski shops work hard to
suitable kit in the first place. UK
Damon is particularly passionate
offer a good range of high-quality
specialist retailers, especially
about British snowsport and has
skis, snowboards and boots,
ones that are a member of
a clear vision focused on growing
allowing you to choose the kit
SIGB (the UK ski trade association),
participation in the UK from the
that will ensure the most fun on
pride themselves on their service
grassroots level up, capitalising
the slopes. And if you are worried
and after-sales support.
on the success of Team GB
about price, a lot of UK retailers
and building on a passion for
– both in-store and online – are
To support the Go UK, Buy UK
snowsports which he believes is
offering competitive prices for both
campaign and ensure you are
very unique:
hardware and clothing.
buying British, find your nearest
“When you talk to people about
“There’s a glut of gear out there.
SIGB retailer by visiting
how they feel about their skiing or
Some of it’s cheap because it’s well
sigb.org.uk/directory/shops.
snowboarding, they say they ‘loved’
priced, some because it’s not the
a particular run or that the snow that
most popular product out there,”
day was ‘awesome’. Most people
explains Damon. “Some people will
don’t talk in such passionate terms
just buy the cheapest because they
about other sporting activities,”
believe it’s money well invested,
Damon explains.
but actually with a bit of advice you
He feels strongly that by buying
may find the quality is not worth
kit from your local specialist shop,
investing in. There are a lot of
this supports the brands in the UK
unknown brands floating around
committee member of the trade body, Snowsport Industries of
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
on eBay and similar, but if you don’t
our under-funded British winter-
PROMOTION
T
which in turn helps them invest in
the shop wants you to be a loyal customer so they’ll sell you the most
SIGB.ORG.UK/DIRECTORY/SHOPS
WIN AN EIDER
SKI JACKET WORTH UP TO £400 French mountain brand Eider is offering one lucky winner the chance to win the Shaper – a cutting-edge men’s ski jacket – or the luxurious down-filled Montmartre jacket for women this issue. The technically advanced men’s
the women’s Montmartre jacket (SRP
either online or at a store. Eider reserves
Shaper Jacket (SRP £400) features the
£330) offers a detachable faux-fur-
the right to send a suitable substitute jacket
Fix A Shape™ YKK zip – the first zip to
trimmed hood and features a flattering
should stock become unavailable.
match the profile of your face. Got a
cut for fashion-forward skiers.
Prize must be claimed by 5 Dec 2016.
beard? This could be for you!
Available sizes: Men S–XXL; Women: 8–18;
Terms and conditions apply.
Benefitting from luxurious duck down,
product to be selected from Ellis Brigham
eider.com
HOW TO WIN To enter visit InTheSnow.com/competitions and simply enter your name and email. Good luck.
SC_in-the-snow_24-10-16-Jnr_HP_SC_in-the-snow_24-10-16-Jnr_HP 07/10/2016 14:06 Page 1
Stop dreaming and start booking your perfect snowy ski holiday to Serre Chevalier Vallée and explore these Alpine wonders
€217pppw
Ski and board from
*Selected dates apply
INCLUDING your lift pass*
Photo accreditation: Agence Zoom
Serre Chevalier Vallée Tourist Office Tel: 0033 (0)4 92 24 98 98 Email: resa@serre-chevalier.com www.serre-chevalier.com
JET2 / CHILL FACTORE
JET2 EXPAND WINTER 2016/17 SKI FLIGHT PROGRAMME
BIGGEST INDOOR SNOW CENTRE NEARS COMPLETION The new biggest indoor snow
(five) and lifts, also has a main run
centre in the world in terms
of 520m.
of its snow-covered area is
Apart from its size, the
nearing completion in China.
Harbin centre is interesting
The centre will have six ski
in that it is one of the few
runs, far more choice than the
built worldwide where it will
one or two offered by most
actually be warmer skiing
existing centres. The combined
indoors than outdoors in winter.
snow slope area of 86,000m2
Harbin, in China’s leading ski
is around double the biggest
province of Heilongjiang, in the
slope area currently offered.
country’s north east, can see
Eight lifts, comprising two
temperatures as low as -38°C
chairlifts and six carpet lifts,
(-36°F) in January, while indoors
will serve the indoor ski resort,
the slopes will only be a few
equalling the number at
degrees below freezing.
SnowWorld Landgraaf in The
The Harbin centre will be China’s
Netherlands.
tenth to become operational,
The longest slope, at 520m long,
making it the first country in the
will be the joint third longest in
world to get into double figures
the world. Currently there are
for indoor snow centres.
two indoor slopes of around
The current official opening date
600m in length at Amnéville in
for the Harbin centre is 5 August
France and the Alpincenter in
2017. Prior to that the first indoor
Germany. SnowWorld Landgraaf
snow centre in Africa, Ski Egypt,
in the Netherlands, which is the
from the same company that
closest to Harbin in terms of its
created Ski Dubai, is due to
slope area, number of slopes
open next spring.
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
055 // NOV16
Jet2.com has launched its ski flights
flights from Edinburgh to Geneva and new
week, including six weekly flights to Geneva
programme for 2016/17 with an expanded
Sunday flights to Salzburg and Verona.
and new destination Grenoble.
programme of 47 weekly flights operating
From East Midlands there are two new routes to
From Manchester there’s a choice of 20 weekly
to Barcelona (Pyrenees), Geneva, Grenoble,
Grenoble and Salzburg plus four weekly flights
flights to seven ski destinations, including to new
Lyon, Salzburg, Turin, Verona and, new for
to Geneva. From Glasgow there are two new
choice Sofia, plus eight weekly flights to Geneva
next season, Sofia for Bulgarian ski areas.
destinations, Geneva and Grenoble, with three
for the first time. From Newcastle there’s a new
In total, the company says, more than 230,000
flights per week. The airline has also announced
destination choice, Grenoble.
seats will be available, a 50% increase on
a partnership with local snow centre Snow Factor
“With this growth, plus our friendly flight times
last season. Plus there’s major growth on key
meaning Jet2.com passengers are able to get
and industry-leading baggage allowance, I’m
routes including Geneva and Grenoble, with
20% off Snow Factor ski passes.
confident even more people will slope off with
more weekday flights.
From Leeds Bradford Jet2.com will become
us next season!” said Steve Heapy,
Key programme developments include more
the largest ski operator offering 10 flights a
CEO of Jet2.com.
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
056 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
L
Savoie, with 60km of tracks nestled
the month for a new North American
amongst amazing scenery and nature.”
destination this winter. Not only have
Crystal have a “kind of” new Alpine
Crystal added it to their options, but
destination in Hochsölden, which is a
the Snowbombing Festival say they’ll
small resort that shares Sölden’s ski
be staging their first-ever fest outside
area. Hoch is of course German for
Europe there next April.
“high”, and “small, intimate” Hochsölden is one of the highest in Europe at 2,090m, “the ideal choice for serious skiers and boarders,” Crystal say.
Asia You will read on other pages of this
Scandinavia
magazine the exciting news that you can now buy a package holiday to ski in Iran with British company Mountain
Iglu Ski have added Oslo in Norway to
Heaven. There’s a new Club Med
their portfolio, offering a city break in a
resort opening in China which you’ll
capital which is home to a mid-sized ski
find covered in our feature on skiing in
ove it or hate it, Brexit may be upon us,
area along with a rich Olympic heritage.
China. Tour operators are also taking
but after the initial shock of the vote
“The great thing about Oslo is that
advantage of more flight routes to
result stopped us from booking holidays
the ski area is really close to the city,
Canada (see the "New routes" feature)
for a few weeks, the realities have
just 30 minutes by train from the
and to Salt Lake City in Utah (see our
gradually begun to sunk in. Namely:
centre, and there’s a variety of terrain
separate feature on that too!).
1: We can’t do anything about it.
for everyone, from easy slopes for
In China, also featured on other
2: Nothing much is going to change for
beginners to fun, varied pistes for
pages of this magazine, Club Med
at least two years, and we won’t even
all the family,” says Krystelle Kubicki,
has announced the opening of its
get an idea of what’s going to change
Digital Ski Editor at Iglu Ski.
highly anticipated new ski resort,
until the ski season is well underway.
Crystal have added two more ski
based in Beidahu, the company’s
3: It should keep snowing and whatever
resorts in Finland, Levi and Ylläs, as well
second Chinese ski resort and the
happens we still want to go skiing.
as Trysil in Norway, this winter. They
fifth Club Med resort in China overall.
It’s perhaps because of point 3 in
now offer six ski areas in Lapland. Ski
Beidahu has 19 ski slopes with runs
particular that tour operators report
holidays in Finland were increasingly
for all levels, from beginners to more
they’re seeing bookings start to
popular with Brits up to the economic
confident skiers.
build again after that initial post-vote
crash in 2008, after which they all
Finally, Ski Safari are adding the
fortnight we spent in shock.
but disappeared from the leading
Japanese resort of Kiroro to their list
“Although Brexit has had some impact
UK operator’s brochures. Since then
of destinations for the coming ski
on currencies, when you allow for the
they’ve been regaining lost ground, and
season. Located on Japan’s famously
fact that a percentage of the holiday
Crystal’s selection now also includes
snowy north island of Hokkaido,
cost is the flight, which is in pounds, the
Iso-Syöte, Pyhä, Ruka and Salla with
a two-hour drive from Sapporo
impact on the overall cost of a holiday
Inghams (who also offer Levi and Ylläs)
Chitose Airport, the resort averages
is relatively low,” says Richard Rice,
also having Saariselkä as an option.
a massive 14 metres of snowfall each
owner of tour operator Ski Safari. “We
“We tend to recommend Scandinavia
winter and has eight lifts servicing
have seen bookings slow a little, but we
primarily to families, but the truth is
21 runs (the longest of which is four
remain confident that skiers like to ski
that with all of its charm and potential
kilometres). Lift lines are rare and
and will still book their skiing holidays.
for adventure, Finland is suited to
there’s expansive off-piste available.
So it’s very much business as usual.”
anyone looking for more than an
There are two hotels at the resort
That means that the 16–17 new
average ski holiday. There are so many
base which together provide more
destination lists are out and, along with
other activities available which make
than 400 rooms, plus a wide range of
the familiar choices, there are a swathe
it particularly attractive: an overnight
restaurants and activities.
of new options to ponder:
at the Ice Hotel, glass igloos, ice
Due to its proximity to other Hokkaido
fishing, husky and reindeer safaris,
resorts such as Niseko and Rusutsu,
snowshoeing, cross-country skiing,
Kiroro can be easily included in a twin-
walking and more. And if Santa Claus
centre or multi-resort itinerary such as
can make his home there then it must
the Hokkaido Explorer Safari.
Alps
be pretty special,” a Crystal statement Most tour operators have announced
reads, continuing,
some new destinations in the Alps,
“As well as ensuring excellent ski
but the majority are already offered
conditions, Levi and Ylläs’ high
by others.
latitudes also mean a vastly elevated
An exception is Praz de Lys, a new
chance to witness one of the world’s
Club Med: clubmed.co.uk
addition to the programme of French
most sought-after phenomena – the
Crystal: crystalski.co.uk
specialists Peak Retreats, who describe it
Northern Lights.”
Igluski: igluski.com Inghams: inghams.co.uk
IMAGES: CRYSTAL SKI
as “a hidden gem set in a beautiful tree-
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
Tour Ops
lined area with views of the incredible
Mountain Heaven: mountainheaven.co.uk
Mont Blanc, just a short drive from
Peak Retreats: peakretreats.co.uk
Geneva Airport. An ideal family resort
North America
Ski Safari: skisafari.com Snowbombing: snowbombing.com
with a beginner’s area situated in the heart of the resort, and one of the most
Canada’s Sun Peaks resort in British
extensive cross-country areas in Haute
Columbia seems to be the flavour of
057 // NOV16 // INTHESNOW.COM
SUEDTIROL MARKETING/FRIEDER BLICKLE
d
Train and Prepare Anywhere, FAST
SkiA SkiTrainer SkiA SkiTrainer
Train and Prepare Anywhere, FAST
A TASTE FOR SKIING IN THE DOLOMITES
s
in the Alta Badia region, famed for
season. On the line-up there’s
to gastronomy. Other planned
its culinary culture, for the 2016/17
a Gourmet Ski Safari on 11
events include a celebration of
season, starting on 11 December.
December; Sommeliers on the
the local Ladin gastronomy and
This culinary event involves no less
Slopes offering wine tasting with
a wine-themed ski safari, both in
than 14 Michelin-starred chefs taking
some of the most refined wines of
March 2017.
up residence in huts in the Alta
South Tyrol on 9 and 26 January,
But whenever you visit this season
Badia ski region. Each of the chefs
9 and 16 February and 9 and 16
there’s the opportunity for foodies
will create a unique recipe by mixing
March 2017; plus ethical chef
and ski lovers to explore the
flavours and traditions from their own
days from 22–25 January, when
ski slopes of Alta Badia whilst
regions and home countries, and
some of the world’s leading chefs,
savouring delectable cuisine at
their dish will feature on the menu for
winemakers and food professionals
fair prices. The tour also offers
the whole winter season at one of the
from the five continents will meet
an exclusive opportunity to meet
mountain huts on the slopes.
in Alta Badia to share and discuss
the famous chefs in person and
outh Tyrol’s popular Gourmet Ski
In addition there will be special
a common vision of an innovative,
discover the story behind the dish.
Safari “A Taste for Skiing” is back
culinary events throughout the
ethical and sustainable approach
altabadia.org
Emily Sarsfield
MORE CHALETS & FLIGHT CHOICE FROM SKI FAMILLE
skia.com
SKI FAMILLE
Recommended by:
they’re continuing to improve
Select chalets which this winter
and expand their operation with
will feature espresso machines
two new chalets and a far wider
and an upgraded wine list.
selection of flight options. The
All Ski Famille holidays include
two new chalets, Corbeau and
a flight from London Gatwick,
Aigrette, in Les 3 Vallées, are
but they can now offer flights
in Ski Famille’s Premier Select
from 12 airports across the UK
Chalet category and have
for a supplement. The company
facilities for families including a
promises that “… there will always
cinema room in each chalet and
be a saving on the same flight
à la carte childcare available
booked direct and resort transfers
Family ski holiday specialists, as
celebrated 25 years in business
throughout the season. The
are included.”
their name suggests, Ski Famille
last season, but this season
company now has four Premier
skifamille.co.uk
058 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
South Tyrol seeks dolce vita skiers. South Tyrol seeks you.
bo
de
ns
d
ee
a ch 4
Bolzano Bozen
Discover South Tyrol – the Alps’ best-kept secret. You’ll find 1,000 km of perfect pistes in this stunning winter wonderland, where the sun shines 300 days a year. And when you’re finished skiing for the day, bask in the midst of the Dolomites while you sample some of the area’s sensational food and drink. www.suedtirol.info/dolcevita
12/18/11 4:46 PM
07.indd 1
1/4/12 10:29 AM
PROMOTION
HOW TO SKI 8 DAYS ON A 7-NIGHT HOLIDAY
C
management living in resort and always available
resort with most operators you would normally
holiday you will also have the slopes to yourself as
when you need them is a big plus point; but
have to check out at 10am and go straight to the
its changeover day for almost everyone else!
Chalets 1066 have also cleverly worked out a way
airport. But with Chalets 1066 you can again leave
Chalets 1066 offer a choice of 21 self-catered
for their guests to enjoy eight days skiing instead
your bags at Chalet Hastings, have a whole day
properties, ranging from economy self-catering
of the usual six on a seven-night holiday, and you
skiing, have a shower and get changed at Hastings
accommodation to the very high-quality
can’t argue with that!
at the end of the day and have your transfer
but affordably priced Chalet De L'Atray. The
Here’s how it works: you arrive early on a
arranged for an evening flight (and Ski Mobile will
company’s Le Lapye catered chalet is now No 2
Saturday, leave your bags at the company’s Chalet
pick your rental equipment up – you don't even
on in Les Gets TripAdvisor and offers a standard
Hastings having pre-ordered your ski passes from
need to queue to return it).
of catering and service for which you’d pay
Chalets 1066 (they actually have the facilities to
If you are going to enjoy eight days skiing
double the price elsewhere.
make ski passes to order at Chalet Hastings) then
anywhere, there are few better choices than Les
The company offers additional optional services
you can be straight out on the slopes within half
Gets. One of the best resorts in the French Alps it
for self-catered properties including fresh bread
an hour of arrival! So the Saturday most skiers
has an authentic nature, beautiful scenery, plenty
and croissants delivery in time for breakfast by the
spend travelling, getting their gear and passes
of ambience and a great ski area. You can stay on
local baker, a chef service and so on. Most chalets
halets 1066 are one of the most successful
organised, and after mooching around the resort
the friendly local slopes or venture out on a ski
are less than 10 minutes’ walk to the slopes, and
operators in the beautiful French ski resort of
you’re on the slopes.
safari across the Swiss border as the ski area is
quite a few are ski back.
Les Gets. They have grown by over 400% since
If you need to hire equipment, Chalet 1066 can
part of the huge Portes du Soleil region offering
Call 0207 183 5082
they started 8 years ago to become the largest
arrange for this to be delivered by their partner Ski
more than 600km of piste above a dozen resorts
or visit chalets1066.com
accommodation provider in the resort.
Mobile to arrive when you do.
on the one pass.
So why so popular? Well being family-run, with the
On the following Saturday when you leave the
Skiing on Saturdays at the start and end of your
060 // NOV16
0207 183 5082 | CHALETS1066.COM
Foto © Christoph Schöch
BLOW BONUS THE APARTMENT WORDS: GABRIELLA LE BRETON
Top price:
create a super chalet comprising nine suites, a
furs, pelts and cashmere throws.
€415,312.50 / £356,803
master apartment, restaurant and spa.
Unsurprisingly, the ski room and spa aren’t
One night’s exclusive use of Blumen Haus
So far, so not very new, you’re thinking.
shoddy. The former houses a quiver of
Another gazillionaire builds another flash
handmade Indigo skis and limited edition
Bargain price:
chalet for other smug gazillionaires to enjoy.
helmets created specially for Blumen Haus.
€2,340 / £2,010
But hold your cynical horses: Flowers is a
The latter features a treatment suite, hair salon,
One night in a Blumen Haus suite
businessman and, in his first sortie into the
indoor infinity pool with a current stream and
hospitality industry, he’s here to prove himself.
whirlpool, two saunas and a steam room. If ski-
It’s easily done: spend enough time in hotels
Thus, Blumen Haus is actually a boutique
in/ski-out access to the Arlberg isn’t enough to
and you get to thinking that you could create
hotel in chalet form – each of the nine suites
satiate your fitness needs, Flowers has installed
your own, infinitely better one. As you rant
is sold individually by the night (although you
a state-of-the-art Technogym and cardio area
about power sockets located miles from the
can rent them on an exclusive use basis from
in the Blumen Haus. But the pièce de fitness
bed and drip your way from bathroom to
€212,625 / £182,670 per night). Yes, the walls
résistance is the hypoxic chamber, a super-
bedroom to scoop up a towel “thoughtfully”
are clad with reclaimed wood and the roof
handy bit of kit that enables one to train at an
placed on the bed, your own peerless hotel
fashioned from copper according to Alpine
altitude of 5,600m.
takes imaginary shape.
tradition, but the “Living Room” garage is
After après at 5,600m, you’ll need top nosh,
Yet, it takes a true entrepreneur to put his
lit with colour-changing mood lighting and
and Flowers doesn’t disappoint, having
millions where his mouth is and actually
equipped with a sound system, for when you
drafted in Gordon Ramsay protégés Steven
build a hotel. Meet Andrew Flowers, British
want to chill with your Bentley. (Do a Blumen
Ellis and Barbara Mairhofer to rustle up
entrepreneur and owner of what promises to be
Haus self-drive and the team will clean your
exceptional cuisine served in the restaurant,
the hottest new hotel in the Alps, Blumen Haus
motor and fill her up, thus saving on petrol.)
your suite or the James Bond suave wine
in Lech, Austria. By no means a silent investor,
Clearly something of a tech geek, Flowers has
cellar. Alternatively, push the Titanic out and
Flowers has been directly involved with the
equipped the suites with top-notch Loewe TVs
book out Flowers’ master pad so you can dine
conception and build of Blumen Haus (meaning
(with Netflix), Revox sound systems and iPad
there. The four-bedroom apartment spans two
Flowers House – clever, eh?). Single-minded in
wall activations to control the lighting, air con,
floors of the Blumen Haus and comes with its
his determination to raise the already sky-high
heating and fireplace. While the boys play with
own elevator, cinema, pool table, whirlpool,
luxury benchmark for chalets in Lech (home
the toys, the ladies will love the lost-count-of-
kitchen, dining room, butler and chauffeur.
to the pimping Chalet N, 1597 and Überhaus),
the-thread-count Egyptian bed linen, Italian-
Book it for a night (€120,000 / £105,000) or
Flowers has injected undisclosed millions to
sleek Minotti furnishings and assortment of
two and you’ll come up smelling of Blumen.
POLE BLUE BIRD VARIO GLOVE ELEMENTS PALLADIUM S
ALPINE/FREERIDE
BLUMENHAUSLECH.COM
STOCKIST INFO ADMIN@ARDBLAIRSPORTS.COM | 01250 873863 WWW.LEKI.COM
JAY MAWSON
Summary Terms and Conditions:
your name and address. The Prizes:
apparel for Ski, Mountain, Active
UK, 18+ only. Enter between: 24.10.16
Grand Prize: Up to £250 of clothing,
and Cycle.
and 24.11.16 inclusive. Normal entry
chosen from dare2b.com.
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Visit InTheSnow.com for full terms,
please visit: dare2b.com
necessary. To Enter: Please complete
conditions and prize details.
ROSS WOODHALL
Dare2b create technical performance
ROSS WOODHALL
InTheSnow have teamed up with Dare2b to give one lucky reader the chance to spend £250 on any ski clothing of their choice!
HOW TO ENTER
SIMPLY visit InTheSnow.com/competitions and enter your name and email. Good luck.
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BOOT ROOM Sponsors of Boot Room
Sponsors of Boot Room
ICE BREAKER VERTEX FAIR-ISLE LONG SLEEVE 1/2 ZIP TOP AND LONGJOHNS Traditional fair-isle graphics combine with technical merino wool fabric giving you a set of very warm thermals. Now you can look good lounging around the chalet, in the mountain restaurant or walking down the street. A great thermal with multiple uses. £110 + £75 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
ARC’TERYX TANTALUS JACKET So much tech goes into an Arc’teryx jacket and this is no exception. Strategically placed fabrics give you better functionality – lighter stretch fabric on the main body gives you better breathability, combined with tougher fabrics on the shoulders, hood and other high-wear areas. These superb technical fabrics are enhanced by the very functional fit; you’ll be impressed when you try it on! £520 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
SCOTT SUPERGUIDE CARBON GORE-TEX TOURING BOOT Everything you want from a performance ski touring boot and probably a whole lot more than you get from most. Gore-Tex liner for waterproofness and breathability; warm, light and fully mouldable Ultralon liners; carbon-reinforced shells for power and precision; an easy-to-use walk mechanism giving you a great range of motion for skinning up; and lastly the usual great Scott anatomical fit. Everything in one boot. £525 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
MAMMUT GREEN ALUGATOR TWIST SHOVEL HEAD SUPERSHAPE TITAN
When performing an avalanche rescue, every second counts. Two possible blade positions make it easier for you to scoop or cut the snow. Extendible handle and T-grip means you can
Familiar name, new skis! With
dig faster and maximise your effort. When you need to use a
graphene embedded in the DNA
shovel in an avalanche situation, efficiency is critical!
of the new Supershape you will enter a new dimension in
ATOMIC REVENT Q GOGGLES
skiing. The unique characteristics of this Nobel Prize winning material enable a totally different
ATOMIC HELMET AUTOMATIC LIVEFIT 3D Giant bobble-head syndrome can now be a thing of the past with this helmet, which was designed to have
£49.95 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
SIDAS HEATED FOOTBEDS PRO
Quick lens changes are possible here with the easy-to-use
construction and shape to our
clip at the side of the frame. Easy to release with gloves on so
high-performance skis. Charge in
Why have uncomfortable cold feet if you don’t need to! A super-thin
you can change your lens as quickly as the mountain weather!
all terrains with perfect weight/
heating element attaches to your existing footbed and is heated up
Combine this with the Livefit system that shapes comfortably
balance distribution, and a more
by a compact rechargeable battery, providing heat for up to eight
around the contours of your face and you definitely have an
accurate turn initiation.
hours. The unique design means you can also dry your boots in the
award-winning goggle.
evening whilst charging them ready for the next enjoyable day! £535.00 INC PRX 12 BINDINGS
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HEAD.COM
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a low profile but didn’t forego any impact protection or comfort in the process. Its slight flexing shell and impact-resistant liner allows it to fit almost any head shape, so now there’s no excuse for you to not wear a helmet. £140 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
064 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
BLACK CROWS CAPTIS MEN’S / CAPTIS BIRDIE WOMEN’S SKIS
DALBELLO LUPO TI CARBON ID LINER
BLACK DIAMOND JET FORCE AVALANCHE BACKPACK HALO 28
Why go ski touring and compromise on your The playful, more all-mountain little sibling
skiing performance? Precision from edge to
A battery-activated avalanche airbag
of the award-winning Atris ski. Grippy
edge and power to the ski comes from the
that quickly deploys at the pull of a
for piste skiing but still very lively and
new carbon spine construction – combine this
trigger. No more issues with refilling or
with its lighter construction, smooth flex
travelling with gas canisters. Being able
springy for your playful nature to take over. Progress your skills all over the mountain
and range of movement and you’ll
with the ski that’s as playful as you need
to recharge it, much like a mobile phone,
want to ski in these every day, not
it to be.
means you can practise setting it off at
just when you’re touring!
home. This way you’ll intuitively know what to do in the heat of the moment!
£470 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
£795 | SKIBARTLETT.COM £850 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
STORM TRACKER HEATED GLOVES It’s unpleasant if you’re one of those unlucky people who suffer from cold hands. These rechargeable battery-powered heated gloves will give you comfort and smiles in any weather. Not only will these be a lifesaver whilst skiing, they’ll be amazing for walking the dog, or holding a cold steering wheel! £200 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
KASTLE FX85 SKIS
FALKE ENERGIZER SOCK
An all-mountain freeride ski, co-created by the superb Chris Davenport.
Combine improved anatomical shaping
Its unique lightweight Hollowtech tip gives you advantages like easier
around your foot, warmth from merino
turn initiation, great vibration absorption and more stability. These really
wool and quicker muscle recovery and
will cut through the crud, hoon the piste and surf the soft stuff.
you’ve got a recipe for all-day comfort.
£549 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
£40 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
FULL TILT SOUL SISTER BOOT
DYNASTAR CHAM 97 2.0 SKI
The most popular women’s boots for
The award-winning Cham is back with
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a new shape and new lighter-weight
all-round skiing performance if you are out all
construction, making it even more
winter. The fluid, continuous flex allows you to
impressive. More versatile, more
play in the park or rip all over the mountain,
performance on piste and still as agile
and the mouldable intuition liners keep
and surfy in powder. An easy-turning,
your feet comfortable and warm.
flattering ski that will help you ski more and more varied terrain.
£335 | SKIBARTLETT.COM £465 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
DOUCHEBAGS BIG BASTARD LUGGAGE BAG & WHEELIE SKI BAG Fed up hauling awkward, unwieldy luggage? Wish you had another pair of hands? Designed by pro riders, airline baggage handlers and engineers, the Douchebags team have put together a clever awardwinning package – ease of use, tough fabrics and modular design makes this the ultimate in luggage for all seasons. £199 + £199 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
MORE AT SKIBARTLETT.COM With their renowned reputation for specialist expert advice, combined with their carefully selected and tested range of products, it’s no surprise that Ski Bartlett’s word-of-mouth reputation over the last 50 years has made them
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the UK’s most popular independent ski shop!
BURTON BASIC KNEE PAD
VOLCOM SHADOW INSULATED WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKET
Protect your precious knees
UNION FORCE BINDING
with the Burton Basic Knee
The shadow jacket has a feminine and longline
Pads. The low-profile design
fit, with a high waterproof and breathability rating
offers great protection but
(15k/15k). It features some luxurious extras such as
still slips on easily under
a removable fur hood, jacket-to-pant zip interface,
your snowboard pants.
noise and media pocket and warm fabric.
£17.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
£199.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
A lot of binding for your money. Compared to other bindings in this price category, nothing else stands up. Reliability, function and comfort are just a few of the reasons why this is one of our best-selling bindings. £184.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
CAPITA SPACE METAL FANTASY SNOWBOARD
DRAGON NFX2 DANNY DAVIS The NFX2 features swiftlock technology,
CAPITA DEFENDERS OF AWESOME SNOWBOARD
This very forgiving reverse camber
allowing you to change your lens incredibly
shape provides a fun experience for
quickly and easily. Perfect for changeable
The DOA features a next-generation hybrid
intermediate riders looking to expedite
weather conditions on the mountain. Use
camber design, which delivers the pop
the learning curve and take their riding
the dark smoke lens for sunny and bright
and response of a camber board with the
to the next level. This series is fun for
conditions, and use the yellow red ion lens for
predictability of reverse camber. This truly is
carving around the slopes and playing
cloudy, snowy or white-out conditions.
the “go anywhere, do anything” freestyle deck.
£149.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
£354.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
on features in the park, and it even
VOLCOM VISION WOMEN’S CREW
floats surprisingly well in powder. £289.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
The Volcom Vision crew is a moisture-wicking baselayer top designed to keep you warm and dry all day. It has a soft brushed interior and extra-long thumb-hole cuffs to help keep the warmth in and the snow out.
UNION JULIET BINDING
£49.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
The Union Juliet is a women-specific binding in both design and colour. The
CAPITA SPRING BREAK SLUSH SLASHER
three-dimensional multi-layer strap core evenly distributes pressure across the top
The Capita Slush Slasher has a truly unique look and design. It has an elongated nose which
of the foot, comfortably locking you in for
ploughs over anything in its path while the V-shaped Vacation Tail lets you put these snow sharks
maximum control.
on cruise control. With the rare and tropical Slush Slasher, the world is your seven-day weekend.
£134.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
£289.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
MORE AT SPUTNIKSNOW BOARDSHOP.COM Sputnik is one of the UK’s largest independent snowboard shops. We offer great choice and service to all our customers. Whether you are beginner or expert, we can kit you out to ensure you have a great day on the mountains. 066 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
BURTON IMPACT SHORTS
HOW DO AVALANCHE AIRBAG BACKPACKS WORK?
From beginners connecting turns to pros on the hunt for a new trick, everyone can drop with confidence in the Burton Total Impact Short, protected by G-Form™. G-Form’s proprietary technology momentarily stiffens on impact, absorbing and dissipating incoming energy, hit after hit. £79.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
686 AUTHENTIC MONIKER INS JACKET The 686 Authentic Moniker Jacket is
During an avalanche snow and debris start to fall down
a clean-looking jacket but it has all the
the slope. The larger particles come to the surface
important tech you’ll need. Fully taped
and the smaller particles work their way towards the
seams, Air-Flo Mesh-lined underarm
bottom, and like a packet of crisps, larger crisps are
vents to help you regulate your body
always at the top and the broken pieces at the bottom.
temperature and tons of pocket space to
With this in mind, the larger you are the more chances
keep your essentials close to hand.
you have of staying nearer the surface of the snow and therefore the more chances of survival. If you think an avalanche has started you can activate your
£149.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
bag. A large balloon-like bag inflates out of the top of your backpack; with the airbag activated you are much bigger than you would usually be, helping you stay
686 AUTHENTIC INFINITY SHELL PANT
nearer the snow's surface. Avalanche airbag balloons
Simple but effective design, combined
An avalanche airbag is a ski backpack with an
with modern technology in the 686
integrated balloon airbag system fitted inside. A pull
Authentic Infinity cargo pants. Built into
cord fitted within the backpack shoulder strap, working
them, you will find adjustable waist
much like a parachute pull cord, triggers the balloon
straps, lace hook boot gaiters and mesh-
to inflate. When the cord is pulled an air canister is
lined vents, ensuring that you have a
triggered, inflating the balloon with a tiny air turbine
comfortable ride.
within a few seconds.
are always hi-visibility colours so you can easily be seen from a distance.
Airbag backpack inflation systems vary considerably. Some use a mechanical trigger to activate an air
£114.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
canister and others use a tiny internal explosive charge to trigger a gas canister. Newer rechargeable-batteryoperated versions are also available. There are pros and cons for each – air canisters can sometimes be tricky for airplane travel, whilst battery-operated ones should cause you no problems. Battery units also allow you to practise setting off the airbag as it can be set off multiple times on one charge. If you get knocked over by an avalanche the snow drags with it rocks, large chunks of ice, trees and anything else in its way. The airbag balloon inflates
PLANKS THE GOOD TIMES JACKET Military inspired styling and a relaxed fit make this a strong favorite with our team. Built using our 2-layer RIDEdry15 fabric to keep you dry in any conditions and insulated to make even the coldest days more fun. Let the Good Times roll. £199.95 | PLANKSCLOTHING.COM
VOLCOM ARCTIC WOMEN’S THERMAL PANT The Volcom Arctic thermal pants are specifically designed for women, offering a women-specific fit and design. Made from Volcom’s V-Science Dermis fabric they give great warmth and breathability. £44.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
& SKIBARTLETT.COM
around your head and is designed to help protect you from the effects of tumbling and from debris hitting you. Some airbags will keep injecting air into the balloons every few seconds; this means if the balloon gets punctured it will still stay inflated. In the unfortunate event of you getting buried under the snow the bag will begin to slowly deflate leaving you with a breathing air pocket under the snow. Avalanche airbags are not a replacement for avalanche transceivers, which are a must when skiing off piste. They are also not a licence to ski in unsafe terrain, but an aid to helping you if you are in the unfortunate situation of being caught in an avalanche. Be prepared, but make sure you are always very aware of the current avalanche conditions wherever you are skiing.
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067 // NOV16
PAUL KEPPEL PHOTOGRAPHY
TUITION ALTITUDE-VERBIER.COM | ALTITUDE-FUTURES.COM | FREERIDE-VERBIER.COM
Beginner Tips WISE DECISIONS
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
BASIC TECHNIQUE
BE IN GOOD SHAPE
JON (AKA WESTY)
This month Jon looks at some
You can help to increase your
Be realistic and don’t try to run
How to stand – Your position
We advise you to prepare your body
Jon holds the top qualifications from
technical and psychological tips to
chances of having a fantastic
before you can walk. Make sure you
over your skis is crucial to help
for the exercise you are planning to
France, Switzerland and Britain,
help a beginner skier to master their
holiday and successfully learning to
have some lessons, learn the basics
you easily control your speed with
do. Skiing is definitely demanding
and we can say firsthand that he is
new chosen sport. With all the new
ski by making some key decisions
and be patient – remember, the
minimal physical exertion. When
on the body – you will not only be
a great ski instructor! Jon heads up
equipment and skillful instructors
ahead of the holiday:
person with the best technique will
sliding make sure you stand above
using new muscles, but also you are
the team at Altitude Ski School –
on the mountain there has probably
Choose a resort that has a good
make the fastest progress.
the centre of the ski and enjoy the
challenging your body by doing it at
Verbier’s most established British ski
never been a better time to learn
snow record and a few beginner
Choose terrain that is not too
ride – look forward, keep your legs
some 2,000m above sea level.
school. Each month Jon or one of
to ski. Here are a few tips to help
slopes – this will mean the slopes
busy or steep and looks welcoming.
slightly flexed, try to be relaxed
Try not to leave this until the last
his team will provide us with a few
you have an enjoyable holiday
are likely to be less busy and the
From here you will learn the
and keep your skis parallel and hip
minute – start at least six weeks
tips and words of wisdom to help
experience.
snow will be in good condition,
basics without worrying and being
width apart.
before the start of your holiday and
improve our understanding of skiing.
making it easy to turn.
distracted by fear.
How to stop – Learning how to
you’ll notice a big difference.
When choosing a ski school,
We would advise you to tell
create the famous “snow plough”
Ideally, head to the gym;
we recommend you pick one that
friends and family they won’t be
will probably be a big step towards
however, if this is not possible
employs instructors who speak your
teaching you and book a lesson
feeling in control. Make a V shape
then at least think about using the
language – you will find it easier to
with a local ski school. There are
with your skis by pushing the tails
stairs instead of escalators and up
The Altitude winter company portfolio
learn and you will understand their
usually lots of great schools in the
of your skis outwards – this will
your level of exercise any way you
includes the ski and snowboard
jokes better (hopefully).
resort; even better, ask the hotel or
create resistance against the snow
can. Try whenever possible to get
school, the Futures instructor
Build your confidence and
chalet company to recommend a
and enable you to slow down. Your
yourself a little bit out of breath.
training programmes, and FREERIDE
fitness in advance of the holiday by
good, patient instructor.
instructor will ask you to adapt the
Get on a bike, go running, rowing
VERBIER, a new school dedicated to
practising on a dry slope or indoor
size of your plough and you will learn
or hiking for 20 minutes three times
off-piste coaching in Verbier.
snow dome if you have the chance.
to feel how this affects your speed.
a week – this will provide you with a solid base and limit your risk of injury.
068 // NOV16
ALTITUDE
info@altitude-verbier.com +41(0)27 771 6006
S K I
Skis are Now More Versatile and User Friendly... Isn’t It About Time You Upgraded Yours?
F O R
PAUL KEPPEL PHOTOGRAPHY
KIDS THINGS FOR PARENTS TO REMEMBER Taking the kids to the slopes should be fun for everyone involved. Get it right and your children will be hooked on snowsports for life, get it wrong and your holiday could be horrendous and you’ll spend the next decade and a half trying to put right those earlier mistakes and convince your kids skiing is great really. Still, no pressure. Here are some top tips on the basic rules to follow to up your chance of family success on the slopes.
Safety • Sun cream in all weather • Well-fitted helmet • Not cold – layering works well • Hydration before and during the lesson • Boots on the right feet • Goggles and glasses • Socks to be above the height of the ski boot • Lift pass in advance of the lesson
Enjoyment • Encourage your kids to ski, but don’t add pressure to learn … make it fun • During the lesson, it’s often better if parents are not hanging around distracting the children – maybe watch from afar? • In advance of the lessons, let your kids get used to playing with other kids without you being around • Money for a drink and a snack
Learning • Well-fitted ski boots • Skis correctly sized
Can you ski everything you want to? Skis are now much more versatile & user friendly helping you ski with less effort in lots more varied snow conditions. Choose the correct ski for your ability level & preferred terrrain & you will feel huge changes in their ease of use, your progression and your enjoyment. Recent technology and innovation means ski equipment is better than it’s ever been before... isn’t it time you upgraded your equipment and made the most of your experience in the mountains? Before you invest in your next trip... come and visit us today to ensure you have the correct advice from experienced equipment specialists. Bringing you the UK’s largest specialist range of skis & boots and advice and expertise since 1965. We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment for wherever your passions and dreams take you. Custom Boot Fitting Specialists Ski Industries of Great Britain Official Ski Testers Winner of the World Snow Awards - Best UK Speciailst Retailer
• Instructors that speak their language • Avoid over-tiredness Follow this advice and play by the rules and (hopefully) family fun on the slopes is guaranteed. Well, nearly. Remember that ‘the family that skis together, stays together’ so it really is worth the effort now for the chance of long term family happiness on the slopes.
FREERIDE | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATIONAL Ski Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP T: 020 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com
ALTITUDE-VERBIER.COM
10% Off All Non-Discounted Products - Special InTheSnow Discount - Code: ITS-NOV
DEBBIE GABRIEL
BY PATRICK THORNE
BRITS HELP CLEAN UP CHAMONIX’S GLACIER Employees from the British Consulate in Marseille and from Crystal Ski Holidays joined forces once
MOUNTAINS ON STAGE FESTIVAL COMES TO UK
the Mont Blanc massif, France. The glacier forms a large part of the world’s longest lift-served offpiste ski run, the Vallée Blanche. The annual clean-up operation, which took place last Friday, has been running since 2008, organised by the town of Chamonix-MontBlanc, the French Alpine Club, Lafuma and other mountain-based organisations. It calls on large numbers of volunteers who, to date, have picked up 18 tons of rubbish left by 500,000 visitors, as well as waste from abandoned bivouacs, cables and ski lifts that reappears decades later as the glacier ice melts. Michèle Solari, Vice Consul at the British Consulate in Marseille, said: “The British Consulate in Marseille works closely with Crystal Ski Holidays and other partners, as well as the French authorities, to ensure that our many British visitors to the Alps remain safe through our #skisafe campaign. It is also a perfect way of
A
AUSSIES TAKE LEAD IN LUX MARKET
France three years ago, the festival
The Great Alone from director Greg
aims to bring an exciting and varied
Kohs, a film about Lance Mackey in
mix of winter mountain films.
the world’s hardest sleddog race:
On the programme is The Warmth
the Iditarod.
of Winter from director Ben
The festival begins in London on
Sturgulewski, a film focused on
Monday, 7 November 2016 at Vue
the quality of Japanese powder;
West End, Leicester Square, then
Link Sar West from director Renan
is at the Showcase in Bristol on the
In what is perhaps a reflection of the current
Ozturk, a film on the fourth attempt
8th, Vue Birmingham on the 9th,
state of the global economy, an annual study
to climb a virgin peak in Pakistan;
Showcase Manchester on the 10th,
of the luxury ski chalet market has found more
La Liste from director Guido Perrini,
Vue in Edinburgh on the 15th, and
Australians are now booking lux chalets than
new Mountain Film Festival launches
a film following Jeremy Heitz, one
it ends at Showcase Glasgow on
Russians. According to the annual Chalet Ski
in the UK for the first time this
of the best freeriders on the planet,
the 17th. Doors open at around 7pm
Stats 2016 report, which gathers data from 43
November. Known as “Mountains
skiing steep skiing’s historical lines
and tickets cost £16.
of the UK’s “top ski influencers,” the number
on Stage” and originally launched in
in his fast freeride style, and finally
mountainsonstage.com
of bookings from Australians last winter
KLAUS LORKE
again this year to help local volunteers to clean up France’s longest glacier, the Mer de Glace in
doubled from 5% to 10% while the Russian
raising awareness of the importance of protecting the environment.”
share has dropped from 12% to 9%. The report,
Nial McLean, General Manager for Crystal Ski
compiled by the respected ski publishing house
NEW FLIGHT ROUTES TO GRENOBLE
Holidays France, Switzerland and Andorra, said: “We work hard to provide high quality
Welove2ski (welove2ski.com) in conjunction with luxury chalet company Consensio Holidays, found that UK clients still made the most chalet
holidays that cause minimal environmental Les 3 Vallees, La Plagne, Saint-Foy,
bookings though with 55% of the market. Just
destinations and offer real economic benefit to
and Espace Killy than other airports.
as the top end of the chalet market seemed
local communities. For us, sustainable tourism is
There are four new ski routes from
to survive the global economic crash in 2008
the UK to Grenoble-Isère airport,
largely unscathed, so recent events seem to
with weekly flights launching on 23
have had no effect on bookings:
December from Glasgow, Newcastle,
“The ski market has had to wait to see how
Leeds Bradford and East Midlands
Brexit would affect bookings but the consensus
airport with Jet2 adding to existing
is that it is looking healthier than ever, with
services from Gatwick, Luton,
peak weeks already sold out,” said a Consensio
Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham,
spokesperson. Other findings were that the
not just an idea, it’s fundamental.” The clean up at Chamonix is one of many doens that tale place at ski areas around the world each summer and autumn, with volunteers collectively cleaning hudreds of tons of rubbish from the planet’s ski slopes every year. The
STEPHANE LAVOUE / PASCO
impact, respect the culture and people of the
Dutch based Respect The Mountain group Hot on the heels of the news of
improvements to make it better to
Bristol, Edinburgh and Liverpool.
biggest spend in resort was on private ski
€10m (£900,000) in improvements to
travel through for skiers this winter.
Improvements to the airport’s
guides, and chalet guests are spending more
Chambéry airport, a second French
Grenoble is particularly well
infrastructure include free wi-fi,
on childcare but less on massages. Val d’Isère
programme each summr. Many other ski areas
“ski-airport”, Grenoble-Isère, has
positioned to reach Alpe d’Huez,
improved signage, fast-track
remains the most popular resort with over 30%
organise their own mountain clean ups locally.
announced new flight routes from
Chamrousse and Les 2 Alpes and is
boarding and a new gate to house
of bookings.
the UK along with departure terminal
sometimes a faster route to Les Arcs,
the extra flights.
consensiochalets.co.uk
is particularly active in this area, organising numerous mountain clean ups at resorts right across Europe with an ever-expanding
070 // NOV16
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LES SAISIES Les Saisies may not be a ski resort you are
25–35% lower than at many similarly sized
at Albertville in the French Alps when it
familiar with, but perhaps it ought to be! A
ski areas. Les Saisies’ own slopes are ideal
hosted the cross-country ski events. The
large, vibrant village with plenty of après-
for beginners who will find plenty of gentle
Olympic area has 80km of marked pistes
ski, Les Saisies is easy to reach, has a great
nursery slopes and long, wide blue runs to
and extends over a large, sunny plateau
snow record and offers stunning views from
progress on, and intermediates will enjoy
at between 1,570m and 1,760m, which
the local slopes, which are part of the big
the easy links to neighbouring Crest-Voland
guarantees a long season of snow cover.
Espace Diamant ski region.
and the runs from the top of Mont Lachet. Advanced skiers will enjoy the black run
Best In Snow
Stunning Location And Easy To Reach
from the top of Légette, one of five, with its
Les Saisies benefits from above-average
Situated halfway between the Beaufortain
narrow couloirs, or off-piste runs, through
snow conditions. The close proximity of
and the Val d’Arly valleys, two magnificent
the trees.
Mont Blanc provides not only superb views
Savoy areas, it offers a spectacular setting
but also above-average snow coverage.
with glorious views across to Mont Blanc.
Two Villages For The Price Of One
The French weather centre confirms that
There’s an amazing 360° panorama ranging
There are actually two typical Beaufortain
since 1982 the average accumulated
from Alpine meadows to the snow-capped
villages making up Les Saisies. They are
snowfall is superior to all surrounding
summit of Mont Blanc in Beaufortain, Aravis
Hauteluce and Bisanne 1500. Combined
mountain ranges!
and the Chartreuse Mountains. In fact
they form a charming French ski resort with
the Beaufortain region, with its wonderful
timber-clad chalets where visitors can enjoy
The French Alps specialist Peak Retreats
scenery, is sometimes called “The French
both the architecture and the traditional way
(0844 576 0170; peakretreats.co.uk) offers
Tyrol”. What’s more, it’s easy to access from
of life. There’s a bustling high street complete
holidays to Les Saisies from £212pp per
the motorway from Albertville to the south
with some 40 shops and a big selection of
week, including Eurotunnel crossing with
and Megève to the north.
bars, crêperies, grills and restaurants offering
free FlexiPlus upgrade. Peak Retreats
delicious Savoyard dishes.
recommends the 4★ self-catered residence
Les Saisies has a mid-sized ski area with
Olympic Cross-Country Ski Heritage
convenient doorstep skiing, superb views
70km of terrain but shares the Espace
Les Saisies is the top Nordic ski resort in
and indoor heated pool and spa facilities.
Diamant pass with five other pretty Alpine
France. Already well-known to the French,
Seven nights from 31 December 2016 from
villages. Altogether there’s 192km of piste
it sprang to international prominence
£383pp based on five sharing a two-bedroom
and as an added bonus lift ticket prices are
during the 1992 Winter Olympic Games
silver apartment including Eurotunnel.
Le Hameau du Beaufortain which offers
Plenty To Ski
072 // NOV16
PEAKRETREATS.CO.UK
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
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...KEEPS YOU SKIING LONGER
IMPROVES SKI POSTURE
THE ECO-FRIENDLY SKI JACKET MADE OF SUGAR
o
materials ever more popular and at
and christened “Ecodear”. It is
and reducing the industry’s
least one manufacturer even going
developed in conjunction with a
dependency on non-sustainable
as far as to suggest people repair
Japanese manufacturer.
materials and processes which
damaged gear rather than throw it
The Ecodear polyester outer layer
it has called Expedition 2020.
away and buy new.
of the jacket is part of a triple-layer
This has a target of 70% of
Bergans of Norway are claiming to
jacket build. The chemical structure
their products to be made from
have reached a milestone in the
of Ecodear is identical to its regular
sustainable raw materials and
outdoor clothing business by creating
shell material, Bergans say, so is as
75% of production methods to
a technical ski jacket that uses
functional as always.
be sustainable too. This includes
ne of the big battlegrounds
“plant-based material” – the waste
The waterproof, windproof but
using renewable energy for power
between outdoor clothing
by-product of sugar plant production,
highly breathable Eidfjord jacket is
in its European bases and using
manufacturers at the moment
in fact – in its shell material.
available in sizes S to XXL and is on
overland transportation by rail
is who can be the most
The company’s new Eidfjord jacket
sale in Tiso and at other retailers.
from Asia to Europe, rather than
environmentally friendly, with the
(RRP £280) is the first to use the
The new jacket is part of Bergans’
air, from its manufacturing bases to
use of recycled or sustainable
material, which is 30% plant based
overall focus on sustainability
the shops.
SHOCK ABSORBERS FOR KNEES
SOLDEN WORKS ON NEW GIGGIJOCH GONDOLA The Giggijoch Gondola climbs from 1.363 to 2.174km, and the resort
POWERFUL SPRINGS OFFLOAD WEIGHT FROM KNEES
promises that the new gondola will be more comfortable, faster and RUDI WYHLIDAL
have around 80% higher capacity
Olympic Mogul Skier Laura Donaldson with her ski~mojo
Tel. +44 (0)7786 753267 | info@skimojo.com | www.skimojo.com
of 4,500 people/hour, which should have a significant impact on peaktime queues. Sölden has already opened for Sölden in the Austrian Tirol, which
joch Gondola, which lifts skiers and
1998 and with a capacity of 2,800
the winter 2016/17 season and
made world headlines last season
boarders from the resort up to the
skiers per hour, had its last run on
stages the first World Cup races
as a location in the last Bond movie,
heart of the ski area, this summer.
Sunday. It had replaced the original
of the season at the end
Spectre, is to replace its key Giggi-
The current gondola lift, installed in
gondola installed in 1977.
of October.
074 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
Winter Sports Travel Insurance from
Save 20%* at
Holidaysafe.co.uk/Winter
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‘ITS1617’ Cover starts from just £8.33 Cover for equipment up to £1,500 per person Skiing and Snowboarding on and off piste in resort covered as standard Cover for ski packs, lift passes, avalanche, no snow, piste rescue plus much more Holidaysafe is a trading name of Infinity Insurance Solutions Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the FCA: FRN 528912 © Registered Office: 1 Tower View, Kings Hill, West Malling, ME19 4UY. Company Reg: 4319592. *Please note, Holidaysafe’s online prices automatically include a 15% discount, using ‘ITS1617’ gives you an extra 5% off, making a total saving of 20% against our customer service centre prices.
MICHAEL WERLBERGER
VERTICAL UP-HILL RACING OVER SNOW?
v
interest and make it competitive,
five-resort, three-country Vertical
a 590m vertical climb.
and do it at night.
Up tour and will take place on 21
Other Vertical Up races will be
That’s the plan for the Saslong
January above the resort town of
held at Hinterstoder (7 January);
Uphill that will be staged for
Selva. Competitors choose from
Madonna di Campiglio-Pinzolo
the first time this winter in Val
the long and the short route. The
(28 January); Kitzbühel (25
Gardena in the Italian Dolomites.
original course is 3.5km, with an
February); and Wengen (25 March).
The race route mirrors the famed
830m difference in altitude; the
Registrations are now open.
Saslong World Cup Downhill –
shorter track is just under 2km with
saslong.org/verticalup
only backwards and without skis – racing from the finish line to the starting gate instead of the more
ertical Up racing is the perfect
conventional way around.
answer for those who decide that
The rules are that there are
taking a ski lift up the mountain
practically no rules. Any type of
and then skiing down it seems just
footwear and clothing can be used
that bit too easy and inadequately
and any line of ascent. Up to 1,500
energetic.
people compete, with men and
The concept is simple: ignore the
women in separate categories.
lifts and make the ascent under
The Val Gardena-Gröden Saslong
your own steam, to add more
Uphill is the second stage in a
STEVEN MCKENNA
GLENCOE ANNOUNCES NEW TRIPLE CHAIR after next, 2017/18.
in recognition to the centre’s
The centre says the Doppelmayr-
proximity to the shooting locations
built lift will be installed in the
of the final scenes in the last but
Plateau area and run from the top
one Bond movie, a front runner.
of the Access Chair to the base of
Glencoe has one of the longest ski
the Spring Run.
seasons in Scotland and normally
This location would improve access
re-opens for midsummer skiing on
to some of the area’s steeper and
the longest day in late June at the
more snow-sure terrain.
start of summer so that die-hard
Glencoe is currently seeking
skiers can ride on large snow
Scotland’s Glencoe ski area has
triple chairlift which it aims to
suggestions for names for the
patches left on the mountain. It also
announced it has purchased a
install, all being well, for the winter
chairlift, with “Skyfall Chair”,
has a year-round artificial ski slope.
076 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
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.
Located in the heart of Serre Chevalier the hotel Plein Sud is situated only 200m to the slopes, lifts & village centre making it easy. Serre Chevalier offers over 250km of pistes with a varied amount of skiing and a fantastic tree line. Super fast lifts with panoramic views to get you to the heart of the ski area
+41 (0) 81 836 7000 // INFO@CARLTON-STMORITZ.CH CARLTON-STMORITZ.CH
+33 (0) 492 24 17 01 // LYNNE@HOTELPLEINSUD.COM HOTELPLEINSUD.COM
HOTEL COURCHEVEL OLYMPIC COURCHEVEL 1850
RESIDENCE LES TERRASSES DE VERET FLAINE
BELLE EPOQUE HOTEL VICTORIA BERNER OBERLAND
At the heart of Courchevel 1850, just a stone’s throw away from the pistes, this is the perfect base for an unforgettable ski holiday. The recently renovated 28 room hotel offers a relaxing lounge-bar to enjoy a drink by the open fire or shoot some pool. All rooms offer large windows making for a light and airy atmosphere and the new chic boutique-style superior bedrooms offer unparalleled levels of comfort, a spacious balcony and extras including coffee machines, iPod docks and light-up showers.
The Terrasses de Veret residence is a mere 50m from the pistes, is centrally located and boasts a large heated pool, outdoor jacuzzi and sauna. All apartments enjoy balconies with views of the pistes or the valley and interiors offering modern elegance. New for 2016 includes WIFI access in every apartment, luggage storage, games room with table football, and a new-look ski and storage area.
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.
0203 475 4756 MADAMEVACANCES.CO.UK
0203 475 4756 MADAMEVACANCES.CO.UK
+41 33 675 8000 | INFO@HOTEL-VICTORIA.CH HOTEL-VICTORIA.CH
RESIDENCE & SPA VALLORCINE CHAMONIX
L’ AIGLE DES NEIGE VAL D’ISÈRE
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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HÔTEL L’HÉLIOPIC CHAMONIX
077 // NOV16
M
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TOBY P H I P P S INTERVIEW BY: ALISON FOSTER
Feeling comfortable and looking good on
change without breaking the bank.
the slopes doesn’t come cheap. But now, for
What has surprised us is the fashion
the first time in the UK, you can hire premium
element – our customers love the top-end
branded ski wear at a fraction of the cost
gear and will often order something they
of purchasing. The company behind this
wouldn’t necessarily buy. One lady even
idea is Skismart and we caught up with its
ordered four outfits from us for a week to
Managing Director, Toby Phipps.
mix things up!
skismart.co.uk
We don’t have exact stats but our feedback suggests many of our customers already
When did you have the idea for Skismart?
own ski clothing – they just like the idea of
TP: Two years ago. I’d bought new ski gear
trying something different for a week or two.
for the family and it cost almost as much as the holiday! Was there a way to make this
How do customers ensure they order the
more affordable? In the USA it is possible
right fit?
to hire quality ski clothing, but there was
TP: We offer a free “try before you fly”
no equivalent service here.
service. We’re happy to send items to customers to try out in their own home
So what do you offer?
before their trip. That way they can be sure
TP: We supply jackets and pants from some
their clothing is a perfect fit before they
of the best European and North American
reach the slopes.
brands in a wide range of styles and colours. Our stock is all new for 2017 and
What happens at the end of the
spans adults, juniors and kids categories.
hire period? TP: Each order is despatched in a rigid box.
What are typical hire costs?
That same box is used to return the items
TP: From around £80 per week for an
to us, again for free. No need to wash
adult; and for that you’re wearing a jacket
anything. We take care of that.
and pant pairing worth up to £1,000. For kids, hire costs start at around £40 per
Have you had any strange requests?
week. Our prices include free courier
TP: Yes, one or two. We’ve recently been
delivery and collection.
approached to provide ski clothing for a “lad’s mag” photo shoot. We’re still
Who are your customers?
considering that one!
TP: Many and varied. We knew the service would appeal to families who may
Do you have any general advice on ski wear?
not be committed to skiing or boarding
TP: Whether you hire or buy, go for the best
every year. They can avoid investing in
clothing you can afford. Most of us have cut
kit that their kids rapidly outgrow, plus
corners and regretted it. If you’re not warm,
we find that Mum and Dad like to wear
dry and comfortable all day, you won’t get
something a bit sporty, chic or retro for a
the most out of your time on the slopes.
078 // NOV16
SKISMART.CO.UK
RAIN AND SLEET, OR SNOW AND MINUS? Winter weather in our country can change quickly, from to rain to sleet and snow. No matter, Didriksons outerwear will keep the whole family dry, warm and happy, so don’t let the weather determine what you do. Learn more about our stylish, protective, warm and comfortable garments at www.didriksons.com
BUFF ÂŽ is a registered trademark property of Original Buff, S.A. (Spain)
Look for the hat & neckwear matching in design.
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Buffera Ltd, Cranborne House, Cranborne Road, Potters Bar, EN6 3JN Tel 01707 852244 e sales@buffera.co.uk
Available in all good outdoor stores and online at: www.buffwear.co.uk