INTHE SNOW NOAH WETZEL
ISSUE 60 | NOV 2018
INNSBRUCK TOURISM
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FURANO TOURISM ASSOCIATION
TRY A NEW SKI RESORT ON A SHORT BREAK With so many ski resorts in this world it can be difficult to know which might suit you best as alas, most of us only get to try one or two each winter, and we quite often just want to go straight back to the one we last skied. But one way to test out more ski areas is on a short break, piste-testing a resort over a few days before you commit to a full week. Here’s our guide to some of the resorts you might not have considered that are actually very easy to get to for a ski
Schladming-Dachstein in southern Austria is one
THERE’S MORE THAN ONE SKI RESORT IN JAPAN Hokkaido has become world famous among skiers for its incredible powder snow. But did you know there are dozens of resorts here waiting to be discovered and that they also offer great service, high value and many other attractions besides that amazing powder?
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of the country’s biggest resorts, but it tends to get overlooked a little by the Brits as we head to ski areas in Tirol and Salzburgerland. Here’s why we should consider travelling a little further south this winter.
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FREERIDING TIROL’S SECRET POWDER Austria’s Tirol region is probably home to more world-
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famous ski areas than any other, but their fame is often
INTHESNOW_MAGAZINE
scenery. We don’t often consider the freeriding
based on their cosy atmosphere and picturesque opportunities and we could be missing a trick.
TIROL WERBUNG BAUER FRANK
MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY MOMENT
EMMANUEL CHERLIAS
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weekend or midweek break.
MOLOGRAPHY.IT
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ANOTHER BILLION IN UPGRADES THIS SEASON
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
EDITOR
Every year the world’s ski resorts and regions announce their new season improvements, some spending as much as £15 or £20 million on a new lift or two. Big
PATRICK THORNE
spender for 2018/19 include Whistler spending $66 million CAD and Dolomiti Superski €90m.
WATCH HUNDREDS OF VIDEO REVIEWS YOUTUBE.COM/INTHESNOWMAG
With just about all the new gear for winter 2018/19 now released by the manufacturers and ready to purchase, we have a bumper seven-page gear guide this issue in an attempt to squeeze in the huge range of new equipment, skiwear and gizmos available.
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PHILIPPE ROYER
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BUYERS’ GUIDE 057–063
SKIING THE WORLD’S 3RD LARGEST SKI AREA The Paradiski region was created more than a decade ago now when two of the world’s biggest ski areas, La Plagne and Les Arcs, put a double-decker cable car, across the valley between them. Andy
CHRISTOPHER SCHOLEY
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Taylor took a trip to La Plagne to experience it all.
MILLION POUND HELI-SKI HOLIDAY
THE JACKET THAT STORES WATER IN ITS WAIST It’s essential to stay hydrated on the slopes, but carrying bottles in your pocket or wearing a backpack can be uncomfortable, and stopping to queue in a café when you’re enjoying being on the snow can slow you down. One answer is a revolutionary new ski jacket that can store drink in its powder skirt and feed it to your mouth.
EDITORIAL TEAM PUBLISHER
CONTRIBUTORS
Dominic Killinger
Emmanuelle Châtel Megan Hughes Sega Fairweather Jimmy Petterson Luke Rees
dom@inthesnow.com EDITOR
Patrick Thorne patrick@inthesnow.com
DIGITAL DESIGNER OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Heli-skiing in Greenland is one of the most incredible things it’s possible to do on snow. If you’ve got the budget to be able to contemplate financing such a trip,
Debbie Gabriel debbie@inthesnow.com BRAND & DIGITAL MANAGER
Emmanuelle Châtel
why not go the whole hog and park yourself in a super
SOCIAL & DIGITAL MANAGER
yacht just off the coast to access it all easily?
Megan Hughes
Max Spooner-Blind EQUIPMENT BY
© Copyright 2018 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 of the publishers in writing.
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InTheSnow Ltd The Snow Studio, Kings Lane, Bucks, HP16 0QY
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Tom Showler Rocket Base tom@rocketbase.co.uk
It’s getting colder and the nights are drawing in. For skiers and snowboarders, that can mean only one thing, the thing we’ve been waiting for through the tedious long hot summer: the season is getting near! The good news is that so far things are looking good. We mustn’t tempt fate by getting too excited too soon, but seeing two feet of snow fall in Colorado in early October and ski resorts begin opening there by the middle of the month gladdened the heart. Closer to home, Kitzbühel in the Austrian Tirol has also opened already, incredibly managing to stretch its ski season to 200 days (it’ll be open for more than six months through to next May). If you can’t wait and want to hit the slopes already, you’ll find more than a dozen glacier ski areas already open, and the numbers will just keep increasing as we move further into autumn. At this time of year, flight costs are low, the slopes are empty and accommodation is cheap, so why wait for everyone else? In this issue we have our usual eclectic mix of news, columns and features. This month you’ll find a guide to the key facts and figures for ski holiday planning this season and another detailing new flight routes which might make getting there easier for you. If you like to party on the piste, check out our calendar of the big festivals on the snow coming up in 2019. If you’re a multi-millionaire, you might be interested in our Blow the Bonus column this month with details of a £1m heliskiing holiday based on a superyacht moored off Greenland. Nice. Remember, for the latest news, to find out where the snow is falling and for plenty more features, take a look at inthesnow.com or follow our social media channels, all of which we’re updating seven days a week.
patrick@inthesnow.com
SUB EDITORS
Nick Jones Marion Adams
NOV18 // 005
Austin Ross Pemberton, British Columbia
- RUSH LT JACKET -
FREERIDE TOURING Mountain protection with a progressive lightweight design focused on freedom of movement and thermal regulation, for deep backcountry days.
LA FOLIE DOUCE GOES LARGE It’s one of the big ski holiday phenomena of the French Alps this century. French resorts didn’t used to have much of a reputation for après-ski, but that’s all changed with the meteoric rise of the wildly successful Folie Douce concept – combining great food with cabaret, music and alcohol up on the slopes.
table service and is open for lunches
world’s best-known resorts. The hotel
and again in the evening. The food
will provide direct access to the slopes,
is very good, with a genuine onus on
three restaurants, live entertainment, a
fresh, local cuisine and a military-style
spa, fitness and well-being area, kids’
operation getting it all up to the venues
club, sports shop and more.
and prepped each day before the hungry
The hotel is big too with nearly 250
crowds descend en masse.
rooms – 141 of them will offer 4★
La Folie Douce’s notoriety, however, is
“premium” accommodation for two to
built on the daily après-ski session from
four people, the remaining 107 rooms
mid-afternoon to early evening when
3★ “hostel” accommodation each for
an original show with DJs, singers and
two to six people.
performers makes the venue rock –
Chamonix is just the start. Work on a
The first one opened 2,400m up in Val
whether its new Avoriaz, original Val d’
bigger, 1,500-bed purpose-built Folie
d’Isère, close to the ski area’s boundary
Isère or the Folie Douces at Val Thorens,
Douce Hotel is underway in Serre
with neighbouring Tignes in 2007, and its
Méribel, Alpe d’Huez or Saint-Gervais,
Chevalier. Opening in 2020 it will house
popularity was almost immediate. Since
which have opened over recent years!
a restaurant, shops, swimming pools
then five more have opened around
Each location is reputed to employ 70,
and spa, and après-ski, and it will have
the French Alps, each reputedly costing
serve an average of 600 lunches and
its own chairlift and branded ski school.
around €5–6m to establish, with a sixth, in
cater for 1,000 party people for après-ski
Planned facilities include a space
Avoriaz, ready to join the party this winter.
each day. But this winter also sees a new
dedicated to “young people” with
Each establishment shares a similar
departure for the business, its first hotel,
indoor play areas and “La Folie Tricks
operating schedule and setup, with
and like its mountain party venues, it’s
Academy”, a place to practise skiing
Avoriaz being no different (why mess
not doing things on a small scale.
and snowboarding jumps, a climbing
with a successful formula?). Guests
Opening on 22 December, The Grand
wall, a video games room, a cinema and
can buy lunch from late morning to
Palace of Savoy in Chamonix is to
a children’s hut for the little ones. So
mid-afternoon in one of the restaurants.
become the first Folie Douce Hotel.
the whole family is now catered for.
La Petite Cuisine offers “generous
This historic building has watched over
For adults there will still be the
and indulgent self-service” while the
the town and mountains since 1904 and
infamous La Folie Douce après-ski, but
signature La Fruitière provides “delightful
after a complete renovation will become
it will be open from 17h to 21h, to avoid
cuisine in tasteful surroundings” with
the new trendy spot in one of the
nuisance noise.
LAFOLIEDOUCE.COM | LAFOLIEDOUCEHOTELS.COM
BANK OF CHINA TO INJECT $5 BILLION China’s rapidly expanding ski infrastructure has received a further shot in the arm as the Bank of China, an official 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games partner, will provide 30 billion yuan ($4.8 billion/around £3.6 billion) CAMARA PHOTOGRAPHY
for the country’s winter-sports industry up to 2024.
$25 MILLION GONDOLA FOR NZ A new gondola for Whakapapa ski area at Mt Ruapehu on New Zealand’s North Island should be ready for next winter, 2019. The
STUDY FINDS SNOW CAN FALL AT UP TO +4°C IN COLORADO
1.8km-long gondola has 50 cabins, each able to accommodate 10
A study has found that snow can
Colorado, where they probably wouldn’t
ground even at plus temperatures. In areas
people and a capacity of 2,400
reach the earth at up to +4°C in
elsewhere because of the low moisture
where the air has a high moisture content
Colorado – warmer than most other
content of the air. The researchers crunched
the reverse can be true and freezing rain
places on earth.
nearly 18 million precipitation, temperature
falls at sub-zero temperatures.
Scientists from the University of Colorado
and humidity observations spanning over
Colorado’s snowmakers are reported to be
discovered that while it still needs to be
100 countries and four continents to reach
well aware of these unique climate conditions
freezing up in the clouds for snow to form,
their conclusions. The process, called
in their state and use them to make snow
the flakes can make it to the ground where
evaporative cooling, means the state’s
early in autumn when snowmaking would not
temperatures may be much warmer in
very dry air allows snowflakes to reach the
normally work successfully.
people per hour.
CHEESE IN CHÂTEL Châtel will be staging its annual agricultural fair in February, bringing the area’s farmers and visiting skiers together, when the highlight is the cheese parade on the 20th. Abondance cheese will be the star of the show with a “best cheese” competition. There’ll also be a cheese-making demo, a mini farm, games, music and a prize-giving ceremony.
10 YEARS OF SKIING EVERY MONTH Steve Plummer has skied every
WHAT HAPPENS AT 2,400 METRES STAYS AT 2,400 METRES
month of the year, for 10 years, in Colorado, clocking up his
La Plagne are offering adventurous
The groomer suite is parked on La Plagne’s
“Lovebox” gift, including an erotic board
120th consecutive month of
couples the chance to stay in a love nest
Arpette Summit at 2,400m and features
game, feather and massage oil.
skiing in September. Plummer
with a difference – a former trail groomer
panoramic windows with breathtaking
The couple are left alone at the summit
converted into a romantic mountain-top
views of the snowy mountains, as well as a
overnight, enjoying the utmost privacy, with
suite. Described by the resort as “the
transparent ceiling, so that guests can sleep
only a radio for communication if needed.
height of romance,” the cosy suite comes
under star-studded skies.
Waking to peaceful, clear mountain air and
complete with VIP touches such as a
In the suite guests will enjoy a bottle of
a breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee, the
queen-sized bed, spa bath, large flat-screen
champagne and freshly crafted macarons,
couple are collected for their transfer back
TV, stereo and a coffee machine.
and there is even a complimentary
to the resort and reality.
has skied exclusively in Colorado’s summit county, home to some of the world’s highest lift-accessed ski slopes.
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HARALD WISTHALER
DOLOMITI SPENDS €90M ON SUMMER UPGRADES
PERFECT SLOPES FINALLY SKIED IN FULL
Italy’s Dolomiti Superski region has announced that
French skiers Carole Chambaret, Tiphaine Duperier and Boris Langenstein have skied what is popularly
£79 million) in upgrades over the summer, with about
regarded as one of the world’s most perfect ski
€65 million (around £57 million) going on new and
slopes from top to bottom for the first time.
renovated lifts, the remainder on snowmaking.
After several years of planning, the trio
The ski pass group, which represents 130 individual
from Val d’Isère, who work as ski instructors
companies that deliver up 1,200km of ski runs with
or mountain guides, struck lucky on their
more than 85% snowmaking coverage across a dozen
expedition dates to Pakistan’s 6,096m-high
neighbouring ski areas and served by almost 500 ski
Laila Peak in May with perfect conditions for
lifts, will celebrate its 45th season this winter. Among the
their ascent and their ski down.
bigger projects are two 10-passenger cabin gondolas,
“After 12 hours of physical effort, Laila offered
three six-seaters and one quad chairlift as well as several
us the chance to ski his summit in perfect
new ski runs, one of them created at Cortina d’Ampezzo.
conditions. Nice weather, no wind, a big moment
More unusual new attractions include a museum of
of happiness at the summit, then an incredible
mountain photography, LUMEN, in the town of Brunico/
descent of 1,800 vertical metres in powder snow!
Bruneck, which will also house the new Rosa Alpina
The beauty of this pyramid is simply incredible,”
restaurant led by Michelin-star chef Norbert Niederkofler.
said Carole Chambaret.
FAULKNERBROWNS ARCHITECTS
its ski areas have invested a cool $90 million (around
DESIGNS PUBLISHED FOR MORE UK SNOW CENTRES Architectural plans for what could
indoor snow centres, has raised hopes
screen in the UK, a bowling alley, an
be the UK’s seventh indoor snow
that the facility in Swindon, which has
indoor trampolining centre, a 130-
centre have been released by
been talked about for more than five
room hotel and a variety of shops,
FaulknerBrowns. The latest updates on
years and seen a number of false
restaurants and bars.
a proposed centre for Middlesbrough
dawns, may now be finally nearing the
Planning permission for the Subzero
have also been published. The
construction phase. The development
indoor snow centre planned for
involvement of the prestigious
will include a 2,000m2 snow centre
Middlesbrough is expected to be
architectural firm, responsible for the
with two real-snow slopes, a 12-screen
submitted early in the new year with a
design of five of the UK’s six existing
cinema including the largest IMAX
target opening date of winter 2020.
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NOV18 // 009
NEXO 110
.COM
Thule Force XT Versatile roof-mounted cargo box for everyday use.
SIT SKI SKIER NOW SKI INSTRUCTOR A man who is confined to a “sit ski” on the slopes has qualified as a ski instructor in Argentina. Germán Vega is based at Cerro Catedral, South America’s largest resort, which believes Mr Vega is the first sit ski user in the region to CHRISTOPH NOESIG
qualify as an instructor.
MASSAGE BOOKING APP LAUNCHED Alps Massage is a new online booking app for mobile massages provided at your accommodation across the French Alps. The app enables you to book a massage in
SÖLDEN OPEN JAMES BOND 007 THEMED VISITOR CENTRE
six easy clicks, pay and receive an email confirmation. Customers can book as close to an hour before the treatment starts. alpsmassage.com
SCOTTISH BACKCOUNTRY WEEKEND
A new visitor centre based on
above sea level, where many of the scenes
title sequences and dramatic scores; the
the James Bond movies has opened
from Sölden were shot.
jaw-dropping action sequences; the cars,
above the Austrian Tirol ski
“007 ELEMENTS is a world-first – a
gadgets and technology; the breathtaking
resort of Sölden.
cinematic installation dedicated to the
locations and iconic studio sets and lastly, a
The resort was a major filming location for
world of James Bond. It guides visitors
host of compelling characters,” a statement
the last James Bond film, Spectre, and has
on a journey through a series of high-
from the resort explains, adding, “The
opened the mountain-top visitor, named
tech, interactive galleries, each distilling
installation focuses on the most recent film,
007 ELEMENTS, inside the summit of the
the craft of the signature elements that
Spectre, but also showcases the other titles
Gaislachkogl Mountain, some 3,000m
define a James Bond film — the beautiful
in the 24-film series.” 007elements.com
Blair Aitken, founder of BritishBackcountry.com, an off-piste ski-touring guide, will lead a two-day event on 2–3 February in the Ben Lawers Range aimed at newcomers to ski-touring or those wishing to improve their skills. The £25 cost is heavily subsidised by Ellis Brigham but excludes accommodation and travel. british-backcountry.com
LES MENUIRES SLOPES OPEN 24HRS Les Menuires has announced
HIGHEST HOTEL IN FRANCE OPENING AT VAL D’ISÈRE
a new event, “Right Round The Clock”, which will see the resort
The new Le Refuge de Solaise hotel
14 beds. Facilities include a 300-seat
is linked to the hotel’s heating system.
keep its slopes open for 12 hours
opening this December at an altitude of
gourmet restaurant, a cocktail bar, a
Organic and plastic rubbish will be
a day on its opening weekend,
2,551m high above Val d’Isère will be the
children’s play area and a spa with a 23m
compacted in giant storage bins for
country’s highest of its type.
pool. Access to the hotel in winter will be
disposal the following summer. The hotel
9pm. Weekend accommodation
Built on the site of the Tête de Solaise
via the gondola or on skis.
will stock up on dry and non-perishable
and lift pass starts from €90.80
mountain restaurant, Le Refuge will have
To reduce environmental impact the
goods just before the start of the season
(around £79.50).
34 rooms, three large luxury apartments
hotel will recycle all its refuse. The
so that only fresh produce needs to be
and a traditional refuge dormitory with
furnace for wastepaper and cardboard
brought up on a daily basis.
8–9 December 2018, from 9am to
012 // NOV18
@INTHESNOWMAG
FOR THOSE WHO DARE
www.dare2b.com
InTheSnow has teamed up with Andorra Resorts, to give you the chance to win an amazing holiday for two people to Pas de la Casa, Andorra! You and a friend will be staying for five nights at the small and friendly Hotel Les Truites, situated close to the centre of Pas de la Casa and just 350 metres from the slopes. The hotel receives outstanding feedback, boasting a score of 9.6 on Booking.com, plus on top of this you’ll have your airport transfers, full-area Grandvalira lift passes and skis and boots all included.
To enter simply visit: InTheSnow.com/competitions
ANDREAS KIRSCHNER
Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices
5% DISCOUNT
QUOTE CODE 'ITS'
Serfaus Serfaus in the Austrian Tirol may not be one of the best-known resorts to British skiers, but in Europe it’s one of the most highly regarded ski destinations in the Alps.
spokesperson for Crystal Ski Holidays,
It’s not all about the families, though.
which has added the resort to its
Serfaus also has a series of sunny,
2018/19 season offer, commented.
open bowls, and intermediates have
Serfaus considers itself to be
a huge 123km of reds and a range of
Austria’s largest family ski area. From
fun slopes to test out.
huge, dedicated children’s areas, to
Beginners can build skills on the
family-friendly restaurants and an
wide green and blue runs, and
array of off-slope activities, it also has
experts have a choice of black runs
Serfaus is located in the west of
an almost traffic-free village where
and additional off-piste to explore.
the country not far from the Swiss
children can play in the streets.
“Don’t miss the giant eight-person
border, on the “other side” of the
Serfaus is unique in Austria – it
swing or the ‘Fisser Flieger’, a four-
mountains from Ischgl – a resort
has an underground railway, the
person hang glider that flies down
better known to Brits. Its ski area
“Dorfbahn”, which floats on air using
a wire at 80kph,” advises Crystal’s
interconnects with the neighbouring
the “maglev” magnetic levitation
Austrian general manager Lindsey
ski slopes of Fiss and Ladis to give
system, meaning it has no track and
Cairns. “There’s also a zipline that
198km of runs in total – one of the
no vibration. It has four stops from
lets you soar 85m above the resort.
biggest areas in Austria and indeed
the village car park to the gondola,
If you prefer to keep your feet on the
all of Europe and the world.
with stops for hotel guests and their
ground, visit the Z1 viewing platform
“Despite the respectable size of the
tired children.
and the Crystal Cube, a huge
ski area and its high altitude (resort
Local skiers arriving for the day are
construction made from mirrored
is at 1,600m and the peaks at over
directed to a massive parking area on
glass with a restaurant inside, or
2,800m) as well as the short transfer
the edge of the village to then take
relax in dedicated areas on the
time from Innsbruck Airport, Serfaus
the subway to the gondola, as the
slopes, each with hammocks, lounge
is not well known in the UK,” a
resort has no through traffic.
chairs and incredible views.”
High Quality Catered + Self Catered Accommodation French and Swiss Alps Snow Sure Resorts On / Near Piste locations No Hidden Extras Financially Bonded
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NOV18 // 015
©TIROL WERBUNG BAUER FRANK
Tirol’s Secret Freeriding SPOTS The Austrian Tirol is home to dozens of famous ski areas, all featuring picturesque scenery, cosy accommodation and almost endless perfectly prepared pistes, served by fast, comfy lifts.
contrast, is a perfect freeride area for beginners,
Kitzbühel
offering wide-open ski slopes and easy runs with up
There are 41km of freeride routes and slopes above
to 1,000m of vertical.
Kitzbühel with the Bichlalm sector one of the best
Alpbach The Ski Juwel region has 16km of off-piste routes with the best known accessed via Hornbahn
known for its spectacular off-piste skiing. The area can be accessed by a snowcat service meaning you’ll be one of the few skiing there.
2000 with descents towards Inneralpbach and
Axamer Lizum
Greitergraben. Skiing here is for experienced
Axamer Lizum, 19km from Innsbruck, has 300
But there’s another side to the region’s ski areas:
freeriders only who must carry an avalanche
hectares of mostly north-facing terrain. The area
fantastic freeriding. You just need to know where to
transceiver, shovel and probe.
offers LVS checkpoints and five freeride skiing
go, and a local guide can help you with that, but in the meantime, here are some ideas:
Zillertal
routes with a combined 10,000m of vertical.
The Zillertal is one of the biggest deep-snow
Stubai
paradises in the Alps with more than 65 named
The Stubai Glacier offers a dozen marked off-piste
freeride runs offering lots of varied descents.
runs covering all levels of difficulty in unsecured, open
Innsbruck’s powder mountain of Nordkette can be
Popular areas include the “Outta Banks”
terrain. Snow-sure, it has one of the longest seasons
reached by ski lifts from the city centre. Descend
of Hochfügen, Krumbachalm at Gerlos and
in the Alps, opening from early autumn. A special
the famed Hafelekar runs, tackle the Karrinne run
Lärmstange on the Hintertux Glacier.
freeride map and GPS data are available to download.
Hafelekarrinne couloir, one of the steepest ski runs
St. Anton am Arlberg
easyJet and British Airways offer regular flights
in Europe.
With 200km of marked powder runs the
from London (Heathrow and Gatwick) to Innsbruck
Arlberg is a paradise for freeriders. With so
– perfect for an early-season ski on the glaciers.
much off-piste terrain, safety is the top priority
From December onwards, easyJet runs double daily
Sölden’s Gaislachkogl peak is a freeriding hub
both in terms of maintaining slope security and
flights from Gatwick starting at just £28 one-way,
offering steep and testing vertical descents of up
educating freeriders. Almost every lift in
while British Airways flies eight times a week from
to 1,500m from its 3,058m peak. The Giggijoch, by
St. Anton leads to more off-piste treasures.
Heathrow, alongside its regular Gatwick service.
Innsbruck
and, if you have the skills and the nerve, perhaps the
Ötztal
016 // NOV18 PROMO
VISITTIROL.CO.UK
Spend the festive season on the slopes. Wrap up skiing, sleigh bells, Santa visits and winter wonderland scenery for Christmas memories you’ll never forget.
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There’s More Than One Ski Resort IN Japan WORDS: DOMINIC KILLINGER
018 // NOV18
incredible 11 metres of it falling each winter. Marketed as an ideal destination for families it has a quieter, relaxed atmosphere with perfectly groomed runs for beginners and intermediates, plus some steep terrain (World Cup racing is regularly staged here) and off-piste powder available to more advanced skiers, all served by a dozen lifts including a gondola. The resort is run by the Prince Hotel chain, which runs many of the big ski resorts in Japan but also has a genuine mountain town base 10 minutes’ drive from the slopes. Here, Ninguru Terrace is worth a look as it has a beautiful collection of boutique cottages housing specialty arts and crafts along with their creators. Slopeside accommodation is provided by the huge 407-room Prince Hotel, which has several restaurants with spectacular mountain views plus in-hotel ski rental and retail shops.
Ski holidays to Japan are not the novelty they once were. Until quite recently almost no one from outside the country skied there; then prices dropped and the Australians, who had a long haul to Canada to ski each winter, found Japan was closer and had amazing empty powder slopes - the rest is ski holiday history.
For Brits Japan has gained popularity fast as we’ve realised it’s hardly any further to get to than North America and often now costs less. The powder snow for which Japan’s ski slopes are famous is a big draw, but even if you’re not a powder hound dreaming of skiing light, deep powder every day and just like to blast down the groomed slopes, Japan is worth the trip. There are actually hundreds of fantastic, unspoilt ski areas across Japan, with many of the best on the northern island of Hokkaido, which give you a much more authentic experience as well as a friendly welcome and great service, and usually at lowerthan-Europe-or-North-America prices. You can enjoy traditional Japanese food, accommodation, onsen hot spring baths and mostly empty ski slopes, and altogether you’ll enjoy a refreshingly different ski holiday experience to the Alps.
Kamui Ski Links Next stop was Kamui Ski Links, one of Hokkaido’s best little ski areas, located 30 minutes from Asahikawa city. The ski area has a gondola and five chairs, but interestingly the gondola is one of the lowest in the ski world, running between the 150m altitude base and the 750m highest lift point. So the resort tops out much lower than most resorts in the Alps begin! Nonetheless, Kamui gets over eight metres of central Hokkaido’s perfect powder snow and is blessed with a huge number of blue sky days. As an added bonus a lift pass is only £20 a day.
Sahoro I flew out to Tokyo last winter aiming to tour some ski areas on the northern “powder island” of Hokkaido. From Tokyo, to which you can fly direct from London, there’s a second flight up to the city (and former Winter Olympics host) of Sapporo and its ultramodern New Chitose Airport, although, if you have time, a spectacular new bullet train bridge links the two cities. From there I headed straight to my first ski resort stop, Sahoro, two and a half hours north. This is a modern and well-designed resort that is unusual in that it was first developed by Club Med in the 1980s. Known for its sunny days, quiet slopes and views out across the Tokachi Plains, Sahoro is really the perfect family resort, especially with all the Club Med facilities. There’s 610m of vertical and 17 runs, the longest 3km, all served by a gondola and seven chairs. It’s worth noting that, as is typical in Japan, a ski pass here is at the lower end of what you might pay in the Alps, with a day ticket coming in at around £30. Other in-resort expenses feel good value too and there are three restaurants to choose from, themed as French (well it is Club Med), Japanese and Izakaya.
Furano For those in the know in the ski world, Furano has a worldwide reputation as one of Japan’s leading resorts. Among other things it claims to receive the lightest and driest powder in Japan with an average of an 019 // NOV18
Sapporo Kokusai Next stop, Sapporo Kokusai, is perhaps most famous for the amazing views from the summit of the gondola lift, with panoramic views of Otaru city and the Sea of Japan. The resort is also known for the abundance of its fine powder snow on its wide slopes, with a season that lasts from mid-November to early May. Every type of skier is catered for here with slopes for all standards and a kids’ snow play area, all located just 90 minutes from downtown Sapporo city.
Tokyo Stopover Tokyo is a vast and incredible city with many different districts, and it’s well worth spending time here en route to or from Hokkaido. Once you have even begun to get to grips with the scale of the city there are too many attractions to name, but highlights include the huge Imperial Palace area, Sensō-ji, an ancient Buddhist temple, and the Tokyo Skytree observation tower, which provides amazing views of the capital. In modern Tokyo, Kabukichō is the bestknown area for restaurants and bars while Nishi-Shinjuku is “Skyscraper City” and Omoide Yokocho is famous for its eateries serving up traditional ramen (egg noodles) and soba (buckwheat noodles). For cuttingedge fashion visit Harajuku and Shibuya, home to the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, which is not to be missed! Not all of Tokyo is as high-tech as you might expect – there are very old and very new sections as it constantly renews itself.
Sapporo Teine Even closer to Sapporo, and made up of two formerly separate areas, Highland and Olympia, linked by a fast, modern gondola, Sapporo Teine caters both for beginners wanting to learn their turns and for die-hard, day-tripping powder hounds from the city looking for lines that are steep, deep and cheap! It’s open for night skiing too. Olympia was the site of the bobsled competition for the 1972 Sapporo Olympic Games and is still home to the old Olympic flame tower. At 1,000m above sea level, Highland offers spectacular views of Sapporo and the ocean, and the Highland Zone features some of the steepest in-bounds terrain in Japan, with one run used for the Olympic GS course. A fast quad chair services the full vertical.
Read the full article online at inthesnow.com
Sapporo Prince Hotel I spent my final night in Japan at the Sapporo Prince Hotel, which features an open-air hot springs bath and restaurants with a rich variety of seasonal produce. I also went to the amazing annual snow festival there with huge ice sculptures lit with laser light shows, and with accompanying music it was really impressive.
The Japan Ski Holiday Experience I visited resorts that work well as a multi-stop tour, and are very affordable too, finding lots of lovely, powdery, gentle tree skiing among beautiful birch trees with some great slopeside restaurants with wonderful food at great prices. It was very, very different to the Alps, with magnificent views and extreme snowfalls (it snowed most days of the trip and seeing a plane land in deep snow was quite spectacular). One novelty was that everything was available from a vending machine, from snacks and drinks to full blown sushi, stir-fry and curry. The onsen (hot spring) baths with public nakedness were everywhere, and not very British but when in Rome… or Hokkaido… it was certainly part of the experience. Finally, the magnificent view of Mount Fuji I had while sitting in the airport lounge is something I’ll never forget. All in all, if you really want a total change in culture when skiing, Japan really is your perfect destination. 020 // NOV18
Ski Japan with Ski Safari Known for consistently deep powder and excellent tree skiing, Japan’s resorts are more intermediate-friendly than you might think - the mellow terrain means you don’t have to be an expert to ski off-piste and there are plenty of crisp, well-groomed runs for those who prefer the pistes. Off the slopes is what really sets Japan apart as a destination. Unwind in a steamy onsen, sip local beer in an izakaya and make sure to set a day aside to explore the temples in Kyoto or Tokyo. Not to mention the food!
SKI... RELAX... DISCOVER... visit skisafari.com/japan or call 01273 224067
AUGUSTIN_LOSSERAND
JACK AFFLECK
ERICH SPIESS/ASP/RED BULL CONTENT POOL
GREATEST FEMALE RACER ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
GONDOLAS USED AS ART GALLERY
EMMA, VAIL’S DIGITAL MOUNTAIN ASSISTANT
The most successful female ski racer of all time,
The resort of Le Grand-Bornand in the Aravis region
Ten years on from conceiving its Epic Pass multi-resort,
American Lindsey Vonn, has said that she will retire at
has unveiled a new version of its Rosay gondola,
season-long, electronic lift pass and membership
the end of the up-coming 2018/19 ski season.
the main-access lift to the ski area departing from
scheme, Vail Resorts have announced that the 2018/19
The 33-year-old was not making a public announcement
Le Grand-Bornand Village. However, along with
incarnation of the product will incorporate “Emma, Your
of her retirement as such but speaking apparently “in
the usual technical improvements, the upgraded
Epic Mountain Assistant”, which the group is billing
passing” at a meeting for small businesses.
gondola is quite striking to look at, with each cabin
as “the world’s first digital mountain assistant to offer
Vonn, now 33, has won 82 World Cup races, the most of
having its own unique artwork painted onto it.
information on everything from grooming, lift line wait
any woman, and only four less than the all-time record of
The new look is the work of artists who came
times and parking to recommendations on rentals,
86 held by Swedish great Ingemar Stenmark. Earlier in
together under the artistic leadership of local painter
lessons and dining options.”
the year, Vonn had said she would not retire until she’d
Pierre Amoudry who set about decorating the
“Imagine Siri was a really good skier and had incredible
broken Stenmark’s long-standing record.
cabins to create the open-air art gallery. There are
knowledge about all of Vail Resorts and voila … you have
“If I could break the record, that would be amazing; if
55 original artworks – one for every cabin – inspired
Emma,” said a Vail Resorts spokesperson.
I can’t it has been a great ride and I am still the most
by the resort’s photographic archive. With the help
Emma uses artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language
successful female, and I still think that’s something to
of poems, each one shows users an aspect of Le
processing (NLP) to answer a wide range of guests’
be really proud of. So we’ll just see what happens this
Grand-Bornand’s unique character. Users will find
questions about their ski holiday. The intention is that
year,” she said.
a different feel inside the cabins too as the eight
guests using Emma will instantly receive expert, local
Among her many achievements, Lindsey Vonn
seats are arranged in a “lounge” effect arranged
information tailored to each resort and to their needs.
caused upset at the International Ski Federation
in a ring all around the edge of the cabin to make
The system will debut at Vail, Beaver Creek,
when she asked to be allowed to compete against
the best use of space. The operators say two more
Breckenridge, Keystone, Park City, Heavenly, Northstar,
men. The issue is still being debated several years
people can squeeze in “at busy times”.
Kirkwood and Whistler Blackcomb this winter.
after it was first raised.
CREATE YOUR OWN SKI ADVENTURE IN BANFF AND LAKE LOUISE Banff National Park is so much more than a ski holiday; it is an unforgettable winter escapade. Immerse yourself in the stunning Canadian Rockies whilst you ski the vast variety of terrain across Banff Sunshine, Mt Norquay and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Banff and Lake Louise is truly unspoilt with an array of après activity, delicious Canadian food and magnificent wildlife.
BOOK BEFORE 30th NOVEMBER TO GET UP TO
25%
OFF
www.skiworld.co.uk | 0330 102 8004
EMMANUEL CHERLIAS
024 // NOV18 PROMO
@INTHESNOWMAG
The Schladming-Dachstein region is one of the most popular ski destinations in Austria and, indeed, is one of the top five most visited resorts in the Alps, but it’s less well known to us Brits than it should be.
areas, including the snow-sure Dachstein glacier – so whatever the weather is up to, you’ve always got glacial snow security. The regional Ski Amade lift pass includes a remarkable 750km of terrain at dozens of ski areas nearby with buses linking the different areas together. But a winter holiday in the Schladming-Dachstein region is about much more than the ski slopes, wonderful
Located in southern Austria, the Schladming-Dachstein
though they are.
region has a good-sized ski area served by fast,
The town of Schladming itself is busy year round,
comfortable lifts. The main resort base in the region is
which means that restaurants, bars and shops are well
the busy town of Schladming, a year-round destination,
established and not so influenced by seasonal variations
parts of which date back to medieval times, and the heart
as they are at many ski resorts. It’s a wonderful, eclectic
of which is fully pedestrianised. And it’s all located a
mix of the old (the old town gate, the church and several
short, easy transfer from Salzburg Airport.
other buildings date back at least three centuries) and
Schladming-Dachstein’s ski area is spread over four
the new, in the form of stylish modern architecture, all
interlinked mountains, providing an intermediate’s
perfectly blended together into an enticing destination.
paradise with most of the runs graded red and the
The après-ski normally gets going in the Hohenhaus
slopes well linked by efficient, comfortable chairlifts
Tenne, next to the Planai base station, at the end of the
and gondolas, including several with heated seats, so
ski day, and indeed the party can stay here all evening,
any concerns about the build-up of queues are quickly
as it later transforms into a nightclub. But there are plenty
dissipated. Much of the skiing in the area is tree-lined,
more venues in the heart of the resort where you might
which provides excellent visibility in all conditions.
find the moment that matters to you most on your ski
The resort also holds a reputation for being home to
holiday in a cosy bar or intimate restaurant.
Austria’s most beautiful ski runs. That’s not just about
Of course, as you would expect of a ski area of this size
the view (although that’s fantastic!) but it’s also about the
and importance, there’s lots to do besides snowsports,
quality of slope preparation with fantastically smooth runs.
and Schladming-Dachstein is a great choice if you have
Advanced skiers are likely to know the Schladming-
non-skiers in your group or if you simply want to vary
Dachstein region well already, as the resort has a long
your activities during your stay in the mountains.
history at the forefront of ski racing, hosting the bi-annual
The resort has a superb swimming pool and leisure
World Alpine Ski Championships in 2013, as well as the
centre, and back out on the snow there’s more
popular annual Night Slalom World Cup races shortly
than 400km of cross-country ski trails as well as the
after the annual Hahnenkamm races, which sees tens
opportunity to enjoy activities such as snow-shoeing,
of thousands of ski racing fans line the slopes. Britain’s
sleigh rides, winter hiking on cleared and marked paths,
Dave Ryding has been a star at these Schladming races
ice climbing or perhaps a torchlit walk.
in recent years, and you can ski on the very same slopes
Up at the Dachstein glacier there’s an incredible Sky
as Dave both before and after the big race. The Special
Walk out over the void, if you’ve a head for heights, and
Winter Olympics were also hosted here in 2017, attracting
there’s also the amazing Dachstein Ice Palace.
2,600 competitors from more than 100 countries.
You really should be considering Schladming-Dachstein
There’s also some great freeriding terrain to be found with
for your ski holiday this year. It’s a great choice when
the help of a local guide if you’d like to head off-piste.
you’re searching for those perfect winter moments. To
Altogether there’s 123km of piste on your doorstep, but
find out more visit: crystalski.co.uk/ski-resorts/
the wider region also encompasses a number of smaller
austria-ski-holidays/schladming/
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MICHAEL WERLBERGER
RESORT:INSIDER
LIVIGNO Located high in the Italian province of Lombardy, Livigno, with its 115km of pistes and a base at 1,816m, is one of the most snow-sure resorts in Europe. In fact, it is known by the locals as Little Tibet because of its immense snowfall and long season.
81% of over 200 reviewers rating it as “excellent”
fascinating history of local agriculture.
and another 16% “very good”. Why so good? The views, the value, the staff and the bombardinos are all highly praised, but the food tops them all.
Slopes of Street View: Livigno was one of the first resorts to have its ski
Get the Local Know-How on the Freeriding:
runs mapped out on Google Street View, so you can
A deal made when Napoleon ruled the area has
Livigno has gone big on freeriding, organising
left the resort duty-free, making it one of the most
international competitions and marking out
Sample the Aqua Vita:
affordable in the Alps to visit. Today, there are more
freeride routes. But safety is a top priority and
At the Aquagranda Livigno Wellness Park the
than 250 shops there to peruse.
every Sunday from 5.00pm to 7.00pm the resort
emphasis is on pure indulgence for body and soul. At
organises meetings at the Birrificio (brewery), where
the heart of this thoroughly modern sports club and
Ski Free:
freeride experts provide you with all the necessary
spa you can treat your senses and pamper yourself.
Livigno offers a rather enticing deal when you visit
materials necessary for your safety, including a
at the start or end of the season. Up to 21 December
shovel, avalanche transceiver and probe, to carry
2018 (Christmas week) and after 6 April (so that
with you at all times.
see before you ski at: livigno.eu/en/streetview.
information about the rules to respect and the
includes the 2019 Easter holidays) you can claim a completely free lift pass. To qualify you need to stay for at least four nights in a participating hotel or seven nights in a participating apartment and book through the resort’s website: livigno.eu/en/.
A Mootastic Dairy with a Difference: The Latteria, located in Via Pemont, close to Livigno´s beautiful lake, is a bespoke facility
Top of the Taste Buds:
that allows you to not only see the entire milk
There are about 100 restaurants in Livigno, but La
all of the delicious finished products. There is also
Tea da Cip e Ciop tops the TripAdvisor tables with
an exhibition area where visitors can learn about the
VISUAL WORKING
026 // NOV18
transformation process at work but also enjoy tasting
Try A New SKI Resort for a short break 028 // NOV18 PROMO
there’s an amazing 400km of runs to try out
There are thousands of ski areas around
Spain’s highest peak, above the ancient city of
experience to the usual places. They’re often less crowded and better value too! A short ski break can be a good way to get a taste for a different destination with a threeor four-night stay to try somewhere we’ve perhaps always fancied, but didn’t want to commit to a full ski week until we knew for
Skiing so close to the Med you can even see the mountains of Morocco on the far side on a clear day, Sierra Nevada gets amazing snowfall nonetheless, perhaps as it’s on mainland Granada. An airport there means transfers are less than an hour and there’s more than 100km of runs and over 1,200m of vertical.
Megève, France Cosmopolitan, designer and cool – with a great ski area too Established as a ski destination by Baroness
sure. Here are 10 short breaks to try:
de Rothschild no less in the 1920s as the
Ax-les-Thermes, French Pyrenees It doesn’t have to be Andorra
very special to this day. Expect designer
French answer to St Moritz, Megève remains
pre-ski history as a spa resort. You can test that out in the hot springs of “Les Bains du Couloubret” after enjoying the 80km of piste divided into 35 runs.
Saint-Lary, Pyrenees Big and beautiful skiing in southern France Saint-Lary is one of the biggest and most beautiful ski areas in the region with nearly 30 lifts serving 100km of varied slopes. The charming resort itself is traditional, authentic and a firm favourite with French and Spanish
biggest in the Alps with nearly 450km of runs, which include some of the prettiest you’ll find with views over to Mont Blanc. Oh, and Geneva is an hour away.
Engelberg, Switzerland A massive vertical reached by a revolving cable car. Standing alone in Central Switzerland, the 900-year-old resort of Engelberg boasts a world top-10 lift-served vertical of 2,000m, served by a fast gondola and almost unique rotating cable car. Easy to reach from Zurich in 90 minutes it has a great snowfall
families, so why not more Brits?!
record, fuelling its popularity as a freeride
Innsbruck, Austria City and ski
for all levels too.
destination, but lots of great groomed terrain
An incredible choice for a combined ski and city break, the Tirolean capital lies just 20 minutes from the airport, and a regional pass covers eight surrounding ski areas including
Courmayeur, Italy The stylish side of Mont Blanc This famous old ski town, originally a spa resort, is located in spectacular scenery on
the Stubai Glacier and the transfer bus to them.
the sunnier south side of Mont Blanc. The
La Clusaz, France One of the most authentic French resorts, a very short hop from Geneva
Alps, but it is perfect for a weekend/short
A classic resort with an impressive snow record (6m seasonal average), La Clusaz is a great choice if you’re looking for a goodsized ski area with bags of character and the added bonus that it’s just an hour from Geneva. La Clusaz has wonderful cafés and restaurants that simply ooze ambience and
skiing here isn’t the most extensive in the ski break combined with plenty of good wining, dining and shopping around the Via Roma and charming cobbled streets at the heart of the resort.
Isola 2000, Southern France Skiing by the Côte d’Azur Located just 90km north of the Côte d’Azur, Isola 2000 nonetheless has an enviable snow
some great accommodation options too.
record as the moisture from the Med dumps
Verbier, Switzerland The biggest ski area in Switzerland
mountains. A big area with around 120km of
here first as the air is forced to rise over the piste and a southern European vibe, it’s quick
OK, Verbier is certainly not unknown but
INNSBRUCK TOURISM
airport, has bags of character and a long
But it’s a great ski area too, one of the
SKISTAR / OLA MATSSON
closer, only 90 minutes from Toulouse
drawn carriages and jazz clubs for starters.
INNSBRUCK TOURISM
the Pyrenees, but Ax-les-Thermes is much
shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, horse-
and easy to reach from Nice airport.
it is usually quite an investment, so it can be good to do a short trip first to ensure
Ski Weekends offers short breaks to all
you want to go for longer. Famed for its
of these resorts and dozens more, with a
challenging terrain and upmarket clientele,
choice of midweek or long weekend trips.
SKIWEEKENDS.COM | 02380 983503
CHRISTOFLACKNER.AT
Most of us head to Andorra when we go to
TVB INNSBRUCK / KLAUS POLZER
Sierra Nevada, Southern Spain Europe’s most southerly ski resort
SKISTAR
Europe that can offer a very different
here.
INNSBRUCK TOURISM
We tend to keep going back to the same well-known ski resorts in the Alps, year after year, so maybe 2018/19 is the winter to try somewhere new?
9–I6 MAR I9
I6–23 MAR I9
Rise
Tomorrowland
Europe’s Snow Pride
Les 2 Alpes, France
Alpe d’Huez, France
Tignes, France
Back this year for its fifth outing of snow, music,
First staged in Belgium in 2005 and now attracting nearly
Gay ski festivals have been big for years, but they keep
adventure and wellbeing – Rise is first out the blocks
half a million people each summer, the first Tomorrowland
getting bigger and better. On the programme are music
with a pre-Christmas party. £199 buys you a six-day
Winter is targeting a 30,000 attendance and aims to be the
and entertainment, giant pool parties, fancy dress and the
ticket and festival pass. risefestival.co.uk
first festival to take over a major resort. tomorrowland.com
official Pride Party at Tignespace. europeansnowpride.com
CHRIS GEARY
I5–2I DEC I8
23–30 MAR I9
3I MAR–7 APR I9
MATTHIEU VITR
GEOFFREY HUBBEL
I7–23 MAR I9
Rock the Pistes Festival
Snowboxx
The Brits
Portes du Soleil, France/Switzerland
Avoriaz, France
Laax, Switzerland
Five free concerts are staged on the ski slopes at 1.30pm
Hosted in car-free Avoriaz, Snowboxx attracts huge DJs
The longest established of all the music festivals in the
daily – you just need a lift pass to be able to get to them.
and live acts, stages legendary après parties and offers a
Alps, The Brits is actually primarily about competition, being
More than 50 après-ski concerts are then staged in Portes
smorgasbord of fun-fuelled activities. Last March, Fatboy
the British Championships for all things freestyle on ski or
du Soleil resorts in the evening. en.rockthepistes.com
Slim and Chase & Status were headliners. snowboxx.com
board, for all age groups and at all levels. britssnow.com
F E S T I VA LS 26–28 APR I9
30 APR I9
DANNY NORTH
OT CHAMONIX / C. BOILLON
8–I3 APR I9
2 0 I 8 / I 9
Snowbombing
Musilac Mont-Blanc
Top of the Mountain Concert
Mayrhofen, Austria
Chamonix, France
Ischgl
Formerly Europe’s biggest (before the likes of Musilac
Musilac was originally a summer-only festival but
Ischgl’s season-ending weekend Top of the Mountain
and Tomorrowland arrived), and celebrating its 20th
opened a mountain version last spring to huge success
concert has become an institution attracting bigger
birthday in 2019, Snowbombing offers a mixture
with 40,000 festival goers. So no surprise it’s back
stars than any other ski area on earth can attract –
of great gigs and parties that most other mountain
for 2019. Initial acts announced are Charlie Winston,
Elton, Robbie, Kylie, Rhianna and many other famous
festivals have since tried to copy. snowbombing.com
Gaëtan Roussel and Eddy de Pretto. musilac.com
names have performed here. ischgl.com/en/events
030 // NOV18
@INTHESNOWMAG
Book an independent instructor.
www.maisonsport.com We verify all instructors on Maison Sport to ensure they hold a valid licence to work in their chosen resort.
New Tignes Gondola to Run Without Bottom Station Staff in the Evenings
10 Million Euro Investment in Swedish Ski Areas
A new gondola lift being built this winter at Tignes,
Sweden’s Sälen ski area is set to receive what
to create a new connection between the resort’s
owners SkiStar are describing as “Scandinavia’s
Brévières and Boisses areas, will replace three lifts
most modern eight-seater express chairlift”, along
that will be dismantled and will also operate in the
with new ski runs and expanded snow-making
evenings, but it will do so without staff in its base
facilities in time for next winter.
station. “Thanks to the OWA (Operation Without
SkiStar are spending on Sälen’s Hundfjället sector
Many of the bigger projects we cover with news
Attendant), this new gondola lift will run without
as it is located less than 10 minutes from the new
stories throughout each of our magazines and
operating staff in the bottom station from 5.00pm
Scandinavian Mountains Airport, which is under
online, but here are seven more big projects from
to midnight,” a statement confirms from the resort
construction and currently on course to receive its
seven ski nations for the winter ahead:
owners of Compagnie des Alpes.
first flight in December 2019.
032 // NOV18
@INTHESNOWMAG
ALTA BADIA / MOLOGRAPHY
Another ski season is upon us and once again the world’s ski regions have dug deep and splurged hundreds of millions of euros, dollars and francs on upgrades and new developments to increase our skiing and boarding pleasures for the winter ahead.
ALTA BADIA / MOLOGRAPHY
New Powder Chair for Big White
of retro-fitting a media façade with one further option
some new ski runs for the coming season.
being to project moving images onto this.
A new slope, the “Panoramica Druscié”, has been
What Big White resort staff claim to have been
built in Cortina d’Ampezzo, while in Pozza di Fassa
“Canada’s oldest and most popular triple chair”, the Powder Chair, is being upgraded to a quad in time for the coming ski season. The previous lift, installed
the “Aloch” race slope will be transformed into
Saalbach Says Farewell to Signature “Pulse” Gondola
nearly 40 years ago in 1979, provided an estimated
a giant slalom piste suitable for competitions. The new “Signaue II” slope is being added at the Three Zinnen Dolomites ski resort, while in the
15,868,476 rides.
The Saalbach ski area, in Austria’s Salzburgerland
Alpe Cermis ski resort in Val di Fiemme, the new
The $3.9 million lift is part of a $10 million spend this
region, is removing its Kohlmaisgipfelbahn gondola
“Busabella” slope will welcome guests from the
summer on upgrades at the BC ski area, the biggest
lift and replacing it with a brand new, state-of-the-art
beginning of the season. Finally, the new “Wastl
single-season spend in the last decade.
gondola. The resort already operates more gondola
Huber” ski run at the Gitschberg-Jochtal ski resort
“After all, when was the last time someone spent
lifts than almost any other ski area on the planet,
will flank the new “Ski Express” cable car.
$10 million to show you a good time?” commented
but this time the new lift will be replacing an old
Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President of the Big
one, rather than a chairlift or drag lift, so the overall
White Ski Resort.
number of gondolas won’t be increasing. The new Doppelmayr-built lift will include a large
Biggest Single Investment in Winter Park History
number of improvements including street-level
Major Lift Upgrade at Gstaad A key lift in the Saanenmöser–Saanenwald–
access and the uplift capacity increased to 3,200
The new operators of the Winter Park ski area in
people per hour, more than double the previous
Colorado have announced the biggest spend in
lift’s capacity.
the resort’s long history. A massive $28.2 million
Saanerslochgrat sector of Gstaad’s large ski area
is funding a new 10-person gondola, replacing the
has been upgraded to a new, state-of-the-art gondola with some world-first features this winter.
key Zephyr lift, as well as snowmaking and other
Five New Ski Runs in the Dolomites
The new two-stage is one of manufacturer
upgrades. The money is coming from the resort’s new
Doppelmayr’s luxurious “D-Line” designs with 10-
As mentioned in one of our news stories in this
operators, the Alterra company, which snapped up
passenger cabins and technology that ensures an
issue, Italy’s Dolomiti Superski region is spending
a dozen leading North American ski areas last year
ultra-smooth, quiet ride. Unique to the new lift will be
€90 million ahead of the coming winter on half a
and has announced plans to invest $555 million
real glass roofs on all the stations. The cuboid roof with
dozen flashy new lifts and lots more snowmaking
into them over the next five years.
its large surface area will, in future, offer the possibility
improvements, but the region is also unveiling
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033 // NOV18
Capital of the Alps, Innsbruck is close
at resorts including Sestriere and
to a number of the Austrian Tirol’s best
Sauze d’Oulx, as well as Mongenevre
resorts, such as St Anton am Arlberg,
in France. It’s also the closest major
Stubai and Mayrhofen.
airport to the Aosta Valley ski areas of Cervinia, Pila, La Thuile and
Birmingham to Finland:
Courmayeur, and to south-eastern
To make it easier for winter
French resorts such as Serre Chevalier
holidaymakers from the Midlands area
and Puy St Vincent.
to get direct flight access to the resorts
Flights will run on Saturday mornings
of Ruka, Salla and Iso Syöte in the
between late December and mid-April.
Finnish Lapland, Crystal has added a
Ski resorts are shouting about their new lifts, tour operators about their great deals, but what about the airlines? Well, rest assured, they’re telling us about new routes and increased capacity making it even easier for you to fly from closer to home to closer to the resort you want to get to. Here’s a quick digest:
new flight route from Birmingham to
Bristol to Sweden:
Kuusamo in Finland this winter.
EasyJet will fly from Bristol to Åre
“Families and adventurers love Lapland
Östersund Airport this coming winter,
be even easier with British Airways,
because of the huge range of winter
the airline’s second route from the
easyJet and Laudamotion, who are
activities on offer. From dog sledding
UK to the most popular ski resort in
all increasing their number of flights
to reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile
Scandinavia, Sweden’s Åre.
to Innsbruck. From 9 December,
safaris to ice fishing, plus a chance to
The announcement comes two years
British Airways will run flights from
see the Northern Lights,” said a Crystal
after the airline began flying to Åre from
Heathrow to Innsbruck daily, except
spokesperson.
Gatwick, a route which William Vet, the
for Wednesdays, and twice a day at
Country Director of easyJet Sweden,
Leeds Bradford to Turin:
says has been highly successful.
is introducing a new flight from
Jet2.com have announced they’ll be
The new route will begin operations
Manchester running every Sunday from
offering a new direct flight route from
on 9 December alongside the existing
December to March, and Laudamotion
Leeds Bradford Airport to Turin, in
service from London Gatwick. Fares
(owned by Ryanair) has launched a
Western Italy, next winter.
start at £36.70 one way, including taxes
More flights to Innsbruck:
service from Stansted every Sunday
Turin is close to the huge Milky Way
and based on two people being on the
Travelling to the Austrian Tirol will now
and Dublin every Saturday.
region, which offers 400km of pistes
same booking.
NICK PONTY
the weekends. Additionally, easyJet
034 // NOV18
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GREEC Ski, drink + be WORDS & PHOTO: JIMMY PETTERSON
(... for the country
036 // NOV18
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CE e merry
y is mortgaged)
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In this day and age, when the large ski resorts are ever more crowded, and an increasing number of people are tracking up the powder as a result of the wide, big-mountain skis that make skiing off-piste so easy, there are still a number of locations where one can get off the beaten track and find some solitude as well as powder. One of my favourites is Greece.
ski lifts is free of charge! Now, we are really talking the ski-bum language. Despite the unbeatable price, there were fewer than 100 visitors, and about half of them were soldiers taking their first lessons. Klaus, Jan-Erik and I wasted little time, and we headed up the 450 vertical metres to the top of the upper lift. There was plenty of boot-top powder on either side of the piste and nobody was making use of it. We spent the rest of the day leaving our signature in the virgin snow adjacent to the piste. The next stop on our agenda was Kalavryta, situated 190km east of Athens. The skiing was not free, but in
As the 21 Greek ski resorts are relatively unknown
Kalavryta, one can actually get a room with breakfast
outside of the country itself, there are almost no
plus a lift pass for €30 (£26) a day.
foreigners, and relatively few local people ski
It was a weekday, and there were about 60 cars at
midweek. The financial crisis has certainly also taken
the resort; the snow depth at the base of the lifts
its toll on the Greek ski industry. The lifts are generally
was 2m.
outdated, and only one resort there is currently
The upper mountain in Kalavryta is home to a lot of
profitable. Yet, when it comes to heart and soul, the
difficult off-piste terrain, all above the tree line, while
Greek people rate five stars.
the lower half of the ski area offers some excellent
The Greeks are among the friendliest people on the
tree skiing where the snow is more protected
planet, and their hospitality alone is reason enough
from the wind. The tree descents were manager
for a visit. Their life philosophy is quite similar to that
Spyropoulos Leonitas’s favourites, and he took us on
of an old ski bum like me. They do not live to work;
a few runs in the forest to show us around.
they work to live. That is to say that their leisure hours
The wind was howling up high, and the snow was
– family time, good food, wine, dance and music – are
falling horizontally, but in the trees, it was calm. For
often a higher priority than money.
the next few hours, we slithered and glided through
With all that in mind, Klaus Arpia, Jan-Erik Blomberg
the powder in the forest, making a new track on every
and I flew to Athens in search of light powder, good
descent, and we never saw another soul.
people, tasty food and a little adventure.
There was still time for an après-ski, and on the way
If one is going to ski in Greece, why not ski with the
down to town, we stopped at a roadside stand for a
gods on Greece’s highest peak, Mt Olympus? As
drink. It all began innocently enough, as Klaus and I
we approached the home of Zeus, the magnificent
asked the young ladies behind the counter if they had
mountain truly took on a godlike aura. There was not
any ouzo. They did not, but instead doled out a free
a cloud in the sky, and as the last rays of light shone
sample of what we would soon learn was a typical
on her majestic snow, Olympus transformed from
Greek après-ski drink – rakomelo – honey mixed with
white to a light shade of pink, then to a rose colour
raki and spiced with cinnamon or other herbs.
and finally to crimson.
Feeling happy with our powder day and free drinks,
The skiing on Mt Olympus is rather unique. The lift is
Klaus and I broke into an a cappella rendition of our
operated by the military to train their mountain troops,
theme song – Country Roads – which in turn resulted
but on weekends it is open to the public.
in a Greek bystander, Giorgos, calling out “Yamas”
The entrance to the military base is surrounded by
and toasting us.
razor-wire fences, but beyond this rather intimidating
After that, the rest of the afternoon and evening is a
entry is a beautiful world of white. We showed our
rather hazy blur, but suffice to say our random and
passports to a soldier at the entry gate and signed
seemingly insignificant decision of stopping at that
in. From there, one has to hike about 20 minutes
roadside stand set off a chain reaction of hospitality
to reach the lower of two draglifts. OK, you think a
that continued all night and probably could only
20-minute walk is a bit inconvenient, but use of the
happen in Greece.
037 // NOV18
ALL PICS: CHRISTOPHER SCHOLEY
A British-based heli-ski holiday company has put a £1 million week-long heli-ski holiday to Greenland on sale, with guests based in a super yacht moored off the coast.
£1 million per week depending on requirements. When split between the maximum number of guests, this makes it over £83,000pp. James Orr Heliski, founder of his eponymous company, said: “This really is the ultimate experience for the wealthy adventure
million POUND Heli-ski Holiday Price: £1,000,000
038 // NOV18
James Orr Heliski in exclusive partnership
seekers out there. Heli-skiing has a reputation
with SuperYachtsMonaco has launched the
for being expensive, and despite the
ultimate heli-skiing trip to Greenland based
fact we have heli-skiing holidays costing
on a luxury super yacht that’s specially
around £2,000 per person, this one is on
adapted to Arctic conditions.
the other end of the scale completely.
The MV Cloudbreak sleeps up to 12 guests
Greenland is a spectacular place to ski and
in six bedrooms, takes a crew of 22 and
the remoteness means that it’s possible
features a helipad. It has a maximum speed of
to drop onto unclimbed mountains and
15 knots and a range of 8,500 nautical miles.
make first descents. The ship itself is like a
Guests will fly directly from the ship with
cross between the most advanced military
mountain guides and be dropped on some of
hardware on the sea and a luxury 5★ hotel; it
the most inaccessible mountains in the world.
really is completely unique.”
After experiencing multiple heli drops through
The trips are offered in April and May 2019
the day, they are flown back to relax in the
and the £1 million includes seven nights’
Christian Liaigre-designed interior where
accommodation, food, private helicopter,
gourmet meals and fine wines will be served.
guide and staff but excludes travel to and
The whole experience costs around
from Greenland.
HELISKI.CO.UK
MAYRHOFEN FOR FAMILIES 039 // NOV18 PROMO
Mayrhofen is one of Austria’s top ski resorts, with legendary après-ski and buzzing nightlife. However, it is also a fantastic family destination, with great, varied skiing that’s sure to keep the whole brood entertained!
areas ranging from “easy” to “difficult”. For more advanced skiers, Mayrhofen has a huge range of entertaining reds and challenging blacks, with a reputation for good snow meaning you can enjoy great skiing all season long. The Zillertal Superski pass gives you access to an astounding 515km of pistes across the valley’s four ski areas (Hochzillertal-Hochfügen-
With many easily accessible beginner
Spieljoch, Zillertal Arena, Mayrhofner
lifts down in the valley, this area is ideal
Bergbahnen and Zillertal 3000) as
for beginners and younger skiers, and
well as free transport between them.
the Kinderland Horberg nursery slope
Ideal for adventurous skiers looking to
is perfect for those who are still getting
explore the area.
to grips with their skis. An exceptionally
Adrenaline seekers will love the Penken
high quality of ski tuition across a
Snow Park, an unmissable part of winter
range of English-speaking children’s
in Mayrhofen which offers unparalleled
ski schools and kindergartens ensure
opportunity for freestyle fans and a “fun
that learning to ski is as fun as it is
ride” kids’ park for younger skiers. And
rewarding, and epic lift pass discounts
if this wasn’t enough, Mayrhofen is also
for kids are a godsend to parents.
home to the Harakiri, Europe’s steepest
When your youngsters are ready to take
ski run. With a gradient of up to 78%, it’s
on more of the mountain, head to the
one that advanced skiers always enjoy
Ahorn area. The blue slopes here tend
ticking off their list! If you’re slightly
to be very quiet, giving beginners the
wary, try out the “Devil’s Run” first,
opportunity to practise without worrying
which has a steep end section that will
too much about other skiers flying by.
help you decide whether you are ready
Similarly, the Rastkogel area has lots of
for the full Harakiri!
gentle blue runs serviced by easy lifts,
Mayrhofen is a well-connected resort,
alongside accessible red runs, perfect
with modern lifts and a plethora of free
for those first forays off of the blues.
ski buses – a lifesaver when those
For thrill-seeking children, there are also
little legs are tired after a day’s skiing!
three “fun ride” areas in Mayrhofen,
Hotels such as the Hotel Strass, right
combining elements of ski and
next to the Penkenbahn, offer a brilliant
snowboard cross (think moguls, banked
alternative to those lovely ski-boot clad
curves and dips) within specially designed
walks home.
CRYSTALSKI.CO.UK
, You ve Got to
Love
Ruka WORDS: LUKE REES
For young children there’s nothing more exciting than Christmas. So when we flew to Ruka in Finnish Lapland on Christmas Eve 2017, to meet Father Christmas as he is known in our house and get involved in everything from skiing to dog sledding, it’s safe to say excitement was at dangerous levels – and that was just the adults!
We arrived just after lunch on 24 December. A walk and play in the snow had everyone whooping and smiling despite the -20°C temperature!
The main Finnish celebration is on Christmas Eve, so we headed to the Restaurant Royal Ruka for a traditional Finnish Christmas dinner. We were surprised to find turkey on the menu and other similarities to a British Christmas dinner, but there were also differences, like pickled herring and a selection of strange “casseroles”. To the boys’
040 // NOV18
Ruka is one of the largest ski resorts in Finland, located
delight we met the “real” Father Christmas just before he
35km from the edge of the Arctic Circle and with a ski
set off to begin delivering gifts.
season that lasts more than 200 days, and Kuusamo
On Christmas Day we opened presents then took our
Airport is just 25km away.
four- and six-year-old to their ski lessons while we
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hit the slopes. Ruka is small by Alpine standards, but
woodland following a path that meandered through the
snowboarding on Christmas Day was something I’d
snow-blanketed forest. The kids each had their own
always wanted to do.
horse, and despite being nervous and new to riding they
There is 20km of piste over 35 runs with just 200m of
both loved it. Afterwards we enjoyed hot chocolate and
vertical and the longest run just 1.3km long. But don’t let
pancakes by the fire in a Lavvu (traditional Finnish teepee).
that put you off; the slopes are very good with pistes for all
The five of us stayed in the Ruka Suites in a compact but
different abilities, an excellent park and plenty of off-piste.
very functional apartment consisting of a double room, bunk
Although small, Ruka punches well above its weight.
room and pull-out sofa in the open-plan kitchen-living area,
A trip to Lapland is about much more than skiing and
as well as bathroom, separate toilet and sauna.
Santa though. It has become a hub for winter activities
Staying in a self-catered apartment we cooked for ourselves
from ice climbing to snowshoeing. We stuck with the
using the fairly well-stocked supermarket and eating out a
more family-friendly activities, starting with a trip to Kujala
few times.The buffet at Restaurant Katlakivi was very good
Reindeer Farm. Reindeer are an important part of the
and I also recommend RU OK Burger. For lunch the all-you-
traditional Sami lifestyle; they’re semi-wild spending at
can-eat soup at Villisika Restaurant is hard to beat.
least half the year roaming free only returning to their
We will cherish the memories from our Christmas in
farm in the coldest months. Being in a field with hundreds
Lapland. Yes, it was very cold, and it was sometimes a
of reindeer was a little daunting but also a magical
faff taking many layers on and off, but it was also fun,
experience. The kids loved feeding the hand-reared
beautiful and exciting. A family trip to Ruka is something I
orphaned calves.
thoroughly recommend.
Dog sledding had long been something I wanted to try, but I didn’t expect to be driving the dogs myself with my kids as passengers. The dogs set off at a breakneck speed, and we all laughed, squealed and giggled for most
could try and a younger children’s play area. One evening we went in search of the Northern Lights
4 ★ Ruka Suites from £1,290 (price for 13 January 2019)
on a snowmobile, kitted out in warm gear and reaching
for a family of four (inc. free child place) including flights
speeds of over 80kph, but unfortunately it was snowing so
from Gatwick to Kuusamo and transfers. Direct flights also
no chance of seeing the Aurora.
available from Manchester:
The highlight of our trip was riding Icelandic horses
crystalski.co.uk/tel: 020 8610 3123.
in fresh snow at Wanha Raatesalmi. We rode into the
All activities can be booked at ruka.fi/en
We also had a reindeer sleigh ride, not as fast as the dog sledding but being pulled around by Rudolph was just as special. There were also small snowmobiles older kids
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GETTING TO
Ruka
of the ride around the track at Lammintupa Winter Village.
Crystal Ski Holidays offers a week’s self-catering at the
RUKA.FI/EN
BY PATRICK THORNE
CALIFORNIAN SKI AREA GOING 100% SOLAR The Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows ski area in California has announced that all of its electricity will be
ZERMATT OFFERS FLEXIBLE LIFT PASS PRICES THIS WINTER
purchased from Liberty Utilities’ Zermatt says it will cut its
lift passes in Europe, although it is also
season and peak season) will be
lift ticket prices during low
one of the most generous in the world for
introduced, and within those periods prices
season periods this winter with
children’s tickets, with under nines skiing
will vary up or down during the course of
prices for ski passes dynamically
free and big discounts for young people
the season depending on capacity.
set like airline tickets and
right up to their early 20s.
“The aim of the new price model for ski
Public Utilities Commission’s
hotel beds.
“Factors such as supply, demand and
passes is to attract guests during low-
approval of Liberty Utilities’
The famous Swiss resort, which operates
time of purchase are included in these
demand times through cheaper prices,” the
one of the world’s biggest ski areas
calculations,” a Zermatt lift company
spokesperson continued. The new price
allowing local customers to purchase
including Europe’s highest lifts, currently
spokesperson said.
system means early bookers and online
renewable electricity for their homes
has probably the most expensive adult
Three seasons (pre-season, off-peak
bookers should receive lower prices.
nearby solar generation plant in Luning, Nevada, making the resort’s electricity supply 100% renewable. The move, which begins on 1 December, follows the California
application for a Green Tariff in July,
or businesses at a nominal price per kilowatt hour, the proceeds of which Liberty Utilities uses to develop new renewable energy projects. By signing on to the Green Tariff, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows will become Liberty’s largest Green Tariff customer, contributing approximately $325,000 (£247,000) in additional dollars towards its electric bill in the first year to help accelerate the transition to affordable renewable energy sources for the utility’s 49,000 customers in the region. The Green Tariff is available to all Liberty Utilities customers, and Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows will continue to advocate for its adoption within the larger community.
AVIEMORE’S MAIN LIFT CLOSED AS SKI SEASON NEARS
With this change, Squaw Valley The key lift at Cairngorm ski area above
that they have since got worse.
“Rest assured, we do not underestimate
its total annual carbon footprint,
Aviemore has been shut down due to safety
The ski area’s owners, Highlands and
the significance of this situation … and are
including fuels and other sources
concerns while more detailed examinations
Islands Enterprise (HIE), have commissioned
working to resolve this situation quickly
unrelated to the power grid, from
of the structure are carried out.
specialist engineers to carry out a detailed
and safely,” said Ewan Kearney, COO,
13,078 metric tons to an estimated
The concerns relate to the concrete
structural assessment of the area of concern.
Natural Retreats, who run CairnGorm
6,682 metric tons – a 49% reduction,
structures supporting the track. According
The findings of this are expected shortly
Mountain for HIE.
which is equivalent to the emissions
to a local newspaper report these were
before the ski season is due to begin and
“We are unable to provide a detailed timeline
generated by the annual electrical
first identified as having cracks in 2016
should confirm what remedial work is
for the reopening of the funicular and will
with a recent routine inspection identifying
necessary and how long that is likely to take.
issue further updates as we are able to.”
Alpine Meadows will almost halve
use of 959 homes.
042 // NOV18
@INTHESNOWMAG
MANU REYBOZ
SKIERS JUMPING OVER US HIGHWAY
LES ARCS “THUMBING NOSE” AT BREXIT
NEW TOBOGGAN RUN TO HAVE AURORA LIGHTING
Skiers and boarders were reported to have been seen
French ski resort Les Arcs, which celebrates 50
The Finnish ski resort of Saariselkä in Northern Lapland
jumping across a famous US highway in Montana during
years in business this winter and has long had a
has announced it will be opening a new toboggan run
the summer. The Beartooth Highway near Yellowstone
“special relationship” with British skiers, says it
for its guests this winter, with two novelties.
National Park is regarded as one of the continent’s most
will be “thumbing our nose at Brexit” at a special
Firstly, the new run will be the longest in Finland at more
scenic and most treacherous, reaching altitudes above
celebration due to begin the day after so-called
than 1.8km in length. Secondly it will feature special
3,300m and only opening for around five months, the
Brexit Day, 29 March 2019. The resort launched
illuminations themed on the aurora borealis or so called
rest of the year being buried in snow.
their annual “Great British Celebration” in winter
“northern lights”.
Cleared of snow in late spring, drifts up to 7m remained
2017, following the Brexit vote; next season it will run
“The illumination has been done as a light art project
at the sides of the road, which also accesses the only
from 30 March to 5 April 2019 in its third edition.
by WhiteNight Lighting, and the project’s aim was to
summer-only ski area in the USA, Beartooth Basin.
“Far from any controversy, this event is first and
create aurora-borealis-themed illumination,” confirmed
A group of skiers from Jackson, Wyoming, were
foremost an opportunity to remind our friends from
Saariselkä’s Ida Katajamaa, who added:
reported to have built a snow ramp and jumped the
across the Channel that we are still delighted to see
“Along the ride from the top of fell Kaunispää to the
8m-wide, two-lane road, when there was no traffic.
them on our slopes,” said Cecile Romualdo from the
bottom of the toboggan slope, there are also other light
A tourist from Australia who witnessed the jumpers told
resort’s press office.
art objects that have been inspired by the mythology of
local media “They’re mad. Just absolutely mad,” adding,
During the week the whole resort will be flying the Union
the Arctic night sky.”
“It’s just silly. Silly, silly, silly.”
Jack, with challenges and events between “Frenchies”
The illumination project was completed through the
The local police said that there was a law against
and “Brits”, and a concert of Beatles songs. Nearly a
spring and summer of 2018, and the newly illuminated
ski jumping over a highway. “It’s called Reckless
third of Les Arcs’ 1.8 million overnight winter stays are
toboggan slope will open to the public in the winter
Endangerment,” one explained, adding that skiers have
made by skiers from outside France with most coming
season 2018/19. Packaged holidays to and from the UK
been warned in the past for doing it.
from the UK, Belgium, Netherlands and Russia.
to Saariselkä are offered by Inghams.
Protect your valuable skiing time by securing your skis and poles outside restaurants, bars and in overnight storage areas. Pocket-sized, lightweight lock weighing only 210g and for use with Alpine skis (approx. 70-96mm at waist). Lock by pressing a button – released with a key.
0845 644 6512 info@skilock.co.uk skilock.co.uk
in Courmayeur Mont Blanc
Courmayeur, located on the Italian side of Mont Blanc, has always been one of the ski world’s most desirable destinations with its combination of sophistication, mountain culture and superb skiing.
baby-sitting services. Guests of the hotel will have priority access to the slopeside destination restaurant and club, La Loge du Massif. “Welcome Winter” is just the first of a seasonlong series of events in Courmayeur. For the first time, the resort’s slopes will host the City Ski Championship & Financial Times Alpine
044 // NOV18
Winter 2018/19 begins here on 24 November
Forum (31 January–3 February 2019) with a
when the slopes first open, but the season
series of competitions, open to everyone,
really begins to take off with the Welcome
including speed skiing, Super G and parallel
Winter 2019 event on 8 December when the
slalom races with a racing paddock and Ski
livelier side of Courmayeur sees world-class
Clinic GS organised by the Scuola di Sci
celebrities join the party.
Monte Bianco.
This year there’s even more to celebrate
But long-time favourite events will also be
with the unveiling of a new ski run, and of a
returning including the annual Mountain
stunning new luxury hotel in the resort.
Gourmet Ski Experience (14–17 March
The new slope, from Arp down to Youla, was
2019), which relies on the foodie DNA of
formerly only possible as a freeriding descent.
Courmayeur to host the exclusive and
Now integrated into the piste map, the slope
Michelin-starred food event, orchestrated
has been designed to be integrated into the
by the multi-starred British chef Heston
“vertical” expansion of the ski area, which also
Blumenthal, who combines exquisite culinary
includes the planned construction of a new
creations with his passion for the mountains
cable car. The slope was built at a cost of
and skiing. This winter the celebrity chef Tom
€1.5 million (around £1.3 million) and is 1.3km
Kerridge, well known on TV and social media
long, starting red then turning black with a
because of his new cookbook on low-calorie
pitch of 70%.
cooking, will also participate.
Courmayeur’s new 5★ hotel, Le Massif, a
But whenever you visit in the season you’re
member of The Leading Hotels of the World,
sure to love your time in Courmayeur, famous
will house 80 rooms and suites. It also offers
as it is for its respect for local tradition, good
a world-class spa, a private in-house ski
food, sports, fun, relaxation, entertainment,
concierge, two on-site restaurants including a
shopping and snow fun, all framed by the
gourmet steakhouse and all-day-dining family
priceless surrounding of Mont Blanc’s
restaurant, two bars, a ski room, kids club and
incredible scenery.
COURMAYEURMONTBLANC.IT
SelfCatering Just Got Easier From welcome night suppers to complete 6 day menus with breakfasts and drinks, Huski delivers it all. NEW this season, we’ve added a range of locally made Alpine dishes to our ever-popular COOK menus and we are now delivering to all 250 resorts in the French Alps
www.hu.ski
5% off for all InTheSnow readers with offer code: INTHESNOW
GEOFFREY VABRE
046 // NOV18
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We’re all spending less time on our ski holidays actually skiing, we’re told, and instead are looking for more alternative activities to enjoy while visiting the mountains. The ski resorts themselves want to get more visitors outside the ski season and spread their business all year round to make it more sustainable. The result to this conundrum? Well, there are ever more zip wires, mountain coasters, mountain biking trails and, for resorts with the deepest pockets, a growing number of epic indoor water parks! Here are some of our favourites:
LevI
Finland The Levi Hotel Spa (Levitunturi) is the leading hotel in Finland’s biggest ski resort, and a few years ago it unveiled its “Spa Water World” – a themed collection of 17 inter-linked indoor-outdoor swimming pools. What’s different to your usual indoor water park is the use of sound, projected images and sensory lighting, as well as the more usual flumes, counter-currents and wave pools to make this a very different attraction. It’s open to non-residents.
Aquamotion
Courchevel, France Courchevel recently splurged €63 million (£50 million) on their Aquamotion complex, which is divided into adult and child areas; the former is home to a saltwater
Avoriaz
spa and comes complete with dark, cavern-like areas where mesmerising kaleidoscopic patterns are
France
projected onto the main wall, providing the only real
Avoriaz is owned by the same company that runs
source of light, while lovely relaxing music plays in the
Center Parcs, so it made perfect sense for France’s
background as you float. There’s also a large indoor-
only fully car-free ski area to build a tropical water
outdoor pool, a sauna and much more. For kids, there
park 1,800m up in the Alps. Aquariaz has been
are two huge waterslides, two diving boards and two
designed as “an aquatic paradise in the mountains”
children’s pools and, the centre’s signature attraction,
featuring lush vegetation and rocks, a river with a
a surf wave pool where you can try bodyboarding,
gentle variable current, a water playhouse, a paddling
surfing or wakeboarding, although apparently it’s
pool, a large pool with climbing walls, and an open-
harder than the competent people make it look.
air spa heated to 34°C! One particularly popular attraction is the “slidewinder”, a kind of aquatic halfpipe ridden in a tube.
Tschuggen Bergoase Arosa, Switzerland
The Pump House
At 5,000m², the Arosa Tschuggen Bergoase is the largest spa in the Alps. Part of the resort’s 5★ Tschuggen
Jay Peak, USA
hotel, the complex is partially built into a mountainside
Jay Peak, located up near the Canadian border in
and was designed by award-winning architect Mario
northern Vermont, created one of the world’s biggest
Botta. Open to non-residents subject to space, the spa
indoor water parks, the Pump House, next to its
brings together nature, geometry, warmth, rock, light
ski slopes. Packed full of wet and wild fun features,
and water with the aim of being a place of wellbeing and
highlights include the La Chute waterslide, which has
inner peace. So, you can expect a spectacular spa and a
a 20m vertical drop and will see you complete a full
wonderful pool area complete with themed water trails.
FRANCK PAUBEL
360° rotation as you hit 70kph. “Six seconds later you
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arrive at the bottom. Forever changed,” said a Jay Peak spokesperson.
The Grand Spa Thermal
Brides-Les-Bains, France
Aqualudique
Of course, some ski areas were spa resorts long before snowsports were dreamt up, and they’re still a good
Les Arcs, France
choice when it comes to aqua fun and relaxation. Brides-
Les Arcs is one of the latest big French resorts to
Les-Bains, at the foot of the world’s biggest ski region Les
splash out (get it?) on a huge indoor water fun zone.
3 Vallées, is one such choice, and this winter it will unveil
Its Aqualudique complex at Arc 1800 is part of the
the fully renovated largest thermal spa in France – the new
on-mountain Mille8 indoor-outdoor family fun zone,
Grand Spa Thermal – following a €17 million (around £15
which is open daily, morning to evening. There’s
million) investment. Along with incredible spa facilities,
3,800m² of aquatic space and relaxation zones,
the aquatic area covers 600m² and consists of three
including whirlpool baths, massage beds and other
different zones: a 25m swimming lane, an aqua-fitness
facilities, to help you unwind and forget the everyday
pool, and a “fun” pool, complete with two Jacuzzis,
stresses of the ski slopes. Kids will enjoy the splash
two “bubble beds”, underwater jets and an unusual
pad, water jets and water slides.
underwater circuit.
047 // NOV18
ONE OF WORLD’S LONGEST DRY SKI SLOPES OPENS One of the longest artificial surface ski slopes yet has opened in Serbia. The ski slope at the country’s largest ski resort, Kopaonik, is nearly 900m long and uses 10,000m2 of material supplied by Italian business Neveplast.
RUNS DESIGNATED “FREERIDE”
THE EUROPEAN OUTDOOR FILM TOUR (E.O.F.T.) TURNS I8
Two new freeride pistes will open this winter in the Grindelwald First ski area in Switzerland. The pistes, numbered 14 and 15, will be left ungroomed for a whole day after
The European Outdoor Film
exhibits acute mental strength by scaling
between two and a half and three hours.
Tour (E.O.F.T.) is coming of
an 8a blindfolded, is portrayed in the film
Europe’s largest outdoor film festival will
age! For 18 years the E.O.F.T.
The A.O. But that’s not all; as usual the
reach the UK on 2 November and premiere
has been presenting the best
E.O.F.T. also has lots to offer devotees of
in the Logan Hall with more shows in
outdoor, adventure and travel
the finest powder and lovers of adrenalin.
Aberdeen, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff,
documentaries on the big screen,
There is also some comic relief with a stop-
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool,
and 2018 is no different.
motion animation, a road trip on rollerskis
Manchester, Sheffield and back to London
A highlight of this year’s tour is the portrait
through the USA, and a somewhat crazy
over the following fortnight.
British year-round artificial ski
of an exceptional talent and this year’s
Frenchman, who demonstrates that one
The UK tour is just part of the extensive
slope designers and suppliers
“poster boy”, Adam Ondra. The Czech
can still be young even at the age of 82.
tour with more than 400 events in
Briton Engineering Developments
climber ascends the world’s most difficult
In total there are eight films with a
18 countries.
Ltd have announced that their first
routes and seems to effortlessly overcome
combined running time of 120 minutes.
For info and to book tickets, visit
gravity. This extraordinary athlete, who
With supporting activities each event lasts
eoft.eu
snowfall especially for use by powder snow fans.
NEW BRITISH DRY SLOPE IN CHINA
major Snowflex® slope in China will open in Shanghai later this year. The large slope is to be built at Global Harbor, Shanghai, in association with Shanghai Vankoo
WORKERS SUE MILLIONAIRES RESORT One hundred and ten Jamaicans
STEVIE MCKENNA / SKI SCOTLAND
Sports Management Co. Ltd.
employed at the private Yellowstone ski club in Montana, part of one of the largest ski areas
ALL-AREAS SEASON TICKET FOR SCOTLAND & ICELAND
in the USA and only open to multimillionaire members, are suing the
Scottish ski areas are hoping for bumper
the indoor snow area in Glasgow. The pass
2018), with a discount of around 10%
resort and a staffing agency over
sales of their “all areas” season pass
also provides free access to snowsports at
available to those who bought the pass
unpaid tips. A Club spokesperson
after a successful winter last season. The
all of Iceland’s ski areas too.
last year too.
said they didn’t employ the
pass covers the five Highland ski areas of
The limited edition tickets are available
“We are aware of one lady who enjoyed
Jamaican workers directly.
Cairngorm, Glencoe, Glenshee, The Lecht
through the Ski-Scotland website priced
99 days skiing last winter with her All-
and Nevis Range as well as offering free
at £550 for adults and £310 for children
Areas Season Ticket!” said Andy Meldrum
slope time and discounts at Snow Factor,
(five to 17 years inclusive at 1 December
of marketing group Ski-Scotland.
048 // NOV18
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C CATTIN / VAL THORENS TOURIST OFFICE
MORE ZIP WIRES TO OPEN AT VAL THORENS Val Thorens gained widespread publicity when it unveiled Europe’s highest zip wire a few years ago. Now the resort has announced a series of zip wires are to be installed ready for next winter which will allow visitors to race through the heart of the resort itself – just suspended above the pistes. The 1,600m-long flight, divided into three sections, will carry zip liners 65m above the ski slopes, starting from the top of La Moutière chair lift and landing at the heart of Val Thorens at Place de Caron. The new zip line is to be open daily, accessible to skiers and pedestrians who’ll achieve an average
DKCOOPER
descent speed of 75kph.
FAST NEW CHAIRLIFT & MORE AT TREMBLANT The new Alterra Mountain Company, which took over 12 leading North American ski resorts last year and added two more this summer, has invested 17 million Canadian dollars at Mont Tremblant in Quebec ahead of the 2018/19 ski season. The money has gone on replacing the Lowell Thomas chairlift with a fast new quad, renovating and expanding the summit chalet Le Grand Manitou, creating new glades, renovating La Fourchette du Diable on the North Side base, as well as other additions and upgrades. Also, five new glades covering a 50-acre area will extend Tremblant’s skiable terrain to 101 trails across 715 acres. The sectors involved are located on the North Side and the Edge, which are respectively served by the Duncan, Expo and Edge lifts.
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LIECHTENSTEIN More than half of the world’s skiing nations are in Europe and in fact you can ski in almost every one of the currently 50 European nations – even the generally hot ones like Cyprus and Portugal. The exceptions are the tiny places like San Marino and Vatican City, but the slightly larger mini-states do have ski lifts, amongst them, Liechtenstein.
Europe with an area of just over 62 square
quads, the Hochegg and Täli chairs, which
package tours and tower blocks and lift
miles and has a population of just 37,877,
are on the left at the other end of the village.
queues,” one enthusiast for the country
the mountains stretch up to 2,599m and
This is a great place to learn or to do laps,
writes, adding, “In fact, it’s the kind of
it’s also one of the richest places on earth.
with 60% of the terrain rated intermediate
place where you feel that you may bump
So perhaps there should be more than
and 30% beginner. The two chairlifts at
into a young Gregory Peck and Doris Day
just the one downhill ski area, Malbun,
the entrance to the village provide access
around the corner.”
or perhaps the locals just pop over the
to a number of intermediate pistes. The
If you had visited 33 winters ago you
border to one of their bigger Alpine
Hochegg lift is higher, and from here it’s
probably wouldn’t have seen any
neighbours when they want to ski?
possible to join the skiers on the cruising
Hollywood stars, but you might have
Located only nine miles from the capital,
run out of the Vaduzer Täli valley. You
bumped into a British princess. When
Vaduz, there are 23km of slopes available
can also take the linking run over to the
things were still “good” between Prince
between 1,600 and 2,000m, served by nine
Sareis chairlift at the other end of the
Charles and Princess Diana in 1985, the
lifts. The resort hasn’t scrimped on the lifts,
village, which offers superb views of the
royals side-stepped the paparazzi camped
Of course, being bordered by Switzerland
which include modern conveyor lifts and
surrounding mountains from the top (the
out at their usual winter haunt of Klosters
to the west and south and Austria to the
chairs. One of the chairs is a high-speed
resort’s highest point), where the popular
and instead headed to Malbun for Diana
east and north, it perhaps shouldn’t be a
six-seater with heated seats, the Sareis lift,
Sareisjoch mountain restaurant is located.
to learn to ski in peace. It was the same
surprise that there’s skiing here. Although
on the right-hand side of the valley looking
“Skiing in Malbun is like skiing in the days
resort where Charles had gone skiing
the country is the fourth-smallest in
up, which runs alongside two detachable
before the sport became a nightmare of
himself as a teenager in the 1960s.
050 // NOV18
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SKI 2018-2019 S E L F- C AT E RING A PA RT M E N T S , CHALETS,HOTELS
FRENCH ALP S & P YRENEE S
020 7371 6111 -
ABTA No. V554X
WWW.L AGRANGE-HOLIDAYS.CO.UK
LA P L AG N E S K I I N G
T H E
W O R L D ’ S
T H I R D
L A R G E S T
S K I
A R E A
WORDS: ANDY TAYLOR | PHOTO: PHILIPPE ROYER
La Plagne in the French Alps is rated as one of the top ski resorts in the world, and after visiting and skiing this magnificent resort, it’s easy to see why. Often listed among the best ski resorts worldwide, this versatile and family-friendly resort can cater for every level of skier and boarder, from complete novice to hardened pro.
a great après-ski bar or restaurant close to your accommodation whichever you choose. There are plenty of facilities to cater for young families including junior slopes, sledging and play areas. At the other extreme, for adventurous skiers and boarders there are plenty of black runs to explore as well as off-piste terrain. For most of us in between who consider ourselves intermediate skiers and enjoy wide open, uncrowded runs, La Plagne is ideal.
La Plagne is part of the high-altitude Paradiski ski area,
“If I want to have a quick, fast ski for an hour or two I can
the world’s third biggest, connected by the remarkable
access red and blue runs depending on how I feel, or
Vanoise Express double-decker cable car to Les Arcs
I can spend the whole day and hardly do the same run
and Peisey Vallandry across the valley. La Plagne itself
twice,” one seasonaire told me.
has a 3,250m-high glacier with slopes that drop down to
On the slopes myself, my overall impression was that
1,250m, with 128 lifts on its side of Paradiski alone.
the lift system was huge and well set up, with so many
The 2,000 metres of lift-served vertical – one of the
options that once on the mountain you could explore
world’s biggest again – encompasses everything from
a different part of it every day. The glacier was also
wide-open glacier skiing up top to classic tree-lined runs
spectacular with views to Mont Blanc.
through the forest below.
052 // NOV18
La Plagne is made up of 10 different villages – some
Thrill Seekers
traditional, centuries old, others purpose-built at altitude
La Plagne has lots to do besides the vast amount of
during the past 50 years – all well connected by fast lifts
skiing and boarding. If there’s a thrill seeker in you,
to every part of the resort. The villages are small and
then why not try the 1.5km bobsleigh run just outside
quite spread out, so transport is needed if you want to
La Plagne Centre? This was used in the 1992 Winter
look around without your skis on, but it’s not hard to find
Olympics and is the only bobsleigh run in France.
Where To Stay I stayed at the Araucaria Hotel and Spa located in one
Getting There: Rail or Air, What’s Your Preference?
of La Plagne’s original and larger bases, Plagne Centre.
There are plenty of travel options for getting to La
The hotel has just been completely refurbished and
Plagne. We travelled down to Moûtiers on the ski train
reopened at the start of the 2017/18 season.
(Eurostar) from London St Pancras. It was an eight-hour
This is a ski-in/ski-out hotel right at the bottom of the
journey through some very scenic parts of France. The
slalom run, with a ski hire shop handily located right in the
train is comfortable and well-catered with meals and a
basement of the hotel. The ski schools and après bars are
separate bar area. The additional advantage of taking the
also right outside the hotel and facing the lower ski runs.
train is that you can carry a suitcase as well as your ski
The rooms are spacious and family-friendly. The bar and
bag at no additional cost.
restaurant area is huge and really nicely presented with
Coming home, we transferred to Geneva, which
large TVs, music entertainment and play areas for children.
was around three hours, and flew home from there.
The restaurant offers buffet-style dining included in the room
Comparing the two options, the journey times door to
price, with a good choice of cuisine to suit all appetites. The
door were very similar as the destination of the train in
quality of the food is excellent as is the service.
Moûtiers was a short transfer up to La Plagne.
The icing on the cake is a huge spa within the hotel that
Whether you take the train or fly, the journey down
offers a pool, sauna, steam room and ice room as well as a
is quick and easy, and arriving in La Plagne is reward
full range of spa treatments such as massage, therapy and
enough for the effort in getting there.
so on. This is available to all guests at an additional cost.
It’s stunning, and that’s the best way to describe it!
La Plagne By Direct Ski Train Inghams offers a range of holidays by ski train to several resorts in France. The benefits of travelling by train include free ski carriage coupled with a much more generous luggage allowance (two bags per person plus hand luggage) than flying – good news with all that ski kit. Check-in is much faster than at the airport and there are short transfers to the resort too. Plus you should enjoy convenient, comfortable and stress-free travel along with great scenic views en route. Inghams has a seven-night half-board holiday at the 4★ Araucaria Hotel & Spa in La Plagne from £1,059pp based on two sharing in January 2019. Price includes return train travel from London to Moûtiers and resort transfers. Lift passes, equipment hire and tuition can be pre-booked through Inghams.
TO BOOK VISIT INGHAMS.CO.UK/SKI-HOLIDAYS OR CALL 01483 791 114
MEET OLIVER KERN Munich-born Oliver Kern (44) has been skiing for more than 40 years and now thinks he may have skied at more ski areas than anyone else. Mr Kern, whose day job is running the world’s largest ski resort test portal, skiresort.info, has so far skied in 885 different ski resorts, in 31 countries including Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile and Canada as well as in 15 different states in the USA.
1,000 ski resorts within the next
but the skiing in the bowls and on
at home with my family, although if the
three to four years.
the slopes is amazing with great
weather is nice I’ll be in the mountains
long runs!). Oh, and also Telluride,
then too. As I live in Munich, I am very
Snowmass and Vail in Colorado.
close to the Alps and I can do a lot by
Of all the places you’ve skied, what are your favourites?
car. If ski resorts are outside Europe or
It is very hard to say. It depends
Visiting so many ski resorts seems
more than 600km from Munich I take
on what you like. I like the large
like a dream but are there any
the plane and get a rental car.
ski resorts in Austria with the nice
downsides to so much skiing?
mountain huts and the fast high-
Yes, it is nice if you stand on a
Apart from the number of ski areas you
speed lifts, as well as the ski resorts
mountain with sunshine and fresh
have visited, you have set six different
in the Dolomites. On the other hand, I
snow. But the weather is always
world record firsts in events staged
also like Canada, which has older lifts
challenging. On stormy days it is
between 2007 and 2010.
but perfect powder snow and no lines
sometimes not possible to reach the
Yes, these include skiing at three
on the lifts. After the skiing, you can
highest point and if there is a lot of
ski areas in three countries on two
drink a beer in a real hot Jacuzzi.
fresh snow the slopes can be closed
continents in one day in 2008. I skied
So my personal favourite ski areas
because of avalanche danger.
at NASPA Ski Garden in Japan then
include Kitzbühel, Hochzillertal,
flew across the Pacific to ski at the
So do you have the four-figures mark
Saalbach, SkiWelt, Ischgl and the
How much time do you spend on the
Summit at Snoqualmie in Washington
firmly in your sights?
Arlberg in Austria, then Sun Peaks, Big
road visiting ski resorts each season?
State (USA) before driving up to
Yes, my goal is to ski as many new
White and Whistler in Canada (OK, in
I try to go skiing from Monday to
Grouse Mountain above Vancouver in
ski areas as I can. I hope to reach
the valley it is a little bit Disneyland,
Friday. On the weekends I aim to be
Canada on 6 February 2008.
054 // NOV18
SKIRESORT.INFO
@INTHESNOWMAG
WORLD’S LARGEST “OPEN-TOP” CABLE CAR
ALTA BADIA OFFERS LIVE SNOWMAKING REPORT
HALF-TERM PRICES TRIPLE COST OF OTHER WEEKS
Tignes has unveiled its upgraded Grande Motte glacier
Italy’s Alta Badia region has launched a snow-
Prices for skiing families heading to the Alps over
cable car, and the big news is that now you can ride up
production report, allowing skiers and boarders
the main English February school holiday week
on top of the cabins.
to monitor, in real time, the progress of work on
commencing 16 February 2019 are up to three times that
Climbing from 3,034m to 3,456m in five minutes, the
Alta Badia’s slopes. The ski area is equipped with
of low-season weeks for some holidays.
cable car originally opened in 1975, and the new cabins
the latest high-performance artificial snowmaking
February half-term prices are also higher than any other
are part of a full overhaul of the area which includes the
equipment, and a data aggregator, developed by
week of the season, including New Year’s week, in most
creation of “Altitude Experiences”, which will feature a
the region’s lift company Skicarosello – Corvara in
cases. Those lucky enough to find their half-term holidays
viewing platform and indoor exhibition accessible to all
collaboration with Business Process Engineering
begin the week before (9 February) or after (23rd) should
and due to open in May next year as part of the full €17
Srl, collects information on the production of snow
be able to secure significantly lower prices.
million (around £15 million) upgrade project.
from the snow groomers, allowing for real-time
“The UK half-term will be concentrated on just one week
The two new “open-top” cabins will offer passengers
monitoring of snow production.
again and it will fall in the middle of the French and other
a unique 360° view of one of the most beautiful
“The original idea was for this programme to help
European holidays so it will be very busy yet again.
panoramas of the French Alps. Each cabin can hold 100
optimise use of our most precious natural resource,
Some of our most popular accommodation is booked
people indoors and 20 on the roof. However, the rooftop
water, as well as to minimise electricity consumption.
up already – by clients who went this year and booked
open-air sections will not operate in winter due to likely
Only afterwards did it become clear that some of
immediately upon their return,” confirmed Francesca
weather conditions at altitude, opening to the public
the information collected could also be of interest to
Williams of Ski Collection.
next May.
guests,” said an Alta Badia spokesperson.
Many other countries share the same week for their
Tignes has also announced a three-year clean-up
Thanks to the snowfall report, skiers can find out
school holidays including much of southern France,
programme of its glacier and announced it had already
about the situation on some of Alta Badia’s most
parts of Denmark and the Netherlands, much of western
removed five tonnes of rubbish.
important slopes.
Switzerland and many schools in Poland and Sweden.
Ski lift connections open on December 8th, 2018
les3vallees.com
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
WATCH HUNDREDS OF VIDEO REVIEWS YOUTUBE.COM/INTHESNOWMAG
Sweet Protection Volata MIPS TE Race Helmet
Ortovox Avalanche Transceiver
One of the safest race helmets on the market, now with a very clever “Quick-fit” chin-guard system. Combining Sweet’s own MIPS protection system with critically placed reinforced inlays means your brain will be protected to the max. The revolutionary new clip-in chin guard means this can be a one-stop helmet for slalom, GS or Super-G. Worn by the best in the world for a reason! £239.99 | skibartlett.com
Set Zoom+
If you want to stay safe off-piste and make sure others around you are too, you must have a transceiver, shovel and probe. Search for someone with your transceiver, pinpoint their exact location with your probe and dig to save someone with your shovel. One of the most economical ways to buy all three, whether it’s for yourself or a gift for someone you care about! £230 | skibartlett.com
Atomic Bent Chetler 100 Ski Patagonia
The new versatile little brother of the award-winning Bent Chetler – narrower underfoot and a softer flex giving you an agile manoeuvrable ski. Over bumps, through the trees and turning down the pistes, these skis will follow every contour and give you an undemanding feel-good factor all day long. The kind of ski any skier can jump on and have fun with. £430 | skibartlett.com
Micro Puff Jacket
The mid-layer jacket that answers the question: “Which jacket should I pack?” Very warm, utilising a clever synthetic down-like material, and SO light you’ll barely feel you’re wearing it, all in a pack size that can fit in the palm of your hand. And yes, it still has the usual Patagonia eco credentials. £249.99 | skibartlett.com
Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis
IN ASSOCIATION WITH Head Kore 99 Skis
The Kore series came out with a bang last year and sold out before Christmas – this year we think this new, mid-width model is going to be the one to have. Versatility, cruise-ability, ramp it up and let it rip(ability) – honestly, these are amazing – from first run to last run you will not be disappointed. £660 inc. binding | skibartlett.com
DaKine R.A.S. Poacher Backpack
An avalanche airbag-compatible backpack that doesn’t look like the safety patrol would be wearing it! Classic urban-inspired looks from Chris Benchetler means you can stay safe and still keep your freeride-inspired appearance. £169.99 | skibartlett.com
You are going to love this ski: smooth from edge to edge, grippy on hard snow and ice and confidence-building in any terrain. Ultimate flattery in an all-mountain ski for everyone from a good intermediate to advanced-level skier. It’s not surprising it was one of our women’s ski test winners. £490 | skibartlett.com
Falke SK6 Technical Ski Sock
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 the UK’s most popular independent ski shop!
Sweet Protection Switcher MIPS Helmet
The Switcher helmet has won more awards than you could imagine. Incorporating 22 instantly adjustable vents, for maximum body heat regulation, its hybrid construction combines in-mould and hard-shell technology to give you a lighter helmet with extra reinforcements where your brain needs it. Quick-release magnetic chin-strap closure and a washable liner just add to the Switcher’s great credentials. £219.99 | skibartlett.com
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If you struggle with your boots feeling too tight, or you just prefer to have more sensitivity and feeling and less sock, these thinner merino wool SK6 socks are your answer. Worn by racers, instructors and anyone who wants an impeccable fit in their ski boots. £36 | skibartlett.com
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Volkl Deacon 74 Skis
Patagonia Black
Not only does the colour of these shout out that they are very distinctive, but wait till you get them on your feet – wow, these have something special! Roll them on an edge at the start of the turn and the grip will put a smile on your face both in short turns and long. A superbly smooth feeling ski that you can really open up at speed and still feel in control. £799 | skibartlett.com
Hole 30L Backpack
If you’re a lover of the infamous black hole duffel, then you need to add this durable number to your kit. All the features you would expect from a technical backpack with the distinctive bomber-proof fabric that is synonymous with Patagonia. This is a backpack for life, not just for one ski trip! £109.99 | skibartlett.com
Volkl Mantra Ski
The ever-popular Mantra ski has just been remodelled and is the talk of the ski tests. More manageable than its predecessor but lacking none of the legendary punch, power and edge grip you loved in the original Mantra. A great ski for those of you who ski hard and fast all over the mountain! £624 | skibartlett.com
A GAME CHANGER IN SKI TOURING BINDINGS!
Head Nexo Lyt 130 Ski Boot
A featherlight and strong graphene-infused shell makes these alpine boots feel agile and responsive under your feet. Not only do they use the utmost in high-tech materials, they also use “liquid fit”, a gel that gives you customised injection moulding for an impeccable fit. £449 | skibartlett.com
Full Tilt Ascendant Ski Boot
Lange RX SUPERLEGGERA
A limited-edition lighterweight version of the award-winning RX series ski boot, almost 25% lighter with no compromise on precise performance. Simply beautiful Italiandesigned liners and classic understated clean graphics; think Aston Martin Superleggera design meets technical Lange features. £500 | skibartlett.com
If you’re an avid Full Tilt fan and want to take your freeride tendencies off the beaten track then the Ascendant’s touring ability is the answer. Still utilising the same winning Full Tilt fit, but with all the touring features you need, pin tech inserts, a removable tongue and a gaitered shell combine to give you free-flowing movement uphill, coupled with lightweight and strong Grilamid® to give you great all-round ski performance. £445 | skibartlett.com
Scott Slight 83 Ski
The award-winning range of Slight skis has now opened up its doors to those of you who want a narrower, more all-mountain offering. Their lightweight construction means less tiring skiing, but with no reduction in edge grip, smooth turn initiation and stability at speed – a superbly versatile ski. £525 | skibartlett.com
Scott Alpride Patrol E1 Electric Avalanche Airbag Backpack
A lightweight electric avalanche airbag backpack that’s setting the ski world alight! High-speed three-second inflation is activated from a “Back to the Future” style rechargeable super capacitor battery. Cannister free, so no more airport check-in hassles and up to 45kg lighter than other bags on the market, making airline baggage allowances somewhat easier too! Easy to use, easy to fly with – no excuses not to buy one! £799 | skibartlett.com FB.COM/INTHESNOW
How much easier would it be if you could have one binding for both ski touring and downhill skiing that really performed the way you wanted it to? Until now, you would have had to make some kind of compromise, whether it was weight, touring ability or downhill safety, but after years of research and development and athletes putting them to the test, Atomic and Salomon have collaborated to bring you the multi-award-winning “Shift” – a combination of a true no-compromise downhill ski binding and uphill touring tech-style pin binding in one – it’s what every avid skier has been looking for! On first appearance it looks like a downhill alpine binding with standard-looking heel and toe … But lift the lever in front of the toe piece and in true transformer style, tech pins fold out ready to take your pin touring boot … Their solid downhill performance feels just the same as a standard alpine binding, giving you the confidence to ski whatever lies ahead of you. Its safety release is comparable with any other alpine binding, and they’re even futureproofed to take any of your quiver of ski boots – WTR (Walk To Ride), rubber-soled ski touring and standard alpine. The tech pin toe gives you uncompromised free-flowing movement for your uphill adventures. Once you reach your destination just remove your skins, push the toe lever back down and step in … One binding for solid responsive downhill performance and one for effortless fluid uphill ski touring – holy “Shift”, these truly are impressive! Atomic & Salomon Shift Bindings | £399 NOV18 // 059
Picture Object Men’s Snowboard Jacket – Indigo
Freeride versatility, and warm as well. The Picture Object jacket features a recyclable DRYPLAY 20J/15K PFC-free membrane for maximum waterproof breathability, and 80g insulation. The body mapping construction incorporates a Thermal Dry System that wicks away sweat where you need it most, while a Coremax lining eliminates cold spots. The fully taped seams and waterproof zippers keep moisture out. £239.95
Burton Gringo Men’s Beanie – Sparrow
Stay warm and look the part with the Burton Gringo beanie. Slim enough to fit under a helmet, the Gringo beanie also looks great walking around the town or at après. £24.95 Burton Grateful Dead Men’s Roadie Tech Tee – Skull and Roses
The Burton Roadie Tech tee offers premium DRYRIDE performance with iconic graphics. The Ultrawick Midweight fabric pulls sweat away from the body and also provides UPF 50+ sun protection. Featuring four-way Stretch 360° material that moves with your body for superior comfort. An Aigon Stink-Proof finish ensures that you’ll always be smelling fresh. £59.95
Union Force Snowboard Binding
The Union Force offers indestructible performance that can handle any conditions or terrain while providing all the features that you need. The renowned Force Highback offers a classic design with a stiffer base to allow for precise turns, while the softer tips allow you to style it up with presses and tweaks. EVA bushings provide the strength and cushioning required to go bigger and faster than ever before. £209.95
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
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Burton Crown Bonded Men’s Crew Burton Gore Warmest Women’s
Sweatshirt – Seersucker Camo
Snowboard Mittens – True Black
Banish wet sweatshirts for good with the Burton Crown Bonded men’s crew. The DRYRIDE MistDefy bonded fleece is breathable and quickdrying, making this the last riding sweatshirt you’ll ever need. Ideal for wearing in the spring as an outer layer or as a mid-layer in colder conditions. £69.95
With 550 fill power down, the Burton Gore Warmest women’s mittens really live up to their name. Thermacore™ insulation wrapped in DRYRIDE two-layer fabric wards off the wetness that can come with time in the snow. A Living Lining helps to regulate your hand temperature just in case you get a little toasty. £109.95
customers. Whether you are beginner or expert, we can kit you out to ensure you have a great day on the mountains.
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Capita Jess Kimura Pro Snowboard
The Capita Jess Kimura Pro women’s snowboard is the board of choice for one of the most decorated snowboarders of the decade. Jess is respected for her dedication and hell-bent approach, reflected in board form with this everything-is-possible snowboard. As Jess spends more time in the mountains, Capita have updated the board to reflect this evolution in her style – the newly rockered nose offers float for days in powder, ridiculously agile turning and pre-pressed jibbing. A great board for all-mountain versatility. £419.95
Capita Mercury Snowboard
Renowned for its all-terrain versatility, the Capita Mercury men’s snowboard has been designed for power when you need it and float when you want it. The newly developed Panda Core™ features Bamboo Power Rods™, a high-speed Ultradrive™ base and Amplitex™ Amplifiers to allow the board’s durability and performance to reign supreme. From pow to kickers to chutes, this all-terrain monster will get you in and out of any situation. £499.95
Picture Takashima Men’s Jacket – Black
Thanks to the hybrid construction of the Picture Takashima jacket, you have the best of both worlds: on the one hand, this jacket is water-repellent, and at the same time breathable, thanks to its PrimaLoft® insulation, making it ideal as both a mid and outer layer. The Polartec® Powerstretch ensures freedom of movement and is extremely lightweight and packable. £164.95
Burton Lynx Women’s Pullover Fleece – Bone White
Cosier than a hot chocolate by the fire, the Burton Lynx pullover fleece offers luxurious warmth wherever you are. The oversized hood and DRYRIDE Thermex™ Sherpa fleece provides quick-drying, breathable comfort and a sleek silhouette. Great as a mid-layer for adding warmth or for keeping you cosy by the fire. £114.95
Burton Performance Plus Merino Wool Snowboard Sock – Grey Heather Block
Volcom Swift Bib Overall Women’s Snowboard Pants – Black
Thanks to Volcom’s breathable layer system and 15,000mm waterproofing, the Swift Bib Overalls will get you home warm and dry in all but the worst of conditions. Their stretch, slim fit, which is cut extra-slim on the thighs, makes them as comfortable and stylish as your favourite jeans and offers unrestricted freedom of movement. Fully taped seams keep snow and cold safely on the outside, while the breathable lining helps to regulate your body temperature perfectly. £179.95
The Burton Performance Plus men’s snowboard sock offers midweight versatility with some serious tech function. The sock is constructed from a high-performance blend of stretchable, breathable fabrics that wick away heat-robbing sweat. Strategic padding, compression and venting zones work together to optimise comfort and performance for a day on the mountain. £29.95 Burton Prospect Women’s Snowboard Mittens – Port Royal Freya Weave
The Burton Prospect snowboarding mittens offer waterproof and breathable performance that’s easy on your bank account. The midweight Thermacore™ insulation with DRYRIDE two-layer fabric and waterproof membrane ensures dry and comfortable warmth all winter long. As an added bonus, the touchscreen-compatible Screen Grab provides device control on the go. £54.95
Union Milan Women’s Snowboard Bindings – Acid Wash
Picture Naikoon
The Union Milan women’s bindings are an excellent choice for park and all-mountain snowboard terrain. They feature a more playful and softer flex minidisk base alongside the lightweight CP3 Lady highback which has been based on the renowned Contact Pro highback. The Classic Lite ankle straps and Ultragrip capstraps offer outstanding hold and response on even the toughest terrains. £184.95
Men’s Snowboard Pant – Dark Blue
As Picture’s best-selling snowboard pant, you can be sure that the Naikoon pant will see you riding through any conditions. Designed with stretch fabric and a slim straight cut, it follows your every move, and its DRYPLAY waterproofbreathable 20K/20K PFC-free membrane provides excellent temperature regulation, while the Coremax lining eliminates cold spots. With three attachment points, the jacket–pant interface adds to the adjustable powder skirt to provide complete protection from the elements all day long. £199.95
Picture Crispin & Ridingo Snowboard Jacket – Black
Volcom Shadow Women’s Insulated Snowboard Jacket – Black Floral Print
15,000mm waterproof, fully taped seams and sophisticated insulation keep snow and cold reliably on the outside, while the breathable inside lining and zipped vents help to regulate your body temperature perfectly. The slim, long-line shape looks just stunning; you’ll never want to be without it when you’re sitting down for a breather or cycling to work in the morning. £209.95
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
This 3-in-1 jacket performs just as well around town as in the mountains. A jacket with a dress-shirt look and embroidered back, combined with a vest that you can wear separately, the jacket is first and foremost a technical jacket for riding park, piste and the pow-pow all day long. The two pieces include our DRYPLAY 10K/10K membrane for functional waterproofbreathability, 80g insulation to keep warm and critically taped seams. £209.95
More at sputniksnow boardshop.com
Capita Indoor Survival Snowboard
Burton
The Capita Indoor Survival men’s snowboard has become known for being one of the most versatile and beloved boards in the Capita arsenal. For 2019 the Indoor Survival snowboard has kept the classic shape but has been given a resort camber to allow the board to perform at a higher level inside the resort boundaries. This means more pop and more fun in the park and a great ride on the piste, while being versatile enough to handle tricky terrain or variable snow. £369.95
Performance Merino Wool Women’s Snowboard Sock – Blue Heaven
The Burton Performance women’s sock boasts mid-weight warmth that works all season. Elasticity and padding underneath the arch and around the heel add rider-specific comfort, cushioning and support. The merino wool blend provides itch-free warmth, allowing these socks to insulate efficiently and stay smelling fresh for longer. £22.95
Burton Profile Men’s Snowboard Mittens – Monument Heather
The incredibly tough DRYRIDE two-layer fabric and Thermacore™ insulation mean you’ve got warm, waterproof mittens suitable for any conditions. Further sweetening the deal is Screen Grab, letting you use any touchscreen device without having to remove your mittens. £44.95
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Arc’teryx Alpha SK Pack
The Alpha SK Pack is a minimalist ski and snowboard pack for touring days in the backcountry. It’s the first ever proper touring pack from Arc’teryx. Extremely lightweight, durable and fully weather resistant 30L version and specifically designed to carry tools necessary for safe, comfortable backcountry travel. £240 | arcteryx.com
Ride MTNpig
The MTNPig, with its blunt shape and halfmoon tail, is an all-mountain shredder ready for anything. Designed for a stiffer, faster ride, the MTNPig floats in the deepest powder and holds an edge when things get sketchy. £490 K2 True Luv
The K2 True Luv is the confidenceinspiring, predictable all-mountain ski for the improving intermediate to advanced female. Exceptional precision and stability through all snow conditions will make the True Luv your BFF for winter. £445 inc. bind
Arc’teryx Shashka Jacket (women’s)
The Shashka Jacket is the lightest women’s GORE-TEX Pro Jacket. The shashka is the ideal 3L jacket and designed for freeride touring and big mountain objectives. £500 | arcteryx.com
K2 Recon 120
At 1600g the K2 Recon is one of the lightest boots on the market. Changing the thickness in sections of the fully heat-mouldable plastic shell in four key zones provides an unmatched ratio of fit, comfort and performance. £400
Line Sakana
The brainchild of Eric Pollard, the Sakana enables you to make turning fun, no matter where you are on the mountain. A 105mm platform for float, a soft flex and fishtail for a surfy fluid feel across all terrains! £670
Arc’teryx Rush LT Jacket (men’s)
The Rush LT Jacket is designed for deep powder days on the backcountryand hardcore descents and long days on the mountain. Light, durable, breathable protection from the elements on the mountain and with a minimalist design not to slow you down. £550 | arcteryx.com
K2 Broadcast
Arc’teryx Shashka Pant (women’s)
A dream pant for committed female tourers. Last year’s success and new launch, the first ever women’s specific freeride touring pant. Lightweight GORE-TEX C-KNIT ski touring pant with a low rise soft shell upper. Super breathable, and durable with full weather protection, this pant makes the perfect freeride touring pant. £410 | arcteryx.com
Go anywhere, do anything. The ultraversatile Broadcast is as at home shredding groomers as it is ripping powder. Stable, energetic and playful, the Broadcast is the all-mountain do-anything snowboard. £410
Bollé Nevada with PHANTOM+ lens
Bollé’s revolutionary lens, the PHANTOM+, which combines four advanced lens technologies to redefine vision on snow, is made of NXT® and adapts to light thanks to a powerful molecular photochromic filter, allowing the wearer to see clearly in any light condition. Low Temperature Sensitive (LTS) technology ensures optimum photochromic performance even in low temperatures, a key aspect when dealing with high-elevation mountain environments. The PHANTOM+ lens has a semi-polarised film to reduce distracting glare, while still allowing the wearer to easily identify ice, and provides enhanced vision for increased confidence and reaction speed while reducing eye fatigue. £149 | bolle.com FB.COM/INTHESNOW
NOV18 // 063
H s a t s a r d Hy hich stores INTRODUCES
w t e k c a t s i a The j w s t i n I r e wat
We all know how important it is to
which is where the feeder tube sits. The new
source without a bottle or backpack that
work on the slopes. We took a very crude
stay hydrated on the slopes. Cold
hydration system is integrated in such a way
doesn’t disturb your skiing/snowboarding
prototype on its maiden voyage in January
temperatures and altitude inhibit
in the jacket design that you can’t notice it.
experience. After many iterations, we were
2016. The day went well, the concept worked
the desire to drink, and some of
The system is also easily removable.
able to make it happen via a jacket with an
but we found a lot of changes that we wanted
us abstain from drinking to avoid
Brent Sandor, VP Marketing USA, and
innovative hydration system.
to make. Some of the changes seemed very
losing precious minutes queuing
Pacôme Allouis, European Marketing
at the loo. Or you just can’t be
Manager, tell us about the jacket:
bothered to carry a backpack …
minute – literally less than 1cm change, but How did you develop this system?
they became a very big deal to the final result
It took four years from the first concept until
and experience and were often a real thorn in
too bulky. But dehydration can
How did you come up with the idea of
the final production. There were a lot of
our side to develop. We finished the concept
diminish performance including
integrating a hydration pack into a jacket?
considerations that needed to be worked
as you see it now just a few years ago. We
the number of runs you can ski.
Staying hydrated is one of the most important
through. We had so many questions: How
were able to do extensive testing on the
This is exactly where the new 686
things while skiing or snowboarding, but
much water was enough? How much water
system and then move forward to production.
Hydrastash Jacket would come
most people don’t pay enough attention to
was too much? How can you add water
It’s one thing to make a few samples, but
in handy.
it when they are on the resort. If you don’t
without making the jacket move around while
to teach a factory to produce a brand-new
have a pack, you don’t carry a water bottle
riding? How do we keep it from freezing? How
concept at a large scale perfectly every time
How? By featuring a built-in hydration pack
because you have no place to put it. The
can we ensure it won’t leak? And many more.
is a task as well. Luckily for us, Mike and his
in the powderskirt of the jacket. A pack that
Hydrastash story began like most of 686’s
We ran through about a year of prototypes
product team spent a good portion of their
allows you to ski completely backpack-free.
innovations with the brand’s founder Mike
in-house, built from our 3D printer and
spring and summer in our factories guiding
It features a hose running parallel to the
West looking way far outside of the box. The
materials we had around, and finally landed
the skilled teams there in production. We can
front zipper up to the collar of the jacket,
challenge was to create a water/hydration
on a concept that we thought would actually
confidently say that we are very excited for the
064 // NOV18 PROMO
Wherever You Prefer To Ski... Wherever You Prefer To Ski...
Wherever You Prefer To Ski...
...We’ve Got The Equipment and Expertise To Get You There!
world to experience Hydrastash this winter. What feedback have you received so far? So far we have received a great response from our ski and snowboard team, retailers and consumers. Over in the USA, the Hydrastash system received six “Gear of The Show” awards at the Outdoor Retailer Snow Show in January, and all the reviews have been very positive. It’s a new system and innovation, so now we need to do lots of education around the product to make sure people feel comfortable with it. We will be at most of the demos and glacier openings inviting people to try it out this fall. We know it may take a moment to catch on, like most new things do, but we feel very confident that everyone who tries it will have a positive experience. It’s funny because in my experience you don’t really notice when it’s on you, but you really miss it once you have a jacket without it.
...We’ve Got The Equipment and Expertise To Get You There! ...We’ve Got The Equipment and Expertise To Get You There!
Bringing you the UK’s largest range of specialist skis and boots and advice and expertise since 1965 We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment Bringing you the UK’s largest range ofyour specialist skis and and advice and expertise since 1965 for wherever passions andboots dreams take you We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment for wherever passions and dreams take you Customyour Ski Boot Fitting Specialists
Ski largest Industries ofspecialist Great Britain Official Testers Bringing you the UK’s range of skis and boots and Ski advice and expertise since 1965 Custom Ski Boot Fitting Specialists We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment Winner of the World Snow Awards - Best Specialist Retailer Ski Industries Great Britain for whereverof your passions andOfficial dreams Ski takeTesters you Winner of the World Snow Awards - Best Specialist Retailer
Custom Ski Boot Fitting Specialists FREERIDE | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATI LANO Ski Industries of Great Britain Official Ski Testers
FREERIDE | FREESTYLEWinner | TOURING TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATIONA of the World Snow |Awards - Best Specialist Retailer Ski Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West| London, UB10 0NP | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK RACE | RECREATIONAL T:FREERIDE 020Ski 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com T: 020 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com Ski Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP T: 020 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com
686.COM
BY HENRY SCHNIEWIND
NOTHING HAPPENS ... MOST OF THE TIME Off-piste skiing can be surprisingly safe (about the same risk as driving a car for one hour) if we regularly apply the risk reduction measures we
FULLY SUPERVISED ALL-INCLUSIVE TEENAGE SKI HOLIDAYS FROM £500 Action Outdoors has launched a
There’s a dedicated member of staff on-site
snowboard instruction.
new youth programme designed for
at all times to manage the group, plan their
“We’re helping to fill the gap between
learning and knowing is only half
16- and 17-year-olds, to help
activities and ensure they sign in and out
school and university trips, helping to get
the battle. The application of our
teenagers develop autonomy and
when leaving the centre.
young people out on the slopes. This will
knowledge and experience is what
make their first trip from home
Two centres have been made available
help to build up the skiing generation
safe and enjoyable.
for these holidays, Argentière and Val
of the future, and when millennials are
simple risk reduction measures in high-
The holidays are based in the UCPA
d’Isère, with several dates through
being locked out of society because of
consequence risk contexts like that
centres, a non-profit organisation that
February, March and April 2019. Prices start
the economic barriers they face, they
of off-piste skiing? Because nothing
promotes “sport for all” and provides
at £500pp, including 7 nights full-board
need all the help they can get,” said David
happens most of the time when we
instruction, equipment hire, lift passes and
accommodation, 6.5 days lift passes,
Robertson, Managing Director of Action
don’t apply them.
full-board accommodation in its packages.
equipment hire and 23 hours of ski or
Outdoors. action-outdoors.co.uk
learn in avalanche training. At Henry’s Avalanche Talk, we emphasise that
really counts. Why wouldn’t we apply
When nothing happens over and over again and the probability of something happening seems remote, we tend to treat the outcome as impossible. Our impulses take over even when signs of potential danger are obvious. We’ve devised a simple framework solution that creates a foundation in line with experts’ advice for people engaging in high-consequence, low-feedback environments, such as avalanche terrain. Simple, easily applied decision tools such as this framework can compete with distractions from those “human factor traps” that often lure even experienced people into accidents where there was “ample evidence of danger”. To take an illustration from everyday
BIG ZELL AM SEE EXPANSION GETS GREEN LIGHT
life, if we were to drive on the wrong side of a motorway, we’d receive
A major expansion of Zell am See ski area
in the resort’s Schmittenhöhe area will see
for about 700 cars and around 20 buses.
instant feedback: “WRONG PLACE
in Salzburgerland appears to have finally
four lifts built and around 23 hectares of
The project is even more expensive than a
TO BE!” However, for a similarly high-
got the green light a decade after it was
new slopes opened – one of the biggest
current project at Zell am See’s neighbour,
consequence scenario in avalanche
first announced and some eight years after
expansions of an Austrian ski area for
Kaprun, to connect the village’s local ski
terrain, we don’t get that feedback.
the plans entered the permissions process
some years.
slopes direct by lift to the Kitzsteinhorn
in the Austrian legal system.
The new area will feature a valley station
Glacier, work on which is already underway
The €90 million (around £79 million)
in Piesendorf with restaurant, sports shop
with the connection due to be opened in
Hochsonnberg ski area being developed
and ski school, as well as parking spaces
stages over the next two winters.
That’s when “risky behaviour” becomes a habit, without us even knowing it. henrysavalanchetalk.com
066 // NOV18
@INTHESNOWMAG
IRAN: A TRULY EPIC SKI DESTINATION It’s that time of the year when
for the taking. Each year, over 275
skiing terrain will definitely be popular
we all start thinking about
inches of snow falls in Dizin, giving
with more advanced skiers, while off
our next ski holiday. For most
you a whole mountain to explore
the slopes you will experience an
people, the key players will be
off-piste, with fresh, untouched snow
amazing one-of-a-kind culture.
considered: France, Austria,
from the first lift to the last.
Italy. However, this year, why
Iranian Hospitality
not experience a completely
Value for Money
A trip to Iran allows you the
new and relatively untapped
Skiing in Iran can provide fantastic
opportunity to combine brilliant skiing
ski destination? Here’s why
value for money, with your holiday
with the exceptional hospitality that
Iran should definitely be in
often coming in cheaper than at many
the Persian people are renowned
consideration for your next
closer European resorts. In the Dizin
for. You will have the opportunity to
mountain adventure.
ski resort, for example, lift tickets are
sample the local cuisine, learn about
often just $20 (around £15)! Equipment
Iran’s rich history and experience the
Varied Resorts
and clothing hire is also very cheap,
unique culture of this beautiful country,
Iran has three main resorts: Dizin,
meaning no need to pay hefty costs to
all while also enjoying the thrill of the
Darbandsar and Shemshak, all of which
bring your own equipment.
slopes each day. The people here are
are within easy driving distance of each
extremely welcoming and will always
other. There’s huge variety among
A Truly Unique Experience
go the extra mile to ensure you are
the resorts, from gentle beginners’
How many people can say they
happy and comfortable.
areas to very steep and technical
have skied in Iran? If you are feeling
slopes, alongside fantastic powder
bored or disenfranchised by the
Mountain Heaven are the first British
opportunities. Dizin is the highest,
traditional Alpine resorts, this is
ski tour company to offer guided trips
with its top lift reaching an incredible
the ultimate destination for a more
for skiing in Iran. To find out more,
3,600m, guaranteeing great snow. For
exotic adventure on the slopes. The
head to mountainheaven.co.uk/
extreme and advanced skiers, Iran is
interesting, unique landscapes and
resorts/Iran/skiing-in-iran-experience
truly a thrill-filled paradise. Perfect Powder Iran offers something that many skiers can only dream of: epic untouched deep powder. While many European resorts do have their fair share of fresh snow and powder runs, this usually gets tracked out and crowded within a few hours. In Iran, the mountains are nowhere near as busy, and as locals tend to stick to the groomed pistes, this powder is yours
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NOV18 // 067
increase at altitude.
to me, the most important of these is to
Communicate fully with your instructor,
know why you are taking the lesson. This
including aches, tiredness or an
is highlighted in the anecdote below, and
inclination to extend the lesson. Let
is the epitome of why I love to teach.
them know where you wish to finish as
I taught a lady once who admitted
this could offer an alternative option of
that she “hated skiing” and was only
where to ski. If you are good at other
having a lesson because her husband
sports – tell them! Analogies can be
had insisted on it. Finding out I was
drawn from a variety of activities to
an ex-GB racer terrified her almost to
emulate the movements in skiing.
the point of kicking off her ski boots,
Improving ski techniques isn’t always
but I spent time talking to her and
the goal, so let your instructor know
listening. Despite hating skiing, she
what your aspirations are. Be honest
loved being in the mountains and
with your fears and goals because the
enjoying the phenomenal scenery, so
attractive to a beginner.
instructor will want you to enjoy your
I decided to take her down a flat path
Have your equipment organised the
lesson, and all decisions are based on
(only accessible on skis) that wended
night before. If something doesn’t feel
these factors.
its way down through forest and open
comfortable, there is enough time to
Being prepared physically and
expanses, always offering a new
find a replacement. Ski shops tend to
psychologically and having the correct
perspective of the resort. She finished
be busier in the mornings too, so your
equipment all combine to ensure you
the lesson claiming it was the most
valuable lesson time could be wasted
maximise your lesson time. However,
fun she’d ever had on skis.
WORDS: SEGA FAIRWEATHER
Prior Proper Planning ... We know how the phrase goes, so now that you’ve paid for lessons here is how to get your money’s worth:
through waiting. Skiing is very physically demanding.
Make sure you know where the
You’ll improve quicker and ski more
meeting point is the day before your
vertical metres if you’re fitter and
lesson, and how long it will take you
hydrated. If you’ve had a heavy night
to get there. If you are taking a private
(it is a holiday after all!) then
lesson, you may request to meet
bring water with you,
somewhere more convenient.
as the effects of
Ensure you already have an
dehydration
appropriate lift pass. Options such
SHUTTERSTOCK
as “before 12:30pm” may be more
068 // NOV18
ALPINEMOJOSKISCHOOL.COM
M
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MARK LIGHTFOOT OF SNOWONLY.COM After 10 years running his own real estate agency in Asia, Mark Lightfoot decided to combine his expertise in the property market with his passion for winter sports and set up SnowOnly, a worldwide property platform empowering buyers and sellers of ski properties, simplifying the way those properties are bought and sold.
While we have a voice, it is important to understand that we are a property platform and not a brokerage, and we do not take commission. We introduce buyers to sellers and vice versa, in the best way we can. SnowOnly is efficient for everyone – why search for your ski property on multiple sites when it is all on one impartial site? We simplify the way people search for ski properties online. Sellers will benefit from very affordable monthly subscription prices, and buyers will save huge
When did you first go skiing?
amounts of time finding everything in one
I started reasonably late in life at 17 with an
convenient location.
unforgettable trip to Verbier. More recently I have been spending time in Niseko, Japan.
Which are the growth areas at present? Niseko has experienced exceptional growth
When did the idea for SnowOnly come to you?
in the last few years and with average
The idea was festering for a while. Essentially,
snowfall of 14m each season it is no wonder
while speaking to many ski properties owners
people are flocking there. Crested Butte in
in Asia, through my brokerage, there was
the USA has seen massive appreciation in
clearly a need for an efficient platform to
land sales, and Villars in Switzerland has had
aid struggling sellers of ski real estate to
solid growth in 2018. All depends what you
attract buyers from further afield. This was
are looking for and why you are buying; we
enhanced by my trips to Europe, speaking
have it all on SnowOnly.com.
to many sellers, which reaffirmed my views. I think my 10 years of being a broker gives
Why should people use SnowOnly to sell
me invaluable insight into what is needed for
their ski property?
SnowOnly moving forward.
Our marketing reach is vast, giving you a huge audience for your properties.
How does SnowOnly differ from other ski
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property companies?
What is your long-term vision for SnowOnly?
SnowOnly is a unique platform dedicated
We are extremely ambitious. I would like
solely to ski properties, thus attracting the
us in the number one spot for buying or
right type of buyers. We have an abundance
selling ski property. However, the main
of resort information to complement each
purpose of SnowOnly is to increase turnover
listing, such as lift prices, amount of runs and
of properties everywhere, aid sellers and
lifts; it is all there. We have properties in a
introduce buyers by giving them the best
vast amount of ski resorts in Europe, Japan,
options. It gives me great satisfaction already
Australia, US and Canada and more each day.
to know that we are on that path.
SNOWONLY.COM