InTheSnow | Issue 77 | December 2024

YOUR SHORTCUT TO THE DOLOMITES NON-STOP FROM LONDON

Direct flights from London Gatwick to Bolzano in Italy – taking you to the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site and 1,200 km of perfectly groomed slopes in just about two hours. Experience South Tyrol’s striking contrasts, where the Alpine and Mediterranean beauty merge, savour the region’s elevated cuisine and taste some of Italy’s highest-regarded wines.

What are you waiting for? Book a flight to Bolzano with Italy’s boutique airline SkyAlps and experience the Dolomites like you’ve never done before. This winter, flights are offered up to three times a week.

skyalps.com

IT’S SNOW TIME! 24-25 IS GO!

The ski season is here! It feels like we’ve been waiting for years, but everything happens quickly now – the magic of Christmas in the mountains, the fun of New Year up high, and before you know it, we’ll be skiing into 2025! I’m writing this just at that crunch time when we begin to see how the early season will play out. The signs are fairly promising almost everywhere, with some big snowfalls in the Alps perfectly timed for the start of the season. Over in North America, ski areas in Western Canada and the US report they’re about a month ahead of where they were at this point last year, with much more snow having fallen than a year ago. In fact, some BC ski areas say November was one of their two snowiest this century, reporting up to 3 metres

accumulating ahead of the season start. We just need it all to keep coming!

In this issue, along with all the news and gear reviews as usual, we take a deep dive into which ski areas have the most high-altitude terrain, resorts that are particularly good for Christmas (you’ll find a longer version of that one online, along with a second article detailing all the latest Christmas deals), and a fascinating piece on the different trees we can ski past and admire in resorts around the world.

Remember that this wonderful magazine is just part of our unique year-round snow news and information service. Check out the latest on our website, listen to our popular White-Out podcast, and, of course, follow us on socials. But most of all, have a great season!

AVERAGE CO2 EMISSIONS

Like most ski resorts, Tignes is planning ahead for operations in a warming world. Once offering skiing year-round, it recently gave up trying to open its slopes in early autumn and is instead accelerating its energy, environmental and social transition, aiming to become

NEW AT TIGNES

Visitors to Tignes this winter will find a new 6-seater chairlift, “Le Marais”, waiting for them. The quieter, faster and more energy-efficient lift will be transporting up to 2,020 skiers and boarders to the summit of Aiguille Percée in the Tignes sector every hour. There’s also a new mountain restaurant up at 2,431m, “Le Palet”. The latest offspring from the Bouvier family is accessible via the Tichot ski lift.

fully sustainable by 2030. According to a recent survey carried out on behalf of the resort, the carbon footprint for one day skiing in Tignes totals 48.9kg CO2e per person, not a lot different to the Western world’s daily average of about 40kg per person. Interestingly, though, take

FOLIE DOUCE BREAKFAST

The La Folie Douce group, which began at one iconic location in Val d'Isère but now extends to cabaret bars, restaurants, hotels and shops in leading resorts across the French Alps, is a favoured spot for lunch for many skiers. This winter, the First Tracks programme at Méribel includes a nutrient-packed breakfast at their outlet of La Folie Douce, before skiers hit the empty untracked pistes of the Saulire area before the crowds.

away travel, both to Tignes and within the resort, which represent 25.4kg and 52% of all emissions, and we’re down to 23.5kg for everything else – so much lower than the daily average in most people’s day-to-day lives at home.

SWISS CENTRE REBORN

The southerly Swiss ski centre of San Bernardino has begun operating again after more than a decade out of action. The re-opening of the ski resort is thanks to investor Stefano Artioli, who reportedly plans to invest CHF300 million ($360 million) under the business name San Bernardino Swiss Alps. Initially, a gondola lift, a chairlift and a ski lift have been brought back to life, with 45km of slopes and more planned.

PINK SKIS

EDL, a new Swiss brand of top-of-therange, traditionally crafted skis working with leading ski rental network Skiset, launched a limited-edition pink ski in support of breast cancer research. The partnership sees €200 donated to Gustave Roussy Institute, Europe’s

DEER VALLEY EXPANDS

Utah’s Deer Valley is set to see its ski area more than double in size over the next few years, with a vast expansion that will see 3,700 acres of new terrain in one of the largest increases of skiable terrain anywhere. The expansion includes 16 new chairlifts and a new second-base village. A fraction of this opens this winter, and much of the rest will open in 2025/26.

leading cancer research centre, for every pair sold. The pink model, with colourcoordinated EDL 312 bindings, is available in two lengths, 158cm and 164cm, and retails at €990 (excl bindings). They can be purchased or rented at €37 p/day exclusively from Skiset partner stores.

1.8 MILLION SKIERS

A survey by The Ski Club of Great Britain has found that the number of people going skiing from the UK is back to pre-pandemic levels and the best since 2018, with findings indicating that almost 95% of skiers and snowboarders have now returned following the Covid-19 pandemic. The number of active UK skiers was estimated to be around 1.8 million.

AFRO-CARIBBEAN SKI FESTIVAL

According to Sport England, Black participation rates in snow sports were too low to even register for the 2022/23 season, but several friendship groups are determined to address this and change the status quo. In North America, the National Brotherhood of

BRIT ON FWT

Team GB’s Cody Bramwell has been selected as one of 12 riders, including freeride legends, past champions, and rising stars, to be given wildcards to join the FIS Freeride World Tour (FWT) 2025, which is sponsored by Peak Performance. Cody claimed a remarkable victory at the FWT Ordino Arcalís Pro with a flawless run. In 2022, he showcased his full potential, taking second place at Fieberbrunn and finishing 3rd overall in 2021 and 2022.

Skiers recently celebrated its 50th year with thousands of skiers gathering in Vail last winter, and in the Alps there’s a rapidly growing movement, Soft Life Ski (SLS). Taking place from 30 March to 4 April 2025 in LAAX Switzerland, the five-day snow sports and music

MORE VISITORS, SAME BEDS

French ski resorts are battling to do the most in terms of their environmental efforts.

Among the initiatives by Avoriaz in the Portes du Soleil is a decision made back in 2015 not to build any more accommodation but to use what they have more efficiently. Despite this, last season saw 1,148,000 overnight stays, the most in the resort’s history. “It shows that growth is possible without cementing the mountain over,” an Avoriaz spokesperson commented.

festival event is set to welcome 950 attendees, an increase of 207% on last year, with 90% identifying as Black, for a vibrant fusion of skiing, snowboarding and music. 80% of attendees are beginners who have never tried skiing or snowboarding before.

SOLAR TREES

All ski resorts have plenty of initiatives when it comes to generating green power, but the Gastein ski resort in Austria’s Salzburgerland has had the novel idea of “solar trees”. The resort has “planted” 15 trees in the car park of a gondola and is now harvesting 100.8kw peak electricity from its trees, which tower above parked vehicles. Combined with building-integrated solar panels, they output a 600kw peak.

DOMDAHER AVORIAZ

It’s that magical time of the year again, when we all hope for a White Christmas at home but know in our hearts that it’s probably not going to happen.

So that’s the perfect reason to head to the mountains and enjoy the festive magic in the snow#. Christmas falls midweek this year, which means if you’re on the classic Saturday change-over ski week, you have plenty of time to settle in ahead of the big day … and to recover afterwards before the trip home.

If you love Christmas and you love snow, the main problem is deciding where to go! Perhaps a traditional resort in the Alps where there are festive Advent markets and carol singers, or up to Finland to meet Santa and enjoy a reindeer safari, as well as the uncrowded slopes. Wherever you choose, though, you can be sure that twinkling lights, a festive feeling and probably a skiing Santa will all be waiting for you. It’s a great time of year to hit the slopes.

“Is Christmas a good time to ski? It depends on your priorities and preferences. It is not exactly a good time for uncrowded resorts and super cheap prices, but it’s hard to beat a snowy ski resort for festive magic, especially if you’re taking children,” says Marcus Blunt, Co-Founder of ski holiday travel agency Heidi, who say they’ve seen a 73% jump in Christmas ski holiday bookings this year.

“Christmas comes quite early in the ski season, so if snow is your top priority, the two main things to consider are altitude and latitude. Resorts with slopes at high altitudes are your best bet. Alternatively, head north to colder, snow-sure Scandinavia, where you also have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights as a special Christmas present,” Markus adds.

There are too many resorts with special Christmas celebrations to detail here, but some of the best include La Clusaz in France where their “Pestacles de Père Noël” festivities from 23 December to 3 January are among the biggest Christmas celebrations in the Haute Savoie with the build-up to Father Christmas appearing on 24 December, Christmas parades, light shows, partying elves and Christmas-themed rides for children.

In Megève, the village comes alive with the traditional giant Christmas Tree Lighting festival in the village square, which attracts thousands of visitors each year to see the large conifer light up, signalling the festive season ahead. Following

the lighting, a variety of activities and events take place throughout the village, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Santa’s village, parades and sparkling decorations fill the streets, and the scents of cinnamon, gingerbread and hot chocolate add to the festive feel, bringing a touch of nostalgia.

In Arc 1950, Ler Village visitors can meet Santa for a photo, join the Christmas parade through the village and toast some marshmallows over the fire. In the car-free, snow-clad centre of Le Village, Christmas is brought to life with live music and a full week of free activities for all.

In Italy’s Courmayeur on Christmas Eve, children can join in the traditions that pay homage to local festive figure “Rhémy de Noël”. He’s the protagonist of a legend whose roots lie in the link between the town and Mont Blanc and provides the area with its snow. On Xmas Eve, there’ll be children’s workshops, theatrical performances, special guest appearances with gifts and the lighting of lanterns to direct Rhémy de Noël down from the mountain to Courmayeur.

Or another beautiful Italian resort, Val Gardena in the Dolomites has a Christmas market in Selva that runs from 6 December to 5 January. Here you’ll find pretty stalls and chalets selling traditionally made gifts, especially the local wood carvings that line the streets and create a magical atmosphere over this Christmas period. At the other end of the valley, in Ortisei, celebrating its 10th year of the Christmas markets from 30 November to 5 January, stroll through the pretty village lit by fairy lights and enjoy even more wooden huts selling treats and sweets.

Of course, you should also consider the type of accommodation you’ll book. Alpine hotels typically lay on multi-course gourmet dinners to mark the occasion, but the traditional British chalet holiday also comes into its own.

“One of the joys of the unique ski chalet holiday is sharing a hosted chalet with like-minded skiers, on a per-room basis, with a private chalet host to cook, clean and cater. Better still at Christmas, when no one needs to roast the turkey, wash up, put up the tree and decorations, or organise real snow and miles of skiing on the doorstep. What could be better?” asks Ski Beat’s Laura Hazell.

Getting on the slopes each winter is the highlight of my year, so I always try to record my fun in the snow so I can relive it later. I’ve tried lots of cameras over the years, and this winter I’ve discovered the best yet, the fabulous Insta360 X4.

First up, it’s easy to use, even when I’m wearing thick gloves or my fingers are freezing. It effortlessly handles extreme temps down to -20C and even drops into meltwater pools, delivering jaw-dropping videos every time that somehow seem to make my adventures seem even better than they are already! But let’s get straight on to the technical wonders that really make the X4 my stand-

out action camera! First up, it has two lenses recording in all directions, producing 360º videos in stunning ultra-sharp 8K quality. It actually won TIME’s Best Inventions Award for that. Other features include perfect image stabilisation, battery protection from low temps and the amazing Invisible Selfie Stick that both magically disappears from shots and allows me to create awesome drone-style shots, without a drone! Incredibly, I found the X4 even gives me the chance to open up the best angles AFTER filming, using Insta360’s free desktop editing suite and mobile app which both offer me heaps of creative options. I can reframe film using AI tools to make my

footage even more incredible. These mean anyone (even me) can edit dynamic videos regardless of experience or ability. I can even pair my Garmin device or Apple Watch with my X4 to overlay real-time stats including GPS data, my speed, elevation and more.

The X4 Ski Bundle gets you started with the camera, Standard Lens Guards, Action Invisible Selfie Stick, Ski Pole Mount and Lens Cap for £587.

Special In The Snow Offer! Scan the QR code for a free Ski Pole Mount (worth £34.99) or use code INRP9KQ at checkout with any Insta360 X4 purchase from store.insta360.com.

WORDS : DEBBIE GABRIEL

MOST ON A CHAIRLIFT

A new chairlift being installed for next winter at Scheffau, part of Austria’s Skiwelt region, will be able to carry more passengers than any other chairlift in the world, the resort says. The new 8-seater Eibergbahn is also one of the most energy self-sufficient chairlifts in the world, with around half of its energy requirements being met by a photovoltaic solar farm on the roof of one of the lift stations. The lift will be able to carry up to 4,570 passengers per hour, a chairlift world record, with a maximum travelling speed of 5m/s. The new lift will be equipped with seat heating but will run without a canopy for wind protection to reduce its energy needs with less weight and wind resistance.

CLOSING NOT CLOSING

A ski resort that few people outside its local vicinity had ever heard of was the latest to make headlines around the world a month ago, as it announced it was going to cease ski operations. “French ski resort in Alps shuts due to shortage of snow,” reported The Independent, “Another European ski resort is closing due to lack of snow,” said Time Out, while The Guardian opted for “Fears for future of ski tourism as resorts adapt to thawing snow season.” The only problem is that the ski area in question, L’Alpe du Grand Serre, has decided it isn’t closing after all. Instead, the French and local governments announced financial support, and a crowdfunder helped too. The decision has been reversed and will be reassessed in a year’s time. It not closing hasn’t received any coverage.

NEW NISEKO GONDOLA

The new Hirafu gondola, Niseko’s third in its main Grand Hirafu sector, will replace the Ace Quad Lift 2 Centre four-quad lift that has been operating at Dot Base since 1985 this winter, serving some of Niseko’s best terrain from the top of the Ace Family run. The new lift will be a fast, ultra-modern 10-person gondola with more than 50% more uplift capacity. “The Family Run is where nearly all the ski-in-ski-out accommodation is based, so it is the area of the mountain that has got the most overcrowded from recent development,” explained Japan Ski Experience’s Managing Director Lindsay Colbert. There was the usual nostalgia for the old quad. A goodbye ceremony was staged, and an auctioning off of the old chairs fetched up to JPY150,000 (£750ish) each.

AIMEE FULLER'S

In this edition of SKI FIT, we look at strength training and how we can prepare our bodies for the mountain. Enough of the summer beach body... for us mountaingoers, it’s all about the WINTER BODY. Strength and conditioning was always a huge part of my routine as a former Olympic snowboarder, and

by building strength we can unlock the doors to increased performance. We underestimate the forces going through our joints on the mountain, and it’s all about developing strength in range, as well as building a strong skeleton to prevent injury and enhance performance. If you imagine our skeletons, we want them to be strong

STEP-BACK LUNGE

and engaged so our muscles wrap around our bones, to keep everything in place and firing so we can take full advantage of each time we step onto snow. In this series of snow tips, we’ll explore building our glutes, focusing on balance, opening up our hips, fortifying our core and developing strength in our quads and hamstrings.

SINGLE-LEG RDL

Starting with both feet together, weight balanced, core strong, step back with your right leg to stretch the hips as you lunge backwards and down into the single leg. This is the full range of the movement. Drive up through the calf, quad and glute back to the centre, meeting with both feet at the top, then repeat. Developing single leg strength balances muscles in both legs, as we often have a dominant side. This also aids hip stabilisation, essential for riding ever-changing terrain, as our pelvis moves through an advanced range of motion.

Begin with both feet together, holding the weight in the opposite hand to your standing leg. Ground through the standing leg and hinge at the hips, driving your chest forward while pulling your belly button towards your spine (core strong). Allow the free leg to lift behind you into a standing T shape. Engage your glutes and hamstrings to return to standing. Repeat on the same side 6–10 times, then switch sides. This exercise builds glute strength, balance, and hamstring engagement, which is key for injury prevention and generating power in turns.

COSSACK SQUAT

This exercise is about building strength and testing flexibility. Start with feet wider than hip-width, engage your core by drawing your belly button towards your spine, and hold a weight like a dumbbell, kettlebell, or even a can. Bend your right knee, sitting into your glutes while externally rotating the straight leg so the toes point up. Lower into your heel, stretching the Achilles, as you move like a deeper squat. Hold for 1–2 seconds, drive through the active leg to return to centre, and switch sides. Do 8–10 reps per side, repeating 3 times.

BANDED GLUTE BRIDGE

Start by lying on your back with a resistance band above your knees suited to your strength. Engage your core, placing your heels firmly on the mat with knees bent so your fingertips can touch them. Drive through the glutes, peeling your spine gently off the mat to full range. Press your knees outward against the band and maintain glute engagement and band tension as you lower your spine vertebrae by vertebrae before resetting. Aim for 8-10 repetitions to build stability, fire up the hamstrings, and strengthen your core and glutes.

CURTSEY LUNGE

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, 2 dumbbells in hand. Engage your core by bringing your belly button to your spine, keeping your chest and back straight. Move the right foot back and around as if doing a curtsey to a 90-degree angle. Drive back up through both legs and swap sides. This is a great exercise for hip stabilisation. Ensure your knee aligns with the front knee and doesn’t overshoot. For strength and endurance on the mountain, aim for 8-12 reps on each side.

SIDE PLANK

Start in a traditional plank position with the option to support yourself on your elbows, or with your palms flat on the ground. Pull the belly button into the spine, which requires total body engagement. Making sure the torso is stacked with the feet, start on the right-side elbow and hold for 30 seconds to 90, repeating on each side. This exercise helps with shoulder stability and core while firing up the glutes, and it’s fantastic at helping with injury prevention before you hit the mountain.

MORE NORWAY

Norway has long been a British favourite, and 60 years ago it was actually the most popular destination for Brits hopping on a ferry across the North Sea to the slopes. Now the country is increasingly popular again – a destination that’s famously cold and snowy is exactly what skiers are looking

HORSE THERAPY

Horses are well-known to pick up on feelings and help people achieve their therapeutic, educational and learning goals. With this in mind, Amanda Locatelli founded the Equit’Horizon riding centre near the pretty French resort of Le Grand Bornand. Amanda’s aim is to make a difference by offering horse riding for all abilities (ages 3 and over, ponies for little ones) and equine therapy sessions for more vulnerable clients.

for in an era of climate change, and another big selling point is that the Norwegian Kroner has dropped in value, making this reliable snow much more affordable. “We’re seeing more enquiries for Norway. Packages to Geilo and Beitostolen are the most enquired about, with families asking

KATY PERRY’S APÉRITIF

A drinks company founded by singer Katy Perry has created a non-alcoholic vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO option for “après-ski moments and winter-time get-togethers” called the St Moritz Mule.

“The St Moritz Mule is winter in a glass. We took the classic Moscow Mule vibe and gave it a cold-weather makeover. It’s like a festive little party for your tastebuds and makes me want to hit the slopes,” Perry explained.

about Norefjell,” said Richard Sinclair, boss of ski travel agency SNO, while another, IGLU, say they have more Norwegian holidays on sale too. The UK’s largest ski tour operator, Crystal, are adding the little known destination of Gausta to their options, joining Beitostølen and Geilo.

VANS FOR BANDS FOR SKIERS

Vans For Bands, which specialises in providing passenger vans for bands, and which also allows anyone to hire to drive to the Alps in winter, is expanding its selection for skiers and boarders to rent this season. The vans, which can accommodate up to nine people each, offer a comfortable way to drive to the mountains, and as winter is the ‘off season’ for the company, they offer lower rates.

WORDS : PATRICK THORNE

Christmas and snow are a magical combination. Snowfall adds to the festive excitement, and heading off to a winter resort in the Austrian mountains makes it extra special too. Many Austrian resorts not only offer great Christmas skiing but also wonderful Advent markets during the festive period. With twinkling fairy lights, Christmas trees, mulled wine, and traditional music, these established, romantic, and festive market stalls make your ski trip even more amazing.

Add to this the down-to-earth, honest welcome of the local people – their attitude to life helps you feel truly relaxed on your holiday and fully connected to the beautiful, natural world all around. It’s a way of being known as ‘Lebensgefühl’ to the Austrians, and you’ll find it present in every part of your holiday, taking it to a different, deeper level of contentment.

SKIWELT WILDER KAISER-BRIXENTAL

The SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental takes some saying (so it’s just The SkiWelt –meaning “Ski world” to its friends), but then it takes some skiing with an incredible 275km of slopes, making it indeed one of the biggest areas in the ski world. Over more than 30 years of working together, the SkiWelt has invested more than half a billion euros into creating not only one of the largest but also one of the most successful ski destinations in the world. And it’s all only an hour’s drive from Salzburg, Innsbruck, or Munich.

But it’s not just about size; the SkiWelt is also one of Austria’s most modern and environmentally friendly ski resorts. It’s also about having a great holiday, however much or little you choose to ski, and with a welcoming ski hut offering a warm

welcome and fabulous food on average every 3.5km of slopes, you might be tempted to stop quite often.

For festive fun, the SkiWelt is home to Ellmi’s Zauberhafter Bergadvent, also known as Europe’s highest Christmas land, up at 1,555m. It’s open from 4.30-10.00pm on the weekends of 6-7th, 13-14th and 2021st December, 2024.

INNSBRUCK

You’ll feel wonderful visiting the beautiful capital of the Tirol region, the city of Innsbruck. Ringed by alpine peaks, many of them home to ski areas, you’ll enjoy a very different kind of ski holiday.

With your affordable Ski Plus City pass, you’ll have immediate access to no less than 12 separate ski centres surrounding the city, with fast and easy public transport to them included in your pass. Altogether, the pass covers almost 300km of slopes at centres ranging from smaller familyfriendly resorts to freeride Meccas, hosts of multiple Olympic downhill races, and snowsure glacier slopes over 3,000m high. It’s an incredible range and depth of on-snow experiences.

There’s a whole choice of Christmas markets here, with more than half-adozen to choose from. One of the biggest is in the Old Town, where the colourful Christmas market stalls are nestled between attractive medieval buildings and the Golden Roof. A viewing platform offers wonderful views over the roofs of the stalls. Austrian Turmbläser (brass bands) play traditional Christmas music from the Golden Roof and give the market a truly special feel. For something different, the Christmas market on Maria Theresien Street is surrounded by a sparkling sea of modern Christmas lights.

ALTENMARKT-ZAUCHENSEE

If you love a wonderful Austrian ski resort, buried deep in snow, perfect for a Christmas card picture, but you also want a little extra – perhaps the chance to hike up a small hill past a herd of hairy Scottish Highland cows, then eat some strudel at the top before tobogganing back down – then the beautiful SalzburgerLand destination of Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is the place for you!

With its wonderful, unspoilt, natural environment, great attractions, events, fabulous food, and 63km of downhill ski slopes for all abilities, as well as fantastic freeriding opportunities in the deep powder, Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is your perfect ski holiday destination.

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee maintains a full calendar of events throughout the ski season. The ski season begins in late November, and the Advent period is truly magical here with the Vienna Boys’ Choir, the Advent Market, incense walks, and the Bergsee Advent. You can combine your ski holiday with the maximum possible Christmas cheer!

KITZBÜHEL

One of the most famous ski resorts in the world, Kitzbühel has it all – stunning scenery, incredible ski slopes, and a vibrant resort town that oozes skiing history and character while also being chock-full of enticing restaurants, hotels, shops, and cafes.

Voted Austria’s Best Ski Resort for the twelfth time in 2024, Kitzbühel is a place where luxury and elegance meet excitement and adventure, with a history dating back at least 750 years. There’s something for everyone, with fabulous facilities for families as well as deep powder for the most experienced skiers.

Kitzbühel is one of the world’s great ski destinations for a reason. The 233km of slopes are perfectly maintained and served by 58 ultra-modern lifts, most of them fast, comfortable chairlifts and gondolas.

Kitzbühel is a very special place to be in the run-up to Christmas. Its picturesque walled town centre with its cobbled streets becomes even more magical with twinkling lights and festive decorations added too.

Kitzbühel’s Advent runs from 20 November to Boxing Day (26 December), when there are Christmas stalls, festive delicacies to try, and all the magic of Christmases past, present, and future!

ST. JOHANN IN TIROL

When it comes to a winter fairytale destination, it doesn’t get more magical than the region of St. Johann in Tirol, Oberndorf, Kirchdorf, and Erpfendorf. The perfect destination for a wonderful family holiday, the region has its own intimate ski area, perfect for stress-free skiing. Neighbouring villages St. Johann in Tirol and Oberndorf have 40km of slopes that are absolutely perfect for families who can enjoy the wide, sunny, gentle slopes together. If you need more, regional passes cover 171km and 2,750km in the wider area. More slopes than you could ski in a whole season!

The Christmas market in the village square provides a pure Advent ambience. Running from 29 November to 24 December 2024, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the festive lighting immerses the town in anticipation at this most contemplative time of the year. In the Christmas cabins, home-made treats and an ever-changing array of lovingly made handcrafts are available. When it comes to food, visitors to the market are indulged by the food establishments with delicious festive snacks prepared fresh every market day.

THE SNOWTUNNEL

The latest in a long line of machines that use a revolving slope, its surface constantly moving towards the skier for an ‘eternal ski run’, has been unveiled by an Australian company. Snowtunnel Technology, a tech licensing startup, has gone further than most of its

SWEDEN FOR 2025/26?

Crystal Ski Holidays has launched its Winter 2025/26 season (yes, the winter after this). The UK’s largest ski holiday provider has three new Swedish resorts, Sälen, Stöten and Kläppen, available to book now, with a direct flight from Gatwick to Scandinavian Mountains Airport via a new TUI Airways charter. Altogether, Crystal offer 135 resorts in 13 countries on 3 continents from 19 UK airports.

predecessors by actually building a prototype. The idea is that you ski inside a giant revolving drum, with snow also dropping into the base of the drum with you, so you always have fresh snow to ski on and are always moving downhill as the drum revolves.

FIRST UK SALOMON STORE

Salomon has opened its first UK store, in Covent Garden. “As a 77-yearold mountain sports brand born in a small workshop in Annecy in the French Alps, this new store in London is a wonderful opportunity to share our passion for the mountain sports lifestyle with our growing community in the capital’s most recognised shopping district,” commented Salomon’s Pascal Clausse.

JOHN WILLIAMS

SKIING IN ANDORRA

Tailored by Andorra Travel Service –

Who Eat, Sleep & Breath It.

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Andorra Travel Service doesn’t just organise ski holidays; they create tailor-made experiences that leave a lasting impression.

As an independent specialist tour operator with deep local roots, they provide a level of service and expertise that sets them apart from the big multinational operators who have little real knowledge or love of Andorra.

Imagine everything you need for your ski holiday in one seamless booking. From cosy apartments to luxury hotels, Andorra Travel Service handpicks accommodations to suit your preferences. Then they can add private or shuttle airport transfers, lift passes, equipment rentals, and lessons with Andorra’s award-winning ski school to your package, all at exclusive prices.

They’ve partnered with trusted providers to ensure your trip, whether skiing at Grandvalira or Pal-Arinsal, is stress-free. With decades of experience, Andorra Travel Service knows Andorra better than anyone; it’s where they’re based. Their team lives and breathes the mountain life, sharing local knowledge that transforms your trip. Their independence means they can offer unparalleled flexibility, whether it’s midweek arrivals, extended stays, or unique combinations of activities.

From the moment you book, you’ll feel the personal touch of a team dedicated to making your holiday unforgettable. There's also a great, 15,000-strong online community with plenty of tips and advice at facebook.com/groups/andorra. snow.report.

Make your next ski holiday an unforgettable experience. With Andorra Travel Service, the slopes are waiting, and the possibilities are endless!

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WORDS : PATRICK THORNE

We’re advised to book ski areas with high-altitude terrain for a snow-sure holiday, but which have the most runs above 2,000m?

With the media fuelling fears of less reliable snow cover at lower-lying ski areas, it’s no surprise that a regular survey conducted by The Ski Club of Great Britain found that, for the first time, skiers were putting the altitude range and snow-certainty of ski areas they were considering travelling to ahead of the extensiveness of its terrain.

Although they have not been keen to mention it in their “No Snow In The Alps Horror!” style reports, some skiers will have noticed that while there have been challenging times at low-lying centres sometimes, there have also been aboveaverage snowfalls above 2,000m altitudes over the past few seasons.

This Ski Club’s finding and the skier reaction to it are also being borne out by ski holiday companies and travel agencies who are finding strong demand for high-altitude resorts.

“Bookings are overweighted towards the higher resorts (where there is skiing above 2,000m even if the base resort is much lower), as skiers like to have some form of snow guarantee,” says Xavier Schouller, who runs ski holiday companies Peak Retreats and Ski Collection.

SLOPE ORIENTATION FACTOR

One thing to keep in mind behind the raw data on terrain above 2,000m is that being up high doesn’t necessarily mean snow is guaranteed. It does mean the odds of snow cover are generally

higher, but factors like slope orientation (in the northern hemisphere snow usually melts faster on south-facing slopes), slope gradient and latitude of the ski area concerned can all impact snow cover to a greater or lesser extent.

“2,000 m doesn’t mean the same in all parts of the Alps. There are glaciated mountains lower than 2,500 m and non-glaciated ones well above 3,500m and the winter snowline also differs a lot depending on location,” confirmed expert Christoph Schrahe of Ski Weltweit who has spent many decades studying ski area cartography.

WEATHER & TREES

It’s also worth noting that most high-altitude terrain is above the treeline, so while the views are usually great on a clear day, they tend to be more prone to closure due to weather factors like strong winds or fog, when there tend to be fewer landmarks to guide your way, without the trees. So which resorts have the most terrain up high? Well, in many cases there is a correlation between the largest ski areas having correspondingly large amounts of terrain up high. However, some big areas don’t have much high terrain so they don’t make the cut, while a few resorts that don’t usually score so highly come nearer the top of the table as almost all of their terrain is above 2,000m. However, some of these are at southerly latitudes which can counter the altitude factor a little.

ARTHUR BERTRAND

SKI AREAS WITH THE MOST TERRAIN ABOVE 2,000m

It can be tricky to work out how much each ski area can offer above 2,000m. Wary of the media coverage of the danger of low snow cover at low altitudes, more and more ski areas in the Alps are saying they have X amount of terrain above 2,000m, usually as a % figure. But generally it’s just a stat mentioned in a publicity release, not part of their official ski area numbers.

Quite a few big players like the Swiss 4 Valleys around Verbier don’t publish a stat at all, while others, like the world’s biggest ski area Les 3 Vallées, have gone for their own altitude choice, saying 85% of their terrain is above 1,800m, so it can be difficult to compare.

For InTheSnow we decided to try different approaches to get the over-2,000m-terrain stats for as many areas as we could. Our first approach was to ask the big areas directly. Then, if there was no answer, we went for the ever-reliable Google search to see if the relevant stat was already out there. In other words, some of these claims may not be accurate. But here goes…

LES 3 VALLÉES | FRANCE

400km+ Above 2,000m (Probably)

As mentioned, Les 3 Vallées claims 85% of their 600km of terrain is above 1,800m altitude – so 510km. But how much of that 510km is above 2,000m? There’s no official stat, but we did ask the individual sectors at Les Menuires who said 85% of their 160km (so 136km) is above 2,000m while various online sites claim either 90 or 99% of Val Thorens’ 150km of the terrain is above 2,000m (no surprise with the resort itself at 2,300m and slopes climbing to 3,200m above). If we split the stats and go for 95%,

that’s 142.5km or 278.5km of 310km – for a little over half of Les 3 Vallées. Alas, there are no figures for the Courchevel or Méribel Valleys. Even if we accept that the stats we do have include the region’s highest terrain, it looks like Les 3 Vallées not only had the most terrain overall in the world but probably the most above 2,000m too.

MATTERHORN GLACIER PARADISE SWITZERLAND-ITALY

324km Above 2,000m

After all the complicated maths to try to work out a stat for Les 3 Vallées, Markus Hasler, CEO at Zermatt’s Bergbahnen AG, kept it quick and simple saying, “Of the 360km of pistes in Zermatt/Cervinia, 90% are 2,000m above sea level.” With Cervinia one of Europe’s highest ski areas at 2,050m and the area open for snowsports year-round, with the highest ski lifts in Europe reaching 3,899m, it’s no surprise that the percentage is so high.

VIA LATTEA | ITALY / FRANCE

300km Above 2,000m

One of the world’s largest ski areas with 400km of slopes spread across the Italian-French border, Via Lattea (or “The Milky Way” as it is sometimes known in its English translation) told us that 75% of these lie above 2,000m altitudes. The region is home to another of the highest-altitude ski areas in Italy and the Alps, Sestriere at 2,035m, as well as one of France’s highest natural resorts, Montgenèvre at 1,860m. Via Lattea hosted the last Winter Olympics to be staged on European soil, back in 2006.

"Being up high doesn’t necessarily mean snow is guaranteed. It does mean the odds of snow cover are generally higher"

"80% of Serre Chevalier's slopes lie above 2,000m altitude, putting it in the small group with 200km or more of high altitude terrain"

PARADISKI | FRANCE

298km Above 2,000m

Online reports claim that 70% of the 425km of terrain above Les Arcs and La Plagne lies above 2,000m. It’s another ski region where you can choose to stay right up at 2,000m at either Arc 2000 (or almost there at Arc 1950 Le Village) on the Les Arcs side or centres like Aime 2000 and Belle Plagne and Plagne Soleil, both at an altitude of 2,050m, or the La Plagne side. Saying that, staying at any lower resort base and you have fast, comfortable uplift to the higher parts of the ski area anyway.

ENGADIN | SWITZERLAND

243km Above 2,000m

Another tricky bit of guesstimate maths, but most of The Engadin’s 300km of slopes are made up of St Moritz’s various ski areas (some of which open in October and stay open through to late spring), and we found reference to 90% of the skiing there being above 2,000m. With the village itself sitting at 1,850m and famous for its light Champagne powder with slopes up to 3,303m, that all makes perfect sense!

DAVOS | KLOSTERS | SWITZERLAND

240km Above 2,000m

One of the world’s oldest ski areas with downhill skiing here dating back to the 19th century, DavosKlosters has also grown into one of the world’s largest ski domains with 300km of slopes, 80% of which are reputed to be above the magic 2,000m point, and lifts climbing as high as 2,844m.

ISCHGL | SAMNAUN | AUSTRIA / SWITZERLAND

215km Above 2,000m

Famed for its snow surety in Austria and the entire Alps, Ischgl starts and ends its long season from late November to early May each year with big music concerts on the mountain. Thanks to a mighty snowmaking arsenal, it often has the most terrain open in the world, or thereabouts when it starts its season, usually before most potentially larger areas have started theirs.

SERRE CHEVALIER | FRANCE

200km above 2,000m.

One of the most southerly of the giant French ski regions, Serre Chevalier is keen to reassure those considering skiing there that 80% of its slopes, which climb up to 2,800m, lie above 2,000m altitude, putting it just in the small group with 200km or more of high-altitude terrain.

TIGNES & VAL D’ ISÈRE | FRANCE

180km above 2,000m

Surprisingly perhaps, despite Tignes and Val d’ Isère both being renowned for their long seasons from November to May, having high-altitude bases and terrain up above 3,500m and making up two of the three French ski areas that still offer summer glacier skiing, only 60% of their huge 300km ski area is reported to be above 2,000m altitude.

LES 2 ALPES | FRANCE

160km above 2,000m

With terrain climbing up to 3,600m opening up one of the biggest lift-served verticals in the world at over 2,000m, as well as the longest ski season in France running from early December through to the following July (the final few months up on its glacier), Les 2 Alpes is indisputably one of the most snow-sure resorts in the world.

OTHER TOP CHOICES

Austria: Obergurgl (95% of 112km = 107km).

France: Chamonix Valley (90% of 150km = 135km) Isola 2000 (90% of 120km = 108km)

La Rosière – La Thuile (60% of 155km = 93km) Valmeinier – Valloire (70% of 150km = 105km) Risoul – Vars (83% of 185km = 154km)

Italy: Livigno (90% of 115km = 104km).

Spain: Sierra Nevada (100% of 113km).

Switzerland: Laax (70% of 224km = 157km).

In addition, the areas below seemed like they might be in the world’s top 20 or 30 for most terrain above 2,000m but didn’t respond to the question, or did respond but said they couldn’t answer and we couldn’t find anything helpful online to include:

Andorra: Grandvalira

Austria: Arlberg (Lech, St Anton).

Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, Sölden.

France: Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine.

Italy: Monterosa.

Switzerland: Andermatt-Disentis-Sedrun; Arosa Lenzerheide, Crans Montana, Jungfrau (Grindelwald/Wengen),

There may well be others we’re forgetting. Hopefully this winter no one will worry about altitudes anyway.

“We’re seeing favourite resorts which are lower show a reduction in bookings since the widespread rain at lower altitudes last winter. Memories can be short and it may only take one amazing winter to see fans desperate to go back,” concludes Richard Sinclair of Sno.co.uk.

REAL VALUE FOR MONEY

All-Inclusive Ski Holidays Without The Middle Man

What do you do when you love skiing, want everyone to have the chance to enjoy it as you did, but know the sport can be prohibitively expensive for many?

For Martin Jones, it was a matter of first learning to teach others to ski, then finding the ideal ski holiday destination featuring quiet slopes and some of the best value for money in Europe. Finally, he set up his own ski holiday company, offering the choice of hotel or self-catering lodge accommodation. Every aspect of your ski holiday – including accommodation, private ski tuition, lift pass, and rentals – is included in one affordable price.

Martin has named his company Gomiloby, and it’s not just Martin running the show. Gomiloby is a true family business. Best of all, there’s no middleman – so no added costs to your holiday.

“I’ve been in the industry and teaching skiing for 28 years, ever since I was 15,” says Martin, adding, “It’s a family business. My wife Pippa and daughter Amelie (6) both work within the business, and my cousin’s family has an investment in the hotel. Amelie loves meeting guests –especially their kids and dogs. She helps deliver meals to the cabins and is a very keen skier.”

The “Miloby” part of Gomiloby is named after the family’s two adorable dogs, Milo and Toby. The business also has its own ski

school, Ameski (named after Amelie, whose ambition is to become a ski instructor), as well as its own accommodation, bar, and restaurant, keeping everything in-house and skipping any intermediaries.

“My parents didn’t have much money when I was growing up. They sacrificed a lot to enable me to ski. I want to share this wonderful sport with as many people as possible at a price that’s achievable,” Martin adds.

Gomiloby offers two types of accommodation and caters to families, couples, and groups, welcoming everyone from complete beginners to seasoned experts. There are three luxurious cabins, each private and fully equipped for a self-catering experience, with the option of having meals and breakfasts delivered if desired.

The company also boasts a recently renovated Apart-Hotel offering luxurious self-catering accommodation. This ApartHotel features a stylish downstairs bar where guests can enjoy breakfast, dinner, and drinks. All properties provide towels and bedding to ensure your comfort.

Gomiloby is based in the stunning French Pyrenees, an unspoiled location that offers everything ski enthusiasts dream of. Unlike nearby Andorra, few realise the extent of skiing opportunities available in this beautiful region.

Gomiloby’s properties are conveniently situated close to several major ski areas.

The company frequently uses Peyragudes, thanks to its advanced infrastructure, modern lifts, lack of queues, quiet slopes, breathtaking views, and great value for money on the hill. Unlike the increasingly pricey Andorra, costs in the French Pyrenees have remained budget-friendly.

“We are the new Andorra, if you like – same mountains, same snow, just cheaper,” says Martin.

The French Pyrenees are also far easier and quicker to reach than Andorra.

Toulouse Airport is just 75 minutes from Gomiloby’s cabins and 90 minutes from the hotel. Lourdes Airport is even closer – just 45 minutes to the cabins and one hour to the hotel.

“Not only are our holidays great value, but once here everything is cheap. A meal up the hill costs €15, and a pint at our beautiful bar is just €5.50. We even have Guinness!” explains Martin. There are also numerous bars and restaurants in the area offering fantastic options.

The region isn’t limited to skiing. Local activities include mountain biking, paragliding, vineyard visits, paintball, rock climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Nearby, you’ll also find swimming pools and the renowned Balnea spa, which is located conveniently close to the hotel.

Book your all-inclusive, affordable ski holiday now at gomiloby.com.

Andorra has long been a favourite with British skiers, with a strong presence in this part of the picturesque Pyrenees. The principality’s ski resorts have changed dramatically over the years now, with all of the major ski areas now part of Grandvalira Resorts Andorra with a world-class 308km of slopes, 60% of them covered by snowmaking, the largest ski area in the region. With 2.5 million skier days each winter, it’s also one of the planet’s most popular ski destinations.

Andorra’s popularity has been built on many things. First off there’s the great terrain served by a network of high-speed lifts. Then there’s its duty-free status which translates to fun and affordable après-ski, dining and

shopping. There’s also a great range of accommodation choices from family-friend to uber-lux five-stars, and of course the almost Mediterranean vibe and the warm welcome from the local people is always a plus. The largest ski area in Andorra and the whole Pyrenees is called Grandvalira. It encompasses the linked terrain above the villages of Pal, Soldeu, El Tarter and several others with 215km of slopes. Whatever level of skier or boarder you are, Andorra has you covered. There are brilliant beginner areas with native English-speaking instructors, hundreds of kilometres of fabulous cruising runs for recreational skiers and great expert terrain too, with Andorra hosting the prestigious World Cup Finals last season. You’ll also find fabulous freeride

terrain and some epic terrain parks too. You can buy a pass just for Grandvalira or get the Andorra Pass, which also covers the smaller centres of Ordino Arcalís resort, a world-leading freeride destination with a reputation for getting the most snow in Andorra, and the family resort of Pal Arinsal. They have another 93.5km of slopes to give a total of 308km of skiable slopes spread over 216 slopes and served by a remarkable total of 124 lifts all now on the single Andorra Pass. There’s also a pass just for Ordino Arcalís and Pal Arinsal, the Nord Pass, if you just want to ski or ride at those centres. In other words, Andorra has something for everyone, so it’s no surprise that its many British fans keep returning to the ski nation they love, winter after winter.

SNOWKITE MASTERS

The sport of snow kiting – similar to kite surfing, which made its Olympic debut at the recent Paris Games, but on snow – is growing in popularity, particularly in France. Serre-Chevalier Vallée is one of the main centres for the sport and has hosted the crème-

ELECTRIC PISTE BASHER

The all-terrain electric vehicle manufacturer Xelom has unveiled a new all-electric groomer at indoor snow centre SnowWorld Zoetermeer near Rotterdam in the Netherlands. The Italian company’s Snow Cat electric groomer can run five hours on a single charge and generate 27,600 Nm (20,365 foot pounds) of torque, the company says.

de-la-crème of the sport competing at the top level. From 9-12 January 2025, the resort’s Col du Lautaret will see the Snowkite Masters return. The four-day programme includes freestyle snowkiting competitions and a thrilling Masters race on the final day.

BACKSTAGE TOUR

Serre Chevalier is offering skiers the chance to tour their huge ski area in the Southern French Alps and find out how everything works. More and more ski areas are offering this type of visitor experience, but the majority are for pedestrians using the lifts. Serre Chevalier’s two-hour tour takes place on skis, and the resort spokesperson notes you need to be a good skier.

arinsal.co.uk

pasdelacasa.com soldeu.com andorraresorts.com

In the search for the perfect ski destination, the Aravis region is hiding in plain sight. One of the closest resorts to Geneva, just an hour away, or for driving down through France, it’s home to famous names like La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand as well as smaller, welcoming villages Manigod and St Jean de Sixt.

They all share an authenticity and ambience that many other destinations lack, as well as fabulous skiing with something to suit every taste. It's all on one lift pass, the Aravis pass, which offers 230km of slopes and includes a half-hourly ski bus service between the different villages.

The largest resort, La Clusaz, has many claims to fame. It’s the home to one of the world’s most

famous skiers, Candide Thovex, and you’ll even find a Candide Store here. He’s helped highlight the strong freestyle and freeriding vibe here, although there are loads for every type and level of skier or snowboarder here and in the other Aravis ski areas.

The Aravis is almost as famous for its farming as its snow sports, with cows outnumbering people in some of the villages. It is the home of the wonderful Reblochon cheese, the key ingredient of that beloved skiers’ dish, the tartiflette. There are dozens of authentic, family-run restaurants across the region where you can tuck into it and other great food from the region. laclusaz.com | legrandbornand.com manigod.com | saintjeandesixt.com

BEST CHAIRLIFT SEAT

Do you have a favourite spot on the chairlift seat? A new survey of 1,000 skiers from online ski instructor booking platform Maison Sport asked which is their favourite seat on a chairlift? The survey found that on a quad chairlift, the coveted outside seat (furthest from the pylon) is the most popular (getting 50% of the votes). It was praised for its scenic view and the ease of getting out of the way of other skiers when you get off the lift at the top. The inside seat (nearest to the pylon) was second most popular, receiving 22% of votes with voters stating they feel more stable by the pylon, whereas the middle outside seat received the least votes (10%) due to a feeling of being cramped between people who are also blocking the view. The middle inside seat scored 17%.

SKI IRAQ

Untamed Borders, which organises trips to off-the-beaten-track destinations, including skiing adventures, has announced that it’ll be heading back to Iraq next winter on a 4-day trip. In February 2025, the company will be returning to the slopes in the mountains in the north of the country and visiting Iraq’s highest mountain, Halgurd. The region, which is home to a single mountain resort, complete with gondola, sits close to the border with Iran, and the aim is to take in routes that have rarely been skied before. Trip participants will also have the opportunity to take part in the Choman Winter Festival – a mixed abilities and gender ski touring race in the area – which Untamed Borders sponsors. The trip will be limited to a maximum of six participants with costs from $2,500 (US) per person.

LIFT TO THE TOP

Val d’Isère has announced that its new Vallon Gondola will be in service this winter, carrying skiers and riders up the high-altitude slopes to the Pisaillas Glacier at 3,185m in under 7 minutes! “Faster, more comfortable, safer and with a lower environmental impact, the replacement of the Vallon gondola in 2024 adheres to Val d’Isère stringent demands in terms of customer satisfaction and environmental impact,” a resort spokesperson said, adding, “Very high altitude in very little time, just over six minutes.” The Pisaillas sector’s first became accessible in 1972 with the installation of the Col drag lift. Then, in 1986, the Vallon TCD6 gondola was installed to improve access to the high-altitude slopes, and had operated for the 38 years since.

JAN BAKKER

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

 ELAN RIPSTICK 100

£599

Elan’s Ripstick 100W and 102W skis excel across all terrain, from tight tress to open bowls. With new Carbon deck technology and flax reinforcement for stability, these lightweight skis deliver intuitive handling, supreme stability, and smooth turns ideal in any conditions. skiexchange.co.uk

 OAKLEY MOD 5 HELMET | £220

The Oakley MOD5 helmet combines bold design with top functionality featuring the skull matrix for a secure fit, MIPS for impact protection, and customised ventilation. skiexchange.co.uk

 FISCHER RC4

MV PRO BOA | £780

The Fischer RC4 MV Pro BOA freeride boot combines the BOA fit system for precision adjustment with a ZipFit liner for heel stability. Its CARBONFUSED cuff ensures stiffness, while Dynafit and GripWalk compatibility supports uphill and downhill needs. Ideal for freeriders seeking stability and confidence on big lines. skiexchange.co.uk

 COLUMBIA SNOWTROT

MID SNOW BOOTS | £100

These waterproof boots offer cosy warmth with 200g insulation, OmniHEAT reflective lining, and a fleece interior. A lightweight midsole adds comfort, while a rugged outsole ensures grip in rain and snow – perfect for sports and everyday style with easy on-off access. skiexchange.co.uk

 NORDICA SANTA ANA 87 | £550

The beautiful Nordica Santa Ana 87 is an all-mountain ski designed for trail-focused skiers. With a wood and pulse core, plus terrain specific metal, it offers a smooth, stable, and energetic ride excelling on firm snow. Responsive and quick edge to edge, it makes every turn a joy to carve! skiexchange.co.uk

 PROTEST NOON

1/4 ZIP ACTIVE TOP | £40

Stay stylish and warm on the slopes with the Protest Noon 1/4 Zip Active Top. Crafted from recycled material, this slim-fitting mid-layer features a striking star pattern, stretchy fabric, and long sleeves for comfort and flexibility. The cosy 1/4 zip collar makes it perfect for layering in chilly conditions. skiexchange.co.uk

 HEAD SUPERSHAPE E-MAGNUM

£765 (inc PRD 12 GW Bindings)

The Head Supershape e-Magnum is celebrated for its outstanding grip, precise handling, and dynamic responsiveness. With the addition of the new Crossfire Carbon Construction, this latest model elevates its already impressive reputation to new heights. Few piste skis can rival its performance on groomed runs, and when it comes to handling diverse conditions, the e-Magnum truly stands in a league of its own. Available Nationwide in all good ski shops

 GOODR THE SNOW G | £90

So, you're a seasoned shredder. A righteous ripper. You eat fresh powder for breakfast. You need snow goggles that bring style and substance to the slopes. Meet the Snow Gs. Legit snow goggles for everyone, even legends like you. No fog. No slip. All conditions. All fun. These come in three colours, are adjustable to fit all noggins and come with two swappable magnetic lenses to suit any light level. goodr.co.uk

 HESTRA VERTICAL CUT C ZONE | £150

Short and convenient ski glove for freeriding and snowboarding in all types of mountain terrain. Just as comfortable during winter's first run as in the spring snow at the end of the season. Durable goat leather and outseams provide solid pole grip, while shock-absorbing foam protects against impacts. hestragloves.uk

 OAKLEY FLIGHT DECK M GOGGLE | £182

These goggles offer a mid-sized fit inspired by fighter pilot visors for maximum field of view and helmet compatibility. With Prizm™ lens options, Ridgelock Technology for quick lens changes, and triple-layer face foam, they provide comfort, durability, and optimal visibility in all conditions. skiexchange.co.uk

MOUNTAIN WAREHOUSE GALACTIC III EXTREME WATERPROOF

MEN’S SKI JACKET | £219.99

Our Galactic III Extreme Waterproof Men’s Ski Jacket offers a modern design, without losing out on functionality. It is made of waterproof and breathable fabric with taped seams, a detachable snow skirt and a hood. mountainwarehouse.com

 ANIMAL TRAIL

WOMENS SNOW JACKET | £219.99

Ready for adventure no matter the weather, our Trail Women’s Snow Jacket is a perfect slope companion. With warm padding to keep the chill at bay this overhead jacket is fully waterproof and breathable. animal.co.uk

 ODLO KIDS'

ACTIVE WARM BASE LAYER SET | £55

The children’s Active base Layer Set is made from recycled fabric and is perfect for cold days and active kids! Designed for warmth and comfort, this top and bottom set provides the performance they need for winter fun crafted with care in their European factory for simplicity and durability. skiexchange.co.uk

 ROSSIGNOL

VIZION 4B PRO 120 MV GW | £500

Step into a revolution — the easy entry and high-performance revolution of our innovative Step In design. Made for skiers looking for a medium volume fit and medium flex, the Rossignol Vizion 4B Pro 120 MV ski boots feature a ground-breaking overlap shell design that opens wide in the back for unparalleled slip-on ease, thanks to an innovative spoiler and spine mechanism.  rossignol.com/gb-en and snowandrock.com

 BEARHUG'S BAMBOO KNEE

COMPRESSION SUPPORT SLEEVE | £44.99

These sleeves offer vital knee support during skiing and recovery afterward. They enhance blood flow, relieve pain, and retain heat, thanks to bamboo fibres. Suitable for various joints, these comfortable sleeves are easy to wash and available in multiple sizes, ensuring reliable, durable support. getabearhug.com

 PIT VIPERS: THE COPACABANA | £89.69

Adjustable, military designed sunglasses with a 90s flair. Strong enough to be shot at, sat on, shoved in pockets, run over and still maintain their sun and wind-bucking ability. skiexchange.co.uk

 PROTEST

SAVER JR SNOW JACKET | £99.99

Protest’s Junior Snow Jacket is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. With waterproof and breathable fabric it’s designed for snowy conditions and provides warmth and comfort all day. It benefits from drawstring hems, zip pockets, adjustable cuffs and an adjustable lined hood. skiexchange.co.uk

 K2 MINDBENDER 90C | £475

The Mindbender 90C features K2’s patented spectral braid technology, offering variable-angle fibre reinforcement for finely tuned torsional control giving skiers a reliable, confidence-boosting experience. This ski is perfect for lighter skiers or those preferring a lively, playful feel over metal-laminate stiffness – ideal for versatile, all mountain adventures! skiexchange.co.uk

 K2 FATTY SKIS

£250

It’s impossible to step into these bad boys and not have a good time. They’re 88 centimetres of pure shred potential. Park tricks? Only limited by your imagination. Hard-charging big mountain? Hell yeah. There are two types of people in the world: those who have Fatties and those who need them. Decide which one you wanna be, because it’s time to party. skiexchange.co.uk

 SPYDER

ICEBOX HAT 24/25 | £40.

Spyder Icebox Hat 24/25 combines style and sustainability with 100% recycled polyester yarn and PFASfree components. Featuring a rolled cuff, it's perfect for ski enthusiasts looking for premium comfort. skiexchange.co.uk

 BLACK CROWS

DORSA 22 BACKPACK

£139

The compact version of the Dorsa series, this versatile backpack is perfect for mountain use. With a snug 3D back, front gear pocket, full U-shaped opening, removable belly straps, and a bright inner lining, its stylish and truly functional! skiexchange.co.uk

 FISCHER RC4 MV 110

MEN’S SKI BOOT | £460

This is a high-performance boot for advanced skiers. BOA® Fit System provides perfect fit for a majority of foot shapes, plus the iFZ Performance liner and the VACUUM shell make for easy fitting and great downhill performance. A GripWalk® sole adds security and convenience across all ski day conditions. fischersports.com

 THERM-IC THIN ULTRA HEATED LINER | £240

Keep cold hands warm with Thin Ultra Heat Liner under gloves, designed for versatile outdoor use. These heated liners fit under any gloves and are extremely breathable. With up to 7.5 hours of battery life, touchscreen compatibility, and adjustable heating, they’re perfect for all day comfort. skiexchange.co.uk

 GOGGLESOC

£12.99

The Goggles is a perfect stocking stuffer, designed to protect your ski goggle lens from scratches. It’s easy to slip on, stylish, and keeps lenses safe during travel or storage - an essential accessory for any skier or snowboarder. skiexchange.co.uk

 SCOTT ULTIMATE DRYO

RIPSTOP WOMEN'S JACKET | £200

Perfect for ski enthusiasts, the Scott Ultimate Dryo Ripstop Women’s Jacket offers waterproof and breathable protection thanks to its DRYOsphere membrane. Its durable ripstop fabric and insulated design keep you warm and dry on the slopes. Available in sizes XS-XL. scott-sports.com/gb/en

 SCOTT SEA 98 SKIS | £575

The Scott SEA 98 skis are playful and versatile, designed for all terrains and skill levels. With a full poplar wood core, spin tech rocker, and sidewall construction, they offer smooth turns, easy nose butters, and excellent flexibility for carving through powder or resort trails. skiexchange.co.uk

 ROSSIGNOL ARCADE 84 SKIS

£700 w/binding

All day. Any day. The Rossignol Arcade 84 skis redefine the allmountain category with a personality that can literally ski 100% anywhere. Designed with advanced and expert skiers in mind, they balance a blend of race tech and freeride construction to create a new quiverof-one experience. rossignol.com/gb-en and ellis-brigham.com

 DARE2B WOMEN'S SNOWBURST OVERHEAD SKI JACKET | £75

The Women's Snowburst Overhead

Ski Jacket is a must-have for ski enthusiasts. Featuring Ared 10/10 fabric, it ensures waterproofing and breathability. With recycled high-warmth padding and a snug overhead design, it promises warmth and style. Complete with ski pass pocket, fixed snowskirt, and adjustable features, dare2b.com

 BLOC FIVTY-FIVE GOGGLES | £85

Bloc’s magnetic lens goggles feature 8 rare-earth magnets for quick, on the go lens change. With dark brown/red mirror Cat 3 lens and an All-Weather Cat 2 lens included, they adapt effortlessly to varying light. Dual-vented, UV-protected, and helmet-compatible, they’re built for performance in any condition. skiexchange.co.uk

ODLO ACTIVE

MENS BASE LAYER TOP | £45

Odlo’s Active warm Eco Men’s long sleeve Baselayer top is made from 100% recycled polyester offering warmth, breathability, and comfort with a reduced carbon footprint! Seamless and features Zeroscent technology which means excellent performance while naturally reducing odour. skiexchange.co.uk

 GOODR THE WRAP G | £45

Our WRAP G sunglasses were made for the most extreme among us, and the perfect alternative to snow goggles if you want something a little more versatile. And if you ever get a little too extreme for your own good, pop on these polarised full-wrap lens sunnies to transform every fall, slide, and slam into just another sick stunt! goodr.co.uk

 FISCHER RC4 95 MV 95

WOMAN’S SKI BOOT | £460

 OOSC X KATIE ORMEROD £329

OOSC has teamed up with British Winter Olympian Katie Ormerod for their second collaboration, featuring a bold new ski range. Featuring a vibrant blue tie-dye ski suit with a flower design, as well as a pink jacket and bib pant option with matching base layers, socks, and accessories. oosc-clothing.com

This is a performance boot that offers customisable VACUUM shell for ladies looking for a comfortable fit. New BOA® H+i1 Fit System wraps the shell to every foot shape and the women's specific iFZ Performance liner to guarantee top performance at a soft 95 flex. The RC4 MV boots have developed with help of FISCHER Scan-Fit® data, providing an optimal fit for most female skiers. fischersports.com

 SCOTT ULTIMATE D RYO RIPSTOP MEN'S JACKET | £350

This jacket is perfect for ski enthusiasts seeking warmth and durability on the slopes. With its DRYOsphere 2L waterproofing, relaxed fit, and multiple pockets, this jacket caters to versatile skiers. Made from recycled polyester, it’s eco-friendly and includes features like a powder skirt and anti-chafe chin guard. Available in sizes S-XXL. scott-sports.com/gb/en

 DAKINE NECK TUBE | £29

The Bergen Fleece Neck Tube seals out the cold and surrounds you with ultra-plush chenille fleece. It's a welcome addition any day of the season, and an essential accessory during frigid midwinter months. skiexchange.co.uk

UYN SKI ONE MERINO SOCKS | £35

UYN ONE ski socks feature ZEROCUFF technology for a perfect, circulation friendly fit reducing foot fatigue and enhancing boot sensitivity. Made with Merino wool and NATEX finer, they offer thermoregulation exceptional comfort and warmth even on the coldest of days. skiexchange.co.uk

dries damp boots and gloves, preventing bacteria and odour with UV technology. Compact, quiet, and adjustable to fit and boot size, it provides controlled drying time leaving footwear warm, fresh, and ready for your next adventure! skiexchange.co.uk

 HEAD ABSOLUT JOY

£530 (inc Joy GW SLR Binding)

The Absolut Joy skis deliver exceptional versatility and effortless manoeuvrability, making them a top pick for skiers who enjoy carving a variety of turns across the mountain. Featuring an 80mm waist and a newly refined shape, they’re built to tackle all kinds of terrain, whether you’re sticking to groomed runs or venturing off-piste. HEAD’s Better Balance technology incorporates a ramp angle tailored to place women in an optimal balanced position, enhancing control and comfort. Available Nationwide in all good ski shops

 CARV 2 | £199

Carv 2 is a revolutionary ski coaching device that clips onto any boot and provides personalised coaching and analysis wherever you go. Build your confidence, take on more of the mountain and push your limits this winter. skiexchange.co.uk & getcarv.com

 OAKLEY MOD1 HELMET | £125

The Oakley MOD1 PRO features dura-matter construction for increased durability while maintaining the MOD1s low-profile design. Compared to the MOD5, the MOD1 PRO is a simpler, more basic option without advanced features like MIPS and the Skull Matrix system, but still a solid helmet in terms of protection at a more affordable price point. skiexchange.co.uk

From £49.99

AutoSock snow socks are a musthave for drivers heading to ski resorts this winter. These high-tech, reusable textile wheel covers provide exceptional grip on snow and ice, making them ideal for icy mountain roads. Light, compact, and easy to use, AutoSock ensures safer, stressfree drives – just pack them in your car and you’re ready! roofbox.co.uk

 SOLEX SPORTS SUN PROTECTION | £25

The Solex applicator bottle lets you apply SPF 30 sunscreen directly to your skin without messy hands. Its foam tip easily contours around the face for full coverage, while the Solex mirror ensures precise application on the go. skiexchange.co.uk

 HALTI PLANKER

W

DX SKI JACKET | £290

The Planker women’s ski jacket combines style and protection with 100% recycled polyester, DrymaxX waterproofing, and lightweight insulation. With a tailored hood, fixed snow gaiter and a fleeced lined back panel for warmth, it’s designed for all mountain adventures! skiexchange.co.uk

 SPYDER TRIPOINT JACKET | £450

The Spyder EXO shield 20k Jacket combines eco-friendly materials, 4 way stretch, and PrimaLoft black ECO insulation for warmth and flexibility. With removable helmet compatible hood, waterproof zippers, underarm vents, and a fixed power skirt, its ideal for performance and comfort on the slopes. skiexchange.co.uk

WORDS : PATRICK THORNE

"For those who value unspoiled natural beauty, Cape Smokey is a vast, untamed wilderness with everything from snowmobiling & mountain biking to water sports"

When we think of Canada, we think big! Along with fabulous snow, great food, and a friendly welcome, our minds often wander to the same old destinations far away on the Pacific Coast. But Canada is a vast country with hundreds of ski areas spanning six time zones, and the great news is there’s fantastic skiing on our side of Canada – the Atlantic side!

Cape Smokey, home to the only gondola on Canada’s Atlantic Coast, is one of the few places where you can ski with breathtaking ocean views. Located in Nova Scotia, in the coastal province of Southeastern Canada, Cape Smokey offers a truly unique skiing experience. Head any further east, and your next stop is the European mainland!

Cape Smokey is a rare combination of sea and snow, making it an exceptional skiing destination with plenty to offer off the slopes as well. You’ll love skiing here, with its famously uncrowded runs and terrain suited to all abilities – from beautifully smooth beginner runs to steep and gnarly blacks. Wherever you descend, amazing ocean views are right in front of you as you glide down the slopes – an experience that’s unmatched anywhere else. The skiing conditions are fantastic too, with six metres (that’s 20 feet) of natural snow blanketing the slopes each winter. It’s a real stand-out among global ski destinations and a great one to boast about to your fellow skiing enthusiasts. But there’s more to Cape Smokey than the romance of ocean skiing. It’s a genuine year-round destination with much to enjoy off the slopes. Renowned for its fabulous food and excellent accommodation options, you’ll also be warmly welcomed by the locals, making it easy to feel a part of the community. You’ll find it difficult to leave at the end of your stay!

Cape Smokey is located in Ingonish, at the northeastern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, a region celebrated for its fresh local cuisine,

beautiful beaches, stunning trails, and more. The area's incredible diversity of outdoor adventures makes it an ideal getaway for adventure seekers eager to escape the pressures of modern life. However, if a buzzing après-ski scene is your style, this might not be the destination for you.

For those who value unspoiled natural beauty, Cape Smokey is a vast, untamed wilderness with everything from snowmobiling and mountain biking to water sports like surfing and paddleboarding (when conditions allow). There are hiking trails of all lengths and intensities, thrilling mountain biking opportunities, and over 101 other outdoor adventures to enjoy.

Despite its remoteness, Cape Smokey offers luxurious accommodation options in the surrounding regions, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as it is adventurous. The local food scene is an absolute highlight – you’ll dine on some of the world’s finest lobster and seafood, freshly caught just steps from the ski slopes. What really sets Cape Smokey apart is its strong sense of community, which has endured despite the inevitable influx of modernity. This is not just a created resort – it’s a genuine community. Here, you can escape and immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of the locals. You’ll soon find yourself on a first-name basis with many of them. This winter, why not stay local? Ski to the ocean at Cape Smokey while soaking up the vibrant Cape Breton hospitality. It’s an extraordinary, unforgettable ski holiday experience and a trip of a lifetime that you truly deserve.

Visit capesmokey.ca to plan your ocean-side ski adventure today!

This winter, why not stay local and ski to the ocean at Cape Smokey, while immersing yourself in some warm Cape Breton hospitality? It’s a very different, very special ski holiday experience and the trip of a lifetime that you truly deserve.

A LUXURY TUNNEL

Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St Moritz is one of the ski world’s great establishments. Opened in 1896, it was created by Caspar Badrutt, son of Johannes, who is credited with creating the winter-sports holiday three decades earlier when he invited some summer tourists to do what was then the unthinkable and stay the winter. By the time The Palace opened, St Moritz was a winter holiday mecca for the world’s wealthy and famous, including many royal families, world leaders, and upper A-list celebrities. Charlie Chaplin is credited with being the first to drive a tank-tracked

vehicle up to St Moritz and The Palace before there was a proper road, and Alfred Hitchcock maintained a suite there.

Now The Palace has completed what’s being billed as its first major renovation and expansion in a century, with the addition of its new six-storey Serlas Wing.

The new wing is located directly on Via Serlas, the world’s highest luxury shopping street, and includes 25 contemporary luxury guestrooms and suites. Blending seamlessly into the existing local architecture, the new wing offers guests a new way to indulge in the hotel’s unrivalled service. It’s being promoted as representing a link between

tradition and the future.

Designed by the Milanese architectural icons Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel, design notes include the new building’s portico constructed of regional Dorato Valmalenco stone, furniture by B&B Italia, and fabrics by Loro Piana.

An innovative underground pedestrian tunnel system provides guests with a discreet and exclusive passage to the town square and Chesa Veglia, the oldest farmhouse in St Moritz, and home to four restaurant concepts by the Palace.

Nightly room rates start at £1,100, with suites from £3,400.

VAL THORENS UPGRADES

Val Thorens has spent €16m upgrading their Les 2 Lacs chairlift into a gondola this winter. The new lift is one of the fastest in the world to date, travelling at 7 metres per second. The Cime Caron 3,200 area has also being overhauled.

IGLU RAISING MORE

Ski holiday travel agency Iglu Ski will continue to fundraise for Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK) over the coming season “to open skiing to everyone,” a company spokesperson said. After raising almost £4,000 last winter, Iglu Ski aims to increase year-on-year funding by 25% to reach a season target of £5,000 this coming winter.

A new building at 3,200m includes a restaurant, wine bar, viewing deck and snack bar. Located right next to the Cime Caron Cable Car linking Val Thorens with Orelle, it will also offer 360° views including Mont Blanc.

MILLENNIALS GO SOLO

Solo travel has been a growing trend over the last year, including for skiers, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down. The demographic of the typical solo traveller also appears to be getting younger with Friendship Travel, which organises solo travel ski holidays, saying it has seen a 12% year-on-year increase in the number of bookings for people aged between 30 and 50.

The Ski Club of Great Britain has launched a new membership tier for anyone under the age of 35, providing all the benefits of the club for less than half the normal cost. For £35pp (instead of £75), the annual membership offers access to hundreds of discounts across

SHOW BACK TO OLYMPIA

The London ski show currently known as Snow Show London is returning to a renovated Olympia and taking place over the weekend of 18-19 October 2025, it has been announced. The show took place in Olympia for over 20 years, and its history at nearby Earl’s Court, in various forms, dates back for the best part of a century, but in recent years it has been staged in Battersea, then ExCeL.

all the Ski Club’s partners, the chance to meet and ski with the Club’s reps in 28 different resorts, personal liability cover, Ski+Board Magazine delivered, access to the Freshtracks holiday programme and a number of other benefits, including tailored advice, snow reports and

CHEAPER LIFT PASS

Les Menuires have announced that their lift pass will actually cost less this winter (exchange rates permitting) – if you're in a family of three or more, buying the same 6+ day pass at the same time. Families who do so will get the sixth day of their sixth pass free, meaning the total cost will be 9% less than last season. Additionally, the child price upper age limit is increasing to 17 from 12.

equipment reviews. “We’ve got a growing number of younger people joining the Ski Club again, mostly looking to get the discounts on offer and meet with other skiers in resort,” said James Gambrill, SCGB COO. skiclub.co.uk/membership

UK CENTRES ON GLOBAL PASS

Two indoor snow centres in England, as well as Scotland’s Glencoe ski area, have joined a giant global season pass. The snow centres at Hemel Hempstead and its sister facility at the Trafford Centre near Manchester have joined the global, limited-edition Indy Pass, which now includes more than 230 ski centres worldwide. Pass holders get two days of skiing at each of the hundreds of independent resorts participating in it.

SKI CLUB FOR U35s

If you love skiing and want to spend your valuable snow holiday in an authentic mountain destination untouched by mass tourism, it’s time to visit the wonderful 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski region, nestled in the breathtaking heart of Italy’s UNESCO-listed Dolomites.

Despite its timeless charm, the 3 Zinnen Dolomites features the most modern ski lifts in the Alpine region, enabling you to ascend their 115 km of slopes – spanning three valleys and five interconnected ski mountains – with speed and comfort. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced

skier, there are runs for every ability level, giving you more time to enjoy the spectacular natural surroundings, including views of the renowned Three Peaks. Plus, you can focus on what matters most –spending quality time on the slopes with friends and family.

The region’s mountain restaurants are another highlight, serving exceptional Alpine cuisine infused with Mediterranean flavours. After a day of skiing, explore the relaxed après-ski atmosphere of the picturesque villages – Sesto, San Candido, Dobbiaco, Villabassa, and Braies – each

offering delightful bars, restaurants, and charming shops.

Getting to the 3 Zinnen Dolomites is straightforward. Easily accessible by rail, the region is serviced by the Ski Pustertal Express. Travelling by air? The area is less than two hours from Bolzano or Innsbruck airports, and only 2.5 hours from Venice Airport, which offers excellent flight connections, including frequent services from London.

Discover this hidden gem before the rest of the world does.

For more information, visit dreizinnen.com

NEW WORLD’S LARGEST?

Chile has long been home to an area with three linked but separately run ski areas, close to capital Santiago and marketed as the “Tres Valles” or, unofficially, “The 3 Valleys of the Andes”. But could it ever be bigger than its French namesake? The resorts include the modern French-designed Valle Nevado, as well as the longerestablished La Parva and El Colorado. Not a lot has been happening with these three areas for three decades or so, but now an American group, Mountain Capital Partners (MCP), has begun purchasing a controlling interest in them. Last year, Valle Nevado, this year, La Parva. “This acquisition is another step towards MCP’s goal of creating the world’s largest lift-served ski area – a vision steadily coming to life,” a company statement reads.

REPURPOSING OLD APPAREL

Wyoming’s iconic Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has partnered with a design and manufacturing company, ReFleece, to repurpose old staff uniforms into products like tote bags, zip pouches and throw blankets. The aim is to stop some of the 13 million tonnes of American textile waste ending up in landfill every year. Ski resorts around the world have different ideas on what to do with old staff uniforms, with other schemes including donations to sherpas in Nepal as well as to the homeless. “Each piece is unique. The fabric in these products is cut directly from the old JHMR uniforms, so you may find seams, colour variations, and textures that tell the story of a great first life on the slopes of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort,” commented ReFleece Founder Sam Palmer.

ST MORITZ SUPERPIPE

A rare new half-pipe has opened at the Corvatsch ski area in Switzerland, above the resorts of St Moritz and Silvaplana. Located in the Corvatsch Park at the Murtèl middle station, it sits 2,700m above sea level, is 170m long and has 7m high walls, making it one of the largest superpipes on the planet. “The orientation of the half-pipe is brilliant because it faces north, which means you always have the sun from behind and there’s never any glare when you are doing your tricks. That’s a huge advantage, and one you won’t find anywhere else,” said Swiss snowboarder David Hablützel who rode it first. The pipe has opened ahead of the 2025 FIS Snowboard, Freestyle and Freeski World Championships in the Engadin. In the meantime, it is open to everyone. corvatschpark.ch/halfpipe

TREE SKIING

WORDS : PATRICK THORNE

Trees . Many of us don’t realise quite how much they enhance our ski holidays. On the slopes, they’re great fun to ski between and help improve visibility on foggy days when we aim to ski below the treeline. But they’re also our connection between the permanence of the mountains and the living world.

Although the majority of trees we see on the slopes are pines, well-travelled skiers may have come across slopes lined with species more commonly found in arboretums or National Trust properties. Travel far enough, and you can ski on slopes surrounded by hundreds or thousands of cedars, eucalyptus, maple trees, or even monkey puzzle trees.

Some well-known resorts are even named after the local tree species – Aspen being the most famous! You can also ski at Plumtree, The Cedars, Maple Ridge, Treetops, or Bavaria’s Kerschbaum (Cherry Tree), to name a few. If oaks are your preference, the US offers Oak Mountain in New York State, Seven Oaks in Iowa (not to be confused with the Kent town), and even Oak Valley in South Korea.

For all their positives, trees can also pose dangers. Collisions with trees can be serious, and there’s also the risk of suffocation in deep snow if you fall into a tree well. Most of all, though, trees bring added beauty to the landscape and contribute to the stunning views from slopes around the world.

TREE SKIING THE GLOBAL GUIDE

There are different types of trees growing around the world, lending a unique feel to ski slopes in each nation. Here’s the tree skier’s guide to what to look out for and where:

AUSTRALIA

EUCALYPTUS

Known as Snow Gum trees in Australia’s Snowy Mountains, these hardy eucalyptus trees grow very slowly at altitudes of around 1,500m and cover the slopes of many ski areas in the region. Unfortunately, increasing bushfires due to climate change have meant that more than 90% of Snow Gum habitat has been burnt at least once in the last two decades, although many trees regrow afterwards. While most Aussie areas feature gum trees, Perisher’s Guthega sector is a particularly good choice.

CANADA

MIGHTY MAPLE

Canada is famously home to the maple leaf, featured on its national flag, and is a country filled with stunning trees and national parks. Many ski runs are cut through forests, and some East Coast resorts even have tree-themed attractions, such as the sugar shack. Here, the sap of maples is tapped, poured onto the snow, and transformed into sweet maple lollies – genius!

CHILE

MAGNIFICENT MONKEY PUZZLES

We often see monkey puzzle trees (Araucaria Araucana) in parks and gardens, but this species is native to central and southern Chile and western Argentina. Endangered but magnificent, these trees can be found in ski resorts surrounded by forests of soaring monkey puzzles, reaching heights of up to 40 metres.

FINLAND

SNOW GHOSTS

Snow ghosts are fairly small trees, typically found in northern Canada and Scandinavia, that become so encrusted with snow they resemble

the classic white-sheet ghost image. Skiing between these snowcovered trees is magical, especially under the ethereal “blue light” of northerly latitudes during limited daylight in midwinter.

JAPAN WHITE BIRCH & CHERRY

The ethereal Japanese winter landscape has been immortalised in art for centuries. Resorts like Niseko offer slopes adorned with beautiful white birch trees, creating unforgettable scenery across the mountain ranges. Japan is also famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. Skiers can enjoy this magical combination as the cherry trees begin to bloom in the season’s final weeks.

LEBANON CEDAR

The cedar is Lebanon’s national symbol, and several of the country’s ski areas feature forests of these majestic trees on their lower slopes. The Cedars ski area, Lebanon’s first, established just after WWII, is particularly renowned for its backdrop of stately cedars.

USA ASPEN

The United States, spanning numerous climate zones, offers ski areas in a variety of forest environments, from the world’s largest trees on the West Coast to deciduous forests in New England and the Midwest. But one of the most iconic species is the silvery-barked aspen tree, found in states such as Colorado. Aspen Snowmass boasts some of the best tree skiing, with advanced terrain as well as gentler glade runs. Wherever your ski ventures take you, don’t forget to look up and appreciate the towering giants that make it all the more special.

Our Luxurious Ski Adventure in North America’s Premier Resort

Last Easter, we left behind the warming spring days of England and set off for a trip of a lifetime. Starting with a flight into Seattle, we then travelled along the Pacific Coast to Vancouver and finally up to our ultimate destination – the ski resort of Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, North America’s largest ski area.

SEATTLE

Landing in vibrant Seattle (famed as the home of Starbucks), we began our unforgettable trip. Checking into the luxurious Westin Hotel Seattle, we were welcomed with a comfortable base to adjust to the time difference. Its strategic downtown location made exploring the city a breeze, with must-see attractions like the historic Pike Place Market – paradise for food lovers –just a short stroll away. Local vendors showcased an abundance of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable baked goods. World-class dining options, a plethora of shopping choices, and enough attractions to comfortably fill a week – our few days in Seattle were certainly packed with fun. The iconic Space Needle visit is a must, as you take in the revolving 360-degree views of this inspiring city. Chihuly Gardens and Glass, with live glassblowing demos and the most impressive glass exhibits, will wow any art lover, and the funfilled, hosted harbour cruise takes in an entirely different view of this movie-like city.

Although our stay in Seattle was brief (we’re already planning a return!), it wasn’t long before we were boarding the Amtrak Cascades train for a breathtaking waterfront ride up to Vancouver, just three hours north.

VANCOUVER

Arriving in Vancouver, we were met with a city that blends urban sophistication with natural beauty seamlessly. Renting bikes allowed us to cycle along the famous Seawall, which encircles Stanley Park. This 1,001-acre park features trails, beaches, and the Vancouver Aquarium – a fantastic stop for families to experience diverse marine life.

Like Seattle, Vancouver’s food scene is a vibrant fusion of global flavours, with a strong emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The city’s proximity to both the ocean and fertile farmland means seafood, particularly salmon and shellfish, is a highlight. From upscale restaurants like Hawksworth and Botanist to casual eateries in the bustling Granville Island Public Market, there’s something for every palate.

The seaplane experience was a great-value attraction, offering everything that Vancouver has to offer from an aerial view at a reasonable price. The contrast as we swooped low over the building tops of the small, densely packed city, and then out to the sparsely populated sea and mountains, really added to the contrasting scenery.

Three days was never going to be enough,

so another one to add to the revisit list before we hired a car and took to the awe-inspiring sea-tosky highway. The Pacific Ocean sparkled on one side while towering mountains loomed ahead on the other. The views of Howe Sound were majestic, building anticipation for what lay ahead.

A photo stop at Shannon Falls, a cascading spectacle, was the perfect introduction to British Columbia’s untamed charm.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF WHISTLER

Arriving in Whistler, we realised the weather was far colder than anticipated after an unusually temperate season. However, the village welcomed us like an old friend, bustling yet intimate with its European-style pedestrian streets lined with boutiques, cafés, bars, and restaurants. The inviting aroma of fresh pastries from Purebread in Whistler Village made it an easy decision for our first stop!

Checking into the Four Seasons Resort Whistler was the cherry on top. This luxurious sanctuary in the upper village featured open fireplaces, plush furnishings, and an unexpected treat – a teddy bear haven hidden in the lobby! Our daughters were thrilled to choose their new fluffy favourites. Our suite offered breathtaking mountain views, oversized luxury beds, and spacious bathrooms

– every detail exuded alpine luxury. The open fire in the living area was the perfect touch for cosy evenings.

THE SKIING EXPERIENCE

The next morning, freshly waxed skis in hand and Epic passes at the ready, we set off to explore the unparalleled terrain of Whistler Blackcomb. The fresh overnight snowfall – still falling – set the stage for an extraordinary day. We began on Whistler Mountain, where slopes cater to all skill levels, from novice skiers to seasoned pros. The Peak-to-Peak Gondola, a marvel of engineering, provided breathtaking panoramic views as it transported us seamlessly to Blackcomb Mountain. Crossing in the glassbottomed gondola was a particular favourite of ours – an experience that never lost its magic. On Blackcomb, we discovered a mix of challenging bowls and gentle cruisers that offered something for everyone. Lunch at the Roundhouse Lodge was a welcome break, with its hearty menu providing much-needed energy for an afternoon back on the slopes. Over the course of the week, we explored both mountains extensively, using the Peak-to-Peak gondola to maximise our time. Memorable stops included Rendezvous on Blackcomb

for its panoramic dining and Crystal Hut, famed for its delicious Belgian waffles – a treat you can smell from what feels like miles away!

DINING AND APRÈS-SKI

After exhilarating days on the slopes, we indulged in Whistler’s vibrant après-ski scene. The GLC (Garibaldi Lift Company) and Merlin’s were buzzing hubs of postslope revelry, complete with live music and flowing craft beer.

Evenings began with a soak in the Four Seasons’ hot pools, wrapped in heated towels as we embraced the crisp mountain air. Dining options in Whistler were as diverse as its ski runs.

Highlights included:

• 21 Steps for its casual elegance and family-friendly menu

• Earls for iconic ribs and a bustling, energetic atmosphere

• Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar, where locally sourced seafood dishes like the signature oysters were divine

• Il Caminetto, offering hearty risottos and handmade pasta dishes

• Crêpe Montagne, a must-visit for sweet and savoury crêpes that transported us to Parisian streets.

Each venue elevated its offerings with fresh, local ingredients – a delightful nod to the region’s rich bounty.

NON-SKIING ADVENTURES

Whistler has much more to offer beyond skiing. Ziptrek Ecotours was a particular highlight, giving us an adrenaline-pumping adventure through the treetops with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The guides also provided fascinating insights into the local ecosystem.

Another standout was Vallea Lumina – a magical multimedia night-time forest experience combining light, sound, and nature. It’s an enchanting spectacle we highly recommend.

With activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, art galleries, and even bobsledding, Whistler ensures there’s never a dull moment.

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

Throughout our stay, the impeccable service at both Whistler and the Four Seasons stood out. Every detail of our trip was perfectly executed. The Epic Pass app provided excellent village-wide discounts and access to resorts worldwide, including Vail Resorts in North America, Australia, and Europe.

A CALL TO ADVENTURE

To sum up our fabulous holiday, Whistler offered the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and luxury. Whether navigating the renowned slopes, savouring local cuisine, or simply soaking in the alpine atmosphere, this destination captured our hearts. Looking ahead, the 2024/25 season promises to be incredible for the Pacific Northwest, with La Niña forecasting colder, snowier conditions. Some resorts have already reported snowfall exceeding three metres before December! Whistler Blackcomb is poised for an unforgettable winter season – don’t miss it!

From first tracks to the final run.

Khroma Converge

Combining the features you need on uphill stretches with protection for tackling the descent, this GORE-TEX ski outfit is at home anywhere on the mountain.

Want to ski in some of the biggest and best ski resorts across the Alps while saving on the higher costs often associated with premium destinations? SkiWeekends has launched ‘Ski the Best for Less’, helping your cash go further in places like Verbier, Méribel, Avoriaz, Morzine, Les Gets, St. Anton, and Chamonix. Their experts have unearthed hidden chalets and hotels offering excellent value for money. Why not ski some of the best slopes in Europe, indulge in the finest après, or explore those bucketlist resorts you’ve always dreamed about? Let's take a look at some of the destinations on offer, including where to stay in each one.

VERBIER | SWITZERLAND

A world-class winter sports destination that comes with a hefty price tag, Verbier is known for its incredible freeride terrain, buzzing nightlife, celebrity visitors, and stunning views. SkiWeekends makes Verbier more accessible with two hotel options. Stay at the 3 Montpellier in Verbier village or enjoy fantastic value at the 3 Hotel Le Gietroz in Le Châble, connected to Verbier via gondola access available until 11.50pm in winter. Prices start at just £329pp for three nights B&B, including breakfast. Après to your heart’s content and still get home in time to avoid turning into a pumpkin!

MÉRIBEL | FRANCE

Nestled in the heart of the world’s largest ski area, the Three Valleys, Méribel, effortlessly combines traditional Alpine charm with over 600km of linked slopes. Renowned for wide-open groomed pistes, lively après-ski, and family-friendly zones, it’s a favourite for skiers year after year.

SkiWeekends offers stays at the Hotel Grangettes, perfectly located at the base of the main Chaudanne lift. With ski-in/ski-out convenience and proximity to the resort’s bars and restaurants, this is a great way to experience Méribel. Prices start at £359pp for three nights on a half-board basis – a merry way to do Méribel indeed.

LES GETS | FRANCE

Part of the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, Les Gets offers a wide variety of slopes catering to all skill levels. A short transfer from Geneva Airport, Les Gets is one of the most convenient and upmarket resorts in the area.

SkiWeekends’ own Club Chalet Marjorie is centrally located in the village, close to the lifts. Offering 14 en-suite rooms, an outdoor jacuzzi, and chalet board dining, it’s a perfect option for groups. Holidays start at £482pp on a half-board basis, with airport transfers included. Relax in comfort after a day on the slopes – just hope everyone gets along!

MORZINE-AVORIAZ | FRANCE

Situated along the Prodains Valley above Morzine, the SkiWeekends Chalet Tavernier offers quick access to Avoriaz via the nearby Prodains Cable Car. This cosy five-bedroom chalet comes complete with a sauna and outdoor jacuzzi, offering a great option for skiers keen to easily reach the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area. Enjoy a 3-night stay, including airport transfers, from just £372pp. Fancy a drink at the Folie Douce? Ski back to Les Prodains after your après to round off the perfect day on the slopes.

For more information on Ski the Best for Less, visit skiweekends.com.

This November, Italy’s giant Dolomiti Superski region is celebrating 50 years since its creation. Although other ski passes have come along over the years, the pass stands out as one of the world’s largest, offering 1,200km of slopes on one ticket from day one. It

MILLIONAIRE’S SLOPE

A new dry slope ski machine centre has opened to all in Wiltshire and is the brainchild of Nick Jenkins, Moonpig founder, former BBC Dragon and local man. “I’m a very keen skier and I wanted to find somewhere for my daughter to practise between skiing holidays,” said Mr Jenkins. The slope can be adjusted from 13° to 22° with speeds ranging from 0 to 18.6 mph, making it usable for all from beginners to experts. southwiltsski.com

was 14 November 1974 when six areas, including Cortina d'Ampezzo, Alta Badia, Val Gardena-Alpe di Siusi, Val di Fassa and Arabba, agreed to work together, and it eventually reached its present size with 12 linked regions in 2000. To celebrate its 50th birthday, the pass’s

RENT-A-SAUNA

The traditional French ski resort of Samoëns is offering visitors the chance to rent a unique mobile sauna this winter and park it near to their accommodation, whenever possible. “Bastu74” is a mobile sauna that has been designed and built in the local Giffre valley from exquisite red cedar wood. Powered by a wood stove, the sauna operates entirely independently. Fully mobile, it travels throughout the area and can be used either privately or in a shared version.

“Junior” discount of 30% will now apply to everyone under 18, up from 16. “We wanted to make this lasting choice in order to involve the younger generation even more, to enthuse them about skiing from a young age,” explains Andy Varallo, Dolomiti Superski’s President.

THE SK’E-BIKE

Although the ski bike – a bike with skis instead of wheels – has been with us a long time in various forms, the sk’e-bike is a new twist on the concept. Offered by a company called AvélO at the French ski resort of Peisey-Vallandry, located next to Les Arcs and sharing the vast Paradiski area with it and La Plagne, it offers a combination of the two disciplines of e-biking and ski touring.

DOLOMITI SUPERSKI IS 50

DARE 2BIS

FABULOUS NEW SKI COLLECTION

Premium outdoor brand Dare 2b's new 2024/25 highperformance collection of skiwear for women, men and kids is available now.

Dare 2b's skiwear designs don’t just turn heads on the piste because they look so good – they're also built to perform, no matter how hard you hit the slopes. They’re designed for endurance, protection, and precision. The range uses technical fabrics and uses Dare 2b’s elite ARED 30/30 technology, which provides unbeatable waterproof protection with a 30,000mm hydrostatic head. Ensuring you stay dry even in the harshest conditions.

The new range also features Dare 2b’s brand new Sub Zero technology, which incorporates recycled insulation that traps body heat for unparalleled

warmth, even when the mercury drops as low as -24°C*.

The products feature highly breathable materials, with a 30,000 breathability rating, to keep you comfortable and dry within the fabric at the same time. Dare 2b's new season looks stunning too – the technicality of the product is matched with a focus on styling throughout the range. The range includes a new Freeride collection with relaxed fit, overhead designs, easy-access zips, and recycled, highwarmth padding designed especially for freeride skiing or snowboarding. Not forgotten are Dare 2b bestsellers including mid-layers, salopettes, and accessories for the whole family – all packed with the latest technology designed to keep you comfortable on the slopes while looking your very best.

PALACE HOTEL REOPENING

On 26 December, Mürren’s historic Palace Hotel, which dates to 1911, will reopen its doors after 15 years of closure. An investment of CHF30m (£27m) has funded a complete reconstruction, renovation and refurbishment of this historic landmark. British ski pioneer Arnold Lunn was

YAK HIKES

Swiss resort Crans-Montana has a new activity offer this coming winter: guided yak hikes. The peaceful winter hikes with these magnificent animals combine nature, learning about these peaceful animals and periods of silence. The hikes enable guests to discover the pristine environments of the plateau and walk in the snow, accompanied by the sound of the cowbells of these Tibetan cattle.

based in The Palace as he grew Mürren’s reputation as the cradle of Alpine ski racing in the 1920s, inventing the Slalom, campaigning successfully for the official recognition of the downhill sport and creating what’s still the world’s longest downhill race, The Inferno. muerren-palace.ch

BIO-FUELLED GROOMERS

More French ski areas will switch their piste bashers to operate on biofuel this winter. Peyragudes in the Pyrenees is one of those announcing the switch to further reduce its carbon footprint, with the company operating the Valmeinier in the Alps making the same announcement. The resorts will move all their piste-grooming vehicles and snow-clearing machines to operate on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).

RAIL-SLOPES LINK

The classic French ski and spa resort of Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc, in the Haute Savoie Mont Blanc region, is unveiling three ground-breaking innovations in sustainable mountain tourism. First, SaintGervais is now one of the few resorts to offer direct gondola access from major

WOMEN’S EUROS LAUNCH

Tickets for the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, to be staged in Switzerland, have gone on sale, with a special launch event held at Jungfraujoch, above the ski resorts of Wengen, Grindelwald. At 3,454m, the magnificent Aletsch glacier set the stage for a match between two teams of football legends and future stars. In total, around 720,000 tickets will be available for the tournament with sales for the general public now open.

European railway lines with its new Valléen Gondola connecting the SNCF station to the resort in five minutes, twice as fast as by car. Another gondola whisks skiers up the slopes. Then, next summer, it will also unveil France’s first wastewater-powered funicular, the Ascenseur des Thermes,

3 WEEKS OF FESTIVALS

The Austrian Tirol resort of Mayrhofen is set to run three successive weeks of festivals to round off its 2024/25 season next spring. The long-time British favourite will first stage the Altitude Comedy Festival in late March, followed by the British Snowboard & Freeski Championships (aka The BRITS – returning to the Alps for the first time since 2019), and then it’s straight on to the perennial festival favourite Snowbombing.

devised by Michael Farmer, a British engineer living in Saint-Gervais. It will link the thermal baths to the town centre in just three minutes. The innovations should deliver a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions, taking approximately 15,000 cars annually from the local mountain roads.

JASPER READY FOR WINTER

The world-famous ski town of Jasper in Canada, which saw about a third of its properties destroyed in a huge and sudden forest fire in the summer, has begun reopening for winter. The local ski centre of Marmot Basin escaped the fire but did see some services cut. “Despite a very challenging summer, our community has been hard at work, and we’re thrilled to let everyone know that many businesses and hotels are open and welcome your support this winter,” a spokesperson said.

MORE CHAMPIONSHIPS

The FIS has announced that Narvik in northern Norway will host the 2029 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships and Italy’s Val Gardena the 2031 event. It will be Narvik’s first adult Championships although it has hosted a junior competition. Val Gardena is well

CERVINA CHAIRLIFT

The season started in Italy’s highaltitude Cervinia, linked over the Swiss border to Zermatt, back in October. New this winter, a high-speed detachable sixseater chairlift has been installed in the Goillet area, replacing an old fixed-grip triple chairlift that had worked on the route for the past 46 years. The new lift is almost twice as fast, with 50% more capacity than its predecessor.

known in the world of ski racing with its Saslong World Cup Downhill one of the classics and previously hosted the Championships in 1970. The next Championships take place in Saalbach Hinterglemm, Austria, this winter, with Crans-Montana hosts in 2027.

CRYSTAL ADDS EIGHT

Crystal Ski Holidays, the UK’s largest ski package holiday provider, have added eight resorts that they have either not offered for quite a few years or have never offered before. They are: Europe’s most southerly major resort, Sierra Nevada in Spain, Gausta in Norway, Leogang in Austria, Cavalese in Italy, La Clusaz, Vars and Valloire in France and Crans-Montana in Switzerland.

TADVENTURE

o sum up our fabulous holiday, we found that with its perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and luxury, Whistler offered us an unforgettable ski holiday for all the right reasons. Whether we were navigating the renowned slopes, enjoying the local cuisine, or simply taking in the alpine atmosphere, this destination truly captured our hearts.

THE ERA OF THE MEGA-PASS

Just like so many aspects of modern life, the certainty of knowing your exact lift pass cost is dwindling as more resorts adopt dynamic pricing. Concurrently, many are also becoming part of multi-resort season passes, allowing you to ski at numerous resorts after paying a single upfront price. However, this price can frequently change, and if you’re fortunate enough to visit two or more resorts in a season, are they all

included in the same pass? In addition, it’s essential to scrutinise the small print. Some passes offer full access every day at certain resorts but only limited periods, outside peak dates, at others on their list. What to do then? Calculating lift pass prices has always been complex, but now you need to be even more vigilant to snag the best deal – probably keeping an eye on socials too, as resorts often announce sudden short-term ticket price reductions. What’s certain is that this trend isn’t likely to change anytime soon. Statistics from the US, where both trends originated, show more than half of American skiers now buy one or more multi-resort season passes. Meanwhile, where the traditional day or week pass still exists, prices are soaring to incredible heights, likely to make the season passes appear better value. One pass recently promoted itself by claiming a 65% saving compared to buying tickets by the day or week... although

(unsaid) that does depend on where and how frequently you plan to ski. Even in Europe now, resorts like Zermatt have credited its membership of one of the pass schemes for a significant boost in sales.

WHO ARE THE MAIN PLAYERS?

Epic Pass (epicpass.com): Vail Resorts’ pass is the original multi-resort season pass, constantly innovating and expanding to stay ahead of growing competition. Along with Vail’s 40+ resorts, the pass gives limited access to several top names in the Alps, including Verbier 4 Vallées, Les 3 Vallées, and The Arlberg, plus full access to Vail-owned Andermatt and Crans-Montana.

Ski areas in Australia and Japan are also covered, totalling about 80 resorts. Ikon Pass (ikonpass.com): The primary competitor to Epic, Ikon has a similar structure, providing access to resorts

A CALL TO

ADVENTURE

owned by the Alterra group. The main pass allows unlimited skiing at 17 destinations, including renowned names like Mammoth, Steamboat, and Winter Park, and up to seven days at 42 more famous ski areas worldwide such as Zermatt, St Moritz, Jackson Hole, Kitzbühel, the Dolomiti Superski region, and many others.

Indy Pass (indyskipass.com): A unique variant, offering two days of skiing at each of its 230+ member resorts globally, recently added three UK centres – Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands, indoor skiing at Chill Factore near Manchester, and The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead.

Magic Pass (magicpass.ch): Europe’s key player, valid at 80 French and Swiss ski resorts. While these are mostly smaller centres, they include Glacier 3000, SaasFee, and Villars. Crans-Montana, previously part of the pass but now owned by Vail Resorts, can be added with low-season access for a supplement.

Mountain Collective (mountaincollective. com) features 27 resorts across five continents, offering two days of skiing or snowboarding with no blackout dates at each resort, and a 50% discount on all additional days. For the 2024/25 season, it includes Megève in France.

Power Pass (thepowerpass.ski): Covering just a dozen ski areas in the USA and Chile owned by Mountain Capital Partners. With all passes, there’s a wide variety, including three price bands for younger adults and a free pass for kids under 12.

Most passes are more than your standard lift ticket to the slopes. They also aim to tie you into all facets of your ski holiday, offering discounts on partner ski schools, rental shops, restaurants, and accommodation, to name a few. Many tickets have their own apps to deliver these features. New this winter, the My Epic App now offers My Epic Assistant to answer questions and provide information, and My

Epic Gear, which “eliminates the hassle of travelling to the mountain with gear,” according to Vail Resorts.

While the different passes battle to offer more resorts to increase holder value, other areas of competition exist. A key area is how many months of the year you can use them, with big passes striving to open North American resorts in October or early November, allowing holders to start using them from mid-autumn. Then, at the other end of the season, there’s an effort to keep at least one participating resort open until late spring or early summer, claiming a nine-month season. Most also include some southern hemisphere participation, enabling them to boast 12 months of skiing access. Vail Resorts own four Australian resorts, and Power Pass owners have been acquiring resorts in Chile. There are also increasing signs that popular resorts are limiting peak date access to holders of their passes only.

LAST CHRISTMAS AT 40

40 years ago, Wham! headed to the charming Swiss Alpine village of SaasFee to film the music video for their chart-topping song, Last Christmas. The village remains virtually unchanged from the days it welcomed George Michael, Andrew Ridgeley, Pepsi and Shirlie.

WINTER INVICTUS GAMES

Taking place from 8-16 February 2025, the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, in BC, Canada, will be the first staging of the contest for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, both serving and veterans, to include winter sports. The Games will feature more than 500 competitors from up to 25 nations. Winter sports will include Alpine skiing and snowboarding, Nordic skiing and biathlon, skeleton and wheelchair curling.

40th anniversary celebrations include a ‘Last Christmas’ glass Karaoke Box where guests can sing Wham! hits under the stars. There’s also a special Wham! exhibition at the museum and the chance to ride on the iconic Felskinn Cable Car from the video, decorated in traditional

PILOT A BOBSLEIGH

La Plagne’s Olympic bobsleigh run (which will now be used again at the 2030 Winter Olympics) has long offered tourists descents. These have included the everpopular self-guided bob raft and the taxi bob, where you descend the track in a proper bobsleigh behind a professional pilot. This winter, for what’s believed to be the first time, visitors have the chance to learn how to pilot a bobsleigh down the track themselves.

‘80s style. Guided ‘Wham! Walks’ will take place to take in locations from the music video. There’ll also be a colourful ‘80s Wham! party held within the village on 21 December. The 5★ superior Capra hotel has also introduced a new Last Christmasthemed three-night package.

GLENCOE UPGRADES

Scotland’s Glencoe’s pre-season upgrades have included improvements to the top station of the Rannoch Chair to make life easier for beginners and snowboarders with ground reprofiled to make the off ramp much gentler. There have also been continued improvements to snow fencing around the mountain to ensure snow retention in key areas, and the access road has been partially resurfaced alongside improvements to parking.

SOLAR-POWERED SLOPES

The Pitztal glacier, home of Austria’s highest ski slopes and with one of the world’s longest seasons, lasting seven months, has announced it will become fully solar electricity powered from on-site panels. The resort added a major solar array at 2,840m a.s.l in 2015, which meets all of its needs in the summer and 30% in the winter. “Around a third more solar energy can be generated from our photovoltaics than at lower altitudes due to the higher UV content and the radiation from the snow areas,” a Pitztal spokesperson explained, adding that they now plan to expand the photovoltaic system to become 100% energy self-sufficient year-round. Pitztal are also cutting energy consumption with initiatives including cutting lift speeds during periods of low usage, not grooming every slope every day, stopping night skiing and limiting seat heating to core times.

NEW JANDRI EXPRESS

The new Jandri Express cable car, the backbone of Les 2 Alpes, is “the most significant project in the French Alps in the last 10 years,” a resort spokesperson has claimed. The new lift, called Jandri 3S, combines the best gondolas and cable-car systems. It is a silent, highperformance lift climbing 1,600 vertical metres to 3,200 metres. Fabrice Boutet, CEO of Les 2 Alpes’ lift company, says: “This project is a signature for the next 50 years! It is designed for all our customers, all practices and across all seasons. It integrates not only an economic dimension and a social dimension (ensuring the wellbeing and work of locals) but also the environment. We want to protect and look after the territory we live in, and everything is designed to enhance and protect it.”

GLACIER’S FAREWELL TOUR

Germany’s highest ski area and home to its largest glacier, Zugspitze is offering a self-guided “Farewell Tour” of its glacier to visitors. The Zugspitze, also the highest mountain in Germany at 2,962m, near Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria, was formerly home to three glaciers, the largest in Germany, but one of these, the Southern Schneeferner, lost its glacier status in 2022 due to melting. The first lifts up the Zugspitze opened in 1926, and it has offered summer skiing in the past. For three decades, covers have been used to try to protect the glaciers from summer melting. Thanks to its altitude, it still usually has the greatest snow depth in Germany through the winter. Elsewhere in Europe, recent years have seen symbolic funeral services for glaciers declared ‘dead’ and gravestones erected where glaciers once stood.

ZAK

CARRICK-SMITH

Last winter, Zak Carrick Smith became the first Briton to win an Alpine skiing medal at any Olympic event when he secured gold at the Youth Olympic Games. Iain Martin from The Ski Podcast spoke to him.

How did it feel when you realised you'd clinched first place?

ZCS It was amazing, but very unexpected. I finished 27th on the first run, which meant I had nothing to lose on the second run and just gave it my all.

How old were you when you started skiing?

ZCS I was born in France, started skiing around two and racing from about seven years old.

Where are you based in winter?

ZCS I’m based in Wagrain in Austria. Lots of the top racers train there – we often see Shiffrin, Hirscher, or Odermatt.

Your twin brother Freddie is also a talented skier. How did selection work for the Youth Olympics?

ZCS It was based on our FIS points. At that time, I had the better record, but just after, he went ahead. It’s always tight between us.

Dave Ryding says that training with Billy Major and Laurie Taylor benefits them all. Do you find that with your brother?

ZCS Definitely. It's great training with him and Luca [Zak’s older brother]. We’re always pushing each other. Sometimes I'll be ahead, sometimes Freddie, and both of us are chasing Luca.

Dave Ryding is confident “I won't be the last British winner of a World Cup race.” Is it exciting to be part of this new generation of British skiers coming through?

ZCS It is amazing. I watched the Kitzbühel slalom [when Dave, Billy, and Laurie all finished in the top 30], then the next day I won gold! It definitely gave me extra motivation.