ISSUE38 | OCT2014
ROSS WOODHALL
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There’s a new trend at ski resorts to build scarily high bridges, platforms, zip wires and more from which thrill seekers can look down into the abyss…
008 HIDDEN GEM LES CONTAMINES
INTHESNOW
@INTHESNOWMAG INTHESNOW
Les Contamines is a pretty French Savoyard village with a long history and a great ski area. The area lift pass includes neighbours Megève and St Gervais among others.
016
SCARE YOURSELF 9 SCARY SNOW EXPERIENCES
028
BAD KLEINKIRCHHEIM PT EXPLORES BKK Franz Klammer’s home resort of Bad Kleinkirchheim, or ‘BKK’ for short, is a classic spa resort in the opposite corner of Austria to most of the resorts we know well.
REGULARS
054 10 MINUTES WITH ODLO We talk to professional freeskier and X Games gold medallist
GEAR BOOT ROOM 044 As usual we preview and profile some of the coolest new gear on the planet including the latest ‘must haves’ in every skier’s kit bag.
WIN!
Jon Olsson about his life, his thermals, and how much he enjoys doing crunches.
FREERIDE 010 SKI TUITION 042
patrick@inthesnow.com
A TRIP FOR 2 TO LES ARCS 034
It’s that time of year again when we all start getting excited about the coming ski season. OK, some of us are excited about the ski season all year round, but even for those of
5 REASONS: WILDER KAISER 037
us who aren’t that obsessed, early autumn is when our hopes are racked up to an ever higher level.
020
TEAM
Then in the past few weeks glacier ski areas have
based in the snowy playground of Alpe d’huez.
started opening in the Alps, and enticing images have
PUBLISHER
SUB EDITORS
© Copyright 2014
DOMINIC KILLINGER
MICHELLE SADLER NICK JONES
Printed in the UK
skiers and boarders whizzing down the slopes on fresh
No part of this publication
powder in the last few days of September. If you can
dom@inthesnow.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
CONTRIBUTORS
MATT NICHOLSON
SAM THORNE OLIVIA PARRY-JONES SALLY BROOKES ANDY TAYLOR DAVID BLACK
matt@inthesnow.com
patrick@inthesnow.com
skiing led to the creation of ski manufacturer Pure Freeride Design,
while it was still the last fortnight of summer, pictures snow that had fallen on the upper slopes.
PATRICK THORNE
We profile Rupert Gammond, a young designer whose passion for
the past month to help fuel the excitement. First of all, arrived from Western Canada showing deep powder
EDITOR
LIFE IN PICS PFD SKIS
There have been lots of exciting bits of news over
EQUIPMENT EDITOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored in a
are already waiting for you, and of course we have all
in any way or means, either by
the details inside.
recording or otherwise, without permission of the publishers in writing.
We’re also excited to bring you our whole new look for InTheSnow this season; we hope you like it. It’s all part of our policy of staying ahead of the game,
INTHESNOW LTD
which extends to the online world with our evergrowing presence on the web, on mobile devices and
debbie@inthesnow.com
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THE SNOW STUDIO
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ROSS WOODHALL
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INTHESNOW.COM
GIANCARLO G
get to the slopes in October you’ll find some ski slopes
retrieval system or transmitted,
SALLY BARTLETT
DEBBIE GABRIEL
been popping into the InTheSnow inbox showing lucky
KINGS LANE, BUCKS HP16 0QY
across social media, so you can now find InTheSnow almost everywhere and updating daily.
giancarlo@inthesnow.com
Back to this issue, along with all the big news stories for 2014–15, we have a new feature called Scare Yourself in which you will find pictures of the highaltitude bridges, platforms, zip wires and glass boxes that have appeared hanging hundreds and sometimes over a thousand metres above the valleys below in the Alps. We hope you find them as jaw dropping as we do. They’re the latest craze, and there seems to be a new one appearing almost every month in the mountains at the moment. We also have new columns starting this month which include a monthly diary, freerider and indoor snow centre columns, and ‘Blow the Bonus’ which has ideas for the multi-millionaires among us to consider, and the rest of us to ogle at. But, rich or poor, snow is snow, and let’s hope for plenty of it for us all this coming season.
003 // NOV14
henrik windstedt in our new heli gravity. #justaddski
DAVOS
SKI FOR FREE THIS SEASON
S ki holidays are expensive for most people
You do of course have to be savvy and do your maths homework. You need to calculate
FREE LIFT PASSES FOR CHILDREN
Crystal offers free lift passes all season at the French resorts of Chamrousse and La Clusaz as well as Sestriere in Italy and
whether the complete price you pay is really significantly lower than what you’d pay with
Many ski areas offer free lift passes for
Geilo, Beitostølen and Hemsedal in Norway.
a regular package.
children, particularly in the Easter holiday
There are also buy-one-get-one-free lift pass
Many of the best offers come in at the start
period, but the huge French accommodation
deals (limited availability) for Les Deux Alpes
of the season, before Christmas, or at the
provider Pierre et Vacances is also offering
and La Rosière in France and Bulgaria’s
end from mid-March and into April, although
free lift passes in the busier Christmas
others do last all winter.
period for Les Arcs, La Plagne, Val
The first of these have now been published
d’Isère and Valmorel for departures on
for 2014–15.
20 December. The terms vary with children up to age 11, 12 or 13 covered and up to one or two adult passes needing to be
SKI FOR FREE IN DAVOS OR ANDERMATT
on an average income. Ski resorts argue
purchased to qualify, depending on the resort, but savings of up to €222.50 per
SKI DEALS ALPINE ELEMENTS: alpineelements.co.uk ANDERMATT:
child are achievable.
skisolutions.com
that building new lifts, adding snowmaking
Davos Klosters is running a ‘free lift pass’
Similar deals are offered at a longer list
CRYSTAL:
and then grooming the slopes every night
offer to try to encourage more people to
of resorts over the Easter holidays, and
crystalski.co.uk
and paying wages and insurance are
visit during the 5 weeks it is open from 14
tour operator Inghams are offering a free
DAVOS:
expensive too, so the lift ticket prices keep
November to Christmas week.
child’s pass when an adult pre-books
bit.ly/1pcKN8L
going up.
To qualify you need to book a stay in the
theirs at any of their properties in Austria’s
But skiers can find a ‘middle way’
long list of participating residences in the
Saalbach Hinterglemm for departures
sometimes by benefiting from the fact that
resort. Prices start at CHF80 (about £53) for
between 15 March and 11 April, 2015.
while most people want to travel in peak
an overnight B&B stay, or in a 3★ hotel from
season, the ski resorts still have to spend
CHF88 (about £58). A 1-day lift pass normally
on running their operations in low season
costs up to CHF69 (£46).
when there are fewer people around.
Although not fully open until December,
The result, thanks to the economics of
Davos Klosters covers 320km of piste, the
“supply and demand”, is that some resorts
highest of which is at 2844m and 80% of
offer skiing free of charge on certain
which is located above 2000m.
Currently Ski World have a buy-one-
dates … so long as you book a stay there.
At the rather more expensive, luxurious end
get-one-free offer on holidays to La Rosiere
Pamporovo and Borovets.
This can be quite a saving when, at the
of the market, travel agency Ski Solutions
departing on 13 December 2014, saving
“Due to the excellent relationships with
most expensive resorts in the Alps and
is offering a free lift pass all season at
€198 with holidays costing from £489pp,
overseas suppliers we are able to offer great
the Rockies, a couple can expect to pay
the new 5★ Chedi, Andermatt, so long as
while Alpine Elements have free lift pass
value holidays for British skiers across each
around £500 for their 6-day lift passes –
bookings are made by 14 November, saving
offers at a number of their chalets in Tignes
element of the holiday, and we offer free lift
sometimes not much less than the travel
up to £250pp. Package prices including
and Val d’Isère on low-season dates,
passes to help customers to keep the costs
and accommodation costs.
flights and rail transfers are from £1795pp.
typically in mid-December.
down,” says the company’s Marion Telsnig.
INGHAMS: bit.ly/1rjTt0o LA ROSIERE: skiworld.co.uk/bogof-lift-pass-deals P&V:
FREE LIFT PASSES IN TOUR OPERATOR PACKAGES
bit.ly/1prWOGK
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
005 // OCT14
GERMKNÖDEL INDEX Amsterdam-based website Snowplaza has rated Austrian ski resorts according to the price of the popular dessert dish germknödel, a yeast dumpling with vanilla sauce, at the highest restaurants in each resort. Most expensive was Lech with a €10 (£7.90) germknödel, and best value for combined lift pass and germknödel was the Skiwelt. Sölden had the cheapest germknödel costing €4.60 (£3.60), but its €246 was more than the Skiwelt’s €219.
INCLUSIVE LOUNGE ACCESS Specialist ski operator Flexiski (flexiski. com) are offering its clients complimentary access to the award-winning No.1 Traveller airport lounges. Available at Gatwick, Heathrow Terminal 3, Stansted, Edinburgh and Birmingham, complimentary pre-flight comforts include hot food from a bistro-style menu, fully-tended bar, wi-fi, newspapers, magazines, games and entertainment.
SKI 10 HOURS DAILY Hemsedal has announced plans to open non-stop from 9am to 7pm on 3 days each week. The Scandinavian centre says it will also open freshly groomed slopes for evening skiing every Friday from 6pm to 10pm for those who just can’t get enough time on the snow. Non-stop skiing will run from 23 December and to 26 March on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
HOW TO USE A CHAIRLIFT
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
FEDERER & VONN PLAY TENNIS AT 3454m
W
ski resorts of Grindelwald and
The themed chocolate shop
Wengen.
offers a wide range of the finest
The “tennis exhibition match”
Lindt chocolate, and the adjacent
took place on a specially created
Master Chocolatiers parlour
court while American skiing
gives visitors an insight into how
superstar Vonn’s boyfriend Tiger
chocolate is made.
Woods was also in Europe,
“I never cease to be amazed by the
competing in the British Open.
great ideas Lindt comes up with.
hile many of us were relaxing in
It wasn’t just a match for the fun
Today on the Jungfraujoch was a
the sunshine in July, Roger Federer
of it, however; the Jungfraujoch
real highlight for me,” said Federer.
and Lindsey Vonn enjoyed a tennis
has recently seen a multimillion
The Jungfraujoch has year-round
Snowsport England’s (SSE) new initiative named
match in the unlikely location of
pound makeover, which included
snow, and a short snow fun run
“30 Days of Snowsport” began this month and
the Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest
the opening of a Lindt Swiss
served by a covered conveyor
will run until early November, as part of its GO
rail station, 3454m up in a land
Chocolate Heaven shop, for which
lift. It is not thought, however, that
SKI GO BOARD campaign. The aim, the organi-
of eternal snow, above the Swiss
Federer is a brand ambassador.
Federer went skiing!
sation says, is to celebrate the start of the winter
As part of a French national awareness
30 DAYS OF SNOWSPORT
season and get people excited about snow
campaign relating to the proper usage of
sports, as well as giving people a taste of skiing
chairlifts, Les 2 Alpes in conjunction with the
and snowboarding with 30 days of activities at
ESF French Ski School is running a workshop
slopes, and online via competitions and social
on “how to use a chairlift” throughout the winter. Anyone wanting a free lesson on the correct use of a chairlift should meet
EUROSTAR TICKETS ON SALE
at “L’Alpette” chair lift on any Tuesday
media promotions. Events include fun days of snow activities and entertainment, days featuring GB skiers and snowboarders, taster sessions for non-skiers/
Eurostar has opened ticket sales
fares from £149. Skis and boards
venient way for skiers to travel to
boarders, “try something different” opportunities
for their ski services to the French
continue to be carried for free.
popular Swiss resorts – full details
for existing skiers/boarders, as well as elite-level
Alps next winter. Services run from
Eurostar runs a Friday overnight
and tickets are being released as
competitions and freestyle nights.
London St Pancras, Ebbsfleet and
service that arrives in the French
we go to press.
For more information go to goskigoboard.org.uk,
Ashford in Kent via the Channel
Alps early on Saturday morning,
Eurostar was first introduced into
where you’ll find snow-sports videos and edits
Tunnel, offering day and night
with the return leg departing late
service in 1994, with each train carry-
from Sochi heroes, as well as special offers from
services direct to the French Alps,
on Saturday evening, allowing for 8
ing 750 passengers and operating at
SSE partners, and competitions to win skiing and
VIP SKI (vip-chalets.com) has added
which provides easy access to top
days on the slopes. There are also
speeds of up to 300km/h. Following
snowboarding prizes.
eight brand new hot tubs to its chalets in
resorts including Courchevel, Les
Saturday daytime services for a
refurbishment of the original trains,
“After the success of the ‘Slide2Sochi’ roadshow
Arcs, Méribel and La Plagne.
standard 6-day/7-night ski holiday.
these will continue to form a core
last year, we wanted to continue to engage
enquiries received last winter included a
The 2014–15 seasonal ski services
The recently introduced Eurostar
part of the Eurostar fleet. The new
people at local slopes with fun, welcoming days
request for a hot tub. The company now
will run weekly from 19 December
connecting service to Geneva via
e320 trains, set to launch in 2015,
which would attract people into finding out what
has 41 chalets with hot tubs as standard,
until 11 April 2015, and skiers looking
Lille will commence on 14 Decem-
will carry around 900 passengers at
snow-sports are all about,” said Tim Fawke,
but some are more heavily hot tub
to hit the slopes can purchase return
ber, which will open up a con-
speeds of up to 320km/h.
Chief Executive of SSE.
or Wednesday from 9.30am to 12.30pm throughout the coming ski season.
80% DEMAND HOT TUBS Val d’Isere after it found that 80% of all
endowed than others.
006 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
FIREMAN’S CHALLENGE ON SLOPES
SECOND ISCHGL SUPER LIFT
Firepower came to Queenstown’s Coronet Peak in New Zealand a few
A second new super lift in as many seasons is under construction at Ischgl in
weeks ago, as teams of firefighters in full gear went head-to-head on
the Austrian Tirol.
the slopes. Fortunately there was no fire; instead the six teams of four
Work began at the end of June on the new Pardatschgratbahn, a remarkable
were raising money for charity. Clutching a 30m-long 20kg fire hose,
€40m (£31.5m) 28-seater tri-cable gondola system (which uses giant gondola
the teams were neck and neck in the 2-hour Firefighter Chillfactor
cabins of small cable-car size). The cabins will be an all-new design used for
Challenge, but in the end Queenstown retained the annual trophy
the first time on the new lift.
taking into account a fun Hose Haul on the deck and fundraising
The lift will replace the four-seater lift of the same name, which although
dollars raised.
opened in the 1990s and, therefore, less than 25 years old, has been
“It’s trickier than you might think!” said Auckland Airport firefighter Tony
rendered obsolete by the ongoing improvements at Ischgl, which last
Scott, who was also the man behind the event. “We had to have a few
season saw the new Piz Val Gronda lift open up new terrain.
practice runs the afternoon before, because if you don’t get the timing
The old lift had a mid-station, but the new Doppelmayr-built lift will make
right the person on the end of the hose gets flung off like it’s a slingshot.
the full 1251m vertical ascent (the biggest yet for a lift of this type) in a single
“When we add it all up we should have raised just over the NZ$10,000
stage, in just under 9½ minutes.
(£5000) mark which is fantastic,” said Mr Scott. This takes the amount raised
The top and bottom stations of the new lift are also technological and
in the 4 years since the inaugural competition to NZ$32,000 (£16,000) .
architectural achievements, thanks to the limited space available at the base
The event raises funds for a charity that provides funding for young
of the slopes, and the type of terrain at the top of the lift.
people looking to further themselves in the arts, sports, or cultural
The lift is expected to open for next season, although it is such a technical
fields, in memory of Queenstown mountaineer Bruce Grant who died
masterpiece the resort has not yet confirmed a provisional opening date. An
on K2 in 1995.
online blog following its construction is at: bit.ly/Y0y4Pz.
CHALET HOLIDAY PRICE TOPS €0.5M nightclub, and vehicle lift, as well as more than a dozen staff, including two chefs and two butlers. However, Austria is not being left out of the picture, with Chalet N in Lech asking €490,000 per week (£385,000) for peak weeks – much more per week than the Edelweiss. Chalet N sleeps up to 22, monograms the initials of each guest onto their pillowcase, and has their favourite champagne waiting on ice on their arrival. Both properties feature in the Luxury Chalet Collection (luxurychaletcollection.com), an annual list of the top rental chalets in the skiing world, compiled by The Oxford Ski The price being asked for a holiday over next
and New Year.
Company, which has just released its 2014–15
Christmas and New Year’s Day 2015 at Chalet
The top-end prices being charged for luxury
season list, featuring 13 new additions for the
Edelweiss in Courchevel 1850 has topped
chalets has rocketed in recent seasons,
coming season.
€0.5m, believed to be the biggest price yet
particularly at Courchevel 1850, famously
The Oxford Ski Company is keen to stress that
asked for a chalet holiday.
beloved by Russian oligarchs, where many of
most of the properties attract far lower rental
The €550,000 price tag (about £435,000) is
the most “uber-luxurious” chalets are located.
fees, and even the two most expensive drop in
for a minimum fortnight stay over Christmas
The Edelweiss sleeps 18, features its own cinema,
price dramatically outside of the peak period.
007 // OCT14
L e s
C o n t a m i n e s
WORDS: ANDY TAYLOR PIC: N. JOLY
008 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM
S
ski centres on the Mont Blanc pass have none. Its local slopes are accessed by a gondola that takes you from the village up to the first stop of the mountain. From there, there’s a system of chairlifts, and a few button lifts, along with a second chairlift, which leaves from the village as well. There are two zones for beginners. The fairly large local ski area is part of an association of local ski resorts,
o you like your resorts traditional,
which include nearby Megève and the
unspoilt, affordable, French, and on
resort’s nearest neighbour St Gervais
the same lift pass as the world-
(10 minutes away on the bus), among
famous ski area Chamonix, you need
others, altogether offering around
look no further than Les Contamines
445km of slopes. The local 6-day
– or Les Contamines-Montjoie to
pass, at less than €190 (£152), is one
give the resort its full official name.
of the best value in the French Alps.
Although regarded as a little off the
Off the slopes Les Contamines
beaten track to the mainsteam British
remains very much a
tour operator market, this works in
ski resort; there are
favour of those who like a traditional
few alternatives for
village that’s not swamped with Brits,
non-skiers other than
but is also close to many of the big
outdoor options such
name resorts (the specialist operator
as hiking, climbing,
Peak Retreats is here, however
paragliding, or
– see peakretreats.co.uk/ski/les-
following nature trails.
contamines.htm).
Those who love
A pretty and compact Savoyard
their food will enjoy
village with a long history, unlike many
dining out in Les
famous resorts, Les Contamines has
Contamines too.
been largely unspoilt by the march of
Although not the
time and the growth of winter tourism.
cheapest of resorts,
With the local population still totalling
prices are lower than
around 1000, this resort remains
at the most famous
centred, as it always has been, around
French resorts, and
a single main street, and its 18th
you can expect to
century baroque village church.
enjoy a good meal
Anyone weary of modern concrete
for an average of €15
resorts will delight in Les Contamines’
(£12). One criticism of
chalet-style traditional Alpine
some of the purpose-
architecture; even the shops are
built areas, measly portions, is not an
built entirely out of timber. All the
issue here as the meals are large and
buildings in the town look exactly
delicious – the locals are justly proud
the same, just varying in size. This
of the high standards they offer.
helps to encourage a strong domestic
But while there are plenty of restaurant
market, with nearly two-thirds of all
choices, there’s also the traditional
clientele arriving from within France
French lack of an après-ski scene,
itself. But flying into Geneva it’s only
so, unless you’re happy to make your
a 90-minute drive, and Lyon is not
own, this is not a great choice if you’re
much further, with high-speed trains
looking for a party town.
stopping at a station only 20 minutes
If Les Contamines sounds like it might
from the village.
be the place for you, the only warning is
Les Contamines’ own ski area
that once hooked you may find it hard
comprises a healthy 120km of trails,
to go anywhere else. Visitors to this
served by more than 24 lifts. What’s
“hidden gem at the foot of Mont Blanc”
more, the area has a strong reputation
tend to come back year after year, and
for good snow conditions, with
enjoy the warm welcome of the same
powder lasting in good shape for
local hoteliers and restaurateurs.
days after a fall, and snow cover in
It seems with Les Contamines it really
general remaining when other lower
is a case of ski it, love it.
LES CONTAMINES lescontamines.com Piste: 120km/48 runs Snowmaking: 210 machines 6-Day Lift Pass: €184.50 Nearest Airport: Geneva 80km/90 minutes Nearest Station: St Gervais 12km
009 // OCT14
FREERIDE
Y L E S S O N
N O . 1
F I R S T
S T E P S
YOU’LL NEED PLANKS
beginning. Book on a freeride course or hire
Next comes the equipment – skis. We’re
a local guide or instructor. This I cannot stress
talking wide, so wide they can look like a pair
enough. Powder is addictive and addiction
of water skis. You ride the snow, you don’t turn
can cause errors.
in it. If you’ve waterskied, surfed, windsurfed, kitesurfed or skateboarded, you’ll understand.
GET YOUR KIT ON
The skis form a platform against the snow, and
You’re also going to need more than just a
it’s the reaction of the snow against the base
pair of fat skis. You’ll need safety equipment
of the skis that
and you’ll need to know how to use it. That’s
causes them
a minimum of a
to deflect, not
backpack, shovel,
like on a piste
probe and ava-
where you’re
lanche transceiver,
using edges.
and an airbag is
ou’ve seen it in the films and everyone’s talk-
Freeriding is
advisable. Far too
ing about it – freeriding. What does it mean
about using the
many people kit up
and what do you need to be able to do it?
base, so they
and head off with
need to be
no idea how to use
wide – we’re
the gear, so book
looking at over
on a course and get
Firstly, the name says it all. It’s “free”, as in
100mm at least
trained up.
free from restrictions. Wow, that means you
underfoot with
can develop your own style. No more hav-
big shovels.
PHIL SMITH SNOWWORKS Phil Smith is founder of Snoworks
BIN THE DOUGHNUTS
wish and with your feet as wide or as close
DON’T BE A BILLY NO MATES
All-Mountain Ski Courses. Snoworks
There’s one more
together as possible without anyone saying
Before you get
run Off-Piste and Backcountry courses
thing – you need to
it’s wrong. If someone says you have to
carried away
throughout the winter along with Off-
be fit. Safety is a big
ski “like this or that” then it certainly is not
with fat skis
Piste Adventure trips to destinations
issue here and if
free, so expect instruction to be different.
and the feeling
around the world. info@snoworks.com
you’re heading into
It’s more centred on getting in control,
of being free
the off-piste you
having fun and embracing the snow and
and jumping
need to be capable
the mountains and learning about safety.
off the nearest
You certainly shouldn’t be standing in a line
precipice, the most important thing to remem-
getting up after a fall, finding your skis and
watching a demonstration from an instructor
ber is off-piste skiing is dangerous, so get well
getting them back on in deep snow. There can
waiting for your turn and trying to copy
educated. You’re moving away from prepared
also be a lot of hiking in order to access runs
them. Say goodbye to skiing robotics and
runs and into off-piste. You need the right
at the top or exit them at the bottom, so start
hello to freedom.
guidance and the right knowledge from the
training now.
YOU’LL NEED TO KNOW WHAT IT IS
ing to face your “shoulders to zee valley” and no more worrying about not “sticking zee bottom out”. You can ski however you
010 // OCT14
of moving around,
SNOWORKS.COM
STMORITZ
SOLDEN
LATE EASTER BLAMED FOR DROP IN UK SKIERS
BAN PERPETUATES STEREOTYPES
DRONIES IN NEW ZEALAND
An unusually late Easter, and challenging snow conditions across much
A group of snowboarders campaigning to be allowed to snowboard at
A new era in “selfies” has debuted on New Zealand’s ski slopes.
of the northern Alps, resulted in a decline in the ski market of 3.6% last
one of the three ski areas in North America that still ban them, saying
Tourism New Zealand has invested in flying drones that were used
winter (from just under 900,000 in 2012–13 to 867,700) according to the
that the ban is divisive and perpetuates an inaccurate stereotype, have
during the current southern hemisphere ski season to create personal
Crystal Ski Industry Report.
lost their case.
videos from above.
The drop in the number of Brits heading to the slopes last season is a
The group were suing Alta ski resort, which along with another Utah
The DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ drone travelling around New Zealand’s
setback after a small rise in the market the previous season, which had
resort Deer Valley and Mad River Glen still bans snowboarders from
South Island carries an extremely high-quality camera and a removable
followed 4 years of successive drops in business that had seen the UK
it slopes, despite allowing other sliding devices besides skis, such as
4GB micro SD card, giving crystal clear video and the option for slow
market decline by nearly a third from its 2007–08 season peak.
monoskis, according to the snowboarders.
motion shots. The drone begins recording a close-up portrait then
Crystal Ski Holidays believe, however, that the signs for 2014–15 are
The judge in the case decided Alta’s ban was on equipment, not a
quickly pans out to show New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery, creating
good.“The Winter Olympics significantly raised the profile of snow
type of person, and he said that in his opinion it therefore had no
a short film about 8 seconds long.
sports in the UK, and indoor ski centres continue to report increased
legal merit.
The NZdronie has been visiting the ski areas of Coronet Peak, Cardrona,
visitor numbers suggesting an uplift in interest for snow sports, which
Alta was backed by the US National Forest Service from whom it
Mount Hutt, and Mount Cook through the winter, with Tourism New
will be further boosted by a recovering economy and an earlier Easter
leases the public land. The Forest Service argued that boarders have,
Zealand encouraging people to share their “dronies” on all social channels
break,” said a company statement. France continues to be the most
in their opinion, a potential dangerous blind spot in their vision as
using the hashtag #NZdronie, with daily prizes also up for grabs.
popular country, despite seeing a decline of 1.3%, taking a 33.5% share
they descend the slopes, and that some of Alta’s slopes are too steep
The use of drones for personal videoing looks set to increase in ski
of holidaymakers last season. Switzerland had a slight resurgence with
for snowboarding.
areas around the world, although their usage may be restricted in
a 1% increase, taking its share of the market to 6.5%. Andorra, Italy, and
The snowboarders say that the ban encourages “hostile and divisive
some nations by general privacy, and/or flying restrictions and laws
Scandinavia each increased market share by 0.2%, whereas Austria,
skier-versus-snowboarder attitudes,” and their lawyers, who are now
that already exist to stop snooping and potential dangerous use
Bulgaria, and USA/Canada each lost 0.2% market share. The small
considering an appeal, pointed out that boarders and skiers co-exist
of flying machines, even though some of the laws may have been
countries sector stayed stable at 2% market share.
without major problems at thousands of ski areas worldwide.
originally intended to restrict larger craft like helicopters.
UK Selling products +44 (0)1637 870640
Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices
SAALBACH’S BIG LIFTS
High Quality Catered + Self Catered Accommodation French and Swiss Alps Snow Sure Resorts On / Near Piste locations No Hidden Extras Financially Bonded
Saalbach-Hinterglemm, which has built a
investment is going on new groomers, more
18 gondolas – believed also to be the highest
reputation over the past decade for having the
snowmaking, and piste improvements.
number of this type of high-capacity lift of any
biggest and best ski lifts in the world, has spent
Saalbach-Hinterglemm will now operate 19 chairlifts,
resort in the world.
nearly €40m (£31.5m) this summer to continue
of which more than a dozen are six- or eight-seater
The new Steinbergbahn lift is Leogang’s second
the upgrading process.
chairs – believed to be the highest number of this
modern 10-seater gondola from the valley up to
A new eight-seat chairlift, and a gondola with
type of high-capacity lift of any resort.
the Skicircus.
cabins each capable of carrying ten people, are
The new lift, the Polten 8er, will be a modern
The new lifts take the resort’s hourly uplift past
being installed at a combined cost of €17.5m
eight-seater Doppelmayr chairlift with heated
the 100,000 mark for the first time (to 103,000), a
(£13.8m), part of a €300m+ (£235m+) spend since
seats and bubbles.
figure matched only by a dozen or so linked ski
the turn of the century. The rest of this year’s
Saalbach-Hinterglemm will also now operate
regions worldwide, all in Europe.
LES ARCS SLOPES TO OPEN 11 HOURS DAILY
NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART CHAMONIX GONDOLA
Les Arcs in the French Paradiski region shared with La Plagne has
Work on a state-of-the-art new gondola to replace the current Plan Joran
announced a major change in its operations for the coming winter, with
chairlift at Chamonix Valley’s Grands Montets ski area, scheduled to
plans to open the core of its ski area above Arc 1800 from 9am to 8pm
open in December, has continued through the summer.
every day.
The new POMA-built gondola will be faster and can carry more people than
The “brand new space for sharing and entertainment” will be about
the old lift. Each cabin will be able to carry up to ten people (compared to
much more than just skiing and snowboarding.
four previously) and will travel at 6m/s on the 2.35km ascent from the base
It will feature a new toboggan run, a new terrain park, a new “discovery
station to the top station nearly 900 vertical metres above at 2138m.
slope” and beginners area, and an area for children. The area will also
The new lift replaces two older lifts for greater convenience and lower
include off-slope attractions including the resort’s new 3800m water
environmental impact. It is part of a €477m (£376m) investment programme
park, including leisure pool and chutes, with daytime views through a
by the Compagnie du Mont Blanc, to be rolled out over 40 years.
glass wall out towards Mont Blanc.
Extensive renovation work is also ongoing at the Aiguille du Midi, and a
A new gondola with eight-seat cabins that will access all facilities is
new beginners area at Planpraz (Brévent-Flégère ski sector), at a snow-
scheduled to open in 2015.
sure 2000m altitude, is also due to be unveiled next winter.
0151 625 1921 mountainheaven.co.uk 012 // OCT14
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LUCA ROLLI
NO S H O R TC U T S It’s the moment when you realize its all been worth it— the pre-dawn wake up’s, the bitter cold, the effort that come’s with each step, each deep breath—now its just you, the mountain, and the descent.
SCOTT-SPORTS.COM © SCOTT SPORTS SA 2014 | Photo: Dom Daher
CHILDREN’S TICKET PRICE STUDY A report on children’s lift ticket prices has been published by the International Ski Federation (FIS). Compiled by InTheSnow’s editor Patrick Thorne, the report details child lift ticket prices charged at 700 ski resorts worldwide last season. “The research showed many simple but creative initiatives, from children under 10 skiing for free, to free lift passes for children on their birthday,” said an FIS statement.
WORLD’S LARGEST INDOOR SKI CENTRE
ANOTHER 6-SEATER La Clusaz will see a second new six-seater chairlift in two years installed for the coming
Construction has begun on
“The town is expected to welcome
ski season. The new lift from Bossonnet to the
northeastern China’s largest cultural
20 million visitors every year,” Liu
Crêt du Merle will in fact be a combination six-
tourism complex, which will contain
Ming, Vice General Manager of
seater and gondola cabins. The new lifts are
the world’s largest indoor ski slope,
Harbin Wanda City Investment Co
part of a 3-year investment programme by the
and is due to open in Harbin, China,
Ltd told China Daily.
in 2017.
Other details so far published
The $3.3bn (£2bn) “Cultural Tourism
include a figure of 1500 slope users
City” will include the first indoor
at any one time, with a capacity for
slope to offer a 100m vertical, and
the entire complex set at 50,000,
will have six separate slopes, say the
which will also include an Olympic-
Wanda group, one of China’s and
sized ice rink, theatre, shopping mall,
Alpe d’Huez says it will complete
the world’s biggest companies, who
4★ and 5★ hotels, restaurants, and a
snowmaking on the full 16km length of its
are behind the project and currently
large cinema complex.
black run down from the resort’s Sarenne
run several conventional ski areas
Other companies working on
in China.
the project include Britain’s Acer
Located in Harbin’s Songbei district,
Snowmec Group.
resort’s lift company SATELC.
SNOWMAKING FOR LONGEST BLACK
glacier in time for the start of next winter on December 6th, 2014. The 10-mile-long run
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
is officially the world’s longest pisted black
GET SKIFIT!
descent. “Everything has been carefully thought out to harmoniously blend the equipment into the surrounding landscape,” said a resort spokesperson.
NEW CHÂTEL SWIM COMPLEX A new ‘aqua centre’ Châtel Forme d’Ô will be open in the French Portes du Soleil resort next winter. The eco-friendly centre
S
as well as developing flexibility and balance. It can be accessed on the website befitapps.com, or downloaded from iTunes. Each session builds on the previous one, and consists of a warm-up,
THE ART OF SKIING
activation exercises, core work, circuits, coordination exercises, and
The Art of Skiing by Jenny de Gex is a beauti-
a final stretch down. These sessions
ful collection of the finest examples of historic
should be completed two to three
ski poster art, and is due to be published by
times a week, progressing through
Palazzo on 30 October.
the phases as fitness improves.
Organised by country and resort, it uses
kiFit, a new video-based app and
“Last season I treated over 40 ACL
posters from the Beekley Collection – the
online training programme aimed
[anterior cruciate ligament] knee
largest private collection of ski art in the
at skiers and snowboarders who
injuries amongst a series of other
world – to reflect the changing trends in ski-
are serious about getting fit for
ski and snowboard injuries. After
ing fashion and technique, and investigates
their snow-sports holiday, has been
talking with my patients about how
the most popular resorts, their establishment
launched by Chamonix-based
they occurred I became convinced
and development.
physiotherapist and clinical expert,
that many of them could have been
By the turn of the 20th century, skiing had
dining with a lively twist above Verbier
Neil Maclean-Martin.
avoided. I introduced my SkiFit
emerged from its utilitarian origins to become
this season should head to the Crystal
Suitable for all levels of skier, SkiFit
classes last season in Chamonix and
a fashionable sport in both Europe and North
offers a series of over 100 high-
the feedback was outstanding,” said
America, and a wave of new stylish resorts
There’ll be a combination of fresh self-
quality exercises specific to snow
Maclean-Martin, who has worked for
emerged. By the 1930s, skiing was by far the
service food, a gourmet brasserie and
sports, delivered in 60-minute
more than 15 years in the world of
most popular winter pastime for the rich and
a lively mix of cabaret, music and live
guided sessions. The 8-week
elite sport, and is a clinical specialist
famous – combining adventure, fashion and
entertainment on offer, all up at 2200m.
training programme is delivered
in musculoskeletal sports injuries.
exclusivity. The graphic art of the posters ad-
Their stated aim is to “strive to surprise”
over four phases, with the aim of
SkiFit costs £4.99 for Phase One, or
vertising this exhilarating sport have become
improving strength in key muscles,
£9.99 for the full programme.
collectors’ items.
has been built with ecological materials, uses renewable energy and has a green energy system to heat the water. Châtel Forme d’Ô will include a family area and fun areas for children along with saunas, steam rooms and a relaxation room.
GOURMET & CABARET Skiers looking for some high-altitude
Mountain and Ruinettes restaurants.
every afternoon this coming winter.
014 // OCT14
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THE ALPINE ROCKFEST RETURNS The Alpine Rockfest, which brings together some of the world’s greatest ski racers competing to win a big cash prize, and an après-ski rock concert just before Christmas, is back for 2014. Staged at Paganella ski area above the Italian village of Andalo, Trentino, this exciting innovation in ski racing was first staged in 2009, when French Alpine skier Cyprien Richard defeated the best Olympic skiers in the world to win the largest single cash price in skiing history. The Rockfest format consists of 20 top Olympic ski stars racing through four successive rounds of sprint giant slalom, with five athletes being eliminated in each round. The final “Winner-Takes-All” round involves the last five athletes, competing for a €75,000 prize (around £59,000). Last year’s winner was American Ted Ligety, who also won in 2011. He was competing against 19 more of the world’s best, including Aksel Lund Svindal, Bode Miller, Dominik Paris, and Christoph Innerhofer. alpinerockfest.com
IN-CHALET RIFLE RANGE Luxury ski holiday company Scott Dunn (scottdunn.com) has several new chalet choices in Val d’Isère this winter. Chalet Husky comes complete with games rooms that feature a climbing wall, archery and rifle shooting. To avoid damage to people or property, the archery is a grown-up version of childhood bows and arrows, with suction cups on the arrows, while the rifles are the non-lethal laser variety. Über-contemporary in design, this superb chalet, which sleeps up to 14 across seven en suite bedrooms, also has a stylish wellness area complete with large pool with infinity waterfall, sauna, Jacuzzi, and massage rooms. Guests also benefit from Scott Dunn’s famous fully comprehensive chalet service from a team of dedicated professionals. Holidays cost from £1275pp, based on full occupancy, and include return British Airways flights, transfers, in-resort driver service, and a private chef and host.
015 // NOV14
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE MAIN PIC: MATHIAS PRÄGANT
016 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM
DANIEL GOLLNER
around 50 saunas – in truth, BKK was a spa resort for centuries before skiing was even thought of. There were also quite a few 4 and 5★ hotels set back from the road; I had not realised before that Bad Kleinkirchheim was a little more upmarket than the average ski resort, although it was still, as it transpired, friendly and relaxed. I was booked in at the 4★ Trattlerhof, a historic inn that
BAD KLEINKIRCHHEIMER
B
village, 21 of them in hotels, which are also home to
was first mentioned in records nearly 500 years ago in 1520 (although licensed to serve alcohol much more recently in 1642), and since 1884 it has been managed by five generations of the Forstnig family, the latest of whom, Jakob, is a friendly, knowledgeable, efficient and attentive host. The hotel has large rooms, an excellent restaurant, a spacious spa (which I had to myself when I visited) and its own cosy separate slopeside bar and restaurant, the
ad Kleinkirchheim has always intrigued me.
Einkehr. There are also adjacent horse-riding stables
There are three main reasons. First, the name – it’s
from which sleigh rides are organised. Rather than
wonderful and translating it to “bath – small – church
resting on their laurels with all that history, Jakob and
– home” just adds to the appeal, as does the cool
his family are pusing into the 21st Century by becoming
abbreviation it’s commonly referred to as: BKK.
the first hotel in the region to win the Austrian Eco-Label
Second, there’s the location – it’s in the opposite
award, having installed a charging station for electric
corner of Austria to most of the resorts we know
cars in the car park.
and love in the Tyrol, Salzburgerland and Styria. BKK
I was on to the slopes next
stands tall in the south west, a short hop from Slovenia
morning, which extend to over
and Italy – so it’s a bit different.
100km in a large L shape
And finally, there’s my all-time skiing hero, being of that
around the resort, one
generation, Franz Klammer, who calls BKK home and
side of it following an
does a lot to promote the place worldwide. They’re so
adjacent valley to
proud of him, understandably, that they named one of
the neighbouring
the best pistes after him.
village of St
In fact there must be something in the local mineral
Oswald,
water, as the surprise winner of the downhill at
making the
Sochi last February, Matthias Mayer, comes from the
distance
neighbouring village.
from one side
BKK was a fixture in British ski brochures for the last three
of the whole
decades of the last century, but it quietly disappeared
area to the other
from them a few years ago, a victim perhaps of its
quite substantial.
isolation from other big name resorts which make it more
There’s a good mix of
economically challenging to justify the flights.
terrain, the vast majority of
So I was delighted to be told at the end of last winter
it below the treeline level with
that Inghams were bringing it back for the coming ski
classic blue, red and black trails
season, and that I would get a chance to go visit.
cut through the forested slopes.
It turned out that while it had taken me 35 years of ski
Most famous is run number 8 directly
holidays to finally reach BKK, I’d picked a good season.
above Bad Kleinkirchheim itself, the Franz Klammer
North-eastern Austria was having a surprisingly lean
World Cup run. If you’re lucky enough to be in BKK on
winter for snow cover, but the locals were all keen to
one of a few select dates, you may get the chance to
explain that typically if snow is not so good on one
ski with the great man himself on that run and several
side of Austria, it’s better on the other, and vice versa.
of his other favourites.
So it was that despite arriving near the end of the
There’s a good mix of lifts too, 25 in total, with several
season in March, cover was still excellent. Maybe the
gondolas and four quad chairlifts, but also rather a lot
cast arsenal of 800 snowguns pointing at 97% of BKK’s
of T-bars and old double chairs in need of a makeover.
slopes helped too.
All in all, there’s plenty to keep everyone from
As I arrived I recognised a fairly standard Austrian ski
beginners to the less demanding expert entertained
resort, perhaps a mile long, fanning out from the main
for a week.
street with ski areas on each side of that road. What
Sometimes when you visit a ski resort you’ve known
was a little different was the sight of two large public
about for over three decades but never actually
swimming pool and spa complexes in the very heart of
been to, it’s a bit of an anti-climax, as it does not live
the resort – because the Bad in the name isn’t just there
up to what you envisaged in your mind’s eye. Other
by chance; this is a spa resort as well as a ski one.
times it’s exactly what you expected. Thankfully,
Indeed the resort’s motto is “from the piste to the
Bad Kleinkirchheim exceeded expectations, with a
spas”, and the spectacular Römerbad (Roman baths)
nice ski area, great people, excellent food and a few
thermal centre is located right at the bottom of the
pleasant surprises, such as the extent of the après-
slopes, with admission included in the ski pass price,
ski spa culture – although if I’d paid attention more
so you can, if you wish, literally dive straight in after
to the ‘Bad’ in its name and less to Klammer and
your day on the slopes.
Kleinkirchheim, I would have been aware of that.
It’s the biggest of more than 20 swimming pools in the
So I’m very glad that Inghams are going back.
BAD KLEINKIRCHHEIM Inghams offer 7 nights staying at the 4★ Hotel Trattlerhof from £794 or at the 4★ Hotel Eschenhof from £854, both on a half-board basis and including flights from Gatwick to Ljubljana and resort transfers. Ski pack items can be pre-booked with Inghams: 6 days full area lift pass from £189 (adult) £95 (child) 6 days standard ski and boot hire from £110 (adult) £70 (child) inghams.co.uk / 01483 791 114 badkleinkirchheim.at trattlerhof.at
ARNO GRUBER SEN
017 // OCT14
ELECTRIC CAR RENTAL A fleet of 40 Renault Twizy electric cars will be available to rent at French ski area Serre Chevalier this winter. Each Twizy seats two people and is equipped with ski carrier and snow tyres. They can be hired for €20 a day or €60 a week. Serre Chevalier has also replaced the Croix de la Nore draglift with a quad chairlift.
SKI BUTLERS The luxurious new Chedi Andermatt (thechedi-andermatt.com) will offer a ‘Ski Butler’ service to its guests this winter. The Butlers will carry guests’ skis to and from the slopes, as well as store and service them, and also sort out rentals, provide tips on the day’s conditions and best powder stashes as well as organise transport by ski bus to and from local skis areas.
THE SKI SLOPES TO YOURSELF? Guests of the 5 Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa, Switzerland, which features one of the ski world’s biggest spas and a unique personal funicular lift linking hotel to ski pistes, can enjoy the slopes to themselves from 27 – 30 November. Half board ‘Private Mountain’ packages including 3 nights in a deluxe double room, ski pass and spa access cost from CHF 960 (£628) per person. tschuggen.ch
PRINCE RECREATES ST MORITZ Party planners recreated the atmosphere of St Moritz within Kensington Palace for Prince Harry’s 30th birthday last month. A drawing room in the Palace was decorated with St Moritz themed décor and 30 lucky guests were invited to the exclusive party, plus Harry’s brother William
SPEED RIDING WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT
A
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
in the Ortler Alps ahead of his
start will be crucial. Because from
record attempt, the date for which
that point on there is no way back
is yet to be decided.
and I will have to try to make the
The speed rider needs to get used
best of it. From that point on I will
to the extreme conditions of the
have to face it all alone.”
height, and at the same time try to
Olaf Reinstadler, mountain rescuer
better understand the mountain
from the Alpine School Ortler,
and its weather conditions.
confirmed that the success of the
“This unique attempt from almost
attempt will depend not only on
4000m requires enormous
Senoner’s skills and ability, but
young Italian man, Armin
physical as well as mental
also the mountain itself, which
Senoner, has announced that
strength,” said Senoner.
plays an important role, as the line
he will be attempting to break
“With efficient training both can
of sight, snow, fog, and all other
A newly-launched avalanche airbag from Black
the Guinness World Record for
be strengthened. [On] the day
weather conditions will not be
Diamond is claiming an industry first as it uses
speed riding this season.
of the record attempt, besides
under his control, so an element
jet-fan inflation rather than compressed air.
Speed riding is a combination
weather and snow conditions, the
of good luck is needed also.
The company says that jet-fan inflation is a
JET-FAN INFLATION AVALANCHE AIRBAG
of skiing and parachuting, a
breakthrough system that draws air from an
relatively new extreme winter
unlimited source – the atmosphere. The result
sport that was invented in France.
is that the pack is stable, can be used more
The current Guinness World
than once, and doesn’t cause issues when
Record of 146.46km/h is held by
carried on planes.
Frenchman François Bon.
The compact lithium ion battery powered fan can
French chalet operator Le Ski reports that
Together with his manager
inflate a 200L bag in just 3.5s, followed by top-up
long stalks on an Alpine flower mean a
Bartolomeus Kohl, Senoner
bursts. The bag also carries out self-diagnosis, with
aims to fly from the 3859m-high
LED lights indicating if it is functioning correctly.
Königspitze, situated in Italy’s
The bag automatically deflates 3 minutes after
Ortler Alps, and reach a speed of
inflation to create an air pocket to help survival
season is coming. Well the Gentianes are
over 150km/h.
and rescue.
higher than we’ve ever seen them at the
Senoner, who hails from Val
The bag comes in 11L, 28L and 40L sizes, and
moment – so there is ‘proof’ of what is to
Gardena, began training at the
is stocked by Snow & Rock, Ellis Brigham, and
end of the 2013–14 winter season
other leading snow-sports retailers.
and Harry’s sister-in-law Kate, who were said to be the party planners.
BIG FLOWERS = BIG SNOW snowy winter is on the way. “When the ‘Gentiane’ grows high in autumn the locals say that a big snow
come!” said a company spokesperson.
0018 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM
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FINLAND’S LARGEST RESORT NOW LARGER Finland’s largest ski resort, Levi, is undergoing a major expansion ahead of the 2014–15 ski season with a new “Levi South” area. The new area will open in December, and will significantly increase the size of the ski area and services on offer. A new six-seater chairlift with seat heating and pull-down bubble hood is being built with a capacity for 3000 additional skiers per hour to serve the new area. There will also be a new ski pass office, rental and ski service shop, ski school, and play area for children. The existing restaurant, Sivakka, is being enlarged to seat 60 further guests. Levi will now have 45 downhill slopes and 26 lifts, with the longest piste being 2.5km. Many of the slopes are lit until 7pm during the darker winter months, and cross-country skiing is popular with hundreds of kilometres of trails. bit.ly/1B3BC0d
ALPINEGURU
MORE LUX CHALETS? New working laws imposed on chalet companies operating in Switzerland, requiring them to pay staff a minimum wage of £2238 per month, have led to numerous mainstream British mid-level chalet operators pulling out of the country, or significantly reducing their offering, leaving large numbers of chalets without operators. Oli Corkhill, founder of luxury ski holiday broker Alpine Guru (alpineguru.com), says this could be good news for wealthier skiers and boarders. “We’re predicting that many of the chalets vacated by the massmarket operators will be snapped up by luxury developers and renovated for the high-end market,” said Corkhill. “This will be very welcome in resorts such as Zermatt, where demand outstrips supply during peak periods for the high-end market.” This season, Alpine Guru will be offering 184 chalets in 12 Swiss resorts, an increase of 20% from 2013–14.
019 // NOV14
ROSS WOODHALL
Fine tuning the sidewalls by hand.
PFD SKIS LIFE IN PICS
Ski templates, made by CNC to insure 100% accuracy.
In 2011 a young designer’s passion for skiing led to the creation of Pure Freeride Design. Using a perfect blend of materials, design know-how and a ‘no gimmick’ attitude to freeride skiing, PFD have now refined, tested and perfected their unique line of skis with an elegant bamboo finish and are producing small quantities of carefully handcrafted skis for a
Tools of the trade.
limited number of passionate skiers each season.
HISTORY After Rupert Gammond finished a product design degree at Leeds he went straight to the mountains, making his home in Alpe d’huez and working six seasons to enjoy his passion
Dimensions are checked to create the correct flex.
for skiing in the amazing freeride playground. After years of skiing every day, bouncing ideas and dreaming up the perfect designs, PFD began in a purpose-built workshop in the Worcestershire countryside. The following 2 years were dedicated to using the best possible materials in creating and developing a range of prototypes. Working with friends and contacts in Sweden, Japan, and France contributed to the success of the designs. PFD Skis are designed and developed by skiers, for skiers.
Die cutting the logo.
020 // OCT14
Cutting as close to the steel edge as possible.
PFDSKIS.COM
SKI YOGA AND CIRCUS SKILLS CAMP
“LEARN TO SKI” FOR SOLOS
WHISTLER GONDOLA’S NEW CABINS
Outdoor holiday company Green Adventure Retreats
Friendship Travel, which is a specialist tour operator for singles, has
Whistler Blackcomb is installing new eight-passenger gondola cabins for
(greenadventureretreats.com) has an unusual (and affordable) holiday
announced more “learn to ski” holidays in its programme for 2014–15,
their workhorse of a lift, the Whistler Village Gondola, at a cost of around
option for families heading to France over New Year.
which includes seven resorts in France, Italy, and Austria.
$6m (£3.7m).
The Family New Year 2015 Ski Yoga and Circus Camp runs from 27
For first-time skiers, extra learn to ski weeks are being provided
“The original cabins have been loading our guests onto Whistler
December–3 January in Vallorcine, near Chamonix. The trip caters
based at the Chalethotel La Bérangère in Les Deux Alpes, where
Mountain since 1988,” said Dave Brownlie, President and Chief
for all levels of skier, from complete beginner to experienced powder
prices for a 7-night holiday start at £1095pp inclusive of return London
Operating Officer at Whistler Blackcomb. “These sleek new cabins are
hound, and even caters for non-skiers with yoga, snowshoeing, circus
Gatwick flights (other airports available), transfers, chalet-board
set to dramatically improve the experience for skiers, snowboarders
workshops, and glacier visits on the agenda.
accommodation, hire of boots and skis (or boards), lift pass, and 5 full
and sightseers. Eight passengers will be able to sit comfortably with
Priced at £655 for 12 years and up, £525 for those aged 7–11, £395 for
days of lessons.
their gear in outside racks, and the new configuration is set to improve
3–6-year-olds, and £100 for under-3s, the holiday includes all meals, a
Prices across the range for the 2014–15 programme start from £695pp
capacity for the Whistler Village Gondola by 12 per cent through four
Mont Blanc Unlimited Ski Pass worth €280 (£220), daily yoga, circus
for 7 nights in January at the Hotel Cristallo in Courmayeur in Italy, and
additional cabins and greater loading efficiency.”
skills, and outdoor activities, plus a New Year’s Eve raclette and disco.
for singles who fancy spending Christmas on the slopes, a week at the
The gondola is currently closed to install the new cabins for the coming
“The only catch is that you have to share a room with your children!”
Chalethotel Dahu in Courchevel 1850, France, is priced from £995pp.
season. The lift terminals for the Whistler Village Gondola at the base, at
says organiser Saskia Anley-McCallum, adding, “This holiday is about
The prices include sole occupancy of a twin or double room (but
the mid Olympic Station, and at the top Roundhouse Lodge will also see
community, sustainability, skiing, playing and family fun! Apart from
discounts apply to those willing to share with a fellow guest), and the
improvements to enhance the functionality of the interior space, as well
being a wonderful ski holiday it creates strong friendships, leaving a
services of a local host who arranges everything from airport transfers
as the terminal appearance. An additional $5.9m (£3.6m) will also be
deep impression.”
to obtaining lift passes. friendshiptravel.com
allocated to further information technology initiatives
WHERE TO SKI THIS OCTOBER t’s an open secret that if you’re truly
shape. You also have the opportunity to try out
and Gstaad, will re-open on the 25 October.
addicted to snow, you don’t need to
the new season’s gear ahead of the crowds.
October is, of course, too early for predicting how
wait until the “main” ski season starts in
Austria traditionally has the most areas open in
good a winter 2014–15 might be, but there were
November to get your fix.
October, many of them hosting opening festivals
big falls in the Alps at the start of September, and
You don’t have to fly down to the
with gear testing, and Oktoberfest beer tents.
in North America in mid-August (the picture is from
southern hemisphere either (where the
Sölden goes as far as staging the first World
Panorama in British Columbia, Canada), which help
2014 season is currently winding down),
Cup ski racing in the northern hemisphere on its
get everyone excited even if they’re no guarantee
more than a dozen leading glacier ski
glacier slopes. Other Austrian areas to try include
that a big thaw ain’t gonna hit in mid-autumn.
areas have opened already for winter
the Kaunertal, Stubai, Mölltal, Kitzsteinhorn,
Snowmaking usually kicks off at non-glacier resorts
2014–15, although to be fair a couple
Pitztal, and Dachstein glaciers.
aiming to open in late-October by now – high
– the Hintertux glacier in Austria and
Elsewhere in the Alps: Cervinia, Passo Tonale,
ski slopes in Colorado, like Arapahoe Basin, and
Zermatt in Switzerland – have never
and Val Senales are re-opening in Italy, as is
northerly latitude ones in Scandinavia, like Ruka in
really closed since last winter. If you don’t
Tignes in France after a brief closure following
Finland, will all be hoping to open by the middle of
want even to go as far as the Alps, there are our
their summer ski season. Swiss options include
the month. Elsewhere, Banff in Canada is one of the
six indoor snow centres to try too, of course.
Saas-Fee and the Diavolezza glaciers near St
few areas that has a fairly fixed opening date for its
Boarding or skiing in October may seem surreal,
Moritz, and Glacier 3000, between Les Diablerets
first slopes – this Halloween, 31 October.
but it has its advantages. First up, not many other people are doing it, so you can expect low air fares, hotel prices, and discounted lift tickets, as well as fairly empty pistes. And if you’re getting nervous about high prices, and heaving roads, hotels, and pistes in France during the February school half-term holidays, why not consider going in the October/November holidays instead, when none of these factors will be an issue? OK, the pistes available tend to be high in altitude, and limited in scope to 10 or 20km of usually easy to intermediate level stuff, but that’s enough to give most of us a fix, and if you like your freestyle the parks are often in tip-top
022 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
DOVER to CALAIS 16 crossings a day. Car + 7 skiers and all their gear.
£35
*
www.myferrylink.com
I’m furry happy my skis go free!
SKI HOSTING CASE GOING TO HIGH COURT
F
lost its initial appeal in Chambery
of British tour operators offering free
all British tour operators ceased
last month.
orientation tours of the easy slopes
offering the ski hosting service
The ruling in Chambery confirmed
to their clients on arrival in resort.
in France, although several offer
the original verdict – that ski
This service is commonly offered in
non-skiing advice or work with ski
hosting is illegal in France – but
ski areas around the world, and is
schools to provide a similar service
substantially reduced the amount
frequently provided by the resorts
where feasible. Ten leading British
of damages that had been awarded
themselves in North America,
tour operators have backed Le
to the École du Ski Français.
but has long been a cause of
Ski’s case that argues the verdict
“Le Ski has instructed their lawyer
contention in France (and a few
is inconsistent with French law, in
to submit an appeal to the supreme
Austrian resorts), with ski schools
which, they dispute, unqualified
court in Paris regarding the ski
claiming it breaks French law as the
people, such as school teachers
hosting case. This is only possible
hosts are, they say, paid ski guides
and civil servants based in France
with the continuing support of our
who do not have acceptable
are allowed to lead groups on
rench chalet ski holiday operator
fellow tour operators,” said Le Ski’s
qualifications to lead members of
French slopes, and is, therefore,
Le Ski is to take its case against
Managing Director Nick Morgan.
the public on French slopes.
discriminatory and unjustifiable
the ski hosting ban in France to
The roots of the case go back many
Le Ski was taken to court over the
under EU law.
the supreme court in Paris, having
decades but surround the practice
matter in 2013, and at this time
WORLD SNOW DAY REPORT The FIS World Snow Day has published its results for its third staging, which took place on 19 January this year. World Snow Day is part of the FIS’s “Bring Children to the Snow” campaign, which encourages more families and children to try snow sports. On the day itself hundreds of ski resorts around the world organise fun events, teaching, and free or discounted lift passes for children and families. In the end 610 different ski areas, dry slopes, snowdomes, and other organisers took part in World Snow Day 2014 in 35 countries around the world, with 549,000 participants – making it the biggest and most successful yet. Planning for the 2015 event, which will take place on 18 January 2015, is
The only
D O V E R
already well underway with most of those who staged events last year saying they plan to take part again, and new organisers already being added, with
T O
C A L A I S
F E R R Y
the likely result that the fourth World Snow Day will be bigger still.
recommended by ferrets
0844 2482 100 Terms and conditions apply. *Each way, price subject to availability.
024 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
AURÉLIEN DUCROZ_DAN FERRER
PROMOTION
& STILL MADE IN FRANCE
D
SPONSORED ATHLETES
expeditions around the world.
2012, Dynastar was rewarded with an official
What makes Dynastar’s products so
certification for its products, which are now
special is their innate ability to adapt to
labelled “Guaranteed Made in France”.
each destination, every project, and every
This guarantee is issued by an independent
individual skier’s desire on the slopes. Each
organisation and is based on two criteria that
Dynastar’s sponsored
one is designed to offer superior adaptability.
the company must satisfy at the same time:
athletes include:
Once they have been put through their
the main specifications of the production
paces at the base camp, they are ready for
process are French, and at least 50% of the
Marion Josserand
the journey, and are set to deliver a new
manufacturing cost is of French origin.
Olympic medallist at
range of emotions.
Vancouver 2010
Since 1963, the legendary site of the
POWERTRACK
Chamonix-Mont Blanc valley has forged
Dynastar make skis for all types of skiers –
Jean-Frédéric Chapuis
Dynastar’s identity, and shaped the
all mountain, freeride, ski cross, ski touring
2013 World Champion
personality of its products – technical and
and free touring. There is also a special
ynastar, the world-famous ski company, has
high-performance skis for committed and
junior range for children.
Jonas Devouassoux
just celebrated its 50th birthday.
passionate skiers.
This season the company launches the
7x World Cup top 10 finalist
Established in the shadow of Mont Blanc,
all-new Powertrack, an all mountain ski that
GUARANTEED MADE IN FRANCE
offers incredible handling and versatility. The
Arnaud Bovolenta
building its foundations, and forging its
Powertrack range ingeniously combines the
7x World Cup top 10 finalist
values year after year. Today the resort of
These days, more and more famous ski brands
qualities of its CR skis with the performance
Chamonix remains Dynastar’s natural choice
are actually made in giant factories in Asia
of its CHAM skis, in a bid to set the new
for its base camp and work laboratory,
and Eastern Europe. Dynastar’s cutting-edge
gold standard in the all mountain category.
and the company is currently looking at
factory in the Chamonix valley is the only
Powertrack skis are designed for proficient and
Chamonix to serve as a launch pad for new
remaining production site for skis in France. In
expert skiers that enjoy skiing in all conditions.
the company has been writing its history,
025 // OCT14
FOLIE DOUCE
FUN, BRIGHT AND ETHICALLY MADE IN NEW ZEALAND
BOBSLEIGH EXPERIENCE For the coming winter a new option is to be introduced at La Plagne, which hosted bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton events at the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics, the chance to ride behind the Olympic and World Champion Bruno Mingeon in a real racing bobsleigh assisted by a breaker. Participants can expect to reach speeds of around 130km/h, and after
Pure Merino
their descent can enjoy drinks with a video of their experience provided, as well as a certificate presented by
Base Layers For Kids Aged 5-12 Years Merino is nature’s most advanced fibre, 100% natural, super soft, and incredibly warm. Merino Monsters base layers regulate body heat so children stay warm and happy on the mountain without over heating.
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SLOPE OFF THIS WINTER BOOK YOUR TRAIN TO 1000s OF SNOW, SKI & CITY DESTINATIONS THROUGHOUT EUROPE WITH VOYAGES-SNCF.COM
Mingeon. The descents with Mingeon will be WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
offered during the Christmas holidays,
MEGÈVE GETS FOLIE DOUCE
T
and from March–April 2015, with a maximum of three sessions per week. Participants must be aged 18 or over, with a maximum of six people in a group. The price is €295 (£232), with a suit provided.. If only one person is interested there’s the possibility to go in a two-seat bobsleigh.
dancing in your ski boots. “Megève is very French, has a reputation for the best gastronomy in the Alps and a somewhat staid image, dare one say it, when it comes to nightlife. Not somewhere you’d normally associate with extravagant parties and après ski,” says Elizabeth Cahir of the small specialist British operator Stanford Skiing, which has long been established in the resort (stanfordskiing.co.uk). The new Folie Douce will open at the top of Mont Joux, one of the peaks in the Megève/St Gervais ski area, with a new high-speed six-seater chair accessing
he charming, picturesque French resort of
it. The venue will provide its usual mix
Megève is the latest to see the arrival of a
of cabaret and festive après-ski from
Folie Douce on-mountain apres-ski venue
lunchtime until the pistes close.
this winter. The chain, which is growing
“Is Megève ready? We say bring it on!”
across France, has built a reputation for
says Cahir. “Although we do wonder where
Austrian-style hedonistic après-ski at
the party is going to come from given that
altitude, albeit with a little more Ibiza than
outside of French hols Megève is blessed
traditional Tirol, courtesy of the tabletop
with extremely quiet pistes. Great for those who want to ski; less good for making the party go with a swing!” Unlike other operators, family-run Stanford
START PLANNING YOUR SKI TRIP TODAY ONLINE: VOYAGES-SNCF.COM
Ski has 15 staff, led by John and his wife Kathryn, in the resort. It owns and operates its own chalets, as well as working with local
CALL: 0844 848 5848
hotels, and operating a transfer service
Weekdays 9am - 7pm, Saturdays 9am - 6pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays closed
to Geneva airport. The company offers
VISIT: VOYAGES-SNCF TRAVEL CENTRE 193 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EU
apartment, chalet, and hotel holidays, with catered chalet prices from £520 per week
Weekdays 10am - 6pm, Saturdays 10am - 5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays closed
P. ROYER
plus flights, and weekend and short breaks
FIND US ON:
from £295 for 3 nights in a catered chalet.
facebook.com/VoyagesSncf.UK twitter.com/VoyagesSncf_UK
026 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
For stockists information call: 01572 770900
Scare Your self WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
028 // OCT14 // INTHESNOW.COM
e r f
ecent years have seen ski areas endeavour to out-do each other on who can create the most exhilarating, or terrifying, attraction for their guests. Making use of their existing assets – very big mountains, very long drops, and very high lifts – resorts have been busily constructing glass-bottomed balconies hanging over cliffs, 3km-high zip wires, cable cars with see-through floors (or you get to ride on the roof), and a collection of rickety-looking (but in reality very stable, we hope) metal bridges and suspended walkways, thousands of metres above the valley below. Here’s our quick guide to eight of the top vertigo-challenging attractions in the Alps this winter.
THE PEAK WALK What’s claimed to be the first hanging bridge in the world to connect two peaks with one another has been built at Glacier 3000, a ski area between Les Diablerets and Gstaad in Switzerland. The 107m-long bridge, named The Peak Walk, hangs 3000m up in the Swiss Alps. Scheduled to open in November, it has cost CHF1.8m (£1.2m) to build. The bridge will be open all year round, and admission will be free (once you’ve bought a lift pass to get up to it).
029 // OCT14
C CATTIN AND VAL THORENS TOURIST OFFICE
CONTINUED...
STEP INTO THE VOID A glass room hanging out over the Chamonix valley has been created 3842m up at the top of the Aiguille du Midi in France. The structure was built using specially created glass, developed by a French glazing company who specialise in oversized glass. A transparent film binds three layers of 12mm-thick glass together, without any alteration to its transparency, which means there is no optical effect. The glass plates of the five faces of the structure are held together by mechanical fasteners, which were also specifically developed for this project. The overall design eliminates any metallic structure, which ensures an unobstructed field of view for visitors. The structure can support a weight up to 1.5 tonnes, but “for greater comfort” a maximum group of four visitors is allowed at any one time.
THE CLIFF WALK Located 3041m above sea level, the 100m-long (and 1m-wide) Titlis Cliff Walk, above Engelberg above Switzerland, is a spectacular suspension bridge accessed by another engineering marvel, the revolving “Rotair” cable car, an all-new improved version of which debuts this winter. After arriving at the summit, to reach the Cliff Walk visitors pass through an underground tunnel and on to the viewing platform at the south wall window. The suspension bridge stretches from here to the Ice Flyer glacier chairlift station. “To cross the bridge, you’ll need nerves as strong as the steel cables from which it hangs,” warns the resort’s publicity blurb, adding, sadly, “Please note: the suspension bridge will be closed in bad weather.”
The world’s highest zip wire opened above Val Thorens in France last spring connecting the Maurienne Valley and Tarentaise regions. At 1300m ( just under a mile) long, and starting at more than 3200m above sea level, visitors ride through the air reaching speeds from 65–105km/h. The 105s-long ride costs €50 (£40), taking you up to 250m above the ground, with the journey designed to mimic that of a flying eagle. The zip wire is reserved for skiers and boarders only, who must be aged 8 years or over and must wear a helmet. “The moment I launched myself into the void, my heart was beating like crazy. Then, it was an absolute joy, pure ecstasy in which I saw the mountains like never before,” said 34-year-old Thibault, one of the first to try it. “You glide above the landscape with a sense of complete freedom in nature and feel as if you’re not disturbing a thing.”
030 // OCT14
JOELLE BOZON
HIGHEST ZIP WIRE
B. DELAPIERRE
“The moment I launched myself into the void, my heart was beating like crazy”
OPEN-TOP CABLE CAR New cabins installed on the existing cable car to the Dachstein glacier, near Schladming in Austria, have the novelty of an upstairs “balcony”, where up to 10 passengers can get a fresh-air view of the massive Dachstein massif as the lift climbs 1000 vertical metres to 2700m in just over 5 minutes, hanging up to 210m above the south face of the mountain, and requiring no support towers. Access to the balcony section, open all year round, is on a firstcome, first-served basis, with special access at the lift stations at no additional cost.
DINE OVER THE CLIFF Building mountain restaurants with spectacular views isn’t new, but the Top Mountain Star panorama bar at the top of Obergurgl’s ski area in Austria seems to edge that little bit further towards the void. Jutting out into the sky 3080m up, the futuristically designed Mountain Star provides spectacular views across the Otztaler Alps from its location at the Wurmkogl ski area at Hochgurgl.
GREAT GLASS ELEVATORS In recent years advances in lift technology have allowed for the creation of new cable cars and gondolas suspended ever higher above the valley below, and with fewer support towers required. In recent installations, including the Peak2Peak in Whistler Blackcomb, which hangs 440m above the ground, it has become obligatory, it seems, to install transparent flooring in at least some of the cabins, so those who want to can ride across looking straight down. Other lifts with this added feature include the Gentianes lift at Verbier in Switzerland, and the 3S Bahn at Kitzbühel in Austria.
THE SKYLINE WALK August saw the opening of the new Skyline walk at Mürren in the spectacular Swiss Jungfrau region. This platform, an extension of the existing Birg mountain restaurant’s terrace, is situated over a vertical precipice, offering stunning and exhilarating panoramic views. “The Skyline Walk platform is a mainly steel and glass structure with a steel grill walkway,” according to a resort statement. “Its angular shape connects seamlessly with the exposed Birg Station and the irregular cliff formations of the surrounding landscape.” The transparent nature of the structure allows for unimpeded views of the entire mountain panorama as well as heady views into the depths.
THE DACHSTEIN SKY WALK Once you have reached the Dachstein glacier on your roof-top cable-car ride, the fun doesn’t need to end there as what the centre claims is the most spectacular viewing platform in the Alps awaits. Right next to the Dachstein cable-car top station the Dachstein Sky Walk stretches out over the void. Beneath your feet there’s the 250-metre sheer rock cliff face of the Hunerkogel, and all around you a stunning mountain panorama with views as far as the Triglav Mountains in Slovenia or north to the Bohemian Forest of the Czech Republic. And that’s not all, because the highest mountain in southern Austria is also home to the Dachstein Suspension bridge, a metal structure hanging over a 400m void – yet another big drop to peer down into. Still need more thrills? Well you could always go skiing or snowboarding. The Dachstein glacier’s five lifts are open most days of the year.
INTHESNOW.COM // OCT14 // 031
150 YEARS OF WINTER TOURISM It was almost 150 years ago to the day that the then owner of the Kulm Hotel (kulm.com), Johannes Badrutt, made a bold bet promising the last departing British summer guests of 1864 a free winter stay if their winter holiday in St Moritz was not as good as the summer. After a great winter, those Brits spread the word, starting winter tourism.
LAAX PIPE TO BE MADE LONGER LAAX, home of the annual Burton European Open and a year-round indoor
HELI-SKIING ROADSHOW
freestyle snow-sports training centre, is one of the world’s leading areas for
Whether you are an experienced
representatives of CMH Heli-skiing in
watch the latest CMH Heli-skiing movies.
Bristol – Mon 10 November.
freestyle skiing and boarding. The Swiss
heli-skier or someone considering
British Columbia, Canada, the company
Special guest, the experienced CMH
Manchester – Tues 11 November.
resort already has four snow parks, a
heli-skiing for the first time, you have
that invented heli-skiing 50 years ago
Mountain Guide Roko Koell, will provide
Oxford – Wed 12 November.
super pipe, a mini pipe and a freestyle
the opportunity to join Pure Powder at
and are today the largest and most
his insights into heli-skiing in Canada.
Central London – Thurs 13 November.
slope, and this winter it is extending its
their CMH Heli-skiing presentations this
experienced heli-ski operator in the world.
super pipe by 40m to give it an impressive
coming November to learn more about
At Pure Powder’s relaxed evening
DATES AND VENUES:
Each event starts at 6.30pm. For
this ultimate ski experience.
presentations you will be treated to
London (1st Timers) – Tues 4 November.
more info and to register go to: www.
Pure Powder are the official UK
drinks and canapés, and you will get to
Edinburgh – Thurs 6 November.
purepowder.com/cmhevents.cfm
total length of 200m.
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South Tyrol ... Italy with a twist
bo
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Bolzano Bozen
South Tyrol is Italy at its best – with an added dash of Alpine influence. Discerning skiers enjoy guaranteed snow coverage on 90% of slopes, cosy mountain huts and an awe-inspiring backdrop of the Dolomites. Add to that, 300 days of sunshine a year, delicious food fusing Italian and alpine flavours and quality regional wines and it’s clear to see why South Tyrol really is Italy with a twist. www.suedtirol.info
12/18/11 4:46 PM
07.indd 1
1/4/12 10:29 AM
Win a WEEK
for 2 to Les
Arcs Voyages-sncf.com, the UK’s leading provider of European rail tickets and passes is offering a chance to win 7 nights in a Pierre & Vacances Hotel in Les Arcs area and plus ski equipment. To enter visit inthesnow.com/competition You’ll travel from London to the heart
per hour. The lucky winners will
courtesy of Pierre et Vacances.
of the French Alps by first class rail,
stay in a one bedroom self-catering
To be in with a chance of winning,
travelling at speeds of up to 320km
apartment in the resort of Les Arcs
just answer this simple question:
Terms & Conditions: Entrants must be aged 18 or over and must be UK residents. Prize is non-transferable. There is no monetary alternative. Prize must be taken between Saturday January 17 and Saturday January 24 2015, is for 7 nights for 2 people. Rail travel will be on Eurostar services from London to Paris and on TGV services from Paris to Bourg Saint Maurice.Prize includes return rail travel for 2 people from London to Bourg Saint Maurice in standard premier class on Eurostar and in first class on TGV services (subject to availability); accommodation for 2 people in a 1 bedroom self-catering apartment in Les Arcs. The following are not included – transfers to and from the departure stations and resort; ski hire; lift passes; insurance; food and other sundries.
What is the name of the UK’s leading provider of European rail tickets?: 1. SNCF-Voyager.com 2. Voyages.com 3. Voyages-sncf.com
POWER STATION PISTE MAP The company currently constructing the
half of the power plant’s exterior shell. The
artificial surface cross-country trails and ice
giant Amager Bakke waste-to-energy plant
green will snake all the way round to the base
rink surfaces are planned.
in Copenhagen, Denmark, which will feature
of the building, with the blue and black runs
The plant is due to be completed in 2017 and
a dry ski slope descending the sides of the
filtering into it at the midway point.
will burn 70 tonnes of waste per hour, treating
building has revealed a piste map showing
Access to the top of the building will be via
around 400,000 tonnes of waste annually,
exactly what type of terrain will be available to
elevators. The piste map also shows cross-
produced by 500,000–700,000 inhabitants
skiers and boarders.
country ski runs and ice skating at the base
and, at least, 46,000 companies. It will supply a
The plant will feature green (very easy), blue
of the building. It is not clear whether this is
minimum of 50,000 households with electricity,
(easy), and black (difficult) runs on the upper
intended to be possible for cold winters, or if
and 120,000 households with district heating.
F_180w_240h_ITS.pdf
1
16/09/2014
16:20
DOES YOUR EQUIPMENT PERFORM AS WELL AS IT SHOULD...?
4 VALLÉES SURVIVES BITTER DISAGREEMENT C
The 4 Vallées ski area in Switzerland, which was under threat due to a serious disagreement about income share by the different lift companies that run it, will remain intact after all following
M
Y
negotiations between those companies, and a renewed 18-year
CM
agreement has been signed.
MY
The 4 Vallées claims to be Switzerland’s largest ski area, with 400k of runs, which encompasses the trails above the neighbouring resorts of Nendaz, Veysonnaz, Verbier, and Thyon. During the period of disagreement this summer, Verbier went as far as suggesting a new Verbier-only area would be created, with around 200km of runs. Aware of the importance of finding a solution for the 2014–15 winter season, talks and negotiations between the four participating lift companies were conducted by State Councillor Jacques Melly, who helped them reach a solution. They say they are now committed to strengthening their collaboration. “We welcome this positive outcome as this is great news for skiers holidaying in the Verbier 4 Vallées area,” said Pierre-Andre Gremaud, Director at Verbier/Val de Bagnes – La Tzoumaz Promotion SA. The areas previously disagreed some years ago when the break-up of the 4 Vallées was also threatened between seasons, but this was again resolved before the snow arrived. A 6-day adult 4 Vallées lift pass costs CHF355 (£232).
CY
CMY
K
Recent innovations in technology means ski equipment is better than it’s ever been before. Ski boots are much more customizable, as plastic shells can now be heat moulded and shaped to the lumps and bumps in your feet. Have you improved since you bought your current boots? Are they still comfortable making you reluctant to upgrade them? A pair of custom fitted boots will be more comfortable than you can possibly imagine and give better performance than your old ski boots ever could. Have your skis seen better days? Can you ski everything you want to? Skis have now become much more versatile and user friendly helping you to ski in all snow conditions. If you choose the correct ski shape and ability level, you will see huge changes in your progression and enjoyment. Come and visit us today to ensure you have the correct advice from experienced equipment specialists before you invest in your next pair of boots and skis. Bringing you the largest specialist range of skis & boots in the UK and advice and expertise since 1965. We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment for wherever your passions and dreams take you. Custom boot fitting specialists. Ski Industries Of Great Britain official ski testers. “WINNER OF THE WORLD SNOW AWARDS - BEST UK SPECIALIST RETAILER”
FREERIDE | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATIONAL @INTHESNOWMAG //
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Ski holidays
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from
£
GET YOUR SKIS ON! The new season is nearly here and there’s no better feeling than being back on the slopes. Take advantage of our early booking prices and choose from our portfolio of hand-picked chalet hotels in some of the finest, snow-sure resorts in the Alps. Check out our new chalet hotels in Tignes & Zell am See Mark Warner ski holidays include: Direct Flights | Resort Transfers | Accommodation Welcome Drinks & Canapés | Breakfast | Afternoon Tea | 3 Course Dinner with Wine Evening Childcare | Ski Hosting* | Lift Pass Collection Service
markwarner.co.uk | 0844 273 6825 Val d’Isère | Tignes | Les Deux Alpes | La Plagne | Courchevel 1850 | Méribel | Courmayeur | St Anton | Zell am See ATOL1176 protected. *Courmayeur only. Price shown is per person based on two people sharing, apply to 7 nights at Chalet Hotel Moris, Val d’Isère departing 19/04/15, is subject to availability, cannot be combined or offered in retrospect and can be withdrawn at any time. Facilities & inclusives vary between resorts. See website for full terms & conditions.
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WILDER
KAISER REASON ONE INSPIRING SCENERY Located a little way east of Innsbruck, beneath the mighty Wilder Kaiser
speedy routes or family favourites, like the moonlight toboggan run at
mountain range in the Austrian Alps, are the traditional ski resorts of Söll,
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The genuine welcome received in the Wilder
REASON TWO AUSTRIA’S LARGEST SKI AREA
Kaiser region goes a long way to help make this area extra special for visitors. On the mountain there are more than 70 rustic ski huts, providing an authentic mountain
With 280km of slopes providing perfect intermediate territory, the wide and open pistes are immaculately groomed, flattering all
WILDER KAISER FURTHER INFO
atmosphere and serving the best mountain food – just what you need for a well-earned break from all the action.
skiers and boarders whatever their skill level. You can ski all day without taking the same
Independent packages start from €386
lift or the same run twice. Each year the area
per person for “Super Ski Weeks” to the
spends big on upgrades which make it even
Wilder Kaiser, including a 25% discount
better still.
on the whole holiday – 7 nights accom-
REASON THREE APRÈS-SKI ACTIVITIES
REASON FIVE ON-MOUNTAIN CHILDCARE
modation on B&B, 6-day ski pass, on ski
Dropping the children off at ski kindergarten
hire and ski school and a Wilder Kaiser
then having to make your way up the mountain
Guest Card (offer valid 6 – 19 Dec 2014
is not the most efficient use of time, especially
and 14 March – 12 April 2015).
if you have to turn around and reverse the process after a few runs in order to be there for pick-up time. In Scheffau, head to the top
Beyond the slopes, try a horse-drawn sleigh
station of the Brandstadl lift as a family, where
ride through the picturesque scenery, or try Alpine curling or ice skating. With 14km of toboggan runs on five dedicated
children will love the Schneepiraten Kids Club and parents can get straight
runs, tobogganing is a “must do”. Choose from romantic forest tracks,
on to the slopes.
WILDERKAISER.INFO
037 // OCT14
threevalleetransfers ION CAMERAS
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Woodsy dominated the finals, with a first run
of the BSS Park and Pipe Squad have come
score of 93.3, and stayed on top for the remain-
together to encourage people to “get involved”
der of the three runs, cementing the win with a
and join BSS to help park and pipe get better
score of 96.7 in the second run.
representation in the organisation.
“My first run was good, but I knew I had more to
That means anyone who is already in some way
give,” said Woods, “When the level of competition
involved in freestyle or freeski should consider
is so high you can’t play around. My goal is always
joining BSS via:
to ski the best I can so I wanted to improve. I’m re-
teambss.org.uk/about-us/join-us/
ally proud of the rail section and the kickers were
“The GB Park and Pipe Team have a strong foun-
smooth. I went big and that felt good.”
dation and we are keen to build on the recent
But the issue BSS faces is that its current mem-
successes in Sochi, maintaining the progression
bership is
and to be
dominated by
able to chal-
representatives of the traditional Alpine disciplines – downhill and
“The level of the competition is so high you can’t play around. My goal is always to ski the best I can so I wanted to improve”
lenge for multi medals in snowsports in the upcoming years,” said
eam GB famously did great things in park and
slalom – but
pipe at the Sochi Olympics, and in other world-
it is having
class competitions, but British Ski and Snow-
to vote on a
board (BSS), the governing body of British snow
policy that
sports, has warned that future success may be
rewards
under threat if more “regular” people don’t sign
success. Consequently, in the run-up to the 2018
who added, “We need as many people with an
up as members of the organisation.
Olympics, this sees all of a multi-million pound
interest in Freeski and Freestyle Snowboard, no
Team BSS slopestyle skier James “Woodsy”
funding package for British snow sports, allocated
matter how small or how seemingly outdated, to
Woods, the only Brit to win a Crystal Globe in
by public funding body UK Sport, going to park
come and get involved whether as an organiser,
snow sports, has already gotten the 2014–15
and pipe, with none going to those traditional
supporter of the local scene, coach, filmmaker,
season for the team off to a great start by taking
Alpine disciplines. If the current membership vote
or other role. We would love to have you engage
the title of the NZ Freeski Open Champion just
against the funding package, it could have serious
with our growing community, and we need those
over a month ago, after dominating the finals in English tag b & w - reverse
consequences for that subsidy.
already involved to become members of BSS to
Cardrona. After taking the top qualifying spot,
So, in order to try to balance things out, members
give us a voice within the organisation.”
Bilingual - reverse
English tag - reverse
French tag - reverse
JAMES WOODS | SLOPESTYLE SKIER
Lesley McKenna, BSS Park and Pipe Programme Manager,
French tag b & w - reverse
038 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
SWEDEN 1982. Five Seasons was established in Gothenburg on the Swedish west coast in 1982. For over 30 years the company has been producing high quality and technical spor tswear with focus on ski, outdoor, golf and sailing. Being born and raised on the Swedish west coast, where sea meets land and summer meets winter, we know what is needed to stay warm and dr y in those cold, rainy and windy Gothenburg-days.Five Seasons always strive to offer spor tswear with best value for money. With focus on function and fashion Five Seasons’ products are designed and produced to satisfy the technical requirements of the most demanding spor tsmen and spor tswomen. Five Seasons’ products can be found in leading ski-, golf-, outdoor- and spor t stores. www.fiveseasons.se
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f you’re planning a trip to Val d’Isère
The company’s website has a new search en-
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pricing guides, resort information and guides,
different packages on the market,
webcams, and lots more – including feedback
but there’s only one agency that
from existing customers: simplyvaldisere.com/
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testimonials.htm.
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Simply Val d’Isère has 16 years’ experi-
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4★ holiday packages
assistance whenever required, with a personal
Why wait for the winter? Snoworks
contact number given to guests.
(snoworks.co.uk) has courses for all
The specialist travel and accommodation
abilities launching from 18 October on
agent can help you choose your perfect place
the snow-sure glacier at Tignes, France.
in the village from its huge portfolio, which
The company lists quiet slopes,
includes more than 200 self-catered apart-
cheaper prices, guaranteed snow, and
ments, 120 catered chalets, and 30 hotels, for
the very best of British ski instruction
all budgets. Simply Val d’Isère is also 100% fi-
as the reasons to book one of their
nancially bonded so all bookings are protected
– the many options for almost all
– quite important these days in light of people
abilities range from intermediate all
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terrain courses (£300) right up to
Simply Val d’Isère can also sort out your ski
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040 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
AIVARS ZEE ZARINS
Rail Riders
“Rail riding” is a hot topic in snow sports with many of the industry’s highlevel Ski and Snowboard Coaches having labelled it at indoor snow centres as the Brits’ big opportunity to compete internationally on snow.
S
dry slope. Now he’s won the Burton Rail Days Com-
going to spin 270 onto a rail, I would try a 180
petition in Tokyo, competed in the Olympics and
spin first. I also make sure I fully commit to what-
trains on the largest rails at The Snow Centre Hemel
ever trick I’m trying. If I don’t feel like trying it, I
Hempstead, so naturally we were more than happy
wait for another day. That’s key to being a suc-
to get a few rail-riding pointers from him!
cessful snowboarder; I don’t want to get carried away and risk injury. Having weekly freestyle
How would you hit your first rail?
lessons at a snow centre or dry slope is a really
Rather than going straight for riding a rail, I’d
good way to build on tricks.
practise riding onto boxes or gas pipes. You can find these at real-snow slopes like The Snow Cen-
What’s running through your head throughout
tre. If possible I’d try “ride-on” boxes. “Ride-ons”
a rail trick?
are features that you don’t need to jump onto;
Way before I get onto the rail I’ve planned
they have a “snowy get-on” running into them, so
the trick! I’ve thought about how to do it and
you can literally ride straight (50-50) over them.
visualised myself doing it too, so as I approach
From 50-50s I’d progress to board slides, before
the rail I’m already confident I will land it. There
getting creative, with spins on or off the features.
is no point attempting something you don’t
“Side hits” are the next step up from “ride-ons”.
believe you’re going to land! Once on the rail
o if the ease of indoor rail riding really is our
This involves jumping from a “get-on” at the side
I’m relaxed, I spot the landing as I come to the
chance to shine, what extra hints and tips will
of a rail or box onto it. I wouldn’t rush into landing
end of the rail and get ready to ride away with
send us on the way to performing “gnarly” tricks
on actual rails; side-hitting gas pipes is a great
a smile on my face. Landing a trick is a great
on a rail or two?
way to progress and improve your rail game.
feeling and gives you the buzz to go and do
Known for his technical rail stunts, Team GB’s
it again. Remember, landing it once doesn’t
Slopestyle Olympian Snowboarder Jamie Nicholls
How do you make sure you land a rail trick?
mean you have learnt it; it’s where the learning
started out riding a gas pipe on Halifax’s Snowplex
I set up tricks to benefit the next trick! If I was
begins. Repetition!
THESNOWCENTRE.COM
041 // OCT14
ALTITUDE-VERBIER.COM | ALTITUDE-FUTURES.COM | FREERIDE-VERBIER.COM
LESSON #01 AGILITY INTRODUCTION
1. NO SKIS
2. OUTSIDE SKI
3. INSIDE SKI
When having a ski lesson, sometimes
At the start of the day, before skiing,
The outside ski is king, and this exercise
Try lifting your outside ski at various
you might wonder why you are being
it’s a good idea to warm up. Try making
will help in making sure you are in con-
points throughout the turn, before,
asked to do various silly things like
short turns, jump turns, or hop turns
trol of your balance over this ski.
during, and after the fall line. Practising
standing on one ski, lift this, hold that
whilst off your skis. Next, try doing the
Try lifting your inside ski at various
this helps to develop lateral movements,
there … tricky movements! The answer
same on a gentle slope (still off skis);
points throughout the turn.
which is an essential movement used
is that they can help to build strong
boot skiing can be fun, quite easy to
links between your brain and your
master, and great for a warm-up. It’s also
TIP: Try lifting up your inside ski just
muscles, making you more adaptable,
great to keep the kids entertained whilst
after the fall line – if you are balanced
Tip: Start lifting it after the fall line,
and quicker to learn and change ... also
someone is taking a toilet stop!
over your downhill ski then this should
and as you build more confidence try
be quite easy. If you struggle it’s likely
to lift it earlier in the turn.
they can be fun and rewarding! Below
when carving your skis.
are some fun, simple, yet effective drills
TIP: It’s all about being centred on
to be because you have too much
you can try on snow. Have fun!
your boots; too far back or forward
weight on the inside ski.
will result in a wipeout!
SKI BOOT LAB
www.profeet.co.uk/skiing
PROFEET ARE THE UK SPECIALISTS IN SKI BOOTS, BOOT FITTING, CUSTOM SKI INSOLES & CUSTOM LINERS
A personal assessment with a skilled ski boot fitter
*depending on appointment type
Biomechanical analysis Custom insoles to and ski simulation to support your feet test boots and improve fit*
Shell customisation and foam liners for comfort and precision
Call 020 7736 0046 Profeet 867 Fulham Road, London, SW6 5HP
YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DAY ON SNOW It’s vital to check the school
FUN WARM-UP GAMES
start to use the green carpet to
employs a team of specially
Watch from afar and see if the
learn side-stepping and straight
trained instructors who have
instructors start with some fun
running (sliding down with both
experience and love to look
games and exercises to warm-
skis straight). Following this,
after children aged 3–5 years.
up those little muscles, ready for
instructors will start to work on
On day 1 you should witness an
a big morning of skiing. Some of
the “pizza” shape (snowplough)
immediate connection between
Altitude instructors’ favourites
– this is the shape made with
your child and the instructor.
include What’s The Time Mr
the skis to help the children to
Young children may arrive at
Wolf, Musical Statues, and
slow down, stop, and turn.
the meeting point on the first
Chase The Polar Bear.
day with hesitation, confusion,
A JOB WELL DONE!
and often a few tears. However,
Every good school will have a
JON (AKA WESTY) AT ALTITUDE
soon as they put on their
TEACHING THE TECHNIQUES
“Altitude Racing Bib” and meet
Skiing development should not
week to celebrate the children’s
“Patrick the Polar Bear”, the
be rushed and should start in a
accomplishments. Your children
Find a gentle slope and practise skiing
Jon is one of a handful of instructors
tears and missing mum and dad
kid’s garden, a private section
should leave the week with their
on one ski by holding the other ski
working in the Alps to hold the top qualifi-
should be forgotten.
on the nursery slope that is
badges proudly pinned to their
up in the air for 100% of the turn. Now
cations from France, Switzerland and Brit-
cornered off, and filled with toys
ski jackets, ready to tell their
try linking the turn and increasing the
ain. In his role as Ski School Director, Jon
and games to help the students
friends at home all about their
speed. This drill will help you to improve
is on hand to manage the different parts
learn and have fun.
skiing adventures.
your balance, and your ability to move
of the Altitude company portfolio, includ-
CONTROL & SAFETY OF THE GROUP
laterally from side to side. To make the
ing the Ski and Snowboard School, the
Do the kids leave the meeting
scooting around with just one
task more difficult try taking one ski off!
Futures instructor training programmes,
point in control and style?
ski, and then swapping onto the
(Recommended for strong intermediate
and Freeride Verbier, a new school dedi-
Hopefully with a human train,
other leg. This is great fun for
skiers only.)
cated to off-piste coaching in Verbier (+41
conga line, or perhaps a pirate
the little ones as they get the
277 716 006; info@altitude-verbier.com).
ship … singing a few songs …
feel for the snow and sliding
Wheels on the Bus.
around. After this, they might
this should not last long – as
4. ONE SKI
Tip: On a flat slope try making shallow turns to start with and not turning too far across the hill. CR110914-JUNIOR-HALF-PAGE-HORIZONTAL.pdf
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Day one should include
prize-giving at the end of the
ATOMIC CLIFFLINE STORMFOLD JACKET
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It’s all about feeling your skiing not
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performance has also been improved;
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the addition of flex zones in the sole
Pertex storm shell tucked away in a
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DOUCHEBAG SLIM JIM £99.99
BLACK CROWS ATRIS
Fed up of floppy ski bags? Can’t find
Giving you float for ripping the light fluffy
anywhere to store your bulky ski bag in the
powder, stability for charging heavy crud,
hotel, or at home? Along comes the Slim
but still agile when it comes to skiing on-
Jim – an adjustable length, easily rollable,
piste. It’s not surprising this ski has won
packable single ski bag. A lightweight
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design for those restrictive airline weight
go-to ski for having fun in any conditions
limits, but tough enough to suffer airline
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£580
travel abuse. And it’s clever Shoulder Carrying System allows you to tow the bag behind you, freeing your hands for whatever else you may need them for.
MONS ROYALE WOMENS 1/4 ZIP HOODIE £129.99 The 1/4 zip hoodie is the ultimate performance mid layer. Made from 260gsm jersey knit merino this top brings extra warmth while still delivering plenty of breathability. The emergency hood can be pulled under a hat or helmet for max coverage. surfdome.com
ZAINI CAMERON BEANIE £20.99 Zaini hats are still the leader of headwear when it comes to snow sports and with a whole new 2014/2015 range they can’t be missed on the slopes! Just like this NEW ‘Cameron’ beanie. zaini.com
SNOW SHEPHERD LEATHER SKI GLOVES £14.99 Snowshepherd the off piste equipmnet specialists sell what they test, avalanche equipment, skis and specialist clothing. They have become well known as the only Ski retailer to sell the famous French ski worker leather gloves as used by ski instructors, guides and lift workers across the French Alps. Also stocking a full range of leather ski gloves. sales@snowshepherd.co.uk; snowshepherd.co.uk
044 // OCT14
SCARPA F1 EVO £500 The innovative technology in these backcountry touring-focused boots will give you a superb combination of fit and power to the ski, but the best part is their auto-walk mechanism. No more issues
SHRED SMARTEFY SHRASTAWOOD £130
remembering to put your boot into ski or tour mode, the F1 Evo does the thinking for you! With these
A wooden goggle strap … well, almost. After the popularity of the Shrastawood
boots you will be the envy of all
framed glasses, SHRED has now brought you a mock wood goggle strap!
your friends, who’ll still be bending
SHRED’s goal is to produce goggles that not only look unique, but also perform
down to adjust theirs!
when you need them. No distortion lenses, wide peripheral vision, NO BS easychange lenses, and, of course, a great fit.
SCOTT BLACK MAJIC SKI £525 A more piste-orientated version of Scott’s award-winning “The Ski”. They may be a
CONTOUR ROAM 3 CAMERA
narrower shape, but you won’t believe what this ski can do until you take it out to play! Nimble on any terrain, grippy in any turn shape, and smooth throughout the turn, this is one of the most rewarding and versatile piste-orientated skis we’ve skied with!
£189.99 Brand new from Contour, the Roam 3 is adventure ready right out of
MAMMUT GUIDE WORK GLOVE £85
SHRED BELUSHKI SHRASTAWOOD £130–£150
the box! Featuring an instant on record switch and quick photo mode, you can shoot exactly what
The Blues Brothers meets classic Italian design and craftsmanship!
you want, when you want! It sheds
The tough one – a durable warm glove
SHRED’s handmade frames and high-quality Carl Zeiss lenses, give each
bulk by working underwater for up
for years of use, or seasons of abuse! A
pair of these sunglasses a craftsmanship and unique finish that cannot
to 10m without a case. Versatile,
combination of waterproof cowhide with
be replicated. Classic, timeless sunnies that will not only guarantee you
sleek and easy to use – the best
sheepskin leather gives you durability and
experience superior protection, precision and performance, but also will
Contour camera yet!
flexibility, making these a super comfortable
make you look awesome!
contourshop.com
winter work glove to keep your hands warm in the mountains. If you’re a seasonnaire, mountain guide, instructor, or coach, you’ll
PERILLA SOCKS £18
know quality when you see it.
Keep feet cosy in fabulous 75% baby alpaca ski socks from alpaca specialist Perilla; perfect for all winter sports. Ribbed sides and soft cushioned soles
SCOTT ALPRIDE AVALANCHE PACK £599 Utilising the same high-specification inflation system as airline life vests, the Alpride pack technology is fast inflating, super light (at only 1.2kg),
in a great palette of colours from vibrant rasberry and purples to cream and black. One pair can be worn for a week! perilla.co.uk
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and, of course, airline friendly!
With their renowned reputation for
Combine this with user-friendly
specialist expert advice, combined
design, low cost, and clever hidden
with their carefully selected and
features, and you have one of the
tested range of products, it’s no
best avalanche backpacks ever
surprise that Ski Bartlett’s word of
produced.
mouth reputation over the last 50 years has made them the UK’s most popular independent ski shop!
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
INTHESNOW.COM // OCT14 // 045
ELECTRIC CAR = CHEAPER PASS Les Gets in the French Portes du Soleil region has long been a campaigning resort on the environment. It continues to encourage and reward visitors conscious of their environmental footprint. In addition to the two electrical car charging points in the resort, this season anyone owning an electric car may use special VIP parking places and receive a 20% reduction on their lift pass.
MAMMOTH BOWLING
“NEW” SCOTTISH SKI AREA Scotland is set to get its sixth ski
80km from the English border.
Scotland’s first commercial ski centre
run, and two shorter 100m-long lifts
centre more than 20 years after the
The plan to install lifts and create a
back in 1952. In actual fact, people
to serve separate nursery slopes, all
last one opened at Nevis Range, near
permanent ski area – likely to be able
have been skiing here for more than
above a clubhouse at 585m.
Fort William.
to operate with sufficient snow and
62 years; it just seems to have gone
Lowther Hills Ski Club is now seeking
Unlike the other five ski areas in the
volunteers for around 20 days each
largely unnoticed in the wider skiing
volunteers to help move them.
The new state-of-the-art Mammoth Rock ‘N
Highlands, however, the Lowther Hills
winter on average – is not new. This
world until now.
“My vision for the place is to have
Bowl and recreation centre will combine a
in Dumfriesshire, where the ski area is
is, in fact, the third attempt to establish
The new plan, put forward by the
a New Zealand style centre (low
12 lane bowling alley, high-definition golf
to open, is located near Wanlockhead,
a permanent facility in the past 62
Lowther Hills Ski Club (skiclub.
operating cost, financially sustainable)
Britain’s highest village, in southern
years, with previous efforts floundering
lowtherhills.com), involves the
with a few tows, snowgrooming and
tables, a laser maze attraction and a
Scotland, not far from the M74 up the
due mostly to bad luck. The site was
installation of one 600m-long tow
curling facilities,” said Anjo Abelaira,
restaurant run by local chef Matt Eoff.
west coast to Glasgow, and around
a contender to be the location of
up to 725m creating an intermediate
Chair of the Lowther Hills Ski Club.
A new 10 pin bowl complex at Mammoth Mountain in Californian will provide an apres ski alternative for skiers this winter.
simulators as well as darts, table tennis
Make your mark in The Three Valleys! The season starts 13th December, you can be there ...
From £275pp 8 days in resort, including travel and accommodation (based on 4 persons).
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t’s the all-to-common problem of the
non-resident guests they care to invite)
modern age. Our boss has given
can dance the night away while a DJ spins
us a small bonus and we’re keen
the disks on the twin turntable decks,
to splash out on something a little
the sound supplied through some of the
different for this year’s ski holiday.
world’s sexiest speakers.
But all those luxury chalets with
There are also various gaming tables and
their Michelin-starred chefs, private
a bar stocked with the finest champagnes,
spas, cinema rooms, chauffeur
and everything else.
service and champagne on tap are
“Gone are the days of getting the ‘choos’
all rather “samey”, aren’t they?
wet in the snow!” enthuses Alice Paisley
Well, fear not – your friends at
of The Oxford Ski Company, which lists Le
InTheSnow have hunted out those
Petit Palais among the 20 properties in their
properties that give you extra, and
annual Luxury Chalet Collection.
we’ve even found out how to secure them
Le Petit Palais offers six floors of designer
at a bargain price, if your bonus has not
decadence, has a ski-in, ski-out location
been quite as much as you’d hoped.
on the Bellecote piste and sleeps 12 in six
This month’s pick is Le Petit Palais (guess
bedrooms, which include an 885ft2 master
what that translates to?) in Courchevel 1850
suite and a VIP suite.
which, along with the inevitable private
You can save around 60% on the near
luxury spa, indoor heated pool, private gym,
quarter-of-a-million-euro rental price by
cinema and massage room features its very
booking at the start of the season rather
own nightclub, bar and casino.
than booking over the Russian oligarchs’,
The chalet’s dozen guests (and any
New Year.
048 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
THE MOUNTAIN IS CALLING
Kitzb端hel | Saalbach | Sestriere | La Plagne | Tignes | Whistler and loads more
At last the time has come. Build your trip at crystalski.co.uk
ATOL protected. For info please see our booking conditions.
BIG ON T U B Y N YEARS COMPA SMALL FOR OVER 20 E SERVIC LE ORDAB N F F A G I IN OFFER SKI CHALETS ED CATER DISKI AREA RA THE PA 259 ONLY £ M O R F PRICES PER PERSON ED CATER
skihiver.co.uk
O.UK C . R E V SKIHI @ S E L SA 4160 4 4 1 8 020
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
DIGITAL REVOLUTION
Looking for a great ski holiday? Find it at Snowfinders. Worldwide tailor-made and package ski holidays. Chalets, hotels and apartments.
Call us on 01858 466888. Visit us at www.snowfinders.co.uk
C
and resort tips, local resort teams will send up-to-date snow conditions to customers’ mobile devices, and in most resorts, Crystal’s holidaymakers will arrive to find their skis and boots ready and waiting for them at the ski hire shop, avoiding the queues. “We are combining the ski expertise of our resort teams with the latest mobile technology to give our customers a service they can’t find anywhere else,” said
LEARN SLOPESTYLE
Tamsin Todd, Crystal’s Managing Director. “Personalised service direct from the slopes
Powder White (powderwhite.com) is launching a
rystal, the UK’s biggest ski tour operator, has
to your mobile means you can worry less, and
Slopestyle course to learn the tricks of the park
announced the launch of a swathe of digital
focus on enjoying and getting the most out of
with expert tuition from New Generation Ski and
technology initiatives for the coming season,
your ski holiday.”
Snowboard School Freeski Camp instructors on
which the company says will “transform
Also, version 2 of the Crystal Ski Explorer
the French Alps.
holiday experiences for Crystal customers.”
app, released this winter, is designed to
The holidays include three, 3h sessions
To begin with, iPads loaded with custom-built
help customers get the most out of their
spread across the week in which participants
software will be made available to all 700 of
mountain holiday, displaying the latest
will (hopefully) learn to master the art of riding
the company’s overseas employees to help
information about resorts, snow, and ski
switch (backwards, progressing to 180s and
them to deliver a personalised and real-time
routes. In addition, skiers will be able to use
360s, taking off and landing big air jumps
service to customers.
the app to locate friends and family on the
(with an airbag), boxes and rails before hitting
The service will include a pre-departure
mountain, and connect to Crystal’s resort
the half pipe.
video call from the resort team to the
teams.
For 7 nights’ fully catered stay on 11 April 2015,
customer to discuss all elements of their
Along with the customer benefits, Crystal
the cost is from £618pp, staying at the new Chalet
upcoming holiday, from childcare to
says its investment in technology also
Patrice in Méribel. The holiday is also available
catering arrangements, before they even
means it is even better prepared to deal with
in Val d’Isère, Tignes, Méribel, and Courchevel.
start packing.
the unexpected, and significantly reduces
You need to have twin tip skis, a helmet and
Online info packs will provide in-depth advice
carbon emissions.
appropriate insurance to participate.
Aspen House, Kings Head Place, Market Harborough. LE16 7JT 050 // OCT14 ABTA J5552. ATOL 9279.
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
PROMOTION
HOME OF UK SNOW .....................................................
160M MAIN SLOPE
LARGEST LESSON SLOPE IN THE UK CLOSEST REAL SNOW TO LONDON
RAIL TICKETS TO THE ALPS ON SALE NOW
THE BEST WAX ON INDOOR SNOW
Tickets go on sale on 16 October for winter rail travel to the Alps during the first half of the ski season. If you’re planning to head to the ski slopes by train this winter, it’s important to book as soon as you can to secure seats on the service you require. Popular routes and dates sell out very quickly.
Graphite Training is the longest lasting
Winter bookings open early in the morning on Thursday
graphite wax there is, making it ideal for
16 October with tickets going on sale for trains operating
training sessions because equipment
between 14 December ‘14 and 6 February ’15, including
will have the protection, speed and
the Christmas and New Year periods.
nourishment for the entire session.
Reaching the ski slopes by train is becoming ever
Graphite Race is the hardest of the
more popular as increasing numbers of skiers realise
indoor Graphite waxes, making it
that it has many advantages over air travel. For one
the ideal race wax for indoor snow
thing there’s the generous luggage allowance with
surfaces. This wax has great protective
no additional charges for ski carriage. Then there
qualities but, more importantly, is fast
are the short check-in times, and you travel into the
and hard enough to resist the abrasive
heart of the mountains rather than a distant airport so
nature of indoor snow.
alleviating the need for long transfers.
erforming your own ski or board
All DataWax snow waxes are packaged
Rail is a more relaxing way to travel and it’s good
maintenance is easy – and
in 110g plastic clamshells for easy use
for your conscience too, being by far the most
on indoor snow it is highly
and safe storage. DataWax also stock
environmentally friendly way to get to the mountains.
recommended - according to
all the additional hardware you require
Best of all, you get more time on the slopes due to
DataWax. They are the UK’s biggest
to maintain your gear.
the early arrival and late departure of overnight trains.
manufacturer of ski and snowboard
DataWax.com is the place to find all
Routes popular with snow-sports fans include Paris to
care products, and with 30 years’
the products you need and contains a
Bourg-St-Maurice, Chambery, Moutiers and St-Gervais-
experience are experts on ski and
helpful and detailed ‘How To’ section.
Les-Bains from where you can connect to Chamonix.
board tuning. It is essential to know
This takes you step by step, in clear and
TGV France Italy services call at Sestriere, Oulx and
your own kit, so servicing will make
simple language, through the process
Turin, and TGV Lyria services call at destinations
your skiing or snowboarding easier,
required to service your equipment.
including Geneva, Lausanne, Aigle and Brig.
less tiring and more fun.
DataWax products are stocked in
If you’re looking to travel later in the winter, services
The snow in indoor snow centres
over 100 shops and snow-sport
operating between 7 February and 9 March will go on
can be different in texture to that in
centres across the UK, so look out
sale on 7 November.
regular outdoor ski areas and the
for them at your local slope or in your
Reservations and information – To find out more
build-up of static electricity can be
nearest shop!
about taking the train this winter, visit
significant. The addition of graphite
Use DataWax to keep your gear in top
www.voyages-sncf.com, call 0844 848 5848 or if
to indoor waxes ensures that your
condition any time, extending its life and
you’re in London pop into the Voyages-sncf Travel
bases repel the static build up.
making your skiing or snowboarding
Centre at 193 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EU.
DataWax Graphite Training and
easier, safer and more effective.
Graphite Race waxes are designed
info@datawax.com
especially for indoor snow use.
www.datawax.com
ALPINE THEMED RESTAURANT
.....................................................
PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE SLOPES A TASTE OF THE ALPS
NO NEED TO BOOK
FREE WIFI
THESNOWCENTRE.COM ............................................... 051 // OCT14
CHALET SASKIA VAUJANY Perfectly located on the slopes of Vaujany, Chalet Saskia features two separate large lounges with log fires, two sun terraces, a big TV and games room, 10 en-suite bedrooms all with balconies and a hot tub. The cuisine is simply inspiring and complemented by the impeccable service and excellent wine selection.
01428 608070 | INFO@SKIPEAK.NET | SKIPEAK.NET
MARK WARNER OPENS NEW HOTEL IN TIGNES
M
Espace Killy ski area, located only a
therapy rooms and a range of
a chalet board basis, including
100m walk away from the resort’s five
treatments on offer from massages
breakfast, afternoon tea and three-
main lifts.
to manicures. There’s also an
course dinner with wine. The well-
The Chalet Hotel is built from timber
impressive swimming pool, sauna,
appointed restaurant offers small and
in the traditional Savoie style and
Jacuzzi and Turkish bath.
large group tables creating a lively,
oozes charm and luxury inside
For families childcare is available for
fun atmosphere.
and out. The interiors are cosy
children aged between four months
and comfortable with local wood
and 12 years run by Mark Warner’s
panelling and a large lounge at the
experienced and qualified British
heart of the Chalet with inviting sofas
childcare team with a light, colourful
Prices from £582 per person
ark Warner will be opening the doors
around an open fireplace.
crèche for younger children and
including flights (from London,
of the fantastic Chalet Hotel L’Ecrin
Twins, doubles, interconnecting
supervised ski school drop-off and
Manchester or Birmingham),
in snow-sure Tignes Val Claret this
and family bedrooms are available,
afternoon care for older children.
transfers and seven nights’
season.
all with balconies overlooking the
There’s also a free drop-in crèche
accommodation with breakfast,
The 56-room, 4★ plus Chalet
slopes, flat-screen TVs and free wi-fi
service from 7.30pm – 11pm.
afternoon tea and three-course
Hotel located above Tignes Le Lac
access.
Accommodation is based on Mark
dinner with wine. Lift pass collection
provides access to 300km of the
The chalet’s beautiful spa has four
Warner’s high standards and on
service also available.
PRICES
The
ShortSkiShop.Com . Adult Short Skis &
WHY YOU SHOULD TRY SHORT SKIS What are short skis and why do you need to know about them? Short skis are like normal skis, only (surprise!) shorter, often 99cm long.
. Ski Blades from £99
They’re designed for adults, not children. The smaller size aids turning, as the radius is small, which means that when
. Gents Clothing to 8XL
a skier points the ski straight downhill in a turn the ski will turn away from the fall line very quickly without too much help from the skier. This results in rapid improvement due to better control, giving more confidence. People who struggle on regular skis find them very easy to use,
. Ladies Clothes to sz 30
whilst people who can ski well find them fun. The Short Ski Shop has become a centre of excellence for short skis, with a big range to choose from and low-cost shipping worldwide available (01277
. Short Leg Salopettes
823365, theshortskishop.com).
. Stretch Ski Pants
www.theshortskishop.com
052 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
THE OMNIA ZERMATT
HOTEL AVENUE LODGE VAL D’ISÈRE
HOTEL PLEIN SUD SERRE CHEVALIER
The Omnia is perfectly situated in the centre of Zermatt just off on a hidden back street, giving you the bustle of beautiful Zermatt right on your doorstep, but the peace and quiet you would expect from an escape to the mountains. The warm and friendly welcome is simply hard to beat.
The Hotel Plein Sud is situated close to the Écrins National Park, the mythical Cols du Lauteret Galibier and Izoard made famous by the Tour de France, and very close to the old town of Briançon, which now boasts UNESCO World Heritage status.
+41 (0)27 966 7171 // INFO@THE-OMNIA.COM THE-OMNIA.COM
+33 (0) 492 24 17 01 // LYNNE@HOTELPLEINSUD.COM HOTELPLEINSUD.COM
HOTEL FIREFLY ZERMATT
CHALET SASKIA VAUJANY
The luxurious Hotel Avenue Lodge is a superb base in one the world’s great ski areas, the exceptional Espace Killy. You’ll feel welcome from the minute you arrive with valet parking and the concierge service taking care of your luggage. The Hotel Avenue Lodge’s entire team is at your service to make your holiday in our resort an unforgettable stay.
The Hotel Firefly is the first address in Zermatt for travellers who expect luxury and lifestyle of the highest level. In the midst of the breathtaking scenery of the famous glacier ski area, the hotel is only 3 minutes from the Klein Matterhorn cable car and from the centre of Zermatt. Each suite is individual, spacious and luxuriously furnished.
Perfectly located on the slopes of Vaujany, Chalet Saskia features two separate large lounges with log fires, two sun terraces, a big TV and games room, 10 en-suite bedrooms all with balconies and a hot tub. The cuisine is simply inspiring and complimented by the impeccable service and excellent wine selection.
+33 (0)47 900 6767 // CONTACT@HOTELAVENUELODGE.COM HOTELAVENUELODGE.COM
+41 (0)27 967 7676 FIREFLY-ZERMATT.COM
01428 608070 // INFO@SKIPEAK.NET SKIPEAK.NET
RESIDENCE & SPA VALLORCINE CHAMONIX
CHALET DES ALPES CRANS MONTANA
HÔTEL L’HÉLIOPIC CHAMONIX
Nesteld in the charming village of Valllorcine, in the Chamonix MontBlanc valley, Vallorcine Mont-Blanc offers a relaxing atmosphere. The 5 Residence gives guests a choice of 50 cosy apartments with services. Facilities include an indoor heated pool, two saunas, an SPA, a tea-room, a ski shop and a private ice-rink. Less than 10 minutes from your breakfast to the ski slopes !
Quality B&B accommodation offered at great value. Evening meals available most nights. Prices from CHF72 per room. All rooms en-suite, free wi-fi, parking, heated ski room, full UK TV channels. 2 hours from Geneva. 10 min drive to Crans Montana ski lifts with 140km of pistes. Situated in the small picturesque village of Lens, owned and run by British couple.
4 hotel with spa in central Chamonix, by the Aiguille du Midi lift, offering a new level of comfort including a 500m2 spa (with pool, onsen, hammam, banya, ice cave and tepidarium), restaurant, bar, ski shop, four conference rooms, take-away shop, free wi-fi and a covered car park.
+33 (0)4 5054 7520 // CONTACT@CHAMONIX-VACANCES.COM CHAMONIX-VACANCES.COM
+41 (0)27 483 23 09 // INFO@CHALETDESALPES.CH CHALETDESALPES.CH
+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 // RESERVATION@HELIOPIC.COM HELIOPIC-HOTEL-SPA.COM
SKIACCOMMODATIONGUIDE.COM
053 // OCT14
ODLO
PROMOTION
Jon Olsson Jon Olsson is a professional freeskier and
lifting, cross fit and so on! For cardio I like
alpine ski racer. He has won 11 medals
crossfit and rowing. Usually not a cardio
at the X Games in multiple disciplines
guy myself, but I have gotten a lot better
including Superpipe, Slopestyle and the
since I started with cross fit! Makes it easier
gold in Big Air. He has also won many
for me to push myself!
other events including The US Free Skiing Open in Vail, The Red Bull Big
How did you hit upon the idea of shooting
Air in Åre, Scandinavian Big Mountain
a film about life as a free skier?
Championships in Riksgränsen and the
JO: The idea came to life back in 2007
World Superpipe Championships in
when I was building a jump in Norway. All
Whistler BC.
you see in ski movies is the perfect shot, not the fact that we had to wait 3 weeks
Free Skiing also means the readiness to
to get good weather, so I wanted to show
take a risk. How crazy are you?
what really goes on behind the scenes.
JO: Not crazy at all, I love to do big stuff,
Now it is just a super fun way to document
but I like to do it in a very safe way. People
all the fun stuff we do!
have a hard time believing this but I am as far from crazy as you can come in my
Why did you choose Odlo as your
opinion!
clothing partner? JO: I knew that their under layer was
How important is your outfit on the slope
incredible so I was intrigued when I heard
for you?
about the ski collection, so getting to work
JO: Well since I am always in the spotlight
with such a good team was great. From
I need to feel comfortable with what I am
the new collection I like the Revolution
wearing so the outfit is of course super
Technical Warm Wool underwear with the
important. Both to look good on the
hood and the facemask. I can wear it up on
pictures, but it also needs to be super
my face in the morning when it’s cold and
functional as I spend every day all winter
down around my neck when it’s warmer.
long on the slopes!
And I really like the Air Cocoon down jacket. Think it looks killer with a colourful down
What kind of feeling do you associate
jacket under a fairly neutral coloured jacket!
with the Free Skiing? JO: Total freedom, I might have a million
What’s the best way to strengthen your
thoughts in my head, but when I get on the
core pre ski season?
lift I am 100% free!
JO: To do a million boring crunches. No way around it, I am not a fan but I try to do
What are your top tips for getting in
as much of them as I can!
shape before ski season? JO: Try to work out every day in some
A very special day in your life?
sort, skip the bread and go for tons of
JO: Every day I wake up and see 50cm of
protein to avoid a heavy body for the
fresh snow on my car is a special day!
winter! To strengthen your legs just be active. I don’t think it matters too much
Jon Olsson is an Odlo Ambassador. For
what you do as there’s variety like running,
more information head to www.odlo.com
054 // OCT14
@INTHESNOWMAG //
FACEBOOK.COM/INTHESNOW
WWW.SINNER.EU
THE ART OF LAYERING FALL-WINTER 14/15
ODLO.COM Available at www.snowandrock.com