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Val Thorens Snow Report: 18th December 2011

Sunshine & powder

featured in Snow report Author Simon Reeves, Updated

Sunshine and good skiing gave way midweek to a period of persistent rain which rather dampened the initial excitement of last weekend and curtailed activities on the hill somewhat. However wintery conditions returned towards Thursday with prolonged heavy snowfalls throughout this weekend and the pisteurs were out in force preparing for action. Due also to a significant drop in temperature the reassuring sound of snow cannons was a constant feature. Very high winds, though, caused the closure of all but the lowest lifts on Saturday and visibility was reduced significantly.

The upside of all this is that we skied today on beautifully groomed pistes and through super light powder on a day where we were rewarded with an afternoon of clear skies and full sunshine. The sunny Saulire side of the valley proved very popular with an increasing number of Christmas visitors, despite partial opening still being in effect. The higher pistes beyond the mid station look fantastic so roll on next week when full opening is eagerly anticipated and will undoubtedly ensure great skiing over the festive period. Santa’s ability to get about is definitely assured.

Tuesday sees Meribel welcome a stage of the FIS World Cup Mogul event. This stage of the bumps and freestyle competition always proves popular for spectators as we have our hearts in our mouths watching competitors from all over the world show the thrills and spills of daredevil acrobatic display .

As Christmas nears, snow is due through the coming week adding to the expectation of a great holiday period for all.

Stats

Snow Report
  • High Temp.: -3

  • Alt. High Temp.: -7

  • Latest Conditions: WEDNESDAY 21st : Cloudy weather with some light snowfalls. The snow rain limit will climb from 300 to 900m in the Pre-alps and even lower everywhere else. Maximal temperatures: at 1000 meters: 0