Val Thorens Snow Report : 11th February 2013

I do not think I had realised how long it had actually been snowing until driving up the mountain on Friday. A huge grin came on my face as soon as I saw in full the lovely white mountains against the blue sky. You really never tire of the views in the Three Valleys, it is a good place to be.

Conditions on Friday were amazing. The blue sky meant there was full visibility to go out and play. We headed up towards some off piste just off the Jerusalem run in St Martin and it was great. Not too challenging for two novice off pisters and the views were amazing. We could not resist stopping for a picture just once or twice but not sure the camera did it justice. Whilst the temperature swere low, I managed to keep nice and warm by falling into the powder on one or two occasions and working to dig myself out. We managed to sneak up for another run before the clouds came in at the end of the day signalling the end of our powder fun and the start of a beer stop.

I did enjoy my off piste experience but will definitely get a lesson at some point. It is surprising how few people book themselves in for lessons. People sometimes presume lessons are just for when you are a beginner. There is however always technique to be fine tuned, off piste adventures to be had which you get so much more out of with the help of a guide as long as you have all the correct kit. I cannot emphasise enough how vital it is to ensure you have all the correct avalanche safety kit - avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe. You just never know. Always look for the warnings, check the local avalanche bulletin, take a guide where possible and always have your avalanche safety kit. Keep an eye out or enquire about avalanche safety training too - there is absolutely no point having the kit if you do not know what to do with it.

Saturday was a perfect day for guests arriving, with a beautiful blue sky and obviously lots of snow cover. Some of our early arrivers managed to get themselves sorted with kit and passes in time to get out and do a couple of afternoon runs to find their ski legs. Whilst beautiful, it was cold out there and they were happy to get back to the nice warm fire at the Chalet.

Good visibility lasted for most of the weekend and by the evening on Sunday there was yet more snow beginning to fall. It just keeps coming this season, it really is amazing. Pistes during the day were well groomed, great for getting an edge and having the confidence to pick up speed. There were small queues at the bottom of each resort but with a wait of no longer than 10 minutes. Once on the piste you could still find empty sections on runs so you really cannot complain - one of the benefits of skiing in the largest ski area in the world.

The resort is definitely beginning to get a lot busier with UK holidays, French holidays and Belgium holidays all kicking off this week. Parking is at a premium. It is certainly a time to be up and at ‘em early doors. Try and avoid hitting the lifts at the same time as the ski schools and if you are stopping for lunch, you might want to do so earlier or later than usual so you can actually get a table somewhere. Alternatively, take your lunch with you, picnic where you want and choose your viewpoint!

On another note, I am not sure why but when you give people skis, boots, and poles they seem to lose their common sense. I have received several looks from skiers walking in the middle of the road today who looked totally confused to see a car there. It is hard enough driving on snowy roads without having to avoid pedestrians so please do walk with caution and common sense if you're out on the road.

As regards the weather, we're due for more of the same due this week. A couple of days of ‘light snow’ then clear sunny days for the rest of the week. Parfait.

Enjoy the powder and bon ski!