Val Thorens Snow Report: 16th February 2015

Just over the back of Val Thorens and at the top of Meribel it’s a great area to play around in. After a long lift up, there is a fantastic 360degree viewpoint at the top. Just be aware that there are however only red runs leading down from the top, so it’s not an area for beginners. The runs available are great long pistes and it certainly gets the ski legs warmed up. One word of advice on leaving this area is to avoid the run ‘Ours’ if you are on a board, as it takes hours! I have witnessed many a beginner snowboarder paddy at the end of that one. On the other hand, it has good entertainment value!

I have been swapping from snowboarding to skiing over the past week - yes I am still persevering with the two planks concept! One plus side is that it has now opened up new routes in the Three Valleys. I have even been seen on draglifts, something I don’t even attempt on a board stemming from learner phobia! It’s great heading out with different groups as you can be guided to new areas and I’ve found new pistes in the Three Valleys that I’ve never even skied before. A benefit of living in the largest ski area in the world!

With one of the biggest changeover days taking place at the weekend, typically once again there was snow forecast uh-oh! From what I gather though, despite a few delays and lengthy journeys, generally it ran pretty smoothly. Which is impressive considering there were around 30,000 cars heading up the mountain!

A pleasant surprise then greeted new arrivals on Sunday, despite a forecast of snow everyone awoke to clear skies. Whilst this did not last for the whole day, it was a great start to the week.

Over the next couple of days there is just light snow forecast in Val Thorens and then the sun is back. With the volume of people in the Three Valleys this week, we could really do with more snow on the forecast.

It may be likely that some runs lower down will need to close again towards the end of the week depending on how warm it gets. This time of year is always unpredictable and who knows, maybe we could be in for a very snowy March (please, please, please!) Conditions are great for now, so happy holidays all.

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Read more 3 Valleys Snow Reports from Meribel & Courchevel.