Val Thorens Snow Report: 20th January 2016

I would say the best day of the season so far revealed itself last Friday morning. With the snow clouds clearing in the morning and the blue sky expanded giving good visibility to see all the powder! With so many snowy days previously we haven’t had a good clear day to actually see what has fallen and what a sight it was.

As I was still entertaining my non-skiing visitors I was unfortunately not skiing myself but we had a good snowy walk up to Chalet de La Masse. It was fantastic to feel the warm sun on our faces as temperatures were significantly different from the beginning of the week. We made the wise move to transfer from the terrace into the warmth of the indoor restaurant as the sun once again became hidden behind snow clouds in the early afternoon.

The avalanche risk is gradually dropping however there are still reports coming in of close shaves, with one particular story this week a little close to home in Les Menuires and luckily no-one was hurt. Lower off piste areas seem to be proving popular in the Meribel valley and ski instructors seem to be in their element finally being able to give lessons on both great pistes and off piste. If you do want to venture further afield then it’s always wise to take one of the experts with you, if you are in a group the cost is generally quite reasonable. They are the guys in the know and can often take you on off piste routes with a mini bus pick up so that you don’t get stranded if exploring on your own.

The resort is getting busier as we head towards February which is great for the businesses who had a slow start to the season. The end of this week is earmarked for being the ski days dreams are made of with blue skies and with low temperatures this powder is not going anyway before then! If ever there was a reason to set your alarm for first lift this is it. I am catering this week for a group of guys who are arriving Wednesday and leaving Saturday, I think they must be on good terms with the weatherman, good planning guys!

Ski in-ski out is finally exactly that and more. It seems a long time ago since I was watching skiers attempting to negotiate the tennis court to arrive at accommodation which is now covered in a lovely white blanket of snow, Wimbledon can wait until Summer, phew.

It is still chilly this week so wrap up warm when heading up the mountain. If you do suffer from cold hands/feet (like me) and especially if you have chilly little skiers in your group, then take advantage of the new indoor areas such as at La Masse 1 with WiFi and heated picnic room. The roads are also icy so if you are driving in resort take care. It does not look like there is a lot of snow due over the next few days but the police are out and about at the moment so make sure that cars are properly equipped.

The patrollers were turning cars away a few days ago in Les Menuires without snow tyres and chains. If you do not have them you will need to buy them from the resort which is more pricey than down the mountain so always make sure you keep them in the car, you never know when they will be useful. So drive safely, ski safely and most importantly enjoy all that snow!