The Traveller's Magazine
Planning a ski holiday over the Christmas break? You can let out that sigh of relief now. 1.5 metres of snow fell over the Alps meaning that ski resorts are planning to launch their lifts and prep their hills to open an entire two weeks ahead of schedule!
The Alps and Pyrenees are swimming in snow thanks to a recent snowstorm, practically guaranteeing snow over the Christmas break for those who planned a ski holiday in France this year. While a December thaw is still possible, there’s little chance it will make a dent in the snow that is still to come in the next few days.
Snow coverage in Europe
Things are looking good in Europe for an early start to the ski season. Even Andorra is ready to welcome its first skiers of the season with 3/4 of a metre on their hills. So how good is it really? Some are saying it’s the best season start we’ve seen in 20 years and will likely be one of the coldest seasons as well. This week a generous blanket of snow fell over The Alps and Geneva with frigid sub-zero temperatures. More snow is on the way this and into next week with milder temperatures. Even in Scotland, 2 of its 5 resorts are ready to open this weekend.
Which resorts are already open?
- France: Val Thorens, Espace Killy, Verbier, Cervinia
- Austria: San Anton, Lech (both opening this weekend)
- Switzerland: Zermatt, Saas Fee, Davos, Engelberg, St Moritz, Verbier
- Italy: Cervinia, Brenta Dolomites, Madonna di Campiglio
- Andorra: Granvalira, Vallnord
Overseas
Planning a ski trip abroad? The snow experts are saying the Europe will be the better choice for the second year in a row. While Whistler in Western Canada and California have good snow coverage right now, major resorts in Colorado are still struggling, waiting for the first big “dump” of the season.
Where are you headed for skiing this season?
