Courchevel Snow Report: 25th January 2013

Can this season get any better? After warmer temperatures there has been a return to below zero conditions, the moisture has been sucked out of the snow and the pistes make you feel like a hero.

This week we've been out testing next year's skis which means that we've skied all over the Meribel and Courchevel valley. The Courchevel valley predominantly faces north and at this time of year still sees less of the sun than Meribel although conditions in both valleys are exceptional. The snow depth at the top of the mountain is 160cm and 124cm at 1850m with pockets of fresh powder still to be found. The Courchevel ski test was based in Le Praz and the skiing on the lower slopes was some of the best I can remember, there is no other resort where the pistes are so well groomed and when conditions are like this it's well worth getting out early and making the most of the corduroy.

With all the beautiful conditions and clear skies, the villages have been empty during the day and the mountain restaurants, especially those with a view, have been packed. If you can wait, we find it better to ski throughout lunch as the pistes are quieter, then stop somewhere around 14:00 to enjoy a more relaxed restaurant atmosphere.

If you're coming out to Courchevel as a beginner then there are some great offers to be had on your lift pass. If you've booked with a ski school be sure to check and see if you need a lift pass as there are several free lifts for beginners in resort. You can also get a mini pass and these are spread over three areas. For example for 18.50 Euros you can buy a day pass for the Ariondaz bubble, Mickeys, Belvedere and the Grange lift in Courchevel Moriond amazing value for a great beginners ski area.

This year has also seen the introduction of the Liberte pass, the Family pass and the Tribu pass. With all these different passes it is slightly confusing but at least the 3 Valleys are making an effort to reward groups and regular skiers. The Liberte pass is a flexible pass for those planning on skiing for more than 8 days. The pass gets you a 10% discount on the daily rate and you are only charged when you use your pass. So if you fancy a days rest then you won't be charged. Then there is the Tribu pass for groups of three or more with special rates. Check our ski pass section for more information.

Looking ahead this week there is a small dusting of snow forecast on Sunday then a rise in temperatures. With this years base there is no need to worry about bare and rocky pistes just yet! It'll be well into March if not April before we see these conditions. The resort has remained relatively quiet but we're entering the French month of half terms so if you're out next week expect slightly busier conditions. Try and avoid the early morning 09:15 lift queues by setting off a little earlier or later than the ski schools. With the new Biollay running smoothly there shouldn't be to many bottle necks in Courchevel this season.

Enjoy the corduroy and ski like a hero!