Cold conditions provide skiers with pistes of perfection

Today, Tuesday 6th January, sees an overcast start to the day with sunshine slowly breaking through into the afternoon. Air temperatures are once again well below freezing even down to 1300 metres in Courchevel Le Praz. It’s definitely a good idea to put on an extra layer or neck warmer before heading out on the slopes for the day.

As we have generally seen this season, all 100 ski runs are open accessible from 50 lifts. With all options available there is really no bad place to ski this week. Trails such as Creux, a blue run from near the summit, are perfect to start the day with fresh corduroy. The snow condition is impeccable throughout the day but why not get out for first lifts and experience some of the best pistes on the planet.

As you probably already know, snow depths remain at record levels for February. At the summit of Saulire, between Courchevel and Meribel, there is around a 3-metre snow depth. Elsewhere on the mountain, the snowpack is well above 2 metres across 1650, Le Praz and La Tania.

So what’s on the horizon? Well, more of the same! The weather is set to remain below freezing. Air temperatures are predicted to reduce past -5ºC, particularly later in the week where, with wind chill, they could plummet to -10ºC. Definitely, put an extra jumper in your backpack just in case.

Accompanying the cold will be a mix of sunny and cloudy skies. In particular, Thursday and Friday look to be signalling for the fairest day. The happy ambience around the resort is welcoming another calm week to enjoy this unbelievable season of snow. We certainly don’t need anymore and as long as things stay cold skiing will be a lot of fun. Whilst any thaw stays away is should keep ice patches to a minimum. To add to these glorious ski days, the wind is staying away to provide still and serene conditions. You couldn’t ask for better times to venture out for some high altitude skiing. Big Three Valleys ski days are waiting for you, once you’ve got Courchevel under your belt maybe head out to St. Martin or Les Menuires for more stunning vistas and skiing.

After a quiet January, the town and the slopes are getting busier once again. If you’re coming out during half-term week, try to pick ski times and spots wisely. Cruex will be the perfect early morning run but be aware that it will become busy as the day wears on. Courchevel is just the ticket for late afternoon mellow sunny skiing. Perhaps take a packed lunch and enjoy quieter pistes while everyone stops for refreshment at midday.

If you really want to pack in some ski time, the annual Verdons by night XXL will be running on Wednesday 14th. Ski at night from Courchevel 1850 at 17:30 until 22:30, it’s free with a 6-day Three Valleys pass!