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Fun skiing in Courchevel

Courchevel blessed with February sun and cold temperatures for perfect piste skiing

featured in Snow report Author Eliot Prince, Courchevel Reporter Updated

The winter of 2018 has certainly been magical so far and is showing no signs of stopping. Historic snow depths are now being graced by lengthening sunny days and clear skies.

Over the past week, skiers could not have asked for better conditions as the whole mountain continues to provide unblemished pistes. An extra smattering of snow last weekend accounted for a fresh top up to the already substantial snow depths. Since then the sun popped into clear blues skies while February temperatures remained below freezing. The villages and ski areas have been buzzing with life as holidaymakers take a well-earned winter break in the Alps. Despite a busy ski area, Courchevel always boasts plenty of quiet ski areas thanks to its unrivalled high-speed lift network.

Fun skiing in Courchevel

So what is on the agenda now things start to quieten down as March approaches? The end of this week furnishes more continuity in skiing conditions. Exploring the mountain this morning was truly a pleasure as the crisp snow offered slick grippy skiing with little worry of icy patches. As we look into the weekend air temperatures may rise a touch to around freezing point at 2000m. Hopefully, things won’t get too warm through Saturday and Sunday to help maintain the ideal snow quality.

Fun skiing in Courchevel

Early into next week things are expected to chill dramatically as life moves into a deep freeze. Bring your warm layers, especially for the mornings. We could well be seeing lows plummet to -10ºC or -15ºC, particularly above the 2000m mark. There might be a touch of snow on the horizon but only 1 or 2 centimetres here and there. Generally speaking, you can expect broken sun and cloud so pick your ski spots wisely.

Fun skiing in Courchevel

Skiing may well be more favourable on sunny slopes into the afternoon where the top layer can just soften lightly and offer a bit more grip. Courchevel 1650 might be a great option after lunch for some perfectly pitched warming mellow slopes. Or perhaps drop over into Meribel to find the extra glistening sun. With still conditions continuing, a big Three Valleys ski day could be just the order once you get the ski legs back. Val Thorens always holds stunning conditions although, beware, it is likely to be even colder when approaching those 3000m altitudes.

Fun skiing in Courchevel

If you’re looking for a warming place for an afternoon drink then La Tania is a perfect sunbathing spot at a lower altitude. It’s also going to be a little easier on the wallet compared to the dazzling Courchevel 1850. If you’re still not warm, take the time to relax at Aquamotion with large indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, spas and a myriad of fun activities. Situated between Courchevel 1550 and 1650, it is a short walk or free bus ride for most visitors.

Fun skiing in Courchevel

The complete set of lifts and pistes remain open including the ability to enjoy marked runs all the way down St. Bon. You’ll need to grab a bus back up to the lifts but it is sure to be a groomer to tick off the extensive list. Snow depths have not diminished either with well over 3m packed in at the summit and roughly 2m depth spread across the vast ski area. Wherever you are planning on skiing, from 2700m down to 1300m, you can’t go wrong this season. Crisp sunny skiing conditions with minimal wind will make for uninterrupted ski days, not just in Courchevel but across the Three Valleys. Snow, sun and relaxation await.

Eliot Prince is a freelance writer with a focus on the ski industry, he offers services to small and bespoke companies.

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