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Magical springtime conditions in Courchevel

Enjoy some lovely piste skiing in the sun

featured in Snow report Author Eliot Prince, Courchevel Reporter Updated

A warming breath touched the Courchevel Valley yesterday as the sun returned to befriend the estranged yet trusted sunbathing spots. An air of spring is in the air around the villages for the first time this season. I must admit that after a stunning morning ski the afternoon was rather more lazy as lunch ran long as we defrosted our bones in the blazing sunshine.​

The past week brought the almost impeccable March conditions that can not be underestimated. Out of the weekend into the early week saw yet more fresh snow applied to the slopes. With low cloud and light snow through Tuesday and Wednesday, the mountain was quiet, perfect for disappearing amongst the mist for a peaceful ski. 

Magical springtime conditions in Courchevel

The perfect March day appeared for Thursday as an unexpected 15cm of new snow had settled overnight to create dream-like piste skiing and even some off-piste pockets early in the day. The sun beamed through bluebird skies as bright smiles filled the mountain all day long. Another top up of snow banishes any icy patches for the days ahead that are likely to be coupled with warmer temperatures. As we have experienced all winter, the weather will continue to be changeable into the foreseeable future.

Magical springtime conditions in Courchevel

Today, Friday 9th March, once again sees a sunny afternoon designed for relaxing piste skiing across the whole of The Three Valleys. Temperatures look to be just above freezing at 2000m so it’s time to finally ditch that extra layer and break out the sunglasses. Unfortunately, the warmer air may lead to a mix of heavy snow and rain through the weekend. If you are arriving into resort over the next couple of days then take care on the roads, particularly at night when temperatures drop below freezing.

Magical springtime conditions in Courchevel

Early next week looks a whole lot more promising once again. Clouds and a touch of snow may well hang around throughout Monday before blue skies canvas the horizon over Tuesday and Wednesday. I highly suggest getting up on the mountain early and breathing in the cool morning air whilst carving the freshly groomed pistes. Mid-March will be a quiet time for Courchevel and there is no better feeling than having whole pistes to yourself as the sun slowly arcs its way across the sky.

Magical springtime conditions in Courchevel

Out on the slopes, take advantage of the early day sun that greets the Courchevel 1850 ski area. Progressing skiers can take advantage of the mellow Verdons pistes while better skiers might want to carve their way down Park City, Biollay and Pralong. Fast crisp pistes filled with rollers and undulating terrain are never a disappointment. As for the afternoon, well there are plenty of sunspots to relax once skiing is complete. New this season at the Hotel Courcheneige is the Waikiki apres ski bar, a beach themed chill out spot with reasonably priced cocktails is a wicked slopeside hangout. If you’re there for happy hour, everything is 2 for 1, ideal if you’re looking for good value around Courchevel 1850. Those staying in La Tania can take advantage of the energetic Pub Le Ski Lodge, while over in 1650 Fire and Ice bar is the sunny apres spot of choice.

Magical springtime conditions in Courchevel

Just a word of warning to finish. The fresh layer of snow coupled with warming sun produced has produced few dangerous situations for skiers in Courchevel. Avalanches have been seen across the valley. Simple mistakes off-piste have led to a busy time for piste security so if you are looking to go exploring it is well worth taking an experienced guide and the correct equipment.

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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