Skiers celebrate as snow arrives in the Three Valleys
Finally, the much anticipated snowfall has arrived in the Three Valleys - just in time for visitors escaping on holiday in the French Alps in the New Year.
The decisive lack of white stuff in ski resorts over Christmas has seen holidaymakers take advantage of their cosy catered chalets in Méribel, rather than take to the slopes, but now the wait is over and winter sports enthusiasts have good reason to celebrate.
Confirming the favourable conditions, a resort spokeswoman from Courchevel explains: “Snow is falling from an altitude of 1,100 metres and it is providing good cover on the ski runs.”
Resorts have fought off the warmer weather and have managed to keep several slopes open for those travelling to the alpines, but now, the once bare Three Valleys are coated in a fresh January snowfall, beckoning skiers, snowboarders and ‘snowman builders’ alike.
The New Year has brought with it even more than a blanket of snow and holidaymakers can welcome its arrival with even more opportunities on the slopes this year.
Queues are being kept at bay as the popular chairlift point above St Martin de Belleville replaces its two-seat chairlifts with six-seaters to reduce waiting times. Elsewhere, those swapping skis for sleds can enjoy access to two free sledding areas at Mottaret, with additional night time sessions occurring twice a week from the top of the Combes chairlift - another updated facility this year. Youngsters sticking close to Méribel will also be pleased to see its new Altai Dragon trail, an easy challenge encouraging children to practise their skiing while hunting down the hidden dragons en route.
The resorts have also been supported by nearly 2,189 snow cannons in recent weeks, helping to guarantee ski access in 50% of the Three Valleys area. With a further metre of snow expected on the higher slopes by the end of this week, there’s plenty of powder for holidaymakers visiting Méribel, Courchevel and more.
Image Credit: Ruth Hartnup (flickr.com)