Phew! Well the holiday season is beyond us and so far it’s not been too bad. Next week it will undoubtedly get busier but if this week is anything to go by Courchevel will come out of the busiest period of the season relatively unscathed.
The fact that we’ve been treated to yet another week of snow has certainly helped the situation in resort. The pistes are still in optimum condition, covered fully with snow and an absence of ice which is great news for families arriving with children. The last couple of days have seen a gradual rise in temperatures and it’s currently just below freezing in resort. It’s just cold enough to snow but still comfortable for holidaymakers and especially those with young children.
Looking ahead, we’re due some beautiful weather which is great news for everyone arriving this weekend. Over the weekend and during the early part of next week bright sunshine and blue skies are forecast. This past week with regular snow showers and some white-out conditions hasn’t been the easiest week for less experienced skiers so the improved weather and sunshine will be a welcome return for most.
Over the last few days we’ve skied from 1850 right down to Le Praz and the conditions currently are superb. Even the areas which get mobbed regularly with maximum traffic have fared well. Areas such as the Lac Bleu run which by this time of the year is usually a mix of moguls and ice was in great nick yesterday. The pisteurs have clearly been working hard to make the most of this weeks fresh snow.
Off the pistes, there are still some fresh lines to be had if you’re willing to trek a little although with the increasing temperatures we’re expecting be sure to head out early for the safest conditions.
Over the busy period to avoid the queues skiing in the less visited 1650 area is advised, as well as skiing over lunch or setting off at 9am sharp. If you plan to eat lunch out and have a particular restaurant in mind we would recommend that you book a table to avoid disappointment. Most restauranteurs speak English or you could ask your host or tour operator to help you with this. Also, if you’re staying in a chalet it’s worth noting that most staff get the same night off and so Wednesday and Thursday nights are really busy in resort. For cheap eats on a budget you can pick up some reasonably priced snacks from the boulangeries in 1650 (in the centre of town) and 1850 (in the forum). Down at La Tania the Chrome Bar sells burger/pizza, chips and a drink for 10.5€. Or if you fancy a cheese feast Chez La Gaulois in 1650 does incredible melted raclette sandwiches for just over 5€ which will see you through til dinner.
If you’re looking for some apres ski entertainment for all the family then there’s a couple of key events to note next week. On Wednesday in 1850 starting at 6.30pm at the foot of the pistes ESF are putting on a snow and fire ski show, encompassing various forms of snowsports in a torchlit visual display as you enjoy a vin chaud. Then on Thursday the International Firework Festival kicks off with a display out of 1550 with another torchlit descent from 6.45pm
As with getting the family ready for ski school and a day on the slopes the key to half term survival is forward planning and a nice strong vin chaud after a tough day on the slopes.
Bonne vacances!
Related articles
- Courchevel: Snow Report 4th January 2013 (theinsideguidetocourchevel.wordpress.com)
- Ski Like a Hero: Snow Report 25th January 2013 (theinsideguidetocourchevel.wordpress.com)
Amazing pictures! Thanks for sharing.
Glad you liked them, here’s a few more from this winter http://theinsideguidetocourchevel.wordpress.com/2013/02/21/the-season-so-far-in-pictures/