Val d’Isere has enjoyed an action-packed start to the season, with the Criterium de la Premiere Neige tournament just before Christmas, and the Army Ski Championships last week. Of course, one of the highlights for countless visitors at this time of year is the New Year celebrations.
Whilst the weather hadn’t been behaving in the last few days of 2009, on New Year’s Eve itself the sky was clear with a beautiful full moon. The slopes were bathed in brilliant moonlight, whilst hundreds of sky lanterns and searchlights shining on Le Face added more magic to the scene. Hosts of revellers gathered at the roundabout for the countdown to the bells, and at the last stroke there was of course general mayhem and good cheer with some very loud bangers to mark the occasion.
On New Year’s Day all the resort’s 150 ski instructors gathered together to put on a wonderful ‘Snow Show 2010’ which featured music and live entertainment, a torchlit descent down Le Face, and a spectacular fireworks display, not forgetting the ready supplies of mulled wine to keep the party atmosphere going.
An extra-special addition to the resort this year is the new Sports and Leisure Centre, which only opened on 20th December. Boasting a huge swimming pool, spa area, climbing wall, squash courts and gym, this is one of the biggest investments Val d’Isere has every made as a resort, and a great place to go if skiing conditions are not perfect or you fancy a change of scene.
There has been lots of new snow in the past few days and we’ve had some amazingly clear blue skies, perfect skiing conditions. Off-piste is fantastic at the moment too, but make sure you arrange to go with an experienced guide and check for avalanche warnings before you set off.
Le Chardon Mountain Lodges