Before Christmas
There may not be
much snow, except at the highest resorts or those equipped
with snow cannons. However, if there have been a few
snowstorms, good skiing can be found. Prices are low, but all
facilities may not yet be open. Resort staff and shop
assistants may treat customers like guinea pigs for the 'real'
season.
Christmas and New Year
This is the peak
skiing season and hence expensive. Snow is not guaranteed in
any but the highest resorts, which tend to fill up immediately
after Christmas.
January
Low season, with
quiet resorts and fairly empty runs. This is generally the
coldest month, but for keen skiers a good bet.
February
The ideal month in
lower resorts, with sun and good snow conditions reflected in
crowds and peak prices.
March
For higher resorts,
this is the perfect month, with long days, sun and good snow.
Easter good skiing conditions can be marred by high prices and
crowds, especially around the local school holidays.
April onwards
Late spring can see
some wonderful skiing, but choose a very high resort. This is
the end of the season, and resort staff may be bored and
unhelpful!
But, in May or June
head for Riksgransen in northern Sweden for 24hr daylight
skiing and vodka!
Summer skiing
A few days' skiing
can offer an enjoyable break during the summer. Glacier skiing
is generally available only in the mornings, before the snow
becomes slushy and the lifts close. The afternoons are spent
walking, playing tennis, wind-surfing or mountain-biking.
Summer ski resorts include Hintertux and Kaprun in Austria,
Tignes in France, Saas Fee and Zermatt in Switzerland, Mount
Hood in the United States and Whistler in Canada.
Alternatively, head
to the southern hemisphere. Try Las Lenas in Argentina, and
Portillo in Chile. In New Zealand, Coronet Peak and The
Remarkables, both surrounding Queensland, are excellent
choices.
Note:
Recommendations apply only to
resorts in the Northern
Hemisphere. |