WINTER PREVIEW SKI SOLUTIONS' GUIDE TO THE MOUNTAINS, FEATURING SKI EXPERIENCES, EXPERT KNOWLEDGE AND INSPIRATION FOR THE SEASON AHEAD.
Laurie Taylor
Best of the best
Hot off the press
The British alpine ski racer shares his experiences of the World Cup tour
Revealed: our top 10 picks for luxury, family and mountain experiences in ski resorts
Exciting news and developments happening across the world's ski resorts this winter
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TO THE MOUNTAINS LET'S GO!
OUR TEAM MEET THE SKI EXPERTS
LAURIE TAYLOR THE BIG INTERVIEW >>
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Hello. For those of you who navigated your way through the Covid-19 ‘minefield’ last winter to get to the mountains, I hope as I did, that you felt suitably rewarded for your resolve and patience. What a feeling of jubilation it was to strap skis and boots on for those first turns. To our loyal clients who travelled with us, I cannot thank you enough for trusting us with your travel arrangements after the trickiest couple of years for everyone. As I write this in August, gazing out of the window at grass bleached gold from the summer sun, winter feels somewhat distant. And yet, we’re less than four months away from the start of the ski season, and it won’t be long before someone is reminding you how few days there are until Christmas. We’ve had our busiest ever summer helping clients make their travel arrangements, and I know we tour operators have preached this in the past, but believe me, availability really will be scarce this winter if you don’t get your skates on. I do hope you find some inspiration in these pages - and remember, our experts are here to help guide you through your holiday planning and look after you every step of the way. See you on the slopes! Craig CRAIG BURTON MANAGING DIRECTOR
WHAT'S NEW NEWS FROM THE SLOPES >>
TOP 10 LUXURY LUXURY EXPERIENCES >>
TOP 10 FAMILY FAMILY EXPERIENCES >>
>> SO WHISTLER WHISTLER WONDERLAND
AS YOU EXPLORE THIS GUIDE, WHEREVER YOU SEE THIS COLOUR, CLICK TO DISCOVER MORE >>
TOP 10 MOUNTAIN MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCES >>
LOVE NORWAY WHY WE LOVE IT >>
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THE SKI
FINANCIAL PROTECTION We’re ATOL and ABTA bonded, so when you arrange a package ski holiday through us, whatever situation occurs, your money is 100% secure. TAILOR-MADE Your holiday, your rules. We’ll tailor it entirely around you, from flight times and holiday duration, to single centre or multi-destination. ALL THE EXTRAS Whatever you need, it's all part of our service - from booking ski lessons, lift passes and childcare, to any additional requests you have. ECO-FRIENDLY We are committed to preserving the incredible mountains that we all enjoy so much – and have plenty of tips on how you can ski greener too. EXPERTISE Our experts live and breathe the mountains. They’ll identify your ideal resort, the perfect place to stay, and where's great to dine.
SOLUTIONS DIFFERENCE
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT? >
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35 YEARS
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Ski Solutions is Britain's original ski travel agent and tailor-made winter sports tour operator. We’ve been creating memorable holidays to the world's top ski resorts across Europe and North America for over 35 years. We work with all of the leading chalets, hotels and ski apartments in the mountains. This gives our experts the flexibility to find the right trip for you and your group. From luxury spa hotels to cosy alpine chalets and ski-in ski-out apartments; we’ve got you covered.
Trysil, Norway
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MEET OUR EXPERTS We’ve been in the business of tailoring ski holidays for over 35 years, so it’s safe to say we know what makes a ski holiday special. From your first phone call, to arriving in the mountains, we’re here to make sure your trip is one to remember.
Many of us have lived and worked in the mountains and we all have first- hand experience of the resorts and properties we sell. We’re confident we can find your perfect holiday.
MEET THE EXPERTS >
WE LOVE TO SKI The best thing
WE KNOW THE MOUNTAINS We’ve skied the slopes, dined in the restaurants and sampled the après. Our ski holiday advice is based on first-hand knowledge from our time in our resorts.
WE WORK AROUND YOU No two skiers are the same and your holiday plans shouldn’t be ‘off the shelf’ either. We spend time listening to your ideas and then craft your perfect itinerary, tailor-made to you.
WE'RE HONEST AND UNBIASED With access to the full ski market, we have total freedom over the resorts and hotels we sell. The most important thing is finding you the ski holiday you truly want.
about working in this industry? We all genuinely love snowsports. You'll notice this when you talk with us.
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A Top-Secret Visit. Geoffrey, Murren
SNAP! The 2021/22 ski season was highly anticipated after Covid-19 halted the previous season. Our clients were at last able to enjoy ski holidays across Europe and North America. It was great to see so many happy faces on the slopes again. We can’t wait to send out more skiers this winter. Take a look at some of our favourite pictures from the pistes. OUR CLIENTS ON THE SLOPES
Who Doesn’t Love An Alpine Selfie? Julie, Morzine
Beautiful Sky. Sophie, Alpe d'Huez
Pure Swiss Bliss. Emma, Engelberg
Family Fun! Joe, Val Thorens
So Much Snow! Julian, Serre Chevalier
All Smiles. Chloe, Whistler
Yummy Fondue! Tim, Cervinia
Everyone Has A Ski Squad. Deepa, Three Valleys
FOLLOW US Follow Ski Solutions on social media to get the latest content and updates from the slopes. Tag @skisolutions on your ski holiday photos.
Loving The Sunshine In Italy. Maxine, Courmayeur
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WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY
“Quick and effective service. Came up with three recommendations that suited our requirements very quickly, and the holiday was booked without any fuss.”
“First class, 5 stars. Excellent; knowledgeable, extremely helpful with advice, nothing was too much trouble for the two agents I dealt with. First class service. Highly recommend.”
“Friendly expert advice, the options were clearly discussed and once an agreement is reached, all arrangements are made efficiently and expediently. Highly recommended.”
MICHAEL // AUG 22
PATRICIA // JUN 22
EDWARD // JUL 22
“I had never booked with Ski Solutions before but being a group of 10 this time, I found it a daunting task to find a resort and chalet to suit all of our needs. Ewan at Ski Solutions was great, he rang me within 1/2 hour of my enquiry, and within a day came up with options that fitted our requirements. The follow-up by the team and personal approach has been excellent, and the price was within my budget. I will definitely use Ski Solutions for further ski holidays.”
“Booking through James at Ski Solutions was a great experience. He proved to be knowledgeable and prompt with his responses and helped make the process of booking for a party of nine with a range of differing requirements relatively easy. The follow-up once we booked has been great to date too. I would certainly recommend it.”
“Great service. As always, Ski Solutions came up trumps. Matched our wish list to our budget. Emily was excellent.”
LORNA // JUN 22
“I have used Ski Solutions for many years now and go back to them time and time again. The attention to detail and quality of service is second to none.”
ROBYN // APR 22
ANDREA // JUN 22
JO // JUL 22
MORE REVIEWS...
“Excellent service. Always helpful, particularly during the pandemic. Made choosing and booking very easy.”
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JAMES // JUL 22
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// How was last season? There were pretty big ups and downs like most years, but overall I had my best results and I was more consistently in the mix with the top 30 of the World Cup. Obviously, with the success of Dave, Billy (Major) and Charlie (Raposo) it was great to see the success of the whole team. The feeling last season was very good. // What’s it like training Dave has a lot of experience and has been in my position before. He provides great words of wisdom if you have any problems, which is always nice. His levels are still so high it’s such a good benchmark in training. If we’re comparing our times and speed with him we with Dave Ryding and being coached by the legend Alain Baxter?
// If you didn’t take up skiing, what other sport would you compete in?
After an amazing season for the British Alpine Ski Team, ski racing is on the up in the UK. Laurie Taylor is an established member of the British Alpine World Cup team and has previously competed in the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games. To date, Taylor has scored two top 30 slalom results in the World Cup, at KitzbÜhel (24th) in 2020 and last season in Madonna di Campiglio (25th) in 2021. Like his teammate Dave Ryding, Taylor started his ski racing on dry slopes and is now aiming for the same success as Ryding. Ski Solutions caught up with Taylor after a training session in Belgium, leading up to the next World Cup race season.
THE BIG INTERVIEW
I would’ve probably got into freerunning. I like to do that sort of thing in my spare time. I used to do it a lot when I was younger. I just think it’s really cool. I really enjoy doing it and I like watching it online. I definitely would’ve tried to get into it. It’s just escalating as a sport, 10 years ago to now the level is getting crazy. Just like skiing too. The level is just getting higher and higher. It's amazing what people can do now. // Favourite ski resort? That’s a hard one. We don’t get to freeski that much because we’re training most of the time. We’re on the race piste and we don’t get to ski about that much. However, in terms of where I’ve skied in my life, I’d probably say Sunshine Village in Canada. I skied it as a kid and I remember it being big. It had lots of off-piste and they had wide pistes. Lots in the trees and out the trees. I remember there was a lot of variety and I was quite young when I went. It’s somewhere that sticks in my head where I’d like to ski again.
AIMING FOR WORLD CUP GLORY
// Lastly, do you have specific targets for next season? The main goal is to break into the top 30 in the World Cup. That’s the overriding goal. Consistently scoring World Cup points to get a spot in the top 30.
know we’re preparing ourselves for world- class levels. Alain (former slalom World Cup racer and Olympic Medallist) helping us out coaching last year adds another layer and viewpoint to it. It’s cool because it's another person that’s been there and done it. It’s been really good.
READ THE EXTENDED INTERVIEW HERE >
Taylor's first World Cup race of the season will be on 11 December 22 in Val d'Isère, France. Follow Taylor on:
@laurietaylorski @laurietaylorski
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what's NEW Latest developments and news from the mountains
L'Eclose Hotel opens in Alpe d’Huez Perfectly located opposite the L’Eclose area chairlifts in Alpe d’Huez, L’Eclose is an excellent luxury hotel, opening for the 22/23 season. Expect amazing facilities, including a heated swimming pool, fitness room, sauna and hammam; and stunning mountain views. The combination of uber comfort and incredible skiing is a winning formula.
New luxury hotel in St. Martin de Belleville M Lodge is a new five- star hotel in St. Martin de Belleville with direct access to the amazing slopes of the Three Valleys. There are 25 rooms decorated in a cosy alpine style, and state- of-the-art facilities to enjoy including a sauna, massage room, games room, wine cellar and indoor swimming pool. An amazing addition to a delightful ski area.
L'ECLOSE >
Three Valleys to host the 2023 FIS Alpine World Championships
Méribel and Courchevel will host top ski racing action from 6-19 February 2023. The FIS Alpine World Championships happen every two years and will crown the best male and female ski racers in each Alpine discipline. There will be Downhill, Super G, Giant Slalom, Slalom, Alpine Combined, Parallel Giant Slalom and Team Mixed Parallel races. Thousands of fans are expected to watch this spectacular event.
Ski Solutions introduces new Norwegian ski resorts
M LODGE >
Lift upgrades in Whistler
THREE VALLEYS >
For 22/23 we're pleased to launch ski holidays to the Norwegian ski resorts of Hafjell, Kvitfjell and Norefjell. Each resort has a unique charm, and with pleasingly uncrowded slopes they're superb for family ski holidays. Norway is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful ski experience in Europe with many unique natural wonders to admire.
As part of Vail Resorts' $325 million investment across 14 resorts, Whistler will have two new high-speed lifts ready for winter. The Creekside Gondola will be an eight-person gondola aimed to improve uphill capacity by 35%. There will also be the Big Red Express, a six-person chairlift that will increase uphill capacity by nearly 30%.
Three new ski resorts added to TravelSki Express
Courchevel, La Rosière and Val Thorens have been added to the TravelSki Express packages for this season. Last year, TravelSki launched Eurostar packages to French ski resorts using the train travel hubs of Moutiers and Bourg Saint Maurice. Other ski resorts available include La Plagne, Les Menuires, Méribel, Brides les Bains, Les Arcs, Tignes and Val d'Isère. A great step toward more sustainable travel in the ski industry.
NORWAY >
WHISTLER >
TRAVEL BY TRAIN >
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3 // OFF-PISTE BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT Heli-skiing in Panorama, Canada is a superb way to access untouched powder with ease. No skinning up to the peaks, just a fantastic aerial view of the mountains and incredible off-piste terrain. A dedicated mountain guide will be able to navigate the area for the best powder conditions on the day. Chase that champagne snow!
There’s nothing like a taste of luxury against a mountain backdrop. That's why we're all about giving you a first-class skiing experience. For you, that might mean a gorgeous boutique hotel, the finest mountain restaurants, or a sumptuous spa on tap. Whatever your idea of ski holiday luxury, we're here to make sure you get the finest service. Here are some of our ski experts' top picks. top 1 EXPERIENCES
1 // ST. MORITZ, THE HEIGHT OF LUXURY A favourite winter haunt for celebrities and royals, St. Moritz is arguably one of the most iconic luxury ski resorts in the world. Whether you are having a glamorous stay at the Kempinski Grand Hotel or enjoying a delightful fine- dining experience in Hotel Klum, it's top-class all the way. The stunning views and diverse ski terrain are also superb.
PANORAMA >
4 // TOP-CLASS BANFF
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is world-famous for its incredible exterior and superb service. With 15 shops and 12 restaurants spanning different global cuisine, it's almost a luxury town in itself rather than simply a hotel. On top of this, it has an indoor saltwater swimming pool, outdoor pool, full fitness centre and the amazing Willow Stream Spa.
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5 // FINE DINING IN COURCHEVEL For a next-level gourmet experience look no further than the two Michelin-starred restaurant Le Chabichou in Courchevel, which serves superb alpine cuisine by starred Chef Stéphane Buron. Courchevel has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the Alps, so foodies are spoilt for choice.
2 // LUXURY SPA IN CHAMONIX Hotel Mont Blanc in Chamonix has fantastic spa facilities offering a supremely tranquil atmosphere. Admire the beautiful backdrop of the iconic Mont Blanc mountain whilst enjoying a soothing swim, or a relaxing massage to loosen up after a day on the slopes. Pure indulgence.
BANFF >
GOURMET SKI EXPERIENCES >
HOTEL MONT BLANC >
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6 // STATE-OF-THE-ART CHALET IN VERBIER
9 // HAHNENKAMM RACE WEEK It’s the most prestigious week of the year in Austria. Thousands of ski racing fans flock to Kitzbühel to watch the best racers in the world compete on the toughest race course on the World Cup. The Streif is a frightening but exhilarating watch and there are lots of exclusive parties and VIP areas to enjoy too.
The Lodge is one of the most exclusive chalets in the Alps, with jaw-dropping facilities and plush décor. There's a top- class gym area, and an indoor pool for relaxing dips. The dedicated chalet staff are on hand to help with any requests - just put your feet up and enjoy.
THE LODGE >
KITZBŰHEL >
7 // FIRST CLASS ALL THE WAY Hop on the train in Switzerland and enjoy amazing views and first- class service. Whether you’re taking the Bernina Express to Zermatt or St Moritz, or the Jungfrau route to Wengen or MÜrren, it's luxury all the way, as you take in fabulous views, including the iconic Matterhorn and Eiger.
10 // ONE OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANADA The Bison fine-dining restaurant in Banff has won numerous awards this year for its excellent service and delicious menu. It prides itself on a farm-to-table approach, offering only the best locally sourced ingredients. Each meal is curated according to the season, so expect the best cut meats and flavoursome vegetables - served against a stunning alpine backdrop.
8 // SHORT BREAK LUX IN COURMAYEUR
Just 1.5 hours from Geneva, Courmayeur is perfect for a luxury ski weekend. Expect incredible Italian cuisine on offer at numerous fine-dining restaurants, and top-class accommodation. It’s also worth taking a trip on the Skyway Monte Bianco to experience the highest point in Italy.
SWITZERLAND >
COURMAYEUR >
BANFF >
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Whistler Wonderland
Enjoy the Garibaldi Lift Company A firm Whistler favourite, the ‘GLC’ is the main hub for socialising after a day on the slopes. It’s one of the best places to have a beer and is perfectly located at the bottom of the main run into the village. There are also lovely outside fires to keep you warm while you enjoy the winter surroundings.
There’s a reason why Whistler is on so many skiers’ bucket lists. This Canadian ski resort is truly unique with a fantastic atmosphere and superb ski terrain. Whether you want the family ski holiday of a lifetime or to enjoy some of the best powder in the world, you'll find it in Whistler. Here's just a taste of what you can expect in this renowned winter wonderland...
WHISTLER APRÈS >
Whistler Stats Resort altitude: 670m Resort skiing: 2,284m Total ski area: 200km Lifts: 34 Blue runs: 40km Red runs: 110km Black runs: 50km Cross-country: 150km
Photo credits: Justa Jeskova and Mike Crane
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5-star stay at the Four Seasons
With a AAA Four Diamond Award under its belt, the incredible Four Seasons Resort and Residences takes your ski holiday to the next level. The impressively plush facilities include a heated outdoor pool, three lovely whirlpools with views looking over Whistler and Blackcomb mountain, and a full-service spa and health club. In addition, it’s only a short five-minute walk to the Blackcomb lift, or you can use the hotel’s resort shuttle.
Peak 2 Peak views The Peak 2 Peak gondola is the world’s highest lift of its kind and links Blackcomb Gondola to the Village Gondola in one continuous lift system that takes 11 minutes. It also has the longest unsupported span of any lift, which means you can enjoy some of the best uninterrupted views in North America. The 4.4km journey will take you to some fantastic ski runs, as well as some great bars and restaurants. Powder dreams The snow record in Whistler is superb, which is why skiers from around the world flock to the area for powder skiing. There are lots of steep bowls and gullies to enjoy if you’re an advanced skier, as well as superb off-piste skiing in the trees. Unlike a lot of European ski resorts, a lot of the terrain is easily accessible by lift. The majority of terrain in the ski area is fantastic for intermediates. For powder hounds it's a true winter playground.
FIND OUT MORE >
Bobsleigh fun The Whistler Sliding Centre is the only place in Canada where the public can experience a bobsleigh ride on an Olympic track. No previous training is required because you are driven by a trained pilot. If you’re a thrill-seeker the ten twists and turns at speeds of over 70mph will fulfil your need for speed. An amazing sporting experience.
FIND OUT MORE >
Photo credit: Vince Edmond
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3 // WATERPARK AQUARIAZ
Take a break from the winter conditions to enjoy a different climate in the mountains, in Avoriaz's amazing sub-tropical waterpark. It’s easy to access from the main village, so wherever you're staying, you're only minutes away. Who doesn’t love a good old waterslide?
Snow is quite literally the greatest foundation for making memories with kids. Fantastic ski schools and childcare facilities are just the start of what makes a family ski trip great (and they mean you get some grown-up time too), but the activities and snowparks are what really seal the deal. top 1 EXPERIENCES
AVORIAZ >
1 // TOBOGGAN HEAVEN Tobogganing is always a hit with the kids. La Clusaz has a fantastic range of toboggan runs for all the family, from a gentle 120m long slope to faster, steeper runs for thrill seekers. The runs within the village are easy to access with small children.
4 // FLYING FOX ZIPLINE Is it flying or falling with style? The Flying Fox Zipline in Saalbach-Hinterglemm is an exhilarating experience on the mountain. Zip through the alpine landscape at up to 130 kph from an altitude of 1,600m. You will be 140m above the ground on one of the fastest and longest ziplines in the world. A must-do for thrill-seekers.
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5 // FONDUE NIGHT IN ZERMATT
2 // ALL-INCLUSIVE BLISS IN LES ARCS
Enjoy dreamy cheese fondue at the cosy family-friendly Whymper-Stube restaurant in Zermatt, with an impressive Matterhorn mountain backdrop. A great winter dish to share!
The feeling of turning up at your destination and having everything you need in one place is ideal for families. Club Med Les Arcs Panorama covers it all in style. Dining, childcare, lift passes and more, all included, plus fantastic facilities such as a gym, swimming pool, spa and three restaurants.
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6 // BOBSLEIGH SPEED This is a real treat and makes you feel rather Olympic. The bobsleigh ride in La Plagne, France truly gets your adrenaline going, as you experience what 3.5gs of force and speeds of up to 100kph feel like. It was built for the 1992 Winter Olympic Games and has been a popular activity within the ski resort ever since. Available for children aged 14 and older.
LA PLAGNE >
9 // MOUNTAIN DISCO IN NORWAY Geilo hosts an evening outdoor disco for children (or Barne Disco) at the end of the week during the season. They can enjoy nightskiing in an incredible setting - with top tunes and giant glowsticks thrown in for a little extra magic.
7 // DOG-SLED RIDES IN NORWAY In Beitostølen, Norway there’s an amazing husky sleigh ride you can book during your stay. It’s an enjoyable experience for all the family to admire the incredible scenery and nature. Locals will take you around the best vantage points and areas, whilst controlling the huskies. Just sit back and enjoy the ride.
GEILO >
10 // ENGELBERG’S SNOWXPARK Engelberg's snowXpark is a thrillseekers' paradise. Kids aged 10 and older can ride specially designed electric- powered snowXmobiles. Imagine a go-kart track on snow and ice that's 1km long with up to six riders racing at a time. If you feel the need for speed, this is an awesome family activity.
BEITOSTØLEN >
8 // AIM HIGH AT CAMPZERO Located 600m above Champoluc in Italy, CampZero is like no other ski accommodation. The five-star hotel has an indoor climbing wall for guests to enjoy - suitable for all levels. In addition, it has top- class facilities such as a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, fitness suite and indoor pool. Fantastic for an active family.
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ENGELBERG >
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WHAT TO PACK THIS WINTER FAMILY SKI KIT
1 // Salomon Stance 84 // £590 (including bindings) An excellent piste ski for carving around the mountain. Great on ice and firm corduroy slopes. 2 // Salomon S/Pro Alpha 100 Ski Boot // £340 Built for all-day comfort and maximum performance on the slopes. This boot combines an easy step-in function, a seamless liner and full customisation possibilities. 3 // The North Face Chakal Jacket // £329.99 An all-mountain jacket from The North Face combining great all-weather protection, stretch fit and off-the- mountain wearability. 1 // Nordica Belle DC 72 // £500 (including bindings) Fantastic for getting around the pistes with ease. The Nordica Belle DC 72 has double core technology for shock absorption on the slopes. 2 // Nordica Promachine 95 GW // £350 The Nordica Promachine 95 GW combines the precision of a ski race boot with the stability of an all-mountain set-up. 3 // Schoffel Avons Jacket // £379.99 A high-impact sporty jacket combining a great stretch fit with all-weather performance and all-day comfort. 1 // Smith Rascal Lava Heritage Goggle // £30 Built for the smallest of kids looking to have fun on the snow without compromising on vision quality. 2 // Smith Glide JR MIPS Helmet // £80 The Smith Glide JR helmet offers warmth and comfort, along with MIPS safety technology. 3 // Quiksilver Rookie Kids’ Suit // £135.00 Maximum warmth with a bright and bold design. Your kids will feel very comfortable on the mountain. 4 // Barts Kids Nylon Mitts 3D // £22.99 A cute and fun design for the kids to enjoy wearing on their hands. A great way to keep those little fingers warm. 5 // Sorel Yoot Pac Nylon // £79.99 (sizes 13-5) A strong waterproof boot for all the snowball fights and sledging when the skis are off.
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Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports celebrates its 90th anniversary this winter. From a tiny two-up two-down on the outskirts of Manchester to a thriving chain of snowsport and outdoor stores across the country, it's still proudly a family-owned and run business. A great place to find ski products for all the family before heading to the mountains.
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3 // SKI BUNGEE JUMP The ski bungee jump ride or ‘Bun J Ride’ in Tignes is very popular with those seeking an aerial buzz. What does it entail? Skiing off a 30m ramp with a 40m drop, whilst attached to a bungee strap. The security of the strap means you can try tricks or just enjoy the high thrill with the comfort of a safety harness. An innovation that is accessible to any competent skier.
1 // SNOWBOMBING FESTIVAL What's better than skiing during the day and dancing once the lifts close? Many ski resorts hold annual music festivals that draw acts from around the world. One of the biggest is Snowbombing in Mayrhofen, where acts such as Liam Gallagher and Stormzy have performed previously.
With so much on offer in mountain resorts, there’s plenty to do on a ski holiday besides skiing and snowboarding. Classic drinks at a lively slopeside bar. Dining at a top mountain restaurant. Ice skating, cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing or sumptuous spa relaxation... take your pick. top 1 EXPERIENCES
TIGNES >
4 // ICE SKATING IN VAL D'ISÈRE Ice skating against a snowy backdrop beats an indoor UK rink any day. And whether you’re a complete beginner or have some skating moves, anyone can get involved. Families and friends can wrap up warm and enjoy an evening skate on the ice rink in Val d'Isère.
VAL D'ISÈRE >
BEST SKI FESTIVALS >
2 // GLACIER DINING, TIGNES For lunch in a delightful alpine setting, Le Panoramic in Tignes is one of our favourites. Located on the Grande Motte glacier, it combines Michelin-star fine dining, self-service, takeaway and a snack bar all in one - complete with beautiful views from the sunny terrace. On entry to the restaurant, you're offered free sheepskin slippers to wear too.
5 // SNOWSHOEING IN ZELL AM SEE Snowshoeing in the mountains, surrounded by pristine perfect nature, is a delightful experience. Zell am See in Austria has some of the most stunning views and unspoilt wildlife in the Alps. The beautiful mountain ranges that surround the tranquil Lake Zell are truly unique.
ZELL AM SEE >
TOP MOUNTAIN EATS >
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9 // 007 IN SWITZERLAND The James Bond themed Piz Gloria 360° restaurant in Mürren is a must for any fan of the world’s most famous spy. It was the location for On Her Majesty's Secret Service, and has a dedicated exhibition on the film’s history. On top of that, you can enjoy superb Swiss cuisine and a delightful panoramic view of the Jungfrau and the iconic Eiger.
6 // THE HAIRFARMERS IN WHISTLER Whether it’s a DJ spinning decks or a traditional Alpine band, there’s some fantastic music to be enjoyed in the mountains. In Whistler, there’s a legendary band called The Hairfarmers that often play at Merlin’s bar during the ski season. Locals and visitors bring a great atmosphere to their folk-rock performances.
MŰRREN >
APRÈS DESTINATIONS >
7 // CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING IN BEITOSTØLEN Cross-country skiing is a great way to get your cardio fix. Beitostølen in Norway has the best cross-country terrain for any level of skier, with 600km of tracks to enjoy across a stunning winter wonderland. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced cross-country skier, this Norwegian resort offers a fantastic experience beyond downhill skiing.
8 // UNWIND IN THE WATER QC Terme Pré Saint Didier in the heart of the Aosta Valley has top-class spa facilities such as invigorating waterfalls, whirlpools with thermal water, saunas and relaxation rooms. In addition, you can admire iconic views of the amazing Mont Blanc from the soothing outdoor panoramic pools. Perfect for loosening your muscles after a day on the slopes of Courmayeur.
10 // FOLIE DOUCE FUN La Folie Douce is a chain of slopeside bars across Val d’Isère, Méribel, Alpe D’Huez, Val Thorens, Megève, Avoriaz, Chamonix, and Les Arcs. With brilliant dance acts, DJs and great food and drink to enjoy, this is après ski taken to the next level. Each bar has its own unique charm, highly entertaining special acts and supremely lively atmosphere.
FOLIE DOUCE >
COURMAYEUR >
BEITOSTØLEN >
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DROP INTO THE BC POWDER HIGHWAY
1 // REVELSTOKE Revelstoke is one of North America’s hidden gems. Considered the powder capital of Canada by people in the know, you’ll love the powder bowls, groomed pistes and superb tree skiing.
REVELSTOKE >
2 // KICKING HORSE Cowboy-style Kicking Horse has some of the most challenging terrain in Canada. On top of that, it’s a powder haven each season. A true skiers’ paradise.
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KICKING HORSE >
Like skiing powder? Then you’ll love British Columbia’s Powder Highway, linking some of the best ski resorts in Canada: Revelstoke, Fernie, Kicking Horse and Panorama. BC resorts are particularly good for families, with a myriad of activities and facilities on offer. And wherever you go on the circuit, you’ll experience the world’s very best skiing and snowboarding. This is the place where lifelong ski memories are made - all served up with a warm Canadian smile.
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3 // PANORAMA The skiing here is nothing short of incredible. Great for powder hounds, ideal for families and, as the name implies, the views pack a majestic mountain punch.
PANORAMA >
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4 // FERNIE Fernie has an excellent snow record providing deep terrain and mostly ungroomed lightly wooded slopes to thrill the adventure-seekers.
FERNIE >
SKISOLUTIONS.COM | 020 7471 7765
WHY YOU'LL LOVE NORWAY
Northern Lights delight
Admire the beautiful Norwegian Fjords Discover the stunningly natural wonders of the deep, dark Norwegian Fjords. There are over 1,100 fjords in Norway that are unique to the country. They are easily accessible from all Norwegian ski resorts, making a great day trip to enjoy something different.
Not guaranteed - but if you’re lucky enough to witness the phenomenon of the Northern Lights, it’ll be a moment to remember for the rest of your life. Dazzling green and purple shafts of light dominate the night sky. They can be visible from any Norwegian ski resort depending on conditions.
A Norway winter holiday experience is so much more than just skiing. The superb ski terrain is matched with incredible activities away from the slopes - under a sky like no other. With the possibility of the Northern Lights literally on the horizon, it's a truly unique destination.
SKISOLUTIONS.COM | 020 7471 7765
Cross-country skiing: Norway’s national sport
Dog sledding experiences Take a tour around Norway’s ski resorts the most traditional way - by dog sled. Whisked along the snow by joyful huskies, it's a great way to take in the amazing surroundings.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced cross-country skier, conditions in Norway are brilliant for all. Discover your alpine surroundings by gliding and pushing along dedicated tracks. Many of Norway’s ski resorts have a vast number of tracks to enjoy for any level of skier.
Varied slopes for all abilities
Mix it up with a city break
Skiing in Norway is a peaceful experience compared to the hustle and bustle of the slopes in the mainland European Alps. With minimal lift queues and quiet runs, conditions are perfect for learners and families. In addition, there are more challenging slopes for intermediates and advanced- level skiers to test their skills on. This includes World Cup calibre pistes.
It doesn’t just have to be about skiing. Add a city break to the itinerary, with a visit to Oslo or Bergen. Take in the unique cultures and incredible views of both places. A great way to get the best of both worlds on a ski trip.
VIEW ALL NORWAY SKI HOLIDAYS >
SKISOLUTIONS.COM | 020 7471 7765
If you’re keen to stay active over summer, we’d love to introduce you to our sister brand Cycling for Softies. Softies operate luxury cycling holidays for those who like to enjoy a leisurely pace and fabulous food along the way. Our cycle experts have picked some of their favourite tours to share with you. FROM SKI TO CYCLE... LEISURELY CYCLING HOLIDAYS IN THE WINE REGIONS OF FRANCE, ITALY AND THE UK
LEISURELY CYCLING IN CHAMPAGNE | FRANCE Champagne is a region rich in history. Ride through grand cathedral cities and charming canal-side towns. Make sure you leave time to visit the iconic Champagne houses on your route.
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SPARKLING SUSSEX | UK Relax in our handpicked, luxury spa hotels and explore the county aboard a top-of- the-range E-bike. You will visit two lovely vineyards to try the best Sussex wine.
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PICTURE POSTCARD PROVENCE | FRANCE Cycle through the iconic lavender fields of Provence. Experience the rich history of this part of the South of France, and sample incredible wine and food.
A TASTE OF ITALY | ITALY Enjoy behind-the-scenes visits to parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar producers in Emilia-Romagna, as well as ancient castles and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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CHÂTEAUX OF THE LOIRE | FRANCE Visit fabulous once-royal homes and ancient riverside towns. Pedal peacefully along the Loire à Vélo path amidst birdsong and the aroma of hollyhocks.
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VIEW TOUR >
C6711 / V1534
DREAM SKI. BOOK SKI.
Get in touch with our ski experts to book your perfect ski holiday today.
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CALL OUR EXPERTS // 020 7471 7765
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