Skiing has long been the favoured pastime of many Brits, and this year is no different. With record snow fall in the Alps this season, conditions are perfect to throw yourself down a sumptuously covered slope and go on a ski holiday to France or elsewhere in Europe. Although popular as a winter sport nowadays, the activity itself did not grow out of a need for exercise, as it is seen today, but was instead, an advanced method of hunting in the snow. The tradition emerged from the Alps, where locals favoured fixed bindings for their skis, compared to the Nordic method of having just your toes attached to the ski. Now skiing is popular across the world, but remains especially prevalent in the place it was born.
Europe has some of the best ski destinations including the famous St Anton, Courchevel, Chamonix and Verbier. These destinations offer, not just some of the best skiing in the world, but also the chance to taste some truly delicious alpine food. And with vin chaud, great steaks, and the best hot chocolate on offer you certainly won’t go hungry after a hard day on the slopes. .
Courchevel in particular is a great place to experience the sheer thrill of skiing, with the connected Three Valleys offering great skiing for all abilities in the largest ski area in Europe. With well-run lifts, connected regions and more five star restaurants than any other ski resort, the region certainly has a competitive edge.
www.courcheval.com
Chamonix, another French resort, offers not only amazing skiing, but intense views and the chance to ski on a glacier. This quaint resort is a favourite with many skiers, although it has a lower profile than nearby Courchevel. St Anton is popular and well-known for its party atmosphere, and great food. It too offers excellent lift systems and challenging skiing.
So, this winter head to the birthplace of modern day skiing and practice what is, in essence a quirky sport, which was never really intended for anything else other than hunting.
This article is brought to you by Inghams.co.uk – ski holiday specialists
From Zoë Dawes:
I had never been tempted to ski, but having just returned from a magical winter break in Switzerland, I so wish I had learnt when I was younger!
From Alvina:
You’re never too old to learn Zoe. When I was in Val d’Isere a few weeks ago, met up with a friend who is 60 this year. He skied for the first time last year and was loving it!
Love skiing anywhere but my favouite place has to be Whistler in Canada.
From Zoë Dawes:
Must admit I would like to try Alvina but have got a fractured foot so can’t at the mo – that’s my excuse anyway
Whistler sounds wonderful …