The White Out - Episode 5, November 2024

Dom: Hello listeners and welcome to the white out podcast in association with ski weekends

home of short break and flexible ski holidays, and you can stay a bit longer too. Catered chalets in France, plus hotels in over 30 resorts across Europe and Scandinavia. The ski experts for over 30 years.  Visit skiweekends.com

Rob: yes hello and welcome everyone, I'm Rob PR director of Ski Press and general ski and gear geek and that’s my co-host Dom, he's Publisher at InTheSnow magazine

Dom: and together we are the team behind your favourite ski podcast 

Each week we talk about ski news from around the world, where's best to ski now, we uncover the latest ski gear for the season and we feature some of the best ski destinations on the planet, from Austria to Zimbabwe and everything in between.

Rob: Zimbabwe – really, I know you can ski in South Africa and I actually have but not sure about its northern neighbour. I mean I see what you’re doing there, but you could have said Zambia.

Dom: or Zanzibar, technically not a country but maybe you can ski there.

Rob: probably not but I would just like to go to Zanzibar, skiing or not. Anyway, what I am just about to do is go skiing in Austria - I’m heading to Innsbruck next week, so right now I am happy with that. What else have we got happening this week Dom… ok cool if yooure going to austria rob a great chance for me to plug the inthesnow guide to skiing in austria have you checked that out rob at https://www.inthesnow.com/austrian-ski-resorts/?  you know to make sure you know everything you need to know before you go? i very much hope so

rob - yes dom i will be sure to do that…

Dom: also in this episode  we will be welcoming former British team alpine skier and ski cross racer turned Discovery Channel presenter Ed Drake to our race corner to give us an insight into the alpine ski racing scene to date.

Rob: excellent – yes I really enjoyed last weekend’s race in Levi so let’s see what Ed has to say about that and of course this weekend’s Gurgle slalom too. 

Dom: And like in each episode now, we will also introduce a special guest to answer listeners questions that have been sent in that include... how to become a ski instructor, how to launch a new ski clothing brand or how to become a ski photographer and we’ve sought out legends, experts and generally epic individuals to get on here and share their wisdom.

Rob: Yes and this week's guest is…

Dom: well drum Rob - yeah ok not literally, we are delighted to welcome one of Britain’s biggest ever snowboard and now broadcasting talents, Aimee Fuller - thats later in the show rob.

Rob: yeah fantastic and i can say we recorded this interview a few days ago with Aimee and she’s just brilliant - possibly the easiest person in the world to interview Dom.

Dom: yes it’s good fun so listeners do stick around for that because we know you’ll enjoy it.

Rob: absolutely, so what have we got coming up in the news?

NEWS:

Dom:

so before we kick off rob, ive gotta mention black friday its kind of begun!

weve got a special page created at inthesnow with the best deals weve found a few to mention:

balkanholidays.com they’ve got some superb deals some up to 600 quid off, mega deals on already very well priced holidays

2 in particular are: 

Apartments Winslow Highland its unreal at £379pp and on top of that they can take a further £100 off per booking so its actually £329pp! Bargain! 70 metres from the gondola in bansko

also 4 star Hotel Pirin in Bansko half board deal from Bristol instead of Gatwick  only £532pp for the week plus  the additional black friday discounts so super super deals there.  

also ski weekends our headline sponsor have their black friday deals on with  £50pp off everything, over 100 hotels and 10 catered chalets, with prices from £159 for 3 nights! superb

also saas fee have got a snow magic ski pass black friday deal

From 4 nights in the accommodation of your choice

Flex ski pass for the destination Saas-Fee/Saastal for 6 days during the whole winter season 24/25

SaastalCard for free bus rides in the destination

also rob the big news is the first major winter storm of the season has hit the Alps, Scandinavia, and the Balkans as im sure you will report on in the where is good to ski now section, but i need to have my say, the snow is falling fast, and temperatures are dropping, even in my back garden!!  So im looking forward more about that that later in the show

ROB: Val Thorens Named 'World’s Best Ski Resort', W Verbier Wins 'Best Ski Hotel'
Sunweb Named 'Best Ski Tour Operator'

Val Thorens has been crowned the World’s Best Ski Resort, while W Verbier claimed the title of World’s Best Ski Hotel at the World Ski Awards. Sunweb took home the prize for World’s Best Ski Tour Operator.

The awards, established in 2013, aim to promote excellence in the ski tourism industry by recognizing top performers across a range of categories, including resorts, hotels, chalets, and tour operators. Votes are cast by industry professionals such as travel buyers and media, as well as the public (ski tourism consumers) via the World Ski Awards website.

DOM:

on the not so positive side 

A cable car accident also in Val Thorens has left six workers injured as the resort prepares to open for the winter season this weekend. The incident occurred at 7:30 AM on Tuesday when the Cime Caron cable car, transporting 16 workers in construction mode, collided with the arrival station. 

Emergency services were swiftly deployed under challenging weather conditions at over 3,000 meters altitude. Firefighters, paramedics, ski patrollers, and high-mountain rescue teams worked together to evacuate the injured, who were taken to hospitals in Annecy and Grenoble. Two individuals sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while four others suffered minor injuries.

Val Thorens officials explained the cable car was operating in a partially manual construction mode, distinct from its automated ski-season functionality. They expressed their support for those affected, acknowledging the accident on their social media accounts.

ROB: Police Uncover Suspected Drug Ring Operating in Verbier Ski Resort
Swiss and French police have arrested 15 individuals suspected of being part of a drug trafficking ring operating in the popular ski resort of Verbier. The arrests followed a year-long investigation, which led to the seizure of large quantities of narcotics. In addition to the traffickers, authorities also detained 20 drug consumers during the operation too.

Look, Verbier isn't the only place where this sort of thing happens and it’s also not a new thing but honestly, don’t mess around in places like Verbier with illegal drugs because the police haven't got a lot else to do and they will catch up with you.

As of the latest reports, eight of the suspects remain in custody. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the operation.

DOM: Mammut Recalls Barryvox 2 and S2 Avalanche Beacons

Swiss brand Mammut is recalling its Barryvox 2 and Barryvox S2 avalanche beacons due to a potential issue with the power switch, which may cause the devices to switch unintentionally from send to search mode. This malfunction stems from an assembly issue, and Mammut has a solution in place. The recall affects only the Barryvox 2 and Barryvox S2 models; earlier versions are not impacted. For details and returns, visit the Mammut website.

ROB: Tour de France Returns to the Mountains
Not really a ski story but a very exciting one all the same. The Tour de France is heading back to the Alps, with La Plagne hosting its first stage finish in 23 years. The resort will host five days of events over that time, including the Étape du Tour on 20th July, followed by the Tour's final mountain stage on 25th July. Riders will tackle 130 km with 4,500m of elevation gain, finishing at Plagne Villages, 2,052m above sea level. That is worth a trip for Dom, what do you think? I caught a stage of the tour this summer in the south of France but i have never been to a mountain stage!

Dom: Xmas Panto Returns to Verbier

(Rob: oh no it doesn't - sorry it just has to be done right!)

Yes Rob, well done…The world’s only Alpine pantomime is back in Verbier, bringing festive cheer to the Swiss Alps. Sleeping Beauty, presented by the Verbier Amateur Dramatics Association, is set in the whimsical land of Bagnaland. Expect a fun cast of characters, including a princess, prince, outrageous royals, talking pussycats, and dancing zombies with a Swedish twist. Packed with slapstick comedy, sing-alongs, and audience participation, this lively show features Alpine-style cheese as a key plot element. Rehearsals are underway, and the production is “coming together nicely,” says co-producer Steve Sparks.

ROB: ummm, people thinking up locations like the whimsical land of Bagnaland, then talking pussicats and dancing zombies - I wonder where they get those ideas from in a place like Verbier?

DOM: well maybe next year's pantomime will have less creative elements to it.

ROB: ha ha yes maybe. By the way, we love Verbier and obviously so does everyone else cause they voted for it in the world ski awards…it got best resort in Switzerland by the way. 

ROB: Solo – ladies ski trip with Ski Weekends (and poss Eddie the Eagle ski trips)

Ski Weekends – has launched a ‘Ladies Ski Trip’ for this season. Staying in Courchevel over 4 nights on a long weekend from Thursday March 13 in a catered chalet. It’s a great idea but Sales Director of Ski Weekends, Sarah Fox, said this to us: “We created the ladies ski trip specifically to cater for women who are looking for new ski buddies to ski and après with. We received a lot of feedback from ladies about the fact they really want to ski but they might have lost confidence or their regular ski partner, and would love the opportunity to join a women only ski trip.  Going for a ski weekend instead of a week was really appealing, especially when its catered accommodation with a jacuzzi too.”

the trip costs from £899pp including 4 nights chalet board accommodation in Mouria, Courchevel 1650, return Geneva Airport transfers, one day with instructor-guide. skiweekends.com/ladies-ski-trip 

and we caught up with sarah from ski weekends lets have a listen

Dom: New lift announced for Argentiere 

Back in 2018, a fire tore through the Grands Montets station in the Chamonix Valley, leaving the lift – a critical route for both skiers and climbers – completely out of action. Since then, the plan was to bring it back with a straightforward replacement.

But straightforward didn't really work. They’re going bigger, bolder – reimagining not just the Grands Montets lift but the whole experience for skiers. Instead of simply restoring what was, the vision now includes a 3 cable gondola that’ll run from base to summit.

The entire project is getting a high-profile facelift courtesy of architect Renzo Piano, known for iconic structures like London’s Shard and Paris’ Pompidou Centre. 

The budget? €155 million. And as of now, they’re aiming for completion by the start of the 2026/27 season.

Rob: it’s great news Dom but until then, it’s still a bit of a hike if you want to reach the very top of the Grand Montets, but remember there’s still so much terrain on offer there and skiers are rewarded for their efforts if they ski tour up. 

AND FINALLY:

DOM: and this is a section where we spot something in the news or feel that it’s a topic worth further discussion and this week Rob it’s ski resorts with terrain over 2,000 metres. Sometimes this can be amusing anecdotes but not always and this week’s ‘and finally’ is WELL INFORMATIVE ACTUALLY!

ROB: Yes, sure and hopefully interesting but i was asked last week by InTheSnow’s editor Patrick Thorne about a couple of destinations that i know very well and how much percentage of terrain they have that is over 2000 metres. Now i didn't know the answer off the top of my head but i asked Patrick if many resorts actually had that info to hand and apparently they do.

Dom: I’m sure they do, it’s pretty important information.

Rob: yes absolutely but it got me thinking

Dom: ah oh, careful Rob

Rob: yeah i know, anyway, firstly by the nature of mountains i guess the higher you go the less actual terrain there is right?

Dom: what because they are pointy at the top?

Rob: basically yes

Dom: suppose that makes sense - but clearly altitude is an important factor when it comes to skiing these days because the snow line is and will move upwards as the climate warms?

Rob: yes absolutely right - but although I really like what Patrick is doing here, which is to basically compile a data set and write about resorts that have lots of terrain over 2000 metres, he also points out quite rightly that location and latitude make a lot of difference too. 

Dom: right so for example there’s plenty of ski resorts in Austria that don’t even reach 2000 metres at the top yet they still get plenty of snow.

Rob: exactly, and then of course look even further east to say Slovakia and then north to Scandinavia where altitude doesn't really matter at all. But anyway, it’s an interesting exercise and a lot of the resorts Patrick is looking at are either based in the western Alps - where altitude is a bit more important and the larger resorts in Switzerland and Austria. 

Dom: okay so what has Patrick found then?

Rob: Well, starting with Zermatt-Cervinia, over in Switzerland and Italy. These two have 360 kilometres of terrain, reaching up to nearly 3,900 metres. And get this – 90% of it sits above 2,000 metres. That’s 324 kilometres of marked piste. 

Dom: maybe not surprising but interesting still - what comes after that?

Rob: Well, there’s Via Lattea, or the Milky Way, straddling Italy and France. They’ve got 400 kilometres to play on, and it’s 75% above 2,000 metres. Not too shabby, right?

Dom: Good pick – sounds like altitude is keeping that area as reliable as it gets. And then there’s Les Arcs and La Plagne in France, right?

Rob: Yep, combined they’ve got 425 kilometres and peak at 3,250 metres, with around 70% above 2,000 metres. So, even if you’re starting the season early or late, they’ve got altitude on their side.

DOM: That’s huge. And then, a Swiss classic – St. Moritz. Known for more than just glitz right?!

Rob: yeah exactly. St. Moritz might be known for Glitz but it doesn't mess around when it comes to its skiing – out of 270 kilometres, a solid 90% of that terrain is above 2,000 metres. 

Dom: Then i see we’ve got Ischgl, linking up with Samnaun across the Swiss border – that’s another high-sure place, right?

Rob: Absolutely. Ischgl’s got 239 kilometres of terrain, and 215 of that is above 2,000. And it’s also known for its snow guarantee. 

Dom: Back over in France and maybe a surprise to some but i can see that Serre Chevalier is a good one to add – 250 kilometres with 80% over 2,000 metres. That’s solid

Rob: yep so that’s Zermatt, Via Lattea, Les Arcs, St. Moritz, Ischgl, and Serre Chevalier – all with tons of terrain over 2,000 metres. Looks like altitude is still one of the biggest advantages for these bigger European resorts.

Yep, and we need to mention Val Thorens and the rest of the 3 Valleys - some report state that VT has 99% of its terrain above 2000 metres which does make sense but then others say 90% but anyway, it’s alot. 

Dom: yes it’s interesting but i think it’s still fair to say that height isn't always everything - maybe we can dive into the snow record figures a bit and look at that sometime?

ROB: absolutely - i did some research a few years back for an article and location is really important, so for example Avoriaz gets more snow over the 1800 metre level than pretty much anywhere else in the French Alps, well Flaine is about the same, because of its location on the north west side of the Alps.

Dom: it’s definitely not black and white Rob when it comes to all of this.

Rob: ah yes good one Dom, but at the end of the day, it kind of is! Black (or maybe Green) or white

WORLD CUP RACING:

Dom: now it’s time to introduce our ski racing expert, Ed Drake - Hi Ed how are you

WHERE IS BEST TO SKI NOW:

Dom: so where is best to ski right now and as we head into late November we should be expecting to see more snow coming and more ski areas starting to turn white and open up. what’s the situation looking like Rob?

Rob: It’s looking great Dom, really great. i mean i have been slipping and sliding through the snow filled streets of my home city this week in the UK so when that happens in November you know things are looking up.

Dom: yes i’ve been seeing lots of snowy pics on social media from the alps too, the likes of Tignes, Avoriaz and it has been dumping in the French Alps too.

Rob: yes Val Thorens is opening this weekend and they have had around 40cm’s of snow over the past few days making it one of the best opening weekends for years. i’ll actually be there next weekend Dom, so i can definitely give an update then but i might even get some early powder turns in. 

Dom: things are due to warm up a bit right but nothing crazy and actually as we know, a bit of warming after the first snowfall can be a good thing because you get a freeze thaw situation that bonds the base.

Rob: very true and we will see some warming.  The freezing level has dipped to around 1,400m, and some resorts are already capitalizing on the early winter vibes. For example, Verbier in Switzerland opened its Lac des Vaux area last weekend. This early opening is a sign of what’s to come, as weather experts predict heavy snow for much of the region.

Another decent storm is forecast to arrive on Thursday with the heaviest snow in the north-western Alps. The rain-snow line will fluctuate, briefly rising to 1,500m before dropping again, leaving resorts like Val d’Isère, The Three Valleys, Tignes, and La Plagne buried under significant snow.

dom:

and By the end of the week, the northwestern Alps are expected to see between 60cm and 130cm of fresh powder above 1,800m, with hotspots like Tignes and La Rosière possibly receiving even more. Other regions, such as the northeastern Alps, including Kitzbühel and Saalbach, will likely see smaller accumulations, around 15-30cm. Meanwhile, the southwestern Alps—think the Milky Way area—could see over 60cm, particularly on Thursday when the snowfall peaks.

Unfortunately, not everyone will get a winter wonderland this week. The central and eastern Italian Alps, along with parts of southern Austria, might miss out on major snowfall, with only 5-20cm expected."

ROB

The excitement doesn’t stop with snowfall. Ski resorts across the Alps are gearing up for the season. Verbier is already open, and this weekend, we’ll see Chamonix, Val Thorens, and Tignes join the action.

Other resorts currently open include:

• Austria: Hintertux, Stubai, Kitzbühel, and Obergurgl.
• Italy: Passo Stelvio and Val Senales.
• Switzerland: Zermatt, Saas-Fee, and Engelberg.

There’s also plenty of buzz in North America, where Whistler Blackcomb in Canada is opening early after receiving 1m of snow in the past week. The season officially kicks off there on November 21st."

GEAR:

ROB:

SO DOM OUR FAVOURITE SECTION NOF THE PODCAST IS GEAR,, NOT MUCH WE DONT KNOW ABOUT GEAR BETWEEN US SO ;ETS GET STUCK IN TO WHATS COOL THIS SEASON…

DOM

YES ROB FIRST UP THE SCOTT REACT

LIGHT SENSITIVE GOGGLE The SCOTT React Light Sensitive Goggle features photochromic lens technology that adjusts to changing light conditions, providing optimal vision in any weather. Designed for comfort and performance, it includes a no-slip silicone strap, 3-layer face foam, and ventilation to reduce fogging.

• Fully integrated magnetic Lens Change System
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• SCOTT Amplifier lens technology
• AMP Light Sensitive lens
• AMP pro lens
• NoSweat 3-layer molded face foam
• 100% UV Protection
• Spare lens included

scott-sports.com  £250

PRO-SKI SIMULATOR BASIC PREMIUM £1099 The Basic Premium Edition SkiSimulator is an excellent tool to strengthen muscles and boost cardio for ski season. With easy setup for various foot positions, it simulates balance, coordination, and agility.Ideal for all levels, it helps prevent injuries while providing an effective full-body workout!  so great for

CARDIO TRAINING
TECHNIQUE TRAINING
STRENGTH TRAINING
HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)

skiexchange.co.uk £1099

LEKI HOT SHOT £130The Leki Hot Shot S poles combine fun and functionality, doubling as a flask! Simply unscrew the grip for a quick sip on the slopes. With high strength aluminium and the TriggerS system for safety, these poles are

perfect for skiers who like to mix fun with performance! skiexchange.co.uk £130

SKI MOJO The Ski Mojo is a game-changer for skiers, using spring recoil technology to alleviate leg strain and reduce fatigue. Its discreet design fits comfortably under ski trousers, enhancing  performance and control. Ideal for skiers of all levels, it offers pain relief and lets you enjoy longer, more effortless days on the slopes. ski-mojo.co.uk £594

SPORTUBE HARD CASE   FOR SKIS AND SNOWBOARDS £199 The Sportube Series 2 double ski case is ideal for travelling with two sets of gear while keeping it safe. Its hard plastic shell ensures protection during plane, train, or car travel and is accepted by all major airlines. Travel efficiently and confidently with your skis securely packed. skiexchange.co.uk £199

SALOMON ORKA CHILDRENS SKI HELMENT £50 The Salomon Orca Kids Helmet is a lightweight, affordable option for young skiers and snowboarders. With its Custom Dial adjustment and low-profile shell, it ensures a perfect fit for any head shape. protect their head but also light weight!Available in three colours, it's a must-have for safety and comfort all winter long! skiexchange.co.uk £50

DUVILLARD ESTELLE FAUX-FUR TRIM IN DRAGONFLY  Jacket 

ESTELLE faux fur belongs to our essential range - this belted parka has a slim fit accentuating the women natural curves; it is both chic and technical using a primaloft lining and 4-way stretch outer fabric.

Comfort and look are a must with the Duvillard ranges. ellis-brigham.com £439

DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT 

Today, we’re venturing into Italy’s spectacular Aosta Valley, where the upcoming ski season promises some very cool updates, luxurious experiences, and more reasons to hit the slopes in aosta valley.  

**Dom:**  

Whether you’re a gourmet enthusiast, a freeride fanatic, or a family-friendly skier, there’s something for everyone in the Aosta Valley’s five iconic resorts: Courmayeur, Cervinia, Pila, Monterosa Ski, and La Thuile. Let’s dive into the exciting news coming out of these mountains.  

**Dom:**  

First stop, **Courmayeur**, nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc. This resort continues to blend its reputation for stunning skiing with top-tier gastronomy.  

**Rob:**  

Indeed, Courmayeur is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its **Mountain Gourmet Ski Experience**, running from March 27th to 30th, 2025.  

This event, created in collaboration with Momentum Ski and Heston Blumenthal, showcases the best in haute cuisine, paired with world-class skiing. Returning this year is Jean-Philippe Blondet, the Michelin-starred Executive Chef of Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester.  

Blondet, along with another acclaimed chef soon to be announced, will treat guests to two opulent meals. And for a unique twist, they’ll host a mountaintop BBQ featuring gourmet dishes in an alpine setting, complemented by live DJ performances.  

**Dom:**  

And the culinary celebrations don’t stop there. Courmayeur’s **Peak of Taste** festival is also making a comeback in March. This event is a must for foodies, offering interactive sessions with Michelin-starred chefs, bartenders, and mixologists.  

**Rob:**  

Past editions included everything from aperitifs atop the **Skyway Monte Bianco** cable car, at 3,466 metres, to cooking workshops with chefs like Paolo Griffa. This festival perfectly encapsulates the fusion of tradition and innovation that defines Courmayeur’s dining scene.  

**Dom:**  

Courmayeur is more than a ski resort; it’s a lifestyle destination where every meal is an experience to savour.  

**Rob:**  

Next, let’s head to **Breuil-Cervinia**, renowned for its vast, interconnected slopes stretching into Switzerland. This season, Cervinia is unveiling its long-awaited **six-seater chairlift in the Goillet area**.  

**Dom:**  

This state-of-the-art lift replaces an older system and is a game-changer for skiers. With heated seats, individual footrests, and transparent canopies, it offers unmatched comfort for those cold, windy days.  

**Rob:**  

But it’s not just about comfort. The chairlift features **EcoDrive technology**, which automatically adjusts its speed based on the number of skiers waiting in line. This efficiency reduces energy consumption by up to 20% during quieter periods.  

**Dom:**  

And it’s fast! The new lift covers nearly 1,500 meters in just 5 minutes, down from the previous 11 minutes. With an increased capacity of 2,400 passengers per hour, skiers will spend more time enjoying the slopes and less time waiting in line.  

**Rob:**  

This project exemplifies Cervinia’s commitment to sustainability, with quieter operations thanks to the **DirectDrive system**, which reduces noise and lubricant use.  

**Dom:**  

On the value front, Cervinia has expanded its youth discounts. Skiers under 16 now get a 30% reduction on passes, while those aged 16-24 receive a 20% discount—an upgrade from last season’s 12% discount for under-18s.  

**Rob:**  

These initiatives make Cervinia a top choice for families and younger skiers looking for high-quality, eco-friendly experiences.  and apparently this has been extended across the whole region which is very cool.

**Dom:**  

Moving on to **Pila**, perched above Aosta city, where big changes are underway with the ambitious **Couis 1 gondola project**.  

**Rob:**  

This new 10-seater gondola replaces a 1980s chairlift and forms the second segment of the Pila-Couis route. It’s designed to bring skiers to 2,700 meters in just 15 minutes, a significant improvement in accessibility.  

**Dom:**  

And the journey doesn’t end there. The top station, called the **Stella del Couis panoramic refuge**,  due to open December 2025 offers stunning views of iconic Alpine peaks like Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn.  

**Rob:**  

The project, designed by the architectural firm De Carlo - Gualla, blends cutting-edge engineering with sustainability. The stations feature futuristic designs, incorporating innovative materials for high-altitude durability.  

**Dom:**  

Currently, reaching Couis 1 from Pila requires three lifts and about 60 minutes. The new infrastructure will cut this to just 30 minutes, starting from downtown Aosta—a huge time-saver for skiers.  

**Rob:**  

Pila is also introducing a new **skiweg**, or connecting slope, from Couis 1 to Couis 2. Additionally, they’re upgrading key slopes like the **red n°7 Plan de L’Eyvie**, enhancing their functionality and snowmaking capabilities.  

**Dom:**  

And for families, Pila is expanding its discounts. Ski passes now include 30% off for under-16s, a 20% discount for 16-24-year-olds, and free passes for children under 8 accompanied by an adult.  

**Rob:**  

It’s clear Pila is investing in both infrastructure and accessibility, ensuring it remains a top choice for skiers of all ages and skill levels.  

**Dom:**  

Next, we’re off to **La Thuile**, a resort that combines serene beauty with high-octane action. This March, La Thuile will once again host the **Women’s Ski World Cup**.  

**Rob:**  

The competitions, scheduled for March 14th and 15th, will feature downhill and super-G races on the **Franco Berthod slope**. This course is known for its technical difficulty, with steep sections and variable terrain testing even the most elite athletes.  

**Dom:**  

And it’s not just the races. The World Cup brings an electric atmosphere to La Thuile, with live entertainment, local food stalls, and activities for spectators.  

**Rob:**  

It’s a unique opportunity to witness world-class skiing up close while enjoying the charm of this tranquil resort.  

---

**Dom:**  

Finally, let’s talk about **Monterosa Ski**, a paradise for freeriders and off-piste adventurers. This resort spans three valleys, offering diverse terrain for all abilities.  

**Rob:**  

This season, Monterosa is sweetening the deal with its **Happy Ski Monterosa promotion**. Guests who book at participating hotels receive a 35% discount on ski passes, making this a fantastic value for longer stays.  

**Dom:**  

With this promotion, you can explore Monterosa’s rugged backcountry, extensive freeride zones, and charming alpine villages without breaking the bank.  

**Rob:**  

Monterosa’s blend of expert-level terrain and beginner-friendly runs ensures it’s a great option for mixed groups, from adrenaline junkies to families.  

**Rob:**  

Alright, Dom, let’s recap. Courmayeur is celebrating 10 years of gourmet excellence with incredible culinary events, while Cervinia is redefining efficiency and comfort with its new six-seater chairlift.  

**Dom:**  

Pila is revolutionizing access to its slopes with a high-tech gondola and expanded discounts, and La Thuile is gearing up for an adrenaline-filled World Cup weekend.  

**Rob:**  

Meanwhile, Monterosa Ski is offering unbeatable savings alongside its unparalleled freeride terrain. 

Aimee Fuller 

Thinking about this week’s podcast

I am sure you will be talking about the snow !

Would you promote an ITS50 save £50pp on any chalet holiday before £22 Dec!  Would you use this ??

How about talking  about avoriaz opening weekend??