The White Out episode 6 – Friday December 6

Ski Weekends sponsor introduction 

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

INTRO:

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.

Rob: only on the planet Dom? This is perhaps a good opportunity to give a shout out to Patrick Thorne’s fantastic book, snow in space. 

Dom: ah yes, you can read about it at inthesnow.com/theres-snow-in-space and even link through to buy a copy.

Rob: which i did many years ago and my daughter loved the book, but she did keep asking me when we were going to go for a ski holiday to Mimas, it’s one of Saturn’s moons and average temperatures are minus 141 degrees.

Dom: i always thought Turgis, another of Saturn’s moons, sounded better with its 580km wide crater with a 15km vertical drop, full of snow. 

Rob: i reckon a company like Vail Resorts could do something with that, just imagine the real estate potential too.

Dom: unfortunately i think there is a gravity issue. skiing in space just doesn't provide the same feeling and it would take days to get down a run that long.

Rob: ummm, but maybe no ski lift required for the way back! 

Dom: Well that’s the commercial opportunities done and dusted then, although i’d definitely fancy a decent meal after the journey.

Rob: maybe one day Dom - hey Elon, if you’re listening lets ski in space one day, there’s a lot of growth opportunities.

Dom: Rob somewhere in the universe there really has to be like the most epic skiing planet going right?

Rob: chances are that is true Dom. I mean planet earth ain't too bad but yes a planet full of Zermatt’s might be pretty cool.

right onto the news this week

Dom: before that, what are you up to, it is literally the start of winter

Rob: I’m currently in Tignes, have been here all week with the ski club of great britain as they are running their reps course here and I have been checking it out. 

Dom: nice what’s the snow like

Rob: very good. great conditions on piste, still limited off piste although there’s pockets of powder to be found but lets focus on that in our snow section. what about you Dom

Dom: well it’s nearly time for our magazine InTheSnow second edition of the season to be published but I am heading down to Alpe d’Huez next week so really looking forward to that. Expand?

Rob: sounds great - ok well lets get into our news section Dom

Dom: what have we got going on in the world of snow rob…

Rob: well firstly let’s just mention our special guest of the week coming on for our dessert island ski resort segment

Dom: ah yes, the one and only Eddie the Eagle Edwards

Rob: really enjoyed that interview Dom, obviously we recorded it a couple of days ago and we asked him how to get into ski jumping, which is obviously a bit niche but it was really interesting i thought.

Dom: yes it was and he’s got so much passion and energy, it’s great. Plus you can even ski with him this season with SkiWeekends in Les Gets, but more of that later.

NEWS:

Carv 2 launches 

Rob: I recently had the chance to test the latest version of Carv, the ski tech that’s transforming how we approach skiing. I headed to Austria’s Stubai Glacier at the end of November to see how the updates stacked up in some pretty challenging conditions – heavy snow and whiteout visibility.

The new version of Carv has seen major improvements. Gone are the inserts that used to go inside your ski boots – something I found intrusive in the past, especially with low-volume boots. Now, the hardware simply clips onto the boot strap, and it’s paired with an upgraded algorithm designed to adapt to snow conditions and terrain, providing much more accurate feedback.

Linking the hardware to the app on my phone was quick and easy, and I used AirPods for real-time coaching. On my first run of the day, I started in Free Skiing mode, where Carv calculates your Ski IQ – a score ranging from 50 to 150+, based on your technique. I scored 141, which isn’t bad for a BASI Level 3 instructor, but still shy of the season’s top score of 171.

From there, I stepped up to the Ski IQ and Tips mode, where the AI coach began offering tailored advice based on my movements – things like applying more pressure or being more active at certain points in the turn. By the end of the run, I was already seeing improvements.

Later, I tried Monitor mode, which gives live feedback during each turn. While it’s intense, I found I preferred getting my scores and tips after I’d finished skiing. That said, the system offers flexibility – you can even switch to training mode, which sets specific goals and tracks your progress with positive or negative signals.

Beyond Ski IQ, Carv delivers a wealth of data. It recorded every metre of my runs, analyzing turn shape, edge angles, forward balance, and ski pressure. What’s really impressive is how it now recognizes different terrains – whether you’re on groomers, in powder, or tackling moguls – a significant leap from the previous version.

By the end of the day, I’d made 1,650 turns, skied 16.8 miles, and descended over 16,000 vertical feet, mostly in storm-like conditions. While fatigue eventually dropped my scores, I came away convinced that Carv 2 is a game-changer for skiers looking to refine their technique and track their progress.

getcarv.com 

Where to ski and snowboard 

Dom: Chris Gill, the longtime editor of *Where to Ski*, has announced that he is winding up the business. Gill’s journey began 43 years ago with the creation of the *Good Skiing Guide*, before launching the *Where to Ski* series alongside Dave Watts in 1994. Together, they published comprehensive annual guides that became staples for skiers across Europe.  

Gill and Watts moved to regional guides in recent years, covering Austria, France, and Italy. Plans for a Switzerland edition were halted in 2020 due to Covid-19, which marked a turning point for Gill, leading to his decision to step back.  

Remaining copies of the *Where to Ski* guides are now on sale at www.editors.co.uk/shop for £1.99 each. Gill is encouraging supporters to grab copies for themselves or as gifts and to help spread the word on social media.  

Although *Where to Ski* is winding down, Gill isn’t retiring just yet. He’s currently working on a new project about the South West Coast Path, set for release next spring.  

Chris Gill’s contributions to the ski industry have been immense, and his guides will no doubt remain a valuable resource for years to come.  

Lenzerheide

rob: Lenzerheide, the Swiss ski resort, is kicking off its new World of Wonders (W.O.W.) campaign with the release of an exciting video today at 3 pm. The DREAMLINE video features Freeskier Nico Vuignier and skiing legend Didier Cuche as they go head-to-head on the slopes, showcasing the resort’s unique offerings.

Lenzerheide is positioning itself as a versatile resort with something for everyone, from skiing and snowboarding to year-round sports. With easy access from the UK, it’s an attractive option for those looking for a hassle-free transfer compared to other Alpine destinations.

The resort is also known for its thriving events scene, having hosted major events such as the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and the FIS Ski World Cup Final. Looking ahead, Lenzerheide is gearing up to host the 2025 Biathlon World Championships, marking the first time the region will hold this prestigious event.

Check out the DREAMLINE video on YouTube and get a glimpse of what Lenzerheide has in store this season and beyond.

The Great British Ski Test 2024 – Your Ultimate Skiing Experience Awaits!

dom: 

If you’re looking to take your skiing to the next level, then don’t miss out on The Great British Ski Test this March 9th-15th, 2024! from beginners eager to build confidence or an experienced skier aiming to refine your technique, this week-long event offers something for everyone.

The Great British Ski Test includes:

• Daily On-Piste Skiing – Ski test a variety of the latest skis to find the best fit for your style and ability.
• Evening Activities – Relax and unwind after a day on the slopes with great food, wine, and social events.
• Lift Passes & Transfers – Everything you need for a seamless experience, including lift passes, transfers, and mountain lunch vouchers.
• Optional Ski Lessons & Off-Piste Sessions – Take your skills up a notch with professional ski lessons or venture off-piste to challenge yourself further.

great chance to meet like-minded enthusiasts, whether you’re a solo skier, part of a group, or simply looking to meet new people who share your passion for skiing. The Great British Ski Test is an unforgettable experience designed to help you ski with confidence, enjoy the slopes more, and test out the latest skis.

Pricing & Booking:

• Package Prices start from just £1550.
• Reserve Your Space with a deposit of only £100.

Contact:
For more information, or to reserve your spot, email Carole at carole@pilaski.co.uk.

Mia Brookes Wins World Cup Big Air in China

rob: 

Britain’s Mia Brookes, 17, won the second big air contest of the FIS Snowboard World Cup season at Shougang Park on Sunday. Her third run, a cab 1440 stalefish, earned 94.00 points, securing her victory with a total score of 179.75. “I didn’t come in to win, just wanted to land my new tricks, so it’s sick to win,” she said. Japan’s Mari Fukada placed second with 176.75, while two-time Olympic champ Anna Gasser (AUT) took third. The final featured five Japanese riders, with Miyabi Onitsuka and Reira Iwabuchi finishing fourth and fifth, respectively.

AND FINALLY:

Dom: And finally, Rob, what’s caught your attention this week?  

Rob: Well, Dom, with the Alps finally seeing some heavy snowfall, I’ve been thinking a lot about avalanche safety. I came across a really interesting article in The Telegraph, featuring advice from Henry Schniewind of Henry’s Avalanche Talks. His insights are not only practical but also a reminder of how important it is to respect the mountains, especially as conditions improve and more people head off-piste.  

Dom: Henry’s great—straight-talking and always on point when it comes to safety. What stood out in the piece?  

Rob: There’s so much to look at, but let’s start with understanding the avalanche danger levels. He highlights the international system, which ranges from Level 1—low risk—to Level 5—extreme. A lot of people hear "moderate risk" and think it’s fine, but Henry warns that even at Level 3, there’s a considerable chance of avalanches. It’s a good reminder to check the daily forecast and plan accordingly.  

Dom: It’s true. I think a lot of skiers overlook that part of their prep, especially when there’s fresh powder to be had.  

Rob: Exactly. And that’s another point Henry makes: the importance of group dynamics. He recommends skiing in groups of three to five people. Fewer than three, and you’re at risk of not having enough hands in an emergency. More than five, and you risk splitting up or losing focus on safety.  

Dom: Makes sense. A big group can easily turn chaotic.  

Rob: Absolutely. He also emphasizes the importance of having the right gear and knowing how to use it. Avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels are essential for off-piste skiing. But owning the gear isn’t enough—you need to practice with it, ideally every season. Henry points out that if someone is buried, you have about 15 minutes to get them out before survival chances plummet.  

Dom: That’s a sobering statistic. Do most people actually practice using their gear?  

Rob: Probably not as much as they should. Henry suggests a two- or three-hour session each year to refresh those skills. And this doesn’t just apply to the experts; anyone heading off-piste should know the basics.  

Dom: Agreed. What else does he recommend?  

Rob: A lot of it is about reading the terrain and conditions. For instance, avoiding slopes of 30 degrees or more, as that’s where avalanches occur, and steering clear of wind-loaded slopes, which may look like freeride heaven but are often unstable. He also stresses the importance of planning routes carefully to avoid ending up in dangerous spots like cliffs or narrow gullies.  

Dom: It’s all about being proactive rather than reactive, isn’t it?  

Rob: Exactly. And if you are caught in an avalanche, Henry offers some potentially life-saving advice. He likens it to being in a high-speed washing machine. You should try to swim for the surface, and as the snow slows down, create an air pocket around your face to help you breathe. He also mentions the importance of ditching your skis and poles to reduce drag—though obviously, that’s easier said than done in the moment.  

Dom: ummm, but prevention is definitely better than a cure in this case

Rob: Definitely. And one more thing that stuck with me is his advice to always talk to local experts, like ski patrol or mountain guides. They know the area better than anyone and can provide insights that you won’t get from a forecast alone.  

Dom: Solid advice. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a powder day and forget about the risks.  

Rob: Exactly, and that’s the point of Henry’s article—enjoy the mountains, but do so with respect and preparation. It’s not about scaring people; it’s about making sure everyone gets to enjoy their trip safely.  

Dom: A serious but really valuable “and finally” this week. If you’re listening and heading off-piste, take the time to check conditions, pack the right gear, and plan your routes properly.  

Rob: Absolutely. The mountains are incredible, but they don’t take prisoners. Let’s stay safe out there. if you want to read the article go to: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/ski/advice/how-stay-safe-avalanches-when-skiing-mountains/

Dom: Wise words, Rob. Right, what’s coming up next…? 

Rob: Well next up we have a company called Miloby that specialises in the French pyrenees, we've talked quite a  bit about the Pyrenees over the last few weeks, and as a result of that research, we came across Miloby or Gomiloby.com which is their website. 

dom
So rob one thing you hear a lot is the word affordable and I know you and I have always agreed that heading towards the  Pyrenees is one way to secure that.

rob
totally dom, we came across Miloby at the recent ski show and chatted to them about some of the holiday accommodation they have and it turns out they are really set on creating hassle-free packages at pretty damn good prices. 

Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a family, they talk about offering a great price cutting out the middleman... They have two accommodation options, really nice cabins and a newly renovated hotel plus they have the ski School, so they can really package everything up themselves

dom
And we’re not just talking about the average holiday spot. They are right in the heart of the Pyrenean National Forest, so as you can imagine serene gorgeous escape like places to stay 

rob:
So the Miloby Cabins at 650 meters above sea level seriously beautiful spots, breathtaking views and, spectacular sunsets.

dom:
I’ve seen the photos Rob, and trust me, the views are out of this world. The cabins are south-west facing, so you get maximum sunlight during the day, and those sunsets... wow.

rob:
They’re secluded, yet incredibly accessible. You’re only 10 minutes from the D929, which means it’s super easy to get to, and just 20 minutes from the ski resort of Saint Lary, and 25 minutes from Loudenvielle. So, if you’re looking for a base for your Pyrenean adventure, you couldn’t ask for a better spot.

dom:
And so they also talked about holiday packages that cut out the middleman, so you’re getting amazing value for money. something close to everyone's heart right now/

rob:

they also have a  hotel currently undergoing a full renovation, and by February 2025, it’ll be opening with some seriously luxurious upgrades. 6 to 8 luxury studios, each with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The 17 rooms are going to be modern and stylish, in that cozy, chalet-style vibe, and they'll range from intimate studios to larger apartments that can sleep up to six people. Perfect for a group or family. All rooms have kitchens for the option to save even more on self catering. But they also have a really luxurious but inexpensive bar on the ground floor that is opening for ski season. 

dom:

transfer times from Lourdes and Toulouse airports are incredible. You can get there in no time, which makes it so convenient for a winter getaway.

rob
And the cost of eating on the slopes? It’s surprisingly cheap! You won’t break the bank dining out in the area

dom

Plus, the ski resorts themselves — they have modern infrastructure but are far less crowded compared to other major resorts. So, you get all the perks of modern skiing without the hustle and bustle.

so very interesting indeed def a company worth checking out gomiloby.com

whats next?

WHERE IS BEST TO SKI NOW: 

Rob: as I mentioned earlier,  have been in Tignes this week and i was in Val Thorens last weekend and I’m also heading back this weekend. conditions on piste are good, there’s been some snow this week too and it’s getting better. there’s more snow forecast here over the weekend and i can see it’s starting now. 

dom: December is when most of the Northern Hemisphere’s ski areas kick off the season. Early in the month, just a few hundred resorts are open, but by the end, it’s more than 5,000 across 75 countries, including Europe, Asia, North America, and even North Africa.

So, where’s worth heading to in early December?

Europe

Rob: yes i’d like to see the snow line coming down a bit, currently it’s between 1500 and 1800 metres in France so High-altitude resorts are your best bet. In Austria, the likes of Solden, Obergurgl, and Ischgl are looking good and sually aim to offer around 100km of slopes by now, helped by snowmaking which is currently the case. 

Switzerland has great early-season options like Saas-Fee, Zermatt, and Davos. French favourites like Val Thorens, Tignes, and Les 2 Alpes are obviously up and running, along with Italian spots like Cervinia and Cortina, also tend to open early. I’m heading to the Swiss valais region at the end of next week, the likes of Crans-Montana, Verbier and Nendaz have snow and they are high so all good there.

Dom: 

And don’t forget Scandinavia. Resorts there embrace the colder, darker days with floodlit runs at this time of the season and the situation is pretty good - temperatures are currently cold, down to minus 18 in some places during the night, including Hemsedal, and there’s some nice regular snowfalls - not massive dumps but just enough to top things up. It’s looking a bit milder and sunny as we head towards christmas there, but still below freezing levels so that’s great.

Rob: I can see in Scotland there has been some snow and some skiing, but as it can be there, it has been a bit mixed but snow is forecast this weekend with pretty cold temperatures so could be good, what about north america Dom?

North America

Dom: Across the Atlantic, it’s all about Thanksgiving at the end of November but many resorts are already open by December 1st, with snowmaking playing a key role. Banff and Jasper in Canada often have a head start with a month of skiing under their belts by then and currently it’s looking pretty good with snow on the ground and temperatures remaining below freezing with the odd snowfall forecast over the coming couple of weeks

Rob: On the East Coast, it’s all about cold temps and snowmaking and there’s around a quarter of the ski area open in Killington right now but ut’s pretty cold and they have got more snow coming. out West, things are shaping up - Big Sky in Montana has plenty of groomed terrain opening and more snow is forecast, and it’s sunny over in Beaver Creek Colorado where there’s a men’s downhill race today and a super G and GS over the weekend too. 

Dom: The great thing about skiing before Christmas is that generally you’ll find empty slopes, discounted lift passes, and fresh rental gear. No queues at the lifts or in restaurants—perfect for kicking off your season in style.

Rob: that’s true Dom, it’s great right now here in Tignes, not too bust and with Christmas and New Year so crucial to resorts, here’s hoping for a snowy December to set the season off right. but we have certainly had a reasonable start to winter so far. okay let’s check out some gear shall we Dom…

GEAR:

Dom: 

first up the SCOTT FLOW PRO MIPS HELMET https://www.scott-sports.com/gb/en/product/scott-flow-pro-mips-helmet?article=4199870001006

RRP: £180.00

• its  a freeride helmet with features galore.
• integration of temperature-regulating material MAKING SURE YOU STAY RIGHT AT THE RIGHT TEMP. 
• and you can adjust the ventilation to your liking.
• RECCO® and a MIPS® integrated fit system
• great Eco-Features (98% Recycled PC min 50% Recycled EPS Liner More than 42% Eco content by weight
• Approx Weight 500g

check out the  SCOTT Flow Pro MIPS x Recco Tech by Jeremie Heitz take a look on youtube also we will leave in the notes  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJbVof9UEgI

Rob:

yes also from SCOTT we have the Vest Airflow W's RRP £140 (Fresh green/dark blue) looks great a nice change from the black! so its a back protector but a really good looking and comfy one…

• highly ventilated, means you stay cool and comfortable during even the most rigorous runs.
• a one-time adjustable waist-belt, adds simplicity when getting ready for the slopes.

Dom:

then we have some Fischer boots - really popular this winter. 

The Top of the range the RC4 Pro MV BOA DYN - it is an expensive boot at around £700 ish with a zip fit liner so when that's taken into consideration it kind of  explains the price. 

There are now limited stock of this boot, it's been so popular and in the iconic yellow of Fischer [with purple]

its a high-performance freeride boot. It features the BOA® H+i1 Fit System to give a micro-adjustable fit, the RC4 ZipFit® liner guarantees heel lock and stability within the VACUUM shells, and the CARBONFUSED cuff offers even stiffness and stability. To meet the needs of true freeriders, the integrated Dynafit® insert in the toe makes the boot uphill compatible with multi-norm bindings and downhill compatible with all GripWalk® bindings. The fixed cuff provides utmost stability and trust to the rear in a way SKI/WALK cuff boots often don’t. With this ski you'll be able to send the really big lines.

fischer say  a wider range of womens boots with BOA is planned for 25.26 season

and Skiers can see the range of skis and boots on test at the GB test in Pila March 2025

https://www.gbskitest.com/

GB skier Billy Major is skiing on Fischer kit this season and freestyle skier Tyler Harding testament in itself!

These  ones are similar spec and more mid price range  - BOA on the mens  & womens, meaning  more comfort across the foot

RC4 MV 110 Men at around the 450 mark is a great boot for advanced skiers. BOA® Fit System provides perfect fit for a majority of foot shapes, plus the iFZ Performance liner and the VACUUM shell make for easy fitting and great downhill performance. A GripWalk® sole adds security and convenience across all ski day conditions.

RRP £460

and for women the RC4 MV 95 Woman

https://www.fischersports.com/rc4-95-mv-boa/U06724

The RC4 95 MV BOA is a performance boot that offers customizable VACUUM shell for ladies looking for a comfortable fit. New BOA® H+i1 Fit System wraps the shell to every foot shape and the women's specific iFZ Performance liner to guarantee top performance at a soft 95 flex. The RC4 MV boots have developed with help of FISCHER Scan-Fit® data, providing an optimal fit for most female skiers.

RRP £460

Rob

The Montec Fawk Bib Pants - designed for peak performance and comfort across all terrains.  waterproof and breathable SHIELD-TEC membrane, fully taped seams for durability, and customizable insulation options, these pants provide unmatched protection and flexibility. Made from recycled polyester and bluesign® approved fabrics, they are eco-friendly. Features include zipped vents, elasticated snow gaiters, reinforced hems, adjustable waist and suspenders, and a front-access zipper. Priced at 195 GBP, they are ideal for any skiing adventure.

Dom: great rob love the gear that we are seeing this season, 

ive also recently done a best ski helmets video on our youtube channel thats had 4.5k views in a week

we are also about to produce best ski goggles for this winter

we also have a resort guide to breckenridge launched yesterday and already at 1k views and whistler that we published one on whistler thats already had 4k views so def head to the inthesnowmag YT channel to see some of this great content 

and out instagram channel has just hit a  million accounts in a week thats a first time ever with one video having had half a million plays  !!  so thats exciting (well as exciting as social media gets!)

Podcast Script: Destination Spotlight - Skiing in Les 2 Alpes with Dom & Rob (The White Out)

Rob:
Today, we’re taking you to one of the most iconic and vibrant ski resorts in the French Alps — Les 2 Alpes! If you’re looking for epic skiing, stunning views, and an après scene that can compete with the best, this is the place for you.

Dom:
Alright, Rob, for our listeners who might not know, where exactly is Les 2 Alpes?

Rob:
It’s located in the French Alps, in the Isère department of southeastern France, near the town of Grenoble. The nearest airport is Grenoble, about 109 kilometers away, with a transfer time of just over an hour and a half. If you're flying into Geneva, it’s about 2.5 hours away by car, so not too bad either.

[SEGMENT 1: What Makes Les 2 Alpes Special]

Dom:
And let me tell you, Rob, this place is not just a ski resort — it’s a total experience. Les 2 Alpes is known for its high-energy vibe and a fantastic mix of tradition and modernity. The resort is divided into distinct sectors, each with its own character. You start your journey near the tourist office and then head along a sun-drenched 2km-long main street that leads right into the heart of the village.

Rob:
Yeah, and that’s where you’ll find the lively centre — the perfect place to kick off your trip. It’s home to major gondola stations, an outdoor ice rink, and a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels. The architecture is a great blend of traditional wooden chalets and sleek, contemporary buildings. It's got that perfect mix of rustic charm and modern style.

Dom:
Convenience is another big plus. Most of the accommodation is just a short walk from the ski lifts, so you can really make the most of your time on the mountain. And, Rob, when the sun sets, the resort transforms — the après-ski scene here is electric! It’s a great mix of relaxation and celebration, making it one of the best places to unwind after a day on the slopes.

[SEGMENT 2: Skiing in Les 2 Alpes]

Rob:
Let’s talk skiing now. Les 2 Alpes is famous for its high-altitude ski area and incredible snow record. It’s one of those resorts where you can count on epic snow conditions, no matter when you visit. The resort boasts 420 hectares of marked slopes and over 200 kilometers of snow-sure terrain, with 75% of the slopes above 2,000 meters. It’s got the kind of altitude that guarantees good conditions.

Dom:
Exactly, Rob. There are 80 pistes in total, including Green - 16

• Blue – 46
• Red – 16
• Black – 10

runs. There’s something for every level of skier, from beginners to experts. The resort’s broken down into several key areas, each offering something unique. For beginners, you’ve got the Resort sector at 1,650 meters, which has free button lifts and ski schools.

Rob:
Les Crêtes, at 2,100 meters, is great for beginners too, with some awesome blue runs. Then there’s Vallée Blanche, also at 2,100 meters, offering quieter, scenic trails that are perfect if you’re looking to take it easy and enjoy the views. For advanced skiers, head to Le Diable at 2,400 meters. It’s got those challenging red and black runs that you love.

Dom:
And if you’re into freestyle, Toura at 2,600 meters is the place to be. The Snowpark here is renowned for its various features, including rails, boxes, and a big air jump. Plus, there’s the legendary La Fée area for freeriders who want to dive into some off-piste adventure.

Rob:
And don’t forget the Glacier sector — this is a real highlight. At 3,600 meters, it’s the highest skiable domain in Europe, offering stunning 360-degree views and a mix of runs for all levels. It’s perfect for those looking to ski on natural snow.

[SEGMENT 3: Mountain Dining & Après-Ski]

Dom:
When it comes to food, Les 2 Alpes has you covered, both on and off the slopes. There are some fantastic mountain restaurants, like Chalet de La Toura, located at the top of the Jandri Express gondola. It’s got panoramic views and a great terrace for a post-ski meal.

Rob:
And Le Melezes, at 2,200 meters, has been serving up delicious tartiflette and grilled meats for over 30 years. For something special, La Patache, at the foot of the Viking chairlift, has been awarded the “Maitre Restaurateur” label — it’s top-notch.

Dom:
Back in the village, you’ve got some amazing options too. La Grange is a local favourite, serving up a variety of dishes with fresh, local ingredients. If you're craving something hearty, try the signature cassoulet. And if you’re a fan of Spanish cuisine, Le Paellou serves up incredible paella cooked in a wood-fired oven.

Rob:
When it comes to après-ski, Les 2 Alpes has a vibrant scene. Le Pano Bar is a must-visit, right at the top of the Jandri Express, with amazing views and a great atmosphere. Smithy’s in the heart of the village has live music and DJs, perfect for a fun night out.

Dom:
And don’t forget The Umbrella Bar, a popular après-ski spot with a lively vibe, or Avalanche, which turns into a nightclub for those who want to dance the night away. There’s also The Secret — a hidden bar that only those in the know can find, tucked away in a small alley.

[SEGMENT 4: Resort Developments and the New Jandri 3S Lift]

Rob:
Now, Les 2 Alpes isn’t just resting on its laurels. This year, they’ve introduced the brand-new Jandri 3S Cable Car, which is an absolute game-changer. This replaces the original Jandri Express from 1985 and offers a smoother, faster ride up to 3,200 meters.

Dom:
This new lift features three cables for optimum stability, which makes it way more resistant to wind. It can transport 3,000 people per hour, cutting down on wait times, and the ride up only takes 17 minutes — a massive improvement from the previous 40 minutes.

Rob:
And with just seven pylons replacing the 17 that were in place before, it has minimal impact on the environment. Plus, there are four new stations that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

Dom:
When you reach the top, Rob, the views are absolutely breathtaking. You can see the whole valley and the majestic peaks of the Alps. And, as you said, it’s so much faster, so you get more time skiing and less time waiting.

Rob:
But that’s not all. Les 2 Alpes has also been busy with other developments, like a major upgrade to the Vallée Blanche sector, making it more accessible and environmentally friendly. Plus, they’ve introduced a new green beginner’s slope at Pied-Moutet, and three free-access training areas at the base of the resort, including the Coolidge area with a magic carpet.

Dom:
These new developments really solidify Les 2 Alpes as the ultimate skiing destination, with something for every level — from beginners to experts. Whether you're exploring the high-altitude terrain or learning your first turns, it’s an incredible place to ski.

[SEGMENT 5: Accommodation Options]

Rob:
Now, if you’re wondering where to stay, Les 2 Alpes has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury chalets to budget-friendly self-catered apartments. Whatever your budget, there’s a place for you.

Dom:
Absolutely. And if you're looking to book, Peak Retreats offers some great packages for Les 2 Alpes. They’ve got everything covered — from accommodations to transfers — so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your time on the slopes.

[Link: https://www.peakretreats.co.uk/winter/ski-resorts/oisans/les-deux-alpes]

Rob:
With Peak Retreats, you get the benefit of expert advice and hassle-free booking. You’ll have everything sorted before you even arrive, so all you need to do is enjoy your holiday.

[CONCLUSION]

Dom:
I’ve got to say, Rob, I’m pretty excited — I’m booked this winter with Peak Retreats for next week, so I’m feeling pretty smug right now.

Rob:
I don’t blame you, Dom theyre a great bunch!   

Les 2 Alpes has everything — stunning slopes, amazing après-ski, and plenty of new developments to keep things fresh. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, this resort has something for everyone.

Dom:
That’s it for today’s Destination Spotlight! If you're planning your next ski adventure, Les 2 Alpes should definitely be on your radar. Check out Peak Retreats for more info and book your trip today.

DESSERT ISLAND SKI RESORT:

Rob

We have a very special guest who to be honest needs no introduction. You may know him as the fearless ski jumper who defied all expectations at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. He's the man who soared to fame with his undying determination, even though he finished last in both his events. 

Dom:

yes rob 

a media sensation for his unshakable spirit and his trademark daring jumps. no matter where life has taken him since, he’s always stayed true to his roots — an underdog from Cheltenham who never gave up.

His story of perseverance, passion, and staying true to himself turned him into a legend, and even inspired the 2016 film Eddie the Eagle, starring Taron Egerton.

let’s keep this steady, and all stand ready as we welcome to the show the one and only Eddie the eagle edwards!

INTERVIEW

*****

SkiWeekends has launched a new holiday this winter in the ski resort of Les Gets, staying with Eddie 'The Eagle' Edwards - Guests will stay at Chalet Marjorie in the heart of Les Gets over a week during January with options for both short and longer stays.

Eddie will be staying at Chalet Marjorie from Friday, 17th January 2025, for six days. Guests can choose from a range of stay durations starting on the following dates:

Thursday, 16th January: Stay for 3, 4, or 7 nights (prices available by request)

Sunday, 19th January: Stay for 4 nights, starting from £540pp

Monday, 20th January: Stay for 3 nights, starting from £438pp

that’s all on a chalet board / half board basis - no dinner Wednesday 

Saturday features a special Savoyard dinner. Eddie will join guests for dinner and host a screening of Eddie the Eagle followed by a Q&A on Saturday January 18 and Tuesday January 21 during the evening. Guests will also have the chance to ski with Eddie for at least half a day, with skiing groups arranged by ability. This is a social group and Eddie is not employed as a guide. Return Geneva Airport transfers are also included.

visit: skiweekends.com/ski-eddie-the-eagle-edwards

For more information about Chalet Marjorie, including room options and transfer details, visit skiweekends.com or call 02380 206971

conclusion

"Thanks for tuning in to The White Out Podcast! If you enjoyed the show, don’t forget to leave us a review — it really helps us out. And be sure to follow us on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for all the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Catch you next time adios!