Crikey…

Well, it’s finally happened – Verbier has turned back into a ski resort and everyone’s been walking around with massive grins on their faces.

Apart from Kato, who’s been skulking around looking miserable all day. Although that might be largely a result of going to the opening of the Casbar last night…

Anyway, it’s hard to believe that last Sunday we were walking around the golf course wearing t-shirts and sunglasses, and it was impossible to imagine it ever turning into a piste.

But this morning everything had been buried underneath tons of perfect snow. So Sandy and I took a trip up in the bubble to see what it was all about.

Now, a lot of people might be worried that when they get back on snow it takes ages to get the feeling back – it all feels a bit weird and tricky. The consolation is that it’s pretty much the same for everyone, and I certainly didn’t feel particularly clever…

So imagine my delight when the normally faultless young Sandy sailed over a ridge and ended up using his face to help slow him down. And I personally couldn’t have been happier when on the very next run he did exactly the same thing, in exactly the same spot.

I’ve attached the photo to help you share my joy.

Still, training starts with Jules and Michel tomorrow, and Sandy might have got it out of his system. But I live in hope…

Snowy Saturday

Friday afternoon and from the floor of the valley there was a visible snowline stopping just below Verbier Since then all has changed – I woke this morning to the welcome sound of the snow ploughs was a joy. Trees and paths all had a heavy covering of soft fluffy stuff – Hallelujah!!

It’s been snowing now for over 24 hours and it really shows. Huge flakes last night resulted in up to half a metre of new snow on the mountain this morning. The only slopes still officially open were on Lac des Vaux but this didn’t stop the crowds.

As you can see from the photos visibility was not the best. Although the light was flat the slopes were not. Large but soft moguls provided a challenge for some and great enjoyment for others.

From Attelas down to Ruinettes snow cannons were doing their best to add to the snowfall. Piste bashers were also in action to get the base layer settled down. Snow on the upper slopes was dry and powdery. Back in town it was a good deal warmer although not yet slushy – good consistency for snowballs.

This weekend seems to be the start of the season for many with shops and streets full of people. The annual Jib Night Contest is being held on the Rue de Medran this Saturday and Sunday. Gripping entertainment in the centre of town with skiers and snowboarders performing over a short course of rails and jumps. DJs and stands offering refreshments have been set up around the Place Centrale. For more info see http://www.jibnight.ch

The forecast is for clouds to clear tomorrow with temperatures rising on Monday and Tuesday – not too much we hope! In the mean time powder snow is still falling……….

35 cm of fresh snow overnight!

About 35 cm of fresh snow has fallen overnight in Verbier. the photos and viseo below where taken this morning between 08.00 and 09.10. A great start to the season. Book up you lessons early. See you all soon.