Bonjour from Courchevel

We awoke Sunday to some snow falling and warmish temperatures. A storm was coming in and the visibility was limited. Winds and conditions retricted us to mainly the Biollay, Chenus, Bouc Blanc and Plantrey areas. Conditions were spring-like as we cruised around setting up the groups for the week. It was a good feeling to get the legs working again after the train ride and transfer. On the way home, a stop at the Courcheneige was in order for a warming Gluewein.

The YESturians, day one.

Monday we awoke to some more snow and warm temperatures. The was snow was heavy and quite challenging in spots. Again, wind, conditions and high avalanche danger limited the lifts that were open and therefore the terrain available. With the wind howling the groups tried to stay close the trees for protection and visibility. The snow was ever changing as we got some great turns in spring snow while trying to survive down sticky, clumpy sections as well. Despite the wet, dreary start to the day, the groups managed to have fun at stayed out until past 16:00.

Courchevel 1850.

With the storm coming in, the temperature had dropped and the snow was bucketing down. Looking at the forecast the coaches decided to call Tuesday a rest day. Tuesday morning brought about 20cm of fresh dry snow and it was still coming down. Some people took to the slopes while others relaxed, explored the village or went shopping. Those who braved the slopes were rewarded with some great skiing. Super light powder with no one around. The visibility was limited but close to the treeline the skiing was great. As evening fell, the snow started to fall again, and a lot of it. By the time it was bedtime, it was puking down hard outside.

How many PowderPuffs can fit on a chair?

Wednesday morning we awoke to a clearing sky. Another 30ish cm had fallen over night and it was game on. The upper mountain and transfer to Meribel was still closed due to high avalanche risk but the lower mountain was good to go. Most of the groups headed over to 1650 via the Mugnier chair and were not disappointed. Fresh snow was everywhere as the groups whooped and hollered through the powder. Chapelets, Signal and Aiguille du Fruit were the favourites with many great powder turns as well as a few crashes. Some just fell over in the deeper snow while others managed to find ditches, hidden bumps or just throw themselves into holes. Much laughter was had and everyone had a big smile on their face. As the sun got lower in the sky, so did the temperature and by 16:00 is was time to head back. Courchevel put on a great show today and the groups are ready for more.