Where to Ski And Snowboard - Fresh snow sparks surge in ski bookings

Fresh snow sparks surge in ski bookings

26th March 2014, by Abi Butcher

A snowy scene from Sunday in Hochoetz taken by WTSS's Dave Ashmore

Tour operators are reporting a sudden rise in the number of people booking a last-minute ski or snowboard holiday — and offering fantastic deals for those looking for a snowy escape.

Fresh snow has covered Alpine resorts in France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy over the past 48 hours, with resorts such as St Anton and Lech in the Arlberg region of Austria — where Editor Gill and his sons are currently enjoying fabulous conditions — reporting their biggest snowfall of the season yesterday (Tuesday), at 50cm. 

The heaviest snow fell in Hintertux in Austria, which reported 110cm of fresh snow. In Switzerland, St Moritz received 80cm, and Wengen 50cm. Almost all key resorts across France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy received at least 30cm of fresh snow over the past couple of days.

“We have had a huge surge in bookings since the snow levels got topped up recently,” said Nick Morgan, managing director of Le Ski. “It’s been an odd season in that the perception of snow levels and quality has been far below the reality. We’ve had great conditions all season in all three of our resorts of Courchevel, Val d’Isère and La Tania.”

Ski Solutions managing director Craig Burton said: “The 2013/14 ski season started well, with heavy November snow leading to many resorts opening early. Now the recent snowfall provides a great end to the season.

“On Monday, Ski Solutions responded to a 20% increase in enquiries as word got out about the excellent conditions and skiers rushed to snap up some incredible last-minute bargains.  For many, it was their second – or even third – trip to the slopes this season.”

Christine van Zadelhoff from Ski Amis added: “It’s gone a bit mad this week after a very quiet period – everyone is booking last minute. We did four bookings overnight online last night (Tuesday/Wednesday) for this weekend. I was just in ‘close-down’ mode thinking about the schedule for end of season and now had to think again as we’re busy again.”

And there are some fantastic end-of-season deals to be snapped up, ranging from £500 off apartments in Flaine with Peak Retreats to £199 per person in Ski Amis catered chalet — during the Easter holidays!

Keep an eye on our snow reports for what’s in store next week.