Where to Ski And Snowboard - New adaptive programme from Crystal

New adaptive programme from Crystal

24th November 2011, by Chris Gill

Disability Snowsport UK / Crystal Holidays

A new programme from Crystal Holidays aims to help disabled skiers enjoy a good winter holiday.

The Crystal Ski Adaptive programme has been launched for the 2012 winter season, and includes five resorts (one in the US, four in the Alps). Working closely with Disability Snowsport UK, Crystal has put together holidays that allow disabled skiers and boarders to travel independently with their family or friends. Holidays are also planned to advise on equipment carriage and special transfers to the resorts.

The resorts have been carefully chosen for their suitability in providing adaptive ski schools for all levels and suitable accommodation; and there is a specialist team to answer queries.

Managing director for Crystal Ski Simon Cross said, ‘Our Crystal Adaptive programme is mainly aimed at independent minded people who have been on group trips before, but we also cater for beginner skiers. We offer the whole package to make sure disabled skiers can enjoy a fully accessible and enjoyable ski holiday.’

The five resorts are La Plagne, Sestriere, Schladming, Villars and Winter Park.

La Plagne and Winter Park are established at adaptive sports, having very comprehensive school facilities. In La Plagne, at Aime, is the Antenne Handicap school, which provides tuition and equipment. Lift passes are reduced too. If you are travelling with someone who has special needs and looking for suitable accommodation, the Hotel Terra Nova is recommended – convenient, with ski-in ski-out access.

The American’s have always been at the forefront of good facilities for disabled skiers, with Winter Park leading the way. The Colorado resort may have endless bump skiing, but it also has the National Sports Center for the Disabled – and is world reknown for the quality of instruction.

Families might like to take a look at Villars in Switzerland. The resort school, Handi Concept Ski, is a specialist outfit. You can hire sit-skis from £95, including an instructor. Blind skiing is also supported, which is an amazingly good opportunity for the visually impaired to enjoy the sensation of snow and thrill of the slopes. The Eurotel Victoria has wheelchair access and rooms on the ground floor; it is also close to the gondola.

Crystal currently has a ‘Wipeout’ sale running, including adaptive holidays. La Plagne on 7 January is now just £513pp – staying half-board at the Terra Nova (was £726).