Spring Skiing is Best!

There is a long running debate about when is the best time of year to ski.  To be honest it’s a silly question because we think skiing is always great, any time of year.  In fact we wish we could ski every day of the year!

But anyway, we thought we would chip in and BIG UP spring skiing.  New Year and Half term are the most popular weeks of the year, powder hounds like skiing in January and March is always popular with groups trying to avoid the school holidays.  The first two weeks in April are often overlooked and we are not sure why because we think April skiing is brilliant for the following reasons.

It’s snow sure

There is a mountain myth that there is no snow in April. But in reality there is usually plenty of snow, because it has been snowing for 4 months.  Snow depth is not usually an issue, but you should be aware that it will be spring snow.

If you have not skied in April before then let us explain.  The air temperature is generally below freezing at night and up to 20 degrees in the day, so the snow freezes overnight making it hard and a little bit icy first thing in the morning.  It melts throughout the day so is nice soft snow between 10am and 2pm.  After 2pm it can get a bit slushy especially on south facing slopes.  So, if you like skiing a few hours each day followed by lunch in the sunshine then spring skiing is definitely for you!

It’s sunny and warm

The weather in the Alps in April is usually blue skies and sunny making it a lovely time to be on holiday; zooming down the slopes, relaxing with a beer in a deck chair, enjoying the view from the balcony and watching the kids play in the snow.

Quite pistes

Because spring skiing is not as popular as New Year and half term, there are definitely a lot less people on the slopes, giving you the freedom to rip it up and get the wind in your hair.

Great value

The cost of skiing is a bit more reasonable than other times of year. You will often find deals on accommodation, flights will be cheaper than February and you will find lift pass prices reduced.  Most the ski shops in resort will also have sales on, if you fancy a new ski outfit.

Restaurants

We think having a nice lunch on the mountain with friends and family is one of the best components of a ski holiday. In April, the restaurants are not too busy and the sun terraces are open, so it is very easy to get the best table and enjoy a long lunch afters a good mornings’ ski.

End of season vibe

The atmosphere in resort is usually pretty relaxed at the end of season. Lots of bars will be holding end of season parties, some resorts even have large music festivals such as Snowbombing in Mayrhofen.  Many seasonairs will have finished work and there is generally a feel good happy vibe in most ski resorts at this time of the season.

If you have not skied in Easter before we strongly recommend giving it a go.  Even if you do not have the holiday time for a whole week, perhaps try a cheeky weekend with friends (leaving the kids with Grandma).

Happy skiing!