Sun and Snow

The primary appeal of Spring skiing is the sunshine.  If you’re keen for a good dose of vitamin D, then choosing to ski in April is the best way to increase your chances of a sunny holiday.

Be ready to pack sunblock and sunglasses, as Spring ski holidays typically entail long breaks on mountain restaurant terraces.  If you enjoy fresh air, sunshine, light exercise and good food, then Spring skiing in the French Alps is for you!

Quiet Slopes, Short Queues

When planning a Spring holiday at the end of a long winter, many holidaymakers’ thoughts turn immediately to the beach.  French holidaymakers in particular choose to flock South as soon as the Spring arrives.  But the Alps are just as sunny!  As the crowds head to the coast, the Alps’ sun-drenched Spring ski slopes are left for a lucky few to enjoy in total peace.

Instead of battling the crowds at New Year or February Half Term, a Spring ski holiday means you’ll enjoy quiet slopes, uncrowded restaurants and short lift queues.  Fewer skiers make the experience far more relaxing, without the stress of feeling crowded on a piste or worrying about how long you’ll need to queue to get back home.  Spring skiing means easy, breezy time spent on a sunny mountain top.  What’s not to like?

Snow Conditions

Are you concerned that Spring snow conditions might not be up to scratch?  Maybe you’ve heard that the lovely sunny weather melts snow into slush and that late season skiing is poor as a result.

The truth is that, yes – long, hot days can affect late afternoon snow conditions, particularly on lower slopes.  If sky conditions are clear then the pistes will freeze hard overnight and soften gradually throughout the day.  South-facing slopes are more affected than North-facing slopes, which are protected from the sun.

As the sun beats down, late afternoon skiing can become chunky and damp.  Mornings are brilliant and midday is lovely, so we suggest adapting your ski schedule to suit the conditions.  Get your full day’s skiing in between 9am and 2pm to enjoy optimal snow conditions, then kick back on a sunny terrace to lunch away the rest of the afternoon.  You’ll soon understand the appeal of cruisy Spring skiing days spent this way!

Here in Samoens, the skiing starts at 1600m which means there are no issues with lower slopes lacking snow at the end of the season.  Samoens is also North facing, so the resort holds snow really well.  A stunning beginner zone at 1600m is kept in prime condition until the season closure and Samoens offers direct access to Flaine for intermediate and advanced skiers looking to explore further afield.

Discounted Accommodation and Lift Passes

With high season over, great deals are to be found, and greater availability means a greater choice of accommodation. You’ll find deals on everything from tickets and lodging to rentals and lessons in the spring, when reduced demand typically equates to reduced rates. You can also find some good deals on gear this time of year, as retailers slash prices on remaining inventory.

Know where to go As a general rule, resorts that are higher in altitude or more northern tend to stay open later, but of course, snowfall will also make a difference. Based on their orientation to standard storm tracks, some resorts just tend to receive more snow than others, so it’s good to keep those details in mind when choosing your April ski trip destination. When choosing Samoens 1600 you know you are amking a safe choice due to the high altitude of the beginner area.

To book your next skiing holiday in the Grand Massif, simply contact us at the ZigZag booking office by telephone on +33631204410 or via the button below.