Lots of snow has fallen in the Alps in the past 24 hours.  In France, Paradiski (La Plagne/Les Arcs) has had 40cm of new snow, and Méribel 60cm.  This new snowfall will finally enable many resorts to start their season this weekend.  Alpe d’Huez is opening tomorrow, with Les Arcs, Chamonix, Flaine and a host of other resorts scheduled to start on Saturday.

In Austria, it is a similar picture.  The snow is still falling and the snowline has dropped to around 400-800m. Ischgl has had 20cm of fresh snow in the past 24 hours; Kühtai 30cm; and, in the Arlberg, Lech has received 40cm and St Anton a whopping 70cm.  Temperatures are cold enough for snow canons and there’s more of the white stuff forecast this week.  However, milder weather may return next week so, if you’re looking to ski in the next week or two, we suggest you choose resorts with plenty of pistes above 2,000m.  

FamilySkiNews.com are delighted to hear that St Anton is once again offering its special Snowman Ski Pass (for all infants aged 7 years and under).  The Snowman pass costs just €10 and is valid for all lifts for the whole season.  With a week’s pass for children (born 1996-2003) currently priced at €148 and for teenagers (born 1992-1995) at €214, this is a considerable saving on your holiday price for families with young kids.