Early season Alpine snow | Swisskisafari
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22 Dec Early season Alpine snow

Posted at 12:00h in Inspiration, Latest news, Winter by

Standing in Zermatt’s early season alpine snow this week, I realised that this is the third consecutive year that the snow has been au rendezvous in early December. We’re hearing that fresh-snow squeak as we walk through town after what is already three weeks of non-stop snowfall. And yes, we have had amazing skiing for the whole month of December.

Over the last 30 years we’ve seen little or no early season alpine snow. That basically means we are not really used to good snow before Christmas, but in recent years things have been steadily improving. Early snowfall means more than just early skiing. The best chalets and hotels are available, and are not yet at Christmas prices. Booking a restaurant is easy, nowhere is too busy, and everyone is happy and excited that the season is beginning. 

Breath-taking mountain beauty

This week Zermatt is taking our breath away again. As always, we’re in awe of the beauty of the surrounding snow-capped mountains with the backdrop of crisp, clear skies. With its chocolate-box village vibe, narrow car-free streets and horse drawn carriages, there is something for everyone when you come down off the slopes. Skiing and après ski go hand-in-hand, which is why Zermatt is such a fun ski resort and every trip here is different.

Bask in the quiet

Right now we have light, powdery early season alpine snow, crystal clear blue skies and no wind, which is exceptional. During this quiet time of the season we feel privileged to be here before the crowds, enjoying the snow-muted village in peace. And, naturally, we want to encourage all our guests to experience this early season magic for yourselves, if not this year then next.

Heli-ski heaven

This early season snow also opens up incredible heli-skiing opportunities. When the glaciers are filling up with snow this means that we can begin reaching otherwise inaccessible terrain by helicopter earlier in the season. With a good base and a lovely layer of snow we will be undoubtedly be in heli-ski heaven very soon. Bring. It. On!

Three countries before the crowds

However, Zermatt is not the only resort with great early season alpine snow. Italy has had its fair share of stunning snow conditions. We skied across the border into Breuil Cervinia today, and what a treat that was. There is so much snow, perhaps even more than Zermatt, if that is possible. And of course… the Italian cuisine never disappoints. There are such lovely restaurants dotted all around the Italian ski resorts and the welcoming smile and fun teasing that the Italians do so well make you feel right at home. This is the reason we ski from country to country.  When the snow conditions are as wonderful as this early in the season it is a treat to combine all three countries for the perfect early December trip: something to think about for next year, perhaps. Imagine how good an authentic pizza tastes in Italy after a day of having the mountain pretty much to yourself, while in the back of your mind you’re planning to feast on cheese and wine in France tomorrow after another excellent day skiing. If you’re keen to capture the early season three country magic with us, get in touch.

Warm regards from the mountains,

Danielle