Baqueira Beret ski resort in Spain says it will open more runs for the Christmas Holiday weekend and expects to operate more than 130km of skiable pistes giving it one of the largest open areas in Europe at present.
The Pyrenean ski centre got nearly a metre of snowfall in late November but like much of Europe has had virtually no snow in December and battled warm temperatures at times.
However recent lower temperatures have allowed the snowmaking arsenal to be fired up and snow farming has also been used where needed. The centre's three key slope areas of Baqueira, Beret and Bonaigua will all be open.
Along with the skiing and boarding a full program of festive activities has been lined up over the coming fortnight including a Santa Claus visit to Beret and Baqueira where he will greet all the boys and girls who are at the resort, a downhill torchlit run, hot chocolate party, fireworks to celebrate the New Year and the Kings' Day parade on January 5th a snow plough machine (which celebrates the Three kings arriving at Jesus's stable).
2016 will begin with a good rhythm thanks to the traditional New Year's concert which this year brings together classical and jazz music in the concert to be held in the church of Baqueira. It will be a fundraising event with the objective of raising monies for the non-profit organization, "Mundo en Armonia" (World in Harmony).
All of the services and facilities of Baqueira Beret are in full operation including the Ski Service and Baqueira Store and the restaurants of the resort. The themed restaurants 5J Grill Baqueira in 1800, the classic Moët Winter Lounge in Orri are open as well as the informal Refugio San Miguel in Bonaigua.
www.baqueira.es