It's midsummer and the summer ski season in France has got underway after the country got through five weeks without an operating ski area.
Val d'Isere's Glacier du Pisaillas opened for summer snowsports last week as the road to and through the pass was opened.
Precise snow data is not really published regularly from this small area, which only has a five week summer ski season until July 16th, but we do know that the last major snowfall fell on 22nd May when there was a 90cm base – from the web cam images most of that still seems to be there. Temperatures are reaching double figures in the daytime at 3000m, so morning snowsports is, as usual, the best at this time of year.
The other two remaining French glacier summer ski areas at Les 2 Alpes and Tignes (pictured today) are due to open for summer snowsports this coming Friday and Saturday respectively.
New this year at Les 2 Alpes is a 2km-long luge run which has been built on the glacier, with banked turns, tunnels and small bumps. Located by the snowpark, the run is accessible by the funicular.
The summer starts with a brand new outdoor festival for the opening of the season from this Thursday 22nd to 25th June.
"Visitors will be able to try an array of exciting activities: summer skiing and snowboarding, downhill mountain biking, paragliding, trail running, climbing, golf, ski on wheels…as well as taking part in competitions and contests," said a Les 2 Alpes spokesperson.
This new festival includes a show where outdoor brands will exhibit their new gear, as well as many entertainments, concerts and an attempt on the slack line world record…
"Those who are looking for softer activities can take part in yoga lessons, hikes… and just enjoy the atmosphere!" said the spokesperson.