J2Ski Forum Posts and Replies by Volf

What light there is, is reflected off the snow, so although it's dark most of the day, it's not deep deep dark. Get used to skiing by floodlight.

Clothing is really important with the temperatures down to around -30c, it might be worth hiring full body suits, and really really warm boots. Alpine spring skiing kit won't pass muster.

How's your cross country skiing? as that is more of a sport in Lapland than downhill. There are a great lot of activities away from the slopes and very different from the Alps - a fantastic experience. A sauna is obligatory (every day).

Take along sausages to grill on the fires they have at the bottom of the slopes and on the Cross-country trails.

Tony_H wrote:

jastem wrote:Would the Briancon gondola be running on NYE? We really enjoyed the food at the chalet style restaurant at the mid station.

Most likely the lift will close at around 4pm. For those interested the phone number for the Chalet de Pra Long is 04.92.22.35.68 They might be doing a NYE special.

There's lots of restaurants in the Old Town, Places like Le Valentin http://www.levalentin.fr/ and Le Rustique T: 04 92 21 00 10 come well recommended although I haven't eaten there myself.

Early April was great last year. The weather was cold throughout the season, so the snow cover was excellent. The Italian resorts tend to close earlier than Montgenevre and they regretted it in 2010, as there was still plenty of snow about when I left the mountains on 19th April.

Montgenevre stay open later, is higher and has north facing slopes, so probably a better bet for April. Serre Chevalier is only 20minutes down the road and free for a day on the lift pass. Ideal if you want a bit of variety.

Be prepared for icy mornings and warm afternoons. Perfect for the lazy skier who likes long lunches, but not so great if you want to really bash the pistes...mind you almost everywhere will be like that in April.