J2Ski Forum Posts and Replies by calvahead

Yes I would say Switzerland would tick all your boxed, I would try the Thyon end of the 4 Valleys as it is less busy and more traditional. Sion 20min below the mountain is a great place to shop, live a mini Geneva. Great restaurants and cafe culture.

Just the other side of the mountain in Cran Montana great for a days visit to ski and shop, Nax is an amazing very small be beautiful traditionaly Swiss resort something different for a day. Lots in the area.

Also great in the Summer for mountain biking and hiking.

opps pushed the on twice

Just a quick thought, why not check out Thyon 2000, it is at the other end of the 4 valleys from Verbier and much more traditional resort with lots to do in the area. We have spent the last two seasons there and love it, it is less crowded and expensive with a really chilled vibe. More Heidi than horay henry.

If you want to know more don't hesitate to contact me.
helen@calvadosonline.co.uk.

All the best

Yes beach time is important, but the Mountains are great to in the Summer. We were in Switzerland, Les Collons (Thyon) at the end of April, the weather was great with warm sunny days and the odd flurry of snow on the top of the mountains at night. The area is really Heidi country, rural but amazing views and loads to do, the whole area is set up for activities in the summer as much as the winter with a very chilled out vibe. We are going back in September to get the last bit of Summer and to mountain bike on some real mountains.

Hi

If you are a ok skier, yes buy a 4 Valleys pass, it should take you between 1.5-2.5 hours to ski from Verbier to Thyon, this is a very rough estimate, dependent on ability and how many people are on the slopes. If you do get to Thyon La Cambuse is also a great place to eat.

Have a great holiday.

Helen

Hi

If you fancy getting away from the crowds you may wish to try the Thyon area, lots of great skiing and off piste. This is the area to head to if you are looking to experience the more traditional Switzerland, try the piste de L'Ours or stop at Chottes for lunch. This is the more relaxed end of the 4 valleys which has a great atmosphere.

Hi

I am glad other people feel the same, I live on the edge of a mountain for 4 month per year with a fear of heights.

I am more than happy on slopes I have skiied and even going upto 2700m along a narrow balck path as I know the area well.

I think the best thing to get over the fear is like the other members have said ski on the lower slopes and get control, then get used to skiing the same slopes for a while to gain confidence and ski in your confort zone. Then challenge youself gradually, it has worked for me. Don't give up as it is worth the effort to ski with your family and to see the amazing views from the top of the mountain. I would also recommend a crash helmet.

My advice is to wait until you are in the resort as most local hire shops will hire you or let you try out several pairs before you buy.