Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Val piste and lift live info.

Tignes piste and lift live info.

Val Webcams

Tignes Webcams

Lindsey Vonn added a bronze to this season’s silver and gold, in yesterday’s Downhill here in Val.The winner, Austria’s Cornelia Huetter won a large Beaufort cheese, a gold medal and a live calf. Today is the Super G.

Marco Odermatt continued his medal haul by coming 2^nd in Italy’s downhill, while Sam and Nils Alphand, brothers from Serre Chevalier got respectable places.

GB Golds for both Telemarker Jaz Taylor and Freeskier Zoe Atkin.

Eddie the Eagle….. of Olympic ski jumping infamy…now in Panto in Rickmansworth.

If you like to plan ahead

Way ahead

VIP Chalets have a good offer

That might tempt you.

If you have an artistic streak, and live or work in Tignes,Enter Tignes Talent.

Don’t forget to look regularly at the Calendar page.

Fat Biking this evening

Christmas events in Val

Mullit are busy playing

Here, St Foy and Les Arcs

And

There are some good

Films at the conference centre

On the 29^th

I have put a link to a short

Clip of one such Pisteur pup

Ears flopping in the wind

On his first day at work

America honours

Anne Frank .

Did you hear about Val’s

Dr Pétri,

Who sheltered

A Jewish teenage girl

during the War.

The book

Two Sisters : Betrayal, love and resistance in Wartime France

Shares this story.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Val piste and lift live info.

Tignes piste and lift live info.

Val Webcams

Tignes Webcams

More World Cup racing today in Val….. Ladies Downhill…. Will Lindsey Vonn win again ? Or Tignes speedy Laura ?

The men have their last day of racing in Val Gardena. Marco Odermatt has a first and a second under his bib and now has 50 World Cup wins, putting him joint 4^th of all time winners.

Mikaela Shiffrin, of course, has more wins than any of the legendary men…

Sadly a 24-year-old British skier died in Les Arcs after falling 300 metres down a steep couloir.

Dolomite news continues…. Dinosaur tracks have been found…. 210 million years after the long necked beasts stomped across the land.

Sölden is struggling to cope with

Drunk tourists.

This time, a car was parked in the middle of a ski slope.

La Plagne is threatening the tour operators that bring 17,000 students that they must stop the nighttime noise and damage, or they will be banned.

Even in Val, after 22.00 if you want music and dancing, without meeting the Police or Gendarmes, go to a nightclub.

Emily Rothney, Team GBs snowboard star will miss the Olympics while recovering from a ACL tear.

Global Go Caroling : today is the day to sing carols.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Val piste and lift live info.

Tignes piste and lift live info.

Val Webcams

Tignes Webcams

Mixed weather. Inconsistent forecasts.

La Face is still very solid after the races, and now the OK is being used for training today and tomorrow before the weekends World Cup ladies downhill and Super G.

The men are racing in Val Gardena today. 8 Frenchmen, but no Brits.

If you are travelling today….be aware that the farmers are protesting so could disrupt your journey.

If you are going to the Three Valleys, why not fly to Courchevel. The high, short, steep runway can make nervous fliers panic, but it doesn’t have to be expensive.

We are lucky with our current snow cover – in the Dolomites they are suffering, so slopes are closed, crowds are growing and lift queues insufferable.

There was a bad accident near Chambery – five young adults in the car were injured and one was found dead, in the boot.

If you work in any capacity in the snow industry you could apply for a SPECIAL price with SEABA and enjoy a week’s heliskiing in Alaska.

UN International Migrants Day…. There is a big migrant community of ski addicts in Val.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Val piste and lift live info.

Tignes piste and lift live info.

Val Webcams

Tignes Webcams

Freddy Carrick-Smith wins Europa Cup Giant Slalom and Mikaela Shiffrin Courchavel's World Cup night Slalom.

France's Cyprien Sarrazin is finally back on skis after his near fatal accident a year ago.

Mariah Carey is performing in the Opening Ceremony in Milan.

Olympic Athletes in Cortina will be housed in posh and cosy mobile homes.

If you are going skiing in La Rosière, and are planning to nip to La Thuile, maybe for a pasta lunch, remember that you need to have a helmet to ski in Italy, or risk a fine.

A halfpipe skier had an interesting binding moment.... came off at both heels when landed in World Cup event.

Another complicated night rescue of inexperienced, ill equipped and badly dressed climbers., this time near Grenoble.

In Vars, a 19-year- old French lady was found dead on a blue run, after the pistes had closed. Her autopsy is awaited and an investigation has been opened.

Don't confuse your True and False Morels........ several people in a small village have feasted on the false ones and now have a serious neurological disease.

If firemen arrive at your door....buy a calendar.... all in a good cause...

There is a special Val edition of L’Officiel Riviera.

Device appreciation day.... pamper your phone.... or ski to lunch at the Panoramic......

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Val piste and lift live info.

Tignes piste and lift live info.

Val Webcams

Tignes Webcams

Be very careful on our pavements – crampons are highly recommended.

Ones with small studs.

Ones with metal coils.

OC system

Environmentalists angered by moving snow with helicopters.

More ecofriendly is The Vuori Snow line.

Or Tree2Forest.

Barmes de L’Ours

Has an annual art exhibition.

Free to go to.

This year is ‘Polar Tales’.

Team GB’s Victoria Palla is racing in tonight’s World Cup Slalom in Courchavel.

A speedrider crashed in the Manchet Valley but was whisked to hospital in a helicopter.

A few days earlier a parapenter had landed, uninjured, in a tree.

In Austria last week, a 64-year-old Czech teacher, on a school trip, died after hitting a tree.

When out with a dog… always pick up their poo. Fines for those that don’t.

US National Chocolate covered anything……

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Yesterday men’s World Cup Slalom on La Face was won by Norweigan Timon Haugan, though Team GB’s Laurie Taylor raced well and finished 12^th.

This is the link if you have any spare pennies to sponsor

The Carrick-Smiths brothers. Two were racing in Val this weekend.

Lindsey Vonn finished 4^th in the Super G in St Moritz. Mikaela Shiffrin was going well until she missed the last gate. Tignes Laura Gauché came fifth.

It was won by Sydney Born Alice Robinson – her first Super G win, but the day was overshadowed by the slaughter on Bondi Beach.

Team GBs Charlotte Banks and Huw Nightingale

Were busy in Cervinia, winning the Team Snowboard Cross World Cup !

22-year-old Zoe Atkin won silver in the freeski halfpipe World Cup in China.

The Mountain Gendarmes had a fruitless night search for a missing 23-year-old seasonal worker, who turned up for work at 9 am unaware that he had been reported missing.

Don’t ski or walk up a closed piste. A groomer narrowly avoided flattening a ski tourer.

The charity fundraiser at the weekend raised 109,000 euros for Val’s Club des Sports.

FlexBeam are running a competition….A trip to the Olympics.

To enter you need to buy a FlexBeam before the end of December.

Tonight is the 30^th Birthday Party for Le Petit Danois

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

The Swiss hogged the podium for yesterday's Giant Slalom in Val d’Isère !

Racers in today's slalom include four from Team GB, and 2 from Val d’Isère

Including 28-year-old Reigning Olympic slalom Champion Clément Noël.

Over in St Moritz Lindsey Vonn added a 2nd place in yesterday's downhill.

Whoever replaced her knee must be a proud surgeon !

She will be racing in the slalom today, with speedy skier Mikaela Shiffrin.

A good race to watch !

Do keep an eye on the Calendar page. I add anything that may interest you.

For instance

Today there is a toy sale in Tignes….

Mullit are doing an après ski gig in St Foy

Or you could have an intro to Fat Biking for free, here in Val.

Val's young ski champions were dancing

at the Folie last night.

Is skiing cheaper than following your favourite football team ?

On basic maths, it seems that way.....

Do reacquaint yourself with your kit.

If your boots have two modes...

only ski when they are in ski mode....

Revise your piste etiquette...

look before you start from the side of a slope.

Don't wait over a roll.

Light a candle at 19.00 today

and remember friends and family that left too soon.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

World Cup racing on Bellevarde’s legendary Face… Men’s Giant Slalom today, slalom tomorrow.Marco Odermatt clearly one to watch for but we will be cheering for Team GB’s Freddy Carrick-Smith in his 2^nd World Cup race.

Lindsey Vonnn continues to astonish… won the first race of her season, the St Moritz downhill.Another chance for gold today. Tigne’s Laura Gauché is in the same race.

Michelle Gisin is the 3^rd Swiss reigning Olympic Champion to be injured in training recently…. She had her neck operated on yesterday. Lara Gut Behrami is off for months recovering from an ACL tear, while Corinne Suter has fingers crossed that she will be fit to defend her downhill title.

Australian mogul skiers Jakara Anthony and Matt Graham

BOTH won gold medals at the FIS World Cup in Ruka, Finland

Watching Tik Tok videos

Is not great off piste training.

Vermont Rescue Services

Are a bit sick of rescuing

Inexperienced and ill equipped

Skiers and boarders

Who watched a ‘great’ video…

The Vie Val d’Is …. Val’s club for people who live and work here

Had their welcome party

In the Doudoune club….

Shame there were so few of the

English speaking seasonal workers….

Storm Bram is hitting the Highlands, potentially playing havoc with the Scottish early season snow.

Watch Parkin Costain

Skiing and recording for his

Next film

When he fell through

A sixty foot hidden

Chimney in the snow…

2 very different views from same lunchtime in same restaurant.

Recollections may vary…

Check for additional costs when renting a car, and also check if it has snow tyres or chains.

UN

Universal Health Cover Day

UN’s campaign

Don’t ski without insurance…

You can buy basic insurance with your lift pass.

For just 3 euros 50 per person per day.

Skiers from

the

French Ski Federation

Are dancing at

the Folie this evening….

Link to Website

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Sunny skiing on soft snow.

A smallish slab avalanche pushed a young German climber to his death when doing a via ferrata on the German Austrian border.

Fancy yourself as a ski instructor ? Why not give it a go in Glencoe in January – details are on the Calendar page.

Olympic prep is not for the faint hearted. While they are rushing to finish a cable car and ice hockey rink in Italy, with 3000 days to go, the Salt Lake City Olympics were rebranded Utah 2034 and the logo has caused controversy.

Before you ski, toboggan or even snow shoe, check your insurance. Any doubts contact your insurer and get their answer in writing. You can buy a good value insurance with your lift pass. Have a sheet of paper in your ski suit pocket with all your medical, contact and insurance details. Do you need a GHIC card ? The insurers often require this….with the requirement in tiny print somewhere on the policy.

Most ski resorts are facing a housing crisis – affordable homes for workers.

Today is US Pastry Day – Laura is off to cook a festive feast with Benoit Vidal…. Sure it must involve pastry !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Warm and sunny day.

Market Day ! Crafts, toys, clothes and food……..but if you are thinking of bringing food back to the UK for Xmas presents. Think carefully….. meat and dairy prohibitions including cheese and chocolate….. you can still bring plenty of beer and wine, though less than pre-Brexit.

We have a new bar in town..The Black Sheep.

Seccotines Martine died, and her funeral is in Val on Wednesday.

Smoking is now banned in most outdoor areas including the pistes, lifts and lift queues.

When climbing, hiking or off piste, the most experienced person is deemed responsible when things go badly wrong.

The racing is in full swing. Jessie Diggins got her 30^th Victory, in her retirement season. Alice Robinson is on a roll for New Zealand. Mikaela was lucky to get away with a heavy hit on a gate, while her fiancée is here in Val… preparing for this weekend’s World Cup races.

Lindsey Vonn is looking forward to her World Cup de-retirement in St Moritz this weekend.

Our Brits Abroad have been doing well…. Lando Norris is Formula one Champion and Mia Brookes has won her 4^th World Cup event.

Today the UK appreciates and thanks our postal workers. Deliveries got a lot easier for the posties in Val when they named the roads and numbered the buildings…. So modern !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

The Sesson is now well under way with excellent skiing, restaurants gradually opening, and food scattered on the street by late night party people, so the Doodles are busy cleaning up in the mornings.

Was pleased to hear La Bodega in Tignes

proudly promoting their new vegan taco !

Over the Pond a Utah Father who took his 2, 4 and 8 year old children on a very long and dangerous hike, has been charged….. and the psychiatrists are also assessing him.

I don’t have personal experience hiring kit for a season but the deal at the Val Ski Shop in La Daille does sound worth a look.

Alice Robinson, New Zealand’s Olympic hope has had a flying start to her winter with 2 World Cup wins, so far…..

Meanwhile, don’t dismiss Ireland as a ski-nation-to-watch…… Cormac Comerford

has made good use of their indoor slope and looks as though he will also be racing downhill in Bormio.

UN Civil Aviation Day ….. is it just my imagination or has flying got more difficult ? The long passport queues now that the post Brexit checks are rolling out don’t help.

For more information there are more links in the transcript, Calendar and Special Offers pages on the website.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Many apologies for the pod-gap with podcast-less days….. was distracted by an unusual event that sucked up my time and energy but am now back, full focused and ready again for daily delivery.

Swiss speed skier Marco Odermatt stunned by adding a Downhill to his Slalom and Super G wins of this winter.

Meanwhile Mikaela Shiffrin now has 104 World Cup wins and has qualified for her 4^th Olympics.

Scottish Kirsty Muir has put 2023’s serious shoulder and knee injuries behind and flew to her first Big Air World Cup victory in China this week.

Val’s media team are also celebrating….Winning 3 prizes in the

Les Trophées de la Communication

Including a first prize for the information that the Town Hall so generously and expertly share with us.

Last week there was a huge Avalanche in Austria, believed to have been set off by people skiing off piste, but it went onto an open piste. 8 people were rescued, alive and only 3 went to hospital. Thankfully nobody died.

Only ski off piste if all of your group are properly trained, recently trained, and fully equipped. Don’t rely on the pisteurs reaching your group ‘in time’.

Crashed down onto a piste

If you are in the Northern Alps, and see a sign for a Lynx………slow down…… collisions are the highest cause of their deaths in France…….they are already endangered.

Huge admiration for people who Come here to ski for six days and

Ski for as many minutes in the 48 hours the pistes are open, as possible.

I couldn’t do it !

People who live here just do a few hours a day at the start of the season.

You also could do that in the UK….. look for the nearest indoor ski centre….

This could save you time, energy and euros on our slopes.

If you are in Hertfordshire

The Snow Centre in

Hemel Hempstead

Has 160 metres to hone yourRhythm, refinement, repeated drills and muscle memory.

A bit about the podcast and website.

Aim is for short and sparky episodes filled with snippets and summaries of ski related topics that you can listen to over a coffee, walk to work or commute from chalet to slopes.

If you have a bit more time and curiosity there are links in the episode summary and more links in the transcript on the website.

Don’t forget to look at the Calendar

page, so you don’t miss something fab you would like to book for.

World Paper Free Day….. I am a scan and shred nut who is now heading to just having digital documents…… though worth keeping essential paper documents in case of a power cut…. Remember Pres Macron has recommended we all have a survival kit….

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Beautiful snow in Val, but thick clouds predicted for Olympia.... will they be able to light the flame, or will they need Monday's Backup ? 

The Pisteurs are running an avalanche prevention plan this morning, so expect bombs and don't even think of walking up until they are finished. 

Reigning Olympic Cross Country champion Victoria Carl, had a cough, was given a syrup by a military doctor, drank it, failed a drugs test and is now suspended for the whole season so won't be able to defend her title in February. 

Emmanuel Macron was the first President not to have done National service, but now wants to reintroduce it as he feels the threat from Russia is very significant, and France could do with more people with military skills.

Louis Sarkozy would go further .... make it compulsory for criminals, immigrants and 10% of recently arrived foreigners. 

There is a crisis among our wine makers..... including global warming, tariffs and ..... people drink less wine...

Apologies if you had problems reading the show notes.... no idea why it suddenly changed the format. They are now all easily readable.

US Katie Hensien broke her tibia in training but hopes to be back  racing later this season. 

Slovenian Neja Dvornik's season is finished after breaking both tibia and fibula during a pre race warm up. 

Slovakia is sponsoring Snowsport England and Snowsport Scotland, in the hope that it will encourage UK skiers to visit Slovakia's ski resorts. 

People in Albertville made a nice big tartiflette.....2.02 tons of tartiflette ! This was a World Record.

If you work in Val, why not join The Vie Val d’Is .. or at least check if you are eligible. 

Lots of advantages including reduced price lift pass.

if you can volunteer to  help at any time, particularly the Welcome Party on the 10th December, please email them.  accueil@vievaldis.com 

UK Fuel Poverty Awareness Day......being cold is miserable and leads to both physical and mental health issues. 

If you can, please donate to To National Energy Action 

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

We are loving the snow we are getting , but not that far away there has been heavy rain and mud.

Make sure you, your shoes and car are prepared for the winter weather.

American slalom sensation Mikaela Shiffrin took her 103rd World Cup victory in Gurgl.

The French ladies didn't do as well as hoped. 

St Foy is included in the Telegraph's 10 favourite global small ski resorts. 

While Snomad praised Peisey for it's tree skiing.

There are many and varied additions to the Calendar page, and more will be added each day so please look there regularly. There is even a fun party at the Folie on Friday....

South Wales have planning permission for a huge leisure complex which will include the UK's longest ski slope and a tropical waterpark. 

Ever wondered why we don't have England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in the Olympics, and Team GB in the FIFA World Cup ?

Want a break from Skiing ? Try Ice Diving in Tignes. 

Book with Evolution 2

UK White Ribbon Day : stop violence against women. 

The full and accurate transcript on the website includes links, but may not appear for a few hours after this episode is loaded. 

The transcript on Apple and Spotify are AI generated so apologies for any botty errors !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Snow and more snow with subzero temperatures.

Lillehammer wasn't a great event for the French Ski Jump Team.  Though the Brits didn't feature at all. 

Cost of skiing is certainly hitting the Brits, but it is relatively cheap for Americans, especially those who already have a season Multiresort pass that has some European options.  

Val has recognised that not everyone wants a smart restaurant lunch, so has built warm indoor picnic areas, some with spectacular views Like the Lounge at the top of the Solaise Bubble. 

You could of course stay in the UK and ski... Cairngorm and Cumbria's volunteer run Yad Moss are already open.

Continuing my admiration of Mountain Rescue teams anywhere.... recently one of the Kinder Mountain Rescue Team slipped, mid rescue, and fractured her tibia and fibula...  

We have both dogs and wolves in Val. How do we tell the difference from their prints in the snow ? Wolves go direct.....doodles dawdle, sniff and wander.

Career options for retired Olympians.....Canada's snowboarder Ryan Wedding is on the FBI's most wanted list, 15 million dollar bounty on his head, for apparently running an international drug network. 

If you claim the reward you can buy a nice new flat in the centre of Val. Still a few for sale for around 10 million euros.

Georgia have cancelled two FIS World Cup events.... not sure why....FIS trying to arrange new venues.

If you can get onto X, look at this link..... 260 skiers Dressed in Peking Opera costumes

If you are covered by the French Healthcare System, you can get a digital carte vitale..

International Unique Talent Day……….why not go to Maison de Val and see the exhibition of art from our art group, Couleurs et Toiles. 

Many thanks again to our Inspirational leader Rozenn Roszak…  

There will be a full transcript with lots of links on the website (may come up a few hours after this episode is published).  The transcripts on Apple and Spotify are AI generated, so may have botty errors and won't have the links I have added.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Snowing here and some buses are running here, but download Vivre à Val d’Isère App  to keep an eye on the timetable. 

Tignes had a great torchlight descent at the end of yesterday's opening day. 

Paco Rassat, from near Chambery, won his first World Cup slalom in Gurgl yesterday.

14th in first run, but very impressive second run... made it look so easy.

Val’s Victor Muffat-Jeandet came 7^th  

Clèment Nöel 12^th. 

Team GB's Billy Major came 17th, just 1.15 seconds slower than Paco,  Dave Ryding 25th and Laurie Taylor 33rd.

In Stubai, heavy wind and poor viz cancelled the World Cup Freeski Slopestyle. 

The ladies are racing in Gurgl today, with Mikaela Shiffrin planning another victory.

No Team GB, but you could cheer for French lady Caitlin McFarlane as she does have a British mother.

British Skeleton won 2 World Cup golds in Cortina.  Matt Weston won both, with Tabby Stoecker pairing with him in the Team event. 

Brad Hall captains today's 4-man bobsleigh World Cup event in Cortina.

34-year-old Swiss star Lara Gut-Behrami has injured her knee, putting her 4th Olympics in doubt. 

American Cross country champion Jessie Diggins is planning to retire at the end of this season. 

VIP Chalets have Black Friday Deals. I have put the details on the

Special offers I have spied page…

Tignes Spirit are having a MASSIVE pre season event

With deals on new and second hand skis, snowboards, boots, clothing, accessories……..

We don't share 'bad' reviews..........but happy to share good experiences. 

Today is the day to make our Christmas Puddings......... remember raisins, currants and sultanas are highly toxic to dogs...... keep your pooches away from the kitchen !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied..

Sun today but a metre of snow is on its way..

Tignes opens, and has a torchlight descent and party this evening.

World Cup racing... 3 Team GB men slaloming in Austria.

Freeski Slopestyle is in Stubai. 

The English Alpine Championships will take place in Bormio in March…

Join Snowsport England to be eligible to race…

Second hand toy sale to raise money for events for local children is in Maison de Val today.

Val has been praised .....highly desirable, and expensive, property. 

The team Yeti race takes place in Tignes tomorrow.

The Folie Douce is having a special party for Val's seasonal workers 

on the 3rd December.  Music, food, prizes..... free entry but you must register.  

More expensive to send small parties from the UK to France, as no longer 'EU'.

The French Government believes everyone should be prepared..... war...cyber attack... natural disaster.... nuclear accident.

Peak Retreats have Black Friday Deals, in particular for Paradiski from 13th December. 

I try and put as many links in as possible to episode description and transcript on the website, but I can't control the AI transcript that Apple and Spotify use.

Kimchi...... 22 health benefits and 11 ingredients, hence celebrate on the 22nd November.

Not much 'hot' food in Val.....

Coloured portraits are on agenda today.....after a doodle in the snow !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Snow and more snow, including snow in Scotland. - Cairngorm Mountain is opening this weekend, before Val ! Though sounds a bit limited. Don't just turn up - book your ticket beforehand, and bring your own kit as hire shops not  yet open. 

If you are thinking of renting  your second home out through AirBnB, check the rules in  your area..... or risk a hefty fine..... 

More property rules.... taxes on luxurious interiors......inside toilets, heating, shower, washbasin.... there is an outcry.....

A hiker had good friends.... a fall and a serious head injury.... a belt attached him to a tree so didn't fall further while waiting for rescurers...

Ice Hockey players will have to use neck guards in the Olympics. Remember Adam Johnson who died after having his neck cut by a skate.

The UN Environmental team are considering concerns about the possible damage caused by the French Alps Olympics in 2030. 

Sölden is banning alcohol in public places.

Obertauren is banning uphill skiing or walking on the open downhill pistes. No parking without a lift pass. No camping. 

From 2027 you will be able to ski in  a rotating tunnel in Brisbane ! Like a hamster wheel, but more glamorous. 

UK Gingerbread day.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Snow ! Lots predicted...

Tignes Funicular opens on Saturday, and there is a Torchlight Descent and Après fun that evening.  Lift pass prices increase from 40 euros a day this weekend to 75 from the middle of December.

From Sunday until Thursday 150 elite athletes are in Tignes for their annual 'Sports Stars' event which focuses on mentoring rising talent. 

The World Ski Awards have given 'the World's Best Ski Resort' to Val Thorens for the 10th time..... 

Milano Cortina have made gender equality a 'big thing'.  47% of the athletes will be women, and they will compete in 53.4% of the events.  Better than the 4.3% women in the first Olympics in 1924, when they could only compete in Figure Skating. 

The Olympic Torch will travel 12,000 km across Italy from Rome down to Naples.

Olympic diver Tom Daley's knitting will be worn by Team GBs flagbearers.... From 8th December you can buy your own hats and scarves. BenSherman.co.uk  Team GB shop.

La Plagne is just down the road…..And has France’s only Bobsleigh and skeleton track…..try the Bob Raft….or Bob Racing, or learn to be a pilot....

If you are going skiing in Bozi Dar, or visiting anywhere in the Czech Republic, be aware that there is a serious outbreak of Hepatits A. Careful with your hygiene… consider a vaccination.

The Savoie has a new Triathlon World Champion... in the 80-84 year category.  Congrats to 81 year old Albert Dulac.

USA National Absurdity Day.  Plenty of candidates for people or events to mock....

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Introducing ....for those that don't follow ski mountaineering....Emily Harrop. Born in Bourg St Maurice to British parents, and is France's big hope for an Olympic gold, or two.

Albanian Italian Lara Colturi celebrated her 19th Birthday by coming 2nd in Saturday's FIS World Cup Slalom.

Dynastar, Lange and Look will continue to keep Clément Noël in skis, boots and bindings for another 3 years.

The Surrey Schools Championships was a great success at the weekend.

Snowcentres have combined with SnowWorld and together they will run 12 indoor ski areas across UK and Europe, including France's only indoor piste.

Heard of mad and reckless behaviour, but 2 inexperienced and badly equipped hikers using TikTok to navigate the German Alps needed a helicopter to save them. They received a nice, big bill !

If you are dreaming of a white Christmas, with skiing thrown in, contact Kim at Simply Val d’Isère- they have just got another beautiful chalet....

World Humanitarian Action Day - remembering War Doctor's lunch with Queen Elizabeth, and all those who work with MSF . It is not easy. Many are left with PTSD.

Off to Annecy to cook a vegetarian lunch with Benoit Vidal !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Know we are heading to winter when party stragglers drinking beer are spotted in the streets as others are heading off to work.

Lots of news from the World Cup Slalom in Levi at the weekend. Val's own reigning Olympic Champion Clément Noël came 2nd in his first race since he was injured last year.

Team GB for the first time had 4 skiers in the same race, 3 ended up in the top 30, 2 in the top 10 with 38 year old Dave Ryding 7th and Laurie Taylor had a career best of 4th. Billy Major came 27th.

Luca Carrick-Smith had a brave debut but didn't finish.

Brazil had their first ever World Cup victory, when Lucas Pinheiro Braathen won.

He named his reindeer Bjørn in honour of his father.

Lindsey Vonn, in her spare time, when not training for her 5th Olympics, has launched a ski wear collection made by Head.

The Vonn Collective….

After months of doubt and worry Marcel Hirscher says he will race again in January.

31-year-old French champion Cyprien Sarrazin won't be racing this season but will be in Val, as a spectator, for the Criterium in December.

23-year-old Caitlin McFarlane came 13th on Saturday.....for France !

Born in Sydney, father Australian, mother English, lives in Morzine.

Have heard good things about the ski holiday finding Heidi.com and they have a Black Friday sale...

Lo Terrachu by the lake in Tignes Is having a bring and buy sale on the 3^rd of December…

At least ten percent of all sales will go to the charities.

Solea and Snowcamp.

UK Homemade Bread day….

USA UnFriend Day.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Mikaela did it ! 102nd World Cup victory, and 9th reindeer.

The men are racing today .... Laura is watching Val's Clément Noël and the four Team GB racers.... Dave Ryding, Laurie Taylor, Billy Major and 20 year old Luca Carrick-Smith who is making is debut on the World Cup stage.

Watch out on the autoroutes, eco friendly toll changes.... the first is 'fine' as you don't take a ticket but still pay as you leave. However some areas you have to pay online, or face a fine...

Don't panic if you are looking forward to your booked trip to St Foy. Although the parent company for the ski lifts and groomers has gone into liquidation, the mayor has assured everyone that the lifts will open as planned on the 12th December. From next June they will work in collaboration with Tignes.

The new Villa Roger bubble is still on schedule, despite an accident where a worker was buried in a trench, before being helicopter to hospital and treated for back injuries.

A base jumper in Utah was unlucky to hit the cliff but lucky that his parachute caught on a rock, suspending him hundreds of feet above the group for a few hours before a helicopter pulled him up and away. Watch part of the rescue here.

World COPD Day.... Chronic obstructive Pulmonary disease.

A miserable, progressive, incurable condition that limits everyday activities, let alone skiing at altitude.

If you have any spare pounds or euros, please donate to

Asthma and Lung UK

Their research may find a cure…

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Mikaela Shiffrin is racing for her 102nd World Cup victory - she has already won 8 times in Levi, and has 8 reindeer to show for it ...

Funny photos from London in the 60's including a milkman doing his rounds on skis.

The Winter Olympic Federation, which represents the many sports already included, has come out strongly against inviting cyclocross and crosscountry running to join as they are not sports for either snow or ice...

When planning your holiday..... look out for bargains..... Alikats are offering private airport transfers for the first week of their season.

You come 2 weeks earlier and stay with VIP in Val…. and ALSO get a free lift pass.

Alpe d'Huez have announced more than 100 artists for Tomorrowland Winter from 21^st to 28^th March.

Tonight, in our Club des Sports is the Novemberfest....

Work continues on the Mont Blanc Tunnel, and debate as to how and when they close it to complete the work. ? 3.5 or 17 years....

Café des Parents is an event on Tuesday 18th for parents of young children in Tignes.

Email petiteenfrance@tignes.net for more information.

Harry Potter fans should shop in SuperU.... lots of offers and you could win a holiday to Hollywood. Vivez la magie Harry Potter dans vos Magasins U !

70^TH Criterium, the World Cup races are here in a month. Meanwhile there is a mini series on Facebook reels, interviewing "Legends of the Criterium"

Rugby fan ? Head to the Blue Note this afternoon.

Recycling day in the USA. Why not get second hand kit - save the planet and your euros...

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Winter is warming up ...... eager new seasonal workers are learning the streets, pistes and ropes.

Lots starting to happen in Val : All details are on the calendar page

Halloween and Novemberfest parties..... second hand kit sales .....

Henry is avalanche training in Wimbledon.

Surrey Schools are racing.

FIS World Cup slalom in Levi.... women tomorrow and men on Sunday.. including the World Cup debut of Team GBs Luca Carrick-Smith.

Do you calculate your skiiing ? Hours, days, turns, vertical metres ? How do you value sheer pleasure ?

New Lift and poshed up Folie Douce in Val Thorens.

Why do people like to go back to UK with burnt face and clear goggle marks ? People who are here all season don't burn...... they use suncream.....lots of it !

Dermatone Have 10% off their Skier skin care products..

What is the harm of stopping on a glacier ? Risk falling in a crevasse...........that is why your guide will scream at you to keep moving... obey !

Swiss freeskier Andri Ragettli found one recently . link to the video

Another instagram competition... 5 day passes for San Bernardo to be won....

Follow @larosiere1850 Share and Like the post…

World Diabetes Day...... If you have any medical problems, are on a drugs, have any allergies, please help others to help you by having it written down and in your wallet, even when skiing. If you can't communicate it will be a real help to the doctors looking after you. It may save your life.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

If bored with the piste, ski out of a hot air balloon like Austria’s ex World Cup Racer David Meier. Watch it here at 53:27 minutes.

Property problems continue in Val and Chamonix, particularly for people who live and work here. Changes to the rules may help in the future.

France is still much easier to buy or let a property in a ski resort than Austria…

More troubles for the French ladies Biathlon team. Apparently someone tampered with someone else’s rifle…….Rumours were circulating that the coach was on the move but he insists he is focusing on his team doing well in the Olympics.

Team Carrick-Smith were on the move…. Nearly 4 hours in the car to get to the Arctic circle for training before this weekends World Cup slalom in Levi.

If you can donate anything to help these three talented young men shine on skis for the GB, here is the link.

Maison Sport is sponsoring Team GB's Men’s Alpine World Cup Team.  

Figure skaters Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson won gold recently in Osaka.

Transgender athletes will be banned from the LA 2028 Olympics. Though a final decision on DSD yet to be declared.

The French Winter Olympic medalists will get a tidy bonus….

80,000 euros for a gold, 40 for silver, 20 for bronze. 

Considerably more than in Beijing.

25 years since the fatal funicular fire at Kitzsteinhorn Glacier in Austria.

155 died.

Only 12 escaped, helped by a volunteer firefighter who was with them and chose the best route, even though it looked the scariest.

Val continues to open…. Sherpa supermarket from tomorrow.

World Kindness Day….

Also be kind to yourself !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Sunshine but the snow is solid.....take care not to slip in the street.

UNESCO have recognised Evian for its music !

A hunter slipped over rocks and died in La Morte near Grenoble.

Novo Nordisk are sponsoring the Swedish cross-country ski team, promoting public health and reducing weight stigma. Unfortunately the World Anti-Doping Agency may soon ban the weight loss drugs they sell....

Some of the many reasons skiing has become so expensive in the USA...... can easily exceed $1000 a day for a family of four...

Louis Watkiss was enjoying a birthday party in SnowDome Tamworth when he was killed after a collision with the manager. It took more than 3 years for the centre to be fined, and another year for the parents to be told that there would not be an inquest.

Vegans struggle to eat out in Val. Prince William requested a vegan banquet for his Earthshot Prize in Brazil. Not really a South American 'thing'..... chef resigned. I was mistaken for a vegetarian when I ONLY ate 400g of red meat in Colombia...We should have more vegetarian and vegan food here in Val.... done well it is delicious.

UN World Pneumonia day..... a term for inflammation of the lungs, with many different causes.

Every Breath Counts….Is a global group with the aim to prevent, diagnose and treat, And prep for the next pandemic…

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Sunny Armistice Day, a public holiday in France.

Whatever you might have read, Val’s lifts are not yet open…..if you want to ski you have to walk up first.

Turns out France is the fourth CHEAPEST European ski destination…. Austria is the most expensive.

Two fires between Val and Bourg. A chalet owned by and English couple burnt down in St Foy, and a compost bin caught fire in Seez. Fortunately no-one was injured.

Looking for a bedtime read ?

The Secret Ski Seasonaire is out…. Sharing his crazy truths about life in the Alps.

Exciting news…. Val’s huge Xmas tree has been delivered….

If you fancy live sport, pub games and alcohol, the Blue Note is the place to go.

Casting is calling…. Models are needed in Tignes 2-4^th December.

25-35 years old (approx.), male or female.

Get in touch with Hannah.Duncalf.

We all need at least an occasional boost of arts or crafts. Learn embossing in Seez on the 22^nd November.

You must book mediatheque@seez.fr

Henry and his Avalanche Talk are still roaming around the UK…. Manchester next week, Glasgow the week after.

If you are flying with Ryanair

Get their app….

If you need to check in at the airport…

It will cost you…

55 euros…

Each way

Each adult..

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Mixed weather in Val, more snow on the way, and even Portugal's one ski resort has snow.

An opportunity of a lifetime ...

Your chance to buy a lodge and cat ski op in British Columbia, Canada.

Tempted ? Contact Kerry Penney at kp@prcatski.com

While on Canada, they have lost an ice skater to the French team !

Which group of people are most likely to have fatal ski accidents, or life changing injuries ?

Wild young men jumping off cliffs ?

No - middle aged men..... skiing beyond their skill level on intermediate runs.

Who doesn't like watching live sport, for free ?

Eurovision Sport TV app

London Bridge had a snowsport event !

Halloween not over yet, in Val.... BIG party in the Conference Centre on Friday night....link to buy tickets

Snowbrains are recruiting, but sadly not paying the lucky intern... If you are still keen to apply contact@snowbrains.com

British Freeride are looking for coaches...link to their facebook.page.

Someone was digging in Lyon and struck gold ! Legal gold without historical value so the digger can keep it !

Flowers have become symbols of the sacrifices made defending our freedom.

Poppies in the UK

Cornflower in France

Forget-me-not in the USA.

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Sunny in Val but there is a mean camera change before you get to Aime.... watch out ! Stay at 50....

Snow & Rock had their Winter Summit in Kensington, discussing the future of our sport...... Cost is definitely a factor. The good news is that the 5 Team GB medal hopefuls for the Olympics are all women.

Italy's freestyle skier Flora Tabanelli has damaged her knee. Remember that Flora and her brother Miro both won on the same day in Tignes in March.

A Ukranian ski jumper has been banned for 2 years after furosemide was found ..... a diuretic, so inconvenient, but also masks other illegal drugs.

Val is continuing its eco battle......already we have electric shuttle buses and snow groomers powered by vegetable oil (modified !!)

If you can't make it to Val for Xmas party.... go to Leeds or Manchester where there are Yurts........for an après ski adventure .... including with our name on.

Two bits of Les Arc news.... a film festival in December, and the funicular will run late on Friday and Saturday nights.

A musician climbed Mont Blanc and ziplined playing the cello.... watch the video....

An Australian celebrated his 30th Birthday by playing the violin while sky diving, naked........

Remembrance Sunday...... never forget.....

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Losing control on a blue run can hurt.

Julia Simon is suspended for a month, and given a hefty fine, but will be able to compete in the Olympics.

Niels Hintermann, the Swiss speed skier, has recovered from a lymphoma and also heading to Italy in February.

German Victoria Carl is fighting a positive drug test......hoping to get to the Olympics......meanwhile is named 'Skier of the Year'

Former Team GB skier Mathi Avent died surfing in Bali.

Cycling champion Sir Bradley Wiggins is fighting his demons and going to the US for treatment. Helped by disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong.

Forget looking cool........give in to the fun ........ski like a child.........though safety is still important.

Need a bit of Early Season Ski TLC ? Alpine Tutorials have spaces for a course in Tignes 2-5th December.

They also have online courses….

The Olympic Closing Ceremony will be in the Amphitheatre in Verona, a World Heritage Site, and entitled 'Beauty in Action'.

Ski tip - ski like a child... wobble and fun. Though safety is still important. While you build your skills.

Snowberry’s Resort Staff Program is promising to be the deal to have this season.... watch out for more details.

Cappuccino or café crème ?

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Shotput champion Adele Nicholl now hoping for a bobsleigh Olympics.....

Kidsgrove Ski Centre. have their annual freestyle competition tomorrow...Snowboard champion Mia Brookes started here, and is now heading for Olympic glory !

Easyjet are now flying from Southend and Birmingham to Grenoble.

More delays for the Post Brexit EES. If you overshoot your 90 days it will be more obvious... fines, bans, deportation....and your travel insurance will be invalid. Why not consider a visa.

Tennis star, and early ski racer, Jannik Sinner models the Gucci outfits you can actually wear while you ski.

Bourg have got the children involved in council meetings !

Villa Roger have replace 2 old chairlifts with a fast bubble.

Help yourself and the planet by joining Tignes car sharing Group.

Today is hug a bear day. Looking forward to a hot chocolate in Tigne's Grizzly this winter !

Link to the website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

French team training in Tignes, but without Cyprien Sarrazin who is still recovering from his crash last December.

Clarisse Brèche is also out of the Olympics, following another knee injury.

The World Cup mogul competitions are looking for a last minute venue after financial problems cancelled the event on 12th December in Sweden.

Val is gradually warming up for the winter with Chevallot, Hibou, B Bar and XV all open.

Montha the mean cyclone has dumped a lot of snow on and near Everest, causing a lot of work for the rescue services. Lucky tourists to have people look out for you. Shame about the helicopter that crashed in a storm.

Adidas is kitting out Team GB for the Olympics, and 11 other teams...

Canoeist Kurts Rozentals isn't hiding his disappointment well.......but posting a video of "a sexual act on a plane" was never good for Team GBs image....just not very British !

Airport transfers can be expensive....for good reasons.... the taxi driver who drove David Lammy and his wife 600 km has been cleared of stealing from them.

Please look regularly at the Calendar page so you don't miss out..... amongst the events listed for the next week or so..... Ski sale in Bourg, Halloween Party and Novemberfest.

Link to website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Another fatal avalanche in Nepal, which killed two local guides, and 5 foreigners are missing, including a Frenchman.

Education is a good step towards avalanche prevention and safetly.

Henry is still touring the UK.

And Teton Gravity Research have a free online course for you.

Mati4safety…… don’t let Matilde have died for nothing.

While prosecutors consider possible negligence, the Matilde Lorenzi Foundation

is building a culture of safety in sport.

Please donate if you can.

One very unprepared hiker was given a huge bill for his rescue.

Do look at the list of essential kit when walking in the mountains.

Meanwhile in Wales the rescuers were also out…. Despite National severe weather warnings, he decided it didn’t look too bad and set off in shorts.

Russian luge athletes have a glimmer of hope….if they get through the ‘neutral criteria’ they may be able to compete in the February Olympics.

An American muses about the difference attitude towards skiing in the US and France. Aggressive American, relaxed France.

I am always working on the website which I want to be useful to both visitors and people I share this village with.

Have added a ‘Preloved’ page….for usable things that are no longer useful to us – swop, share or sell….rather than dump.

Guy Fawke’s Day.

Weird but bright celebration - party with bling and bang.  

Link to website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

More sunshine.... I will start posting photos soon....Val isn't just about skiing !

Swift Turkish justice following January's fatal fire. Prolonged pain for Grenfell families.

Is skiing becoming beyond the reach of normal families ? Prices have increased 35% in last ten years. Italian Lift prices have gone up by even more, and currently under investigation by AntiFraud team.

If you live in Tignes, your children are again welcome to have a free ski pass, thanks to the combined generosity of the Tignes Foundation and the STGM lift company. Don't forget to apply !

Val Mairie is looking for your ideas of how to use the area 'le Coin' (previously the main bus station) this season..... all activities considered.

Let's be clear.... if you have a dog you have to clean up after them or risk a large fine. Val even provides free poo bags. It is not difficult....

Le Coq Sportif will be responsible for making sure the French Olympic team have the required elegance and sophistication that France prides itself on!

Glencoe chair lift now closed for maintenance and will open sometime in December, with new chairs !

There is a lot of mutual French /English / Franglais teasing here in Val. We are 'les Roast Beef' and today is UK Roast dinner day !

Link to website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Children are back at school again today, and only a few weeks until our lifts open.

Am always trying to warn people about the risks of avalanches.

Sadly 5 German climbers were killed in the Dolomites on Saturday.

France’s cycling champion Cindy Morvan was killed in what appears to be a murder suicide.

If you fancy skiing in Georgia, they now have electric snowcats.

Careful if you have a fondue….. don’t pack away until completely cold…….a manager is being prosecuted for negligence after a huge fire in Switzerland.

Jackson Hole is looking to beat it’s own World Record for denim clad skiers…….

Ski in Jeans Day

The US are gender testing women prior to the Winter Olympics. No Y chromosomes will get on the team.

Zermatt passes are going digital.... make sure your phone battery is strong.

British Game Week……….the wild animals rather than toys or rugby.

Link to website.

Calendar

Special Offers I have Spied....

Team GB in Milan for World Championships in Timbersports..... the only female competitor in whole competition was BRITISH ! Rachel Ferrington also has a World Record in the sport.

Fireman rescued a dog from 35 metres down in a ravine, at night, returning him unharmed to grateful family.

Potential price fixing..... the EU are investigating, the companies are complying and confident that no issue will be found.

Have put the various BOURSES for ski kit and toys in November on the calendar page.

If you missed something then go to the search on the website.

The full transcripts are also there....

Solo travelling is a great way to ski and make new friends.

Try Cold Fusion Chalets or Friendship Travel

All Saints day today..... end of school holidays.

Val d’Isère Podcast : Doodles in the Snow

Sunny first of the month.

Trekkers in Nepal were lucky when a huge avalanche swept through their camp.

A 19 year old recovering after nearly dying in the snow near Grenoble.

3 Sisters are in the US team, hoping to compete in Olympics, in 3 different disciplines.

US Olympic and paralympic athletes will receive $100,000 twenty years after they retire, or when they are 45.

Paris Match shouldn't have published pictures of the Wales family on their ski holiday last April.

Tom Brennan is 98 but still teaching people to ski.

Val heads the Savoie property price list. Tignes was third ...

For those that don't want to ski all day every day, donkey riding is an option... contact the guide Pascal.bertres@sfr.fr Tel + 33 6 13 85 64 77

World Vegan day................let's campaign for more vegetarian dishes on the restaurant menus. Veganism is possibly a step too far for Val, at the moment.

Val d’Isère Podcast : Doodles in the Snow

Val is PARTICULARLY beautiful at the moment with sun, snow and Autumunal colours in the trees.

Drivers ..... remember the snow tyre / chain rules are from tomorrow until 31.3.25.

Also watch Savoie-routes.fr

Maintenance work will close Chambery’s Tunnel des Monts from 20.00 - 06.00 Monday to Friday next week.

Watch out on the Grand Motte Glacier.......dangerous ice, cables and avalanche risk.

The first ski resort to open this season in France is the cross country in Bessans on Sunday.

Merci for le snowfarming...

Not long until World Cup in Val … have you got your tickets yet ?

Snowboard cross champion Charlotte Bankes is still hoping for Olympic gold.

Triplets from New York are hoping to make Olympic history by representing Jamaica.

If walking your dog at edge of a cliff.........be careful ! Have it on a lead.

House & Garden gave Val a good review....

Experimental Chalet Hotel got another good mention in the World Ski Awards 2025.

If you travel between Britain and Bourg, or back again, in the interseason, join

Bourg-Britain connection Facebook group

Happy Halloween........ an Irish festival, originally !

Val d’Isère Podcast : Doodles in the Snow

After the recent snow fall, Verbier has decided to open on Saturday – just for the weekends, until the full opening on 29^th November.

Team GB has a high medal target for the Olympics.

Our hopes include

Mia Brookes, snowboard slopestyle.

Zoe Atkin, ski halfpipe.

Bruce Mouat, curling.

Brad Hall, bobsleigh.

Lilah Fear & Lewis Gibson, ice skating.

The debate on how to reduce the danger to our racers in training continues….

Possible solutions ?

Dedicated training courses, at World Cup Standard.

More rest time between races.

Be prepared …

Check weather

Be well equipped.

A hiker slipped on ice and fell to his death on Mount Whitney in the US.

Lubin Godin has one TWO

Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards.

The first a BBC / Natural History Museum collaboration.

250 cows were lost in the Jura to the fatal contagious skin disease.

This means less milk, less cheese.

Vogue world have an article about grit and glamour.

Tricky skiing and Michelin dining in stylish outfits.

A competition on Instagram to win some goggles.

Tag a friend

Like the post

Follow

Theslopezone.

Every year Russia Remembers the victims of Soviet and Imperial era repression on the 30^th October…

The Americans celebrate Candy Corn…

Val d’Isère Podcast : Doodles in the Snow

Mixed weather day, but recent snow has put a metre on our pistes.

More rescues of the unprepared.... so novice they couldn't even dismantle their tent unaided.

Environmentalists are disappointed…they were hoping for a Winter Games without artificial snow.

Italy uses the most artificial snow in Europe. Otherwise many resorts would no longer be open, with the local economy devastated. Hard choices.

Why not book to ski with Henry Druce at the beginning of the season in Val.

He is also raising money for the charity Snow Camp. using snowsports to help disadvantaged young people.

Donate via this link

Why not WIN a weekend for two in Val....

Go to @valdisere on Instagram

Find the post ….

Like the post

Comment on the post – including the name of whoever you will be bringing with you.

Follow @valdisere

Val d'Isère (@valdisere) • Instagram photos and videos

What holiday accommodation suits you best ?

Chalet, hotel, self catered or a mixture ?

Former Team GB triathlete is raising money to help her live independently and for advanced prosthetic limbs after developing sepsis, and losing all her limbs.

If you can help, here is the link.

Hibou's Halloween party starts at 15.00 on Friday.

Costumes are encouraged !

UK RSPB Feed the Birds Day.

Val d’Isère Podcast : Doodles in the Snow

Calendar

Sun on the snow today.

Too late for an Autumn guided walk to the summit of Cairn Gorm.

Marco Odermatt is, at the moment, 5th in the table of All Time World Cup wins.... with plenty of energy to get higher !

Tess Ledeux from Bourg St Maurice is still recovering from severe concussion after falling in the Big Air Final in Tignes in March, but hopes to win Gold at the Olympics.

Lindsay Vonn is on the cover of Time magazine, and reflects what this means.

There has already been one skier triggered avalanche in Colorado this season .... why not join one of Henry's avalanche training sessions in the UK. The dates are in the calendar.

If you use google maps, also use some commonsense. If the signs say that a road is closed, or 'No Driving' motor on only if happy for a fine or worse.

The French Ski Federation are deciding biathlete Julia Simon's fate after her conviction for theft. Will she be able to stay on the team for the Olympics ?

The Mairie are looking for people to work on the census between 16th January and 15th February - paid !

Today is Ukraine Liberation Day.

We so wish this was happening..........

Val d’Isère Podcast : Doodles in the Snow

Calendar

Brochures | Val d’Isère : Alps ski resort and winter sports

Alpinexpress Pass

Snow today, sun tomorrow. Why not have a peek at the webcams....

Freddy must have been pleased with his debut ! Under 4 seconds slower than the very experienced Marco who eventually was declared the winner. And top of the podium is Marco's plan for each time he races this season.

Tignes rightly got a good review.

Look ahead to see what is happening each week in Val.. either Valscope from the Tourist Office or my calendar page. Then you won't miss a visit from the Birds of Prey and their handlers.

Two survived a lightning strike in Arizona. Top tip - don't take photographs on a peak in a big storm.

No real surprise.... property prices in good resorts, like Val, continue to rise.

For those travelling by train to Morzine or Avoriaz the Alpinexpress Pass will give you discounts. We all like a bargain !

Finally..... chocolate day........am VERY HAPPY to celebrate that one !

Link to Website.

After the ladies yesterday, the men are Giant Slaloming in Solden today,

including Freddy Carrick-Smith's World Cup debut.

After her traumatic year it was wonderful to see Mikaela Shiffrin take fourth place yesterday.

Listen to your instructor.......a 10 year old racer training in Hintertux went off piste and into a crevasse.

The Norwegian Ski Association are still trying to recover from the financial 'disappointment' of the World Championships, so are having to make cuts. Hard choices....

Why not join Snowsport England ?

Gabriel Gledhill is a name to watch out for.......both model and Cross country skier.....he is featured in Tatler.

More offers to tempt you to the slopes.........and can book soon.

Mark Warner

Ski Beat.

While planning your trip...... why not come by train ?

Travelski overnight from Paris.

Or Eurostar from London, via Lille.

Am always grateful for what the army give up for us so they deserve to be celebrated today.

Link to website.

We love snow, and Val is looking very wintery at the moment !

Don't forget to check your tyres as rules will be enforced this winter.

You must have 4 snow tyres with loco 3PM5F

If yours are M+S you must also have chains.

Snow socks are not recommended.

Sölden in Austria is hosting World Cup Giant Slalom- ladies today, and men's tomorrow, including Freddy Carrick-Smith.

France's biathlon champion Julia Simon was convicted for theft.

NEVER nip under the ropes ............. a collision with an idiot could easily have ruined Lucas Baathan's season, career or life.

Skiworld have a flash sale....You must Book before 10^th November…

Tips to stop you freezing above a nasty looking slope.

John Davison Has started to offer coaching on Skool….

Review in The Times made me think once again about La Face.

Great day - International Artist Day ! Did you know Val has a thriving Art community with "Couleurs et Toiles" led by Rozenn Roszak ?

Link to Website

Snowing in Val....... and will continue for days. The Col is closed.

When travelling always check the savoie-route website.

Athletes are facing the winter in different ways - Mikaela Shiffrin racing through her demons to aim for her one hundred and second win...

Marta Bassino missing out completely, nursing a broken leg.

Julia Simon standing trial for fraud.

Turns out the FIS vote which excluded all Russian athletes was close.

The FIS Gaming App is live.

Environmentally conscious Alpine residents are once again questioning the 2030 Olympics.

The German manufacturers of the lifting device that helped the Louvre thieves are using this to show how quick their machine is !

Day to celebrate champagne, and tripe....

Link to Website

Snowy day !

FIS have given their decision..... no Russians can compete in the FIS Events, even under a neutral flat. Their cross country champion was ..... cross !

Poor old Ester.........had to choose between the chance of a ski downhill or snowboard final.......

A chef who had a stroke at the age of 27 has battled back and now wants a place in Guinness Book of Record s.

Climbing accidents...........how and where ?

Visit Savoie ! Summers are becoming very popular.

Cold Fusion Chalets are hosting a snowboard week in January in Tignes.

Next Tuesday..... avoid area near the Dam as they are testing the valves.

USA National mole day.

LINK TO WEBSITE

Link to Website.

A day of clouds and rain, though sun in the morning.

Axelle Gachet-Mollaret stormed up 1000 vertical metres in just under 33 minutes to set another world record. She is already 8 x World ski mountaineering champion.

Don't forget that in the winter we have evening races up from the bottom of La Daille bubble to the Folie Douce.

Glencoe are offering free accommodation for their learn to ski or snowboard weekends in November or December.......

If you are looking for boots.... Salomon has developed the Boa fit system for Alpine boots. Sounds comfy... definitely worth a look.

Today is the day the FIS will announce their decision..... will any Russian athletes be allowed to compete this season ?

Are you over 50 ? Cold Fusion has a holiday especially for you !

A hunter killed someone else in his group.........be careful if you see hunters out.

Grand Mountain Adventure 2 will allow you the thrill of 'skiing' the Face in complete safety !

Today is World Energy Saving Day, and

 UK Apple AND UK Honey day.... no explanations needed !

Link to website.

After a career that included a rare double World Champion, and an Olympic medal Mathieu Faivre has just made the difficult decision to retire now.

If you can, and would like to, please sponsor Team GBs Laurie Taylor.

To buy a season pass or not ? Glencoe are honest about the risk you could be taking.... but there are advantages to season passes..........you might go out for even an hour on a day that you wouldn't want to pay for a full day.

Simply Val d’Isere could welcome you for Christmas - there is a late cancellation for the Aspen House chalet….

400 police and border people were busy gathering drugs, money and guns in Grenoble.

Do you have a toddler that is starting to walk ? Want to set them on skis ? Contact Tori….

Keep your eyes out for this documentary “Better up there “

Forty five minutes Into the life of freeride champion Léo Slemett.

Plenty of good speakers at the London Snow Show this weekend.

The Experimental Chalet Hotel is in the list of the top 15 new wellness hotels in the world.

Shake out day .... to prepare for earthquakes..........we had an earthquake in Villaret last year.

Link to Website

Breast Awareness month - Donate to Savoie Cancer Charity.

Clément Noël won't be racing in Solden as preparing for the Slalom in Finland.

Alexis Pinturault should be there - he is back on snow after his fracture in January.

Alesander Aaamodt Kilde is also happy that he hasn't forgotten how to ski !

His fiancée Mikela Shriffen also concentrating on slalom.

The weather is changing - be properly prepared if you go hiking. Some professionals, who should have known better were lucky that a drone could drop off survival ponchos.

There is still a lot of building going on in Val. Meanwhile in Manigod a man got fined 45,000 euros for a refurbishment without planning permission.

Better building is the new terrace at the top of the Madeline chairlift.... will give you spectacular panoramic views.

Sports professionals are often forbidden from continuing other 'dangerous' sports.

Flora Dolci is out of the Olympics due to a fall while parapenting.

Tignes are supporting Breast Awareness month with a Pink day on Saturday - lots of fun events, and medical support.

Hagfish …celebrate the "beauty of ugly."

Grouch day : A character from sesame street, who can never admit to being happy !

LINK FOR WEBSITE

After all I said about Patou Protection dogs... a family kept one as a pet. She has escaped and is living in a public park........hasn't attacked anyone ....yet....they are hoping to catch her soon.

People living in our building must have mistaken my doodles for Patous or similar.... though my naughty neighbour had put the fear in their minds...

Sad news from the Southern French Alps, 3 British people were involved when their 2 light aircraft collided. 2 people died.

More thoughts about climate change and the steps farmers are taking to keep the quality of the cheese, but each step incurs costs...

Snow Secure are doing their climate change bit..... mats that protect the snow from melting over the summer.

USA National Train the Brain Day. I am a fan of life long learning !

LINK FOR WEBSITE

As the Winter Olympics approach, two of France's hopefuls are racing to get fit after injuries.

Get fit to ski before you arrive here..........Moving Mountains in Sussex looks pretty good, especially for beginners learning to stand up, turn and stop safely. There is 25% off lessons until the 24th October.

We love it when a helicopter flies in to help when we need help, but they are not as popular with the people who live next to the aerodrome in Albertville..........noise...........noise and more noise.........so no they don't want an expansion.

Check your insurance really carefully before you leave the UK. Do you have your GHIC ? Does it cover off piste ?

USA National Free thought day..............pause for thought !

Sunny spell continues, highlighting the beautiful Autumnal colours.

A paraglider fell 20 metres into a stream - taken to Hospital by the Sapeurs-Pompiers.

Today is the First London Ski Skimming Event ! You need to be capable of skiing black runs, and sign a waiver. Let me know how you get on ! Sent photos... videos......And take some dry clothes.....

If you fancy yourself as an entrepreneur... there is an event in Bourg St Maurice on Tuesday so explain what you need to do and how to do it. Free but best to book.

Ski Club of Great Britain are sponsoring Team GB slalom skier Laurie Taylor. His first race this year is in Finland in November, and of course all our eyes will be on him in the Olympics.

Sadly another athlete has failed a drugs test.......this time Bobsleigher Arran Gulliver has been banned for 2 years. He is not contesting it but says it was not deliberate.

What is new in Tignes this year ? A fast 6 seater chairlift on the Aiguille Percee.... the eye of the needle. A electric buggy circuit. A huge Brasserie owned and run by the Bouvier family, of Michelin star fame. Several events including the Winter Fest in January.

Today's celebrations ...UN International Day of the Girl Child, and the UK are celebrating Album day... music rather than the photo version.

LINK FOR WEBSITE

Sunny day in Val !

The trekkers caught in terrible snowy weather in Tibet have all got down safely - with help from the brave rescurers.

InPiste are opening the UK’s most advanced indoor snowsport training centre in Luton…..

Skieasy at Dukes Meadow, Chiswick, London encourages you

to get fit for the start of our season.

They have special weekday lesson packages.

This episode, the firemen rescue a huge St Bernard from the top of a burning house.

The combined rescue services recently did a practice exercise involving the telecabines.

Tomorrow there is a sale at the Maison des Artisans in Seez, a tombola and a concert in the evening.

Sunday the new Post Brexit Border rules change... prepare for chaos.

A group of former ski champions have created "Piste Libre"

With the aim to protect athletes from harassment, abuse and discrimination.

You can join or make a donation through their website.

There may be 2 more sports in the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps :

cross country running and cyclocross.

Italy is calling for a global ceasefire for the Winter Olympics.

UK Porridge day, UN World Mental Health Day.

LINK TO VALDISEREPODCAST.COM

Lunch at Benoit Vidal's was up to it's usual exceptional standard, but something had gone wrong with my booking - always check that your have a confirmation email if you book with a restaurant that uses Zenchef..... Or MAYBE turn up smartly dressed without two overtly energetic dogs....

Freddy Carrick-Smith has been selected to ski for GB in the first FIS World Cup Giant Slalom on the 26th October in Austria. - the youngest male Team GB FIS WC giant slalom skier in 40 years. He will be with his twin brothers on the Talk Stage at the London Snow Show, with Chemmy Allcott on Sunday 19th October. The team are always looking for funds.......Their mother is 4 time Winter Olympian Emma Carrick-Anderson. The boys clearly have a lot to give for GB Glory... if you can help the link is here.

Remembering the man in China who slipped and died. It would have been horrific for his friends. Laura remembers when a friend of hers fell after one stupid turn..........and the consequences a lack of concentration can have.

It is World Sight Day,..... if your eyes work, appreciate them and use them....... always avoid skiers below and skiing off cliffs.

k .National Fluffernutter Day

LINK TO WEBSITE

Another round trip to Geneva, though in sunshine and stopping for lunch at Benoit Vidal on the way home.

More bad mountain news, 3 climbers killed in an avalanche in Slovenia, and a man fell to his death on Nama Peak in China, while taking photos.

Diary approval day... so am adding any events I see to the calendar page so you and any visitors can peek, pick and plan.

"Rosie" also likes to plan in advance, but found that Patrick Chevallot only did his excellent patisserie demonstrations when he was in the mood for sharing his knowledge !

Team GB brought home gold showjumping medals.

If you see sheep - keep well away. A 20 year old man was badly bitten by four dogs - though not patous.

If you want to brush up on your French - email contact@alpesinter-langues.com for an intensive course 3-19th November.

There is an exciting trip to Kazakhstan that still has places available.

Val d’Isère has been voted as the Best European Ski Resort 2025 by

Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s.

Happy USA National Fluffernutter Day !

LINK TO WEBSITE

Lovely sunny day.

Our top choices of 'Celebrations' today - Frappe and Kale.

Take advantage of the special offers ..... ladies ski courses, Dynamic ski training, socks..

After the mess last week, the parking booking system is having another go today.... stay calm !

Still jobs available, particularly if you have an EU passport, including Prime Minister of France. That would be interesting !

Hoping that everyone survives the disaster on Everest. Shocking how many people were there, around 5000 metres. Bravo to the rescuers, risking their lives to save the trekers.

Team GB's Dylan Hessey is European BMX freestyle Champion !

On the GB Snowsport website.......competition to win Dave Rydings Bib

and if you buy £25 of merchandise you get free socks...

Do check the Special Offers I have Spied page regularly.

There are some early bird discounts for ladies ski courses, amongst other offers.

A huge new resort is being built in Kazakhstan, while a resort in the Loire will not open this season.

A man was found dead, several weeks after he had crashed. This reminded me of how lucky the people were whose van drove into the Dam.

How is your preseason training coming on ? Why not try Dynamic ski .... they have a 7 day 100% money back guarantee........no questions asked.

The Blue week hosts events for our Senior Citizens... their (fun) Olympics on Thursday !

CORRECT LINK TO NEW WEBSITE

Today's choice celebrations - Mad Hatters and noodles.

Val has had snow, Storm Amy has hit Scotland, with the tubing slope at Glencoe badly damaged.

Ski passes can be cheap.... in Arizona if you book now.

Remember that some of the multi-resort passes are cheaper as there are some days you can't use them.

The firemen had a fire to deal with in a chalet in Megève, which reminded us of the chalet that was badly burnt in Petit Alaska. The firemen later gave the chalet company owner a calendar, with a photo of the blazing chalet.

A runner was bitten by a protection dog. Best to avoid these dogs that are protecting sheep from wolves. If you meet one, stay calm and keep your own dog on a short lead. There is an interactive map to help you plan your way around them. MapPatou

The chalet company VIP Ski have a good offer for weeks in January, and they also have some complimentary guiding but advise you to book.

For those in Sunderland, there is an Apres ski party on 24th October. best to book.

Laura has done more work on the website, including adding a weather widget on the home page. There is a problem with one of the links to the new website from your phone but this should be fixed this morning.

2. "World Teacher" and "Get Funky Day".

3. Calendar and special offers page on website.

4.Multi-resort passes on offer.

5.Accommodation prices for Olympics.

6.Prescription Goggle inserts.

7. Cows and firemen

8. End - start of Blue Week.

Today we celebrate both our teachers and creativity. 

Pages have been added to the website .... calendar and special offers.

Do email if you would like anything added.

Why not think ahead…. Are you going to be trying out several resorts this winter…. Have you considered buying a multi-resort pass………if you buy it in the next few days you can save a lot of money. Epic and Ikon are just two ....

If you are heading to the Olympics…Accommodation prices are high……..though also be suspicious of those that are lower than they normally are.

When planning your trip, if you ski in prescription glasses, consider goggle inserts instead…….

The firemen were busy on animal rescue again, this time - five cows.

Avoid Chambery and that part of A41 this weekend ...........they are replacing a bridge in just 3 days.

Sadly the British Alpine Schools Event planned for January 2026 has been cancelled.

Precise Racing are off to their October camp in Hintertux. If you have someone who would like to join their team, get in touch ASAP.

A thirsty skier in Patagonia ended up with wet feet.

Bindings..........are they rusty from salt water ?

Bindings .... ? pin or hybrid ?

Bindings..............do you NEED them on skis ?

Mahé Freydier, a Savoyarde broke the world record sand skiing in Peru.

Team Carrick-Smith are fundraising to continue the careers of their 3 young men – all now in the World’s top 100.

Fundraiser by Emma Carrick-Anderson : Team Carrick-Smith prepare for their biggest season to date

Italian skiing laws tightening, including helmet fines and mandatory avalanche equipment, safety on slopes is emphasized.

Also, stories from ski patrollers illustrate the importance of caution on the piste.

Time to plan your holiday – childcare : Jelly and Ice-Cream Limited

Catered chalets : https://www.alpineelements.co.uk

or stay in Scotland, and get a pass that covers all 5 resorts.

All Area Pass: One Ticket, Five Resorts — Snowsport Scotland

Meanwhile, the new podcast website is live and now includes a calendar.

Calendar

Don’t forget the online Property event

Virtual Event - Your Overseas Home

and the Northern Snow Show this weekend.

https://www.northernsnowshow.com

Celebrations.... National Black Dog Day and website launch ! Still work to do..... comments appreciated. www.valdiserepodcast.com

Swiss have blocked an American takeover bid.

A huge ibex was rescued.

There are tickets discounted for the London Snow Show !

Or from Planet Ski..

Icebreaker celebrate 30 years, with a Ski Skimming Event under Tower Bridge.

Helmets are compulsory in Italy. Think about your head if stopping for lunch.... hat ??

One Italian resort is limiting the number of day passes sold during busy weeks.

Appreciate the summer gardens in Val.

Precise Racing are looking for four juniors to join their team.

Why not spend Christmas in Val ? Ski France have an amazing chalet...

However...... be careful to book from reputable companies........others have been scammed.

Difference between sledding and sledging.

Backcountry smarter webinar.

Put the pisteurs number in your phone !

Right to work in France ?

Snoop Dogg for the Winter Olympics.

Innovative Textile Solutions wanted for the 2030 Winter Olympics.

Yesterday was International Podcasting Day !

Tomorrow is another strike day.

The Fort in Bourg St Maurice is being refurbished.

The parking booking system failed again.

For those that need a nice cuppa........Ski Beat have ordered British tea.

Vertigo..........horrible when you mean a fear of heights. Debilitating when it is a medical problem, as Lindsay Vonn discovered.

Lucas Pinheiro Braathan is back with Ambition, now skiing for Brazil.

The first Olympic Torchbearers have been announced.

A base jumper died in Italy.

Tickets for the Tomorrowland Winter 2026 event in Alpes d'Huez are on sale.

A lift has been refurbished in small resort near Annecy.

Sandrine featured in ici Savoie - talking about her love for Val.

Debate about the safety of our racers continues.

Meanwhile a Polish man skied down Everest…….

Without Oxygen.

The Oscar documentary ‘The Man who skied down Everest’ followed a Japanese man in 1970.  

More Olympic news…. 2030 awaiting a new French government to sign off certain documents.

Some events maybe dropped before then.

Ski safety, Snowboarder prosecuted for Aspen hit and run, out of control teenagers.

FIS introduces compulsory gender testing.

Legionnaires in Albertville, and closes the boarding house of a secondary school.

Cows are blocked from coming down from pasture due to deadly skin disease.

--

(00:11) Weather

(00:33) Drug busts and Swift French Justice

(01:48) Leeds University Students with drugs

(02:12) Legionnaires in Albertville and a secondary school

(02:56) FIS introduces gender testing

(03:25) Savoie cows

(03:52) Snowboarder prosecuted for hit and run

(05:50) Ski with eyes open

Road closures and strike days are all looming.

Plans for a reservoir in La Clusaz have been shelved.

Tignes have removed 6 tonnes of rubbish from the top of the Grande Motte.

This weekend is the last high altitude race, the Petit St Bernard.

There is family photo fun at the Library.

Winter Parking goes on sale on Monday.

A world champion is going to court accused of credit card fraud..

Home for the Charcoal portraits of Avalins.

Ski Ballet.

 Alberville has reported 17 cases of legionnaires' disease.

 Hunting season is in full swing;

Check the

Chassé & Croisé App  Before you wander out.

Also watch Kirsty Muir in Pressure Drop

Red Bull TV: Watch Live Events on the App Store

Heli-skiing in Italy

Should it be banned ? due to safety and environmental concerns.

Olympic news… 2 athletes are already on side-lines.

Marcel is back on real snow….

The Art Club AGM …. Art is a necessary balance in the sport focused village…...Rozenn tries to keep prices affordable. Donations always welcome, or visit our stand at the Foire Avaline in August and buy tombola ticketS.

Free ski and snowboard testing first weekend of our season.

Transport to and from the airports. Snowdrone always excellent.

Shared Transfers | SnowDrone Transfers

Alpine Fleet may be worth considering and have an Early bird offer....

Ski Transfers | Geneva Ski Transfers | Alpine Fleet

Competition to win a holiday in Val d'Isere.

https://tinyurl.com/5n78kz29

Prize money for Biathlon athletes has increased.

Nationality changes pre Olympics ..... 4 gains for Team GB.....

Laura Collet takes European gold at Burghley 3 day event.

Val's mayor welcomes the Prefet of Savoie.

World Clean Up day.

Antisocial behaviour, particularly noise at night.

A Ferrari Rally were finishing with a 2 star Michelin lunch at Maison Benoit Vidal in Annecy.

There are multiple road closures and irritations, including for a Rock Fall near Chamonix.

Sadly 3 bodies are still lying under avalanche debris in Alaska, 6 months after they died.

There is a call for Savoie to become independent….

Insights into Val’s Interseason.

Podcast plans…

Surrey School Ski Championships in November.

Precise Ski Academy - Surrey Schools Championships

Some Russian athletes will be able to compete in the Winter Olympics in February.

Then sadness.

2 Chamonix mountain guides died in a car crash.

A man died on a via ferrata near Chambery.

The outcry after the deaths of 3 elite Italian skiers in the last year – FIS are looking at ways to improve safety.

The St. Bernard Pass is closing for maintenance until spring.

Snow Sport England offers various courses, including roller ski lessons and instructor training sessions across different locations.

https://snowsportengland.sport80.com

They have also started an Instagram channel dedicated to Alpine skiing.

@snowsportengland_alpine

Suggestions to book ski lessons and child care as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Jelly and Ice Cream have an Early Bird offer if you book before the end of September.

Jelly and Ice-Cream Limited

“1000 pattes” is a fun weekend with events for children aged 5-10 years in April in Montgenevre.

La 1000 Pattes - Montgenèvre - 4 et 5 avril 2026 - Hautes Alpes

Le Breathwork is happening in Bourg St Maurice on Monday 22^nd.

https://www.les-chemins-de-lequilibre.fr/

bienetreentarentaise@gmail.com

Scottish Freestyle skier Kirsty Muir features in the film Pressure Drop.

Triathlon in Evian.

Serious knee injury for ski jumper Eva Pinkelnig.

Jacques Jeffries has decided to compete for Great Britain rather than France.

Martin Fourcade will receive his sixth Olympic Gold after Russian athlete finally disqualified.

There is a legal challenge to France hosting the 2030 Winter Olympics.

The episode also covers recent chairlift accidents in Russia, highlighting the importance of safety in mountainous regions.

You are invited to buy tickets for the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony

https://tickets.milanocortina2026.org/events/le-discipline-olimpiche-244/cerimonia-di-apertura-2461/?utm_campaign=public_news_new_opening_cerimony_tickets_september_en&utm_medium=public_news&utm_source=organic_games_time_website

amd explore cultural events related to the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy.

If you fancy a home in Val …. There is a virtual home buying event that may interest you !

https://www.youroverseashome.com/virtual-event/

There is a chance to join a party weekend in Avoriaz, and test out the latest kit.

https://rockonsnow.com/

Finally, there is a lot going on in Seez this weekend.

This episode tentatively airs the problem of building more buildings faced by the ski resorts.

 Tourism vs eco considerations.

Tourist accommodation Vs sufficient good quality workers accommodation.

Remember … more strikes tomorrow….if you can wait, don't try to travel.

Return to last week’s thefts from huts on Mont Blanc. Arrests have been made.

Don’t forget that the hunting season started on Sunday and continues until the beginning of March.

We were impressed that Robert Redford share our admiration for Val’s Local Hero, Jean Claude Killy.

She also applauded people staying active on the mountain well into their 80’s and 90’s.

2 climbers died near Grenoble.

Laura mentions the perils of paragliding, highlighting its high risks, and advise listeners to seek professional tandem flights for safety.

Don’t forget the Northern Snow Show in October.

If you fancy a car…. What about a Bentley Val d’Isère ?

The Folie Douce is getting bigger……

Benoit Vidal's food – art on a plate.

She reminds you of the untamed challenges of La Grave, the world's largest lift-assisted off-piste area.

Meanwhile, unevenly distributed prize money across different high level sports prompts reflection.

An Italian skier died after a serious head injury when training in Chile.

Champolouc in Italy will be hosting the SIGB Ski Test Event in January.

The London Snow Show at Olympia is 18-19^th October. 

Laura starts with a roller ski race in Austria, then invites you to join Sweden's longest 90 km classic event.

She looks back in time to vintage skiing.

L’Alpine Classique are starting a ski school.

They have a date for your diary – 13-15^th March 2026,

Think leather boots, wooden skis and cable bindings.

Vintage slalom, swing dances, and classic motor cars.

This episode ends with essential ski touring safety tips, reminding you to tell someone where you are going and when you are likely to get back, so the ski patrol have some chance of finding you.  

Moving to more positive news, the snowboarder who fell into a crevasse in Colorado has been discharged from the hospital.

This is the link to a video shot during his rescue.

https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/09/12/snowboarder-fell-off-glacier-rescue-colorado-video/86118411007/

Fashion designer Amit Aggarwal has launched a collection inspired by the French Alps.

Eco Efforts in St Moritz and Hemel Hempstead get a mention.

Laura updated on Olympic ski mountaineering and Russia's sports ban.

The episode concludes with notes that more cultural events are planned in ski resorts and the Eurostar snow train will also return on Sundays.

Reminder that Bar XV closes tonight.

She also talks about Jannik Sinner – his early life as a ski racer and why he changed to tennis. His friend Lindsey Vonn was there to watch him win $5 million dollars at the US Open, but Lindsey and Laura both question why some sports are paid so much better than others. The 3-day eventer Ros Canter was included in this discussion.

Returning to Mont Blanc, theft !

Travel tips include new unmarked cars that can capture your speed, and the suggestion to arrive instead by train.

There is a request – VIP Ski are running a competition.

Please consider voting for Clare Edwards, who came with her husband Tony, to Val d’Isère to work for VIP Ski in 2012.

They loved their season with us.

 A few years later Tony sadly died, 3 weeks after their son was born. 

If Clare wins, she can bring 5-year-old Theo on a holiday to La Plagne.

To read about the 5 finalists,

And vote, please go to this website. 

https://www.vip-chalets.com/blog/graciosa-competition

One of the women’s races was overshadowed by a disqualification for doping.

We also discuss the upgrades in Tignes, promising an exciting winter for skiers. Additionally, listeners are reminded of the impending biometric border procedures post-Brexit, potential delays, and some information about the bearded vultures in Val.

As ski teams continue their training worldwide, French athletes in Argentina face injuries, while British and American skiers prepare in Austria and Chile.

We are very excited by Welsh Gigi Gorringe’s form !

Tragic news - a 61-year-old climber fell to his death on Mont Blanc.

Meanwhile, FIS officials have visited, checking Val d'Isère is ready to host the World Cup races in December

French shop owners prepare by boarding up shops and 7,000 police on standby.

Better news, Marcel Hirscher is back on skis.

Tongue-in-cheek Darwin Awards for the survival of the fittest.

Quirky chairlift tales.

A really big rockfall in Cirque du fer a Cheval.

The new bus station is pretty good ! At the moment there is a small display giving information about our bearded vultures.

The daily newspaper, Le Dauphiné is celebrating 80 years since it first hit the streets. We are particularly fond of it as it published an article about Rozenn in June, and about Laura in August.

The Foire Avaline, in August, went very well. The children impressed with their creativity. The tombola raised money for their art classes, and Laura displayed her portraits of people and dogs from Val d’Isère. She is having her own stand next year.

Reflecting on the differences between French and English..... rain....where did 'cats and dogs' come from ?

However, we need to keep a perspective.

Worse things happen in the mountains.

A recent skiing accident in Thredbo gives us all food for thought.

Lets revise mountain safety rules and check our kit before the winter.

Meanwhile what about a guided tour of the summits on an electric fat bike,

Or plan a fun weekend in Seez.

Laura continues to enjoy the peace of the interseason, comparing to the chaos of the tube strike next week in London.

She tells a funny but true (except for names) anecdote about biking on Bellevarde.

Laura recommends visiting Galerie Jane Griffiths during the winter.

And gives a mini idea of all the work the STVI are doing this summer.

She reminds you that the bike tracks are staying open until the end of September, but as the lifts are closed you will have to also cycle to the top !

Unusually there was a traffic jam - a posse of porsche cars queuing for the petrol station !

Work continues on the road to Bourg so there will again be some night closures.

Nothing as bad as the possibility of a rock fall in La Léchèr

. The inhabitants have been evacuated.

Mixed interseasonal weather but at least it was good for the Forum where we all signed up for our favourite clubs while the chidren played.

Exciting news is that they are going to be filming a thriller in Val d’Isère and Tignes and are looking for 31 people to take part.

If you are interested, email

Contact@real estate-film.com

Finally the lights go off at midnight ..... so take the doodles out for their nightly doings before !

She then tells you about meeting her art teacher, Rozenn, and how Santa Claus appeared while they were sketching in Le Fornet.

And adds an anecdote about Christmas puddings ......

She recounts a tense journey during the early days of COVID-19, racing against the clock to get two friends to Geneva airport, and the doodles dogs and herself back to Val d’Isère before the borders close.

An unexpected traffic jam wrecked her carefully hatched plan.,,,,

Laura reflects on how confusing those early COVID days were but how the pandemic changed her life and lead her to art.

As always - closely supervised by her Doodle Dogs.

Initially planning to attend a friend's 60th birthday in North Wales, she cancelled the trip due to fears of quarantine.

Instead, she experienced the shutdown firsthand in Val d’Isère, witnessing bustling businesses close and tourists tumble.

With basic art supplies, the internet and inspiration from her one square kilometre, her 2D creativity was released.

The narrative captures the chaotic early days of the pandemic and how it inadvertently provided her with a unique opportunity to focus on art, amidst the fear and uncertainty of the global crisis.

As an artist inspired by the alpine landscape, Laura shares her insights and discoveries through art, storytelling, and skiing adventures.

From her early days of learning to ski in the late 80s to honing her artistic skills during the pandemic, Laura provides listeners with delightful updates and entertaining anecdotes.

In each episode, expect a mix of factual fun, local news, and creative musings, all topped with a touch of whimsical doodles and artistic endeavors.

She encourages you to share your thoughts and hopes for shaping future episodes by emailing her :

valdiserepodcast@gmail.com