That's La Plagne
How to Find Quiet Ski Slopes In Peak Holiday Weeks
As a seasoned inhabitant of La Plagne and a long-time lover of the snow sports and travel lifestyle. One of the things you learn early on is how to find quiet ski slopes in peak busy weeks. It's quite a skill – the art of navigating the busy slopes during the most crowded times of the year. Peak holiday weeks bring a vibrant energy to the ski resorts, but finding a quiet spot on the slopes can sometimes feel like a luxury. Fear not. I've compiled a list of tried and tested strategies to help you and your family enjoy the tranquillity of the mountains, even amidst the holiday hustle.
So whether you’re skiing in La Plagne or a different resort, these top tips will help you find the quietest ski slopes for your next ski trip.
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1. The Early Bird Catches the Fresh Snow
The snooze button is not your friend if you're looking to enjoy empty pistes. Those precious early morning hours just after the lifts open are golden for skiing on freshly groomed snow with minimal company. While most are still cosy in their beds or slowly starting their day, you can carve your first tracks in peace. Plus, getting out on the slopes before the ski schools is always a great idea.
Similarly, as the afternoon wanes, many retreat to their accommodations or gather for après-ski, leaving the slopes surprisingly quiet in the last hour before the lifts close. Adjusting your schedule to capitalise on these times can dramatically transform your skiing experience.
2. Venture Beyond the Beaten Path
Central and easily accessible pistes attract the majority of skiers, creating bottlenecks and crowded conditions. The beauty of a vast resort like La Plagne is the breadth of its terrain, stretching far beyond these central hubs. By venturing to the outskirts or exploring lifts that take you to less frequented areas, you'll find pistes that offer both serenity and exhilarating runs. Don't shy away from the map's edges; that's where the magic happens.
3. Ski While Others Dine
Lunchtime offers a great opportunity to enjoy the slopes at your leisure. As stomachs rumble and skiers head for the nearest mountain restaurant, you'll find the pistes become significantly quieter. The lunchtimes are when you’ll see a lot of the locals and seasonaires heading out for a quick ride.
Aime to ski between 12 noon – 2 pm and plan for an early snack or a late lunch to maximise your time on the less crowded slopes. Not only do you get to enjoy skiing without the queues, but you'll also find dining options are less crowded outside of peak hours.
4. Embrace the Wisdom of Locals
Living in a ski resort like La Plagne has afforded me the privilege of insider knowledge, something I eagerly share with others. Engage with locals, ski instructors, and resort staff who can point you towards hidden slopes and quieter pistes that aren't on every tourist's radar. These conversations can uncover some of the best-kept secrets of the resort, areas that maintain their charm and tranquillity even during peak times.
5. Consider Timing Your Visit
While this may not be feasible for everyone, especially families bound by school schedules, timing your visit outside of the peak holiday periods can significantly impact the crowds. If your circumstances allow for flexibility, consider visiting just before or after the main holiday weeks. For those tied to school holidays, exploring less popular resorts can also offer a reprieve from the masses.
6. Ski During Major Resort Events
It might seem counterintuitive, but major events can actually be the perfect distraction for the majority of holiday-goers, drawing crowds away from the slopes and towards the event itself. Keep an eye on the resort's calendar for competitions, festivals, and other gatherings. These can be the ideal times to hit the slopes, as many guests will be otherwise engaged, leaving the pistes less crowded for skiing enthusiasts.
That's La Plagne & Finding Peaceful Pistes in Peak Weeks
Finding those quiet moments on the slopes during the bustling holiday season is entirely possible with a bit of planning and flexibility. La Plagne, with its vast and varied terrain, offers countless opportunities for those willing to explore and adapt. Remember, the essence of a memorable ski holiday lies not just in the skiing itself but in the joy of experiencing the mountains at their most serene.
See you on the slopes!
