White horizons, but not entirely serene! #
As the approach of Easter should resonate with festivities and chocolates, ski resorts are facing a decidedly unusual situation. Indeed, heavy snowfall has hit the Alps, leading certain resorts, such as Tignes and Val Thorens, to take radical measures, such as the quarantine of their residents. Between the call to stay warm and the flakes that keep falling, the joy of winter holidays is tinged with a hint of concern.
There are situations that plunge us into the unexpected, and this is certainly the case this year with the ski resorts of Haute-Maurienne and Tarentaise in Savoie. The torrential snowfall that is falling on the Alps has led these resorts to take extreme measures, going as far as quarantine for the safety of their residents. This amusing situation could make Santa Claus envious, as we are, after all, just a few days away from Easter!
When the snow falls in torrents #
It is quite exceptional to see so much snow falling in mid-April, but this year, the Hans depression offers us a fascinating and terrifying spectacle at the same time. Within a few hours, more than 100 centimeters have been recorded in resorts like Tignes and Val Thorens. Imagine: in Val Thorens, 80 cm of fresh snow sparkles like a freshly laid silver blanket on the ground, while Tignes, the queen of snow, has recorded up to 104 cm. This could remind some ski enthusiasts of a childhood dream, but these massive falls also set the stage for possible disasters.
Extreme measures #
To ensure everyone’s safety, the authorities have acted swiftly and placed all of Savoie under orange alert for avalanche risks. The resort of Tignes, severely affected, has even declared a strict quarantine. Residents are no longer allowed to walk outside until 3 PM, and even then, outings must only be made nearby for replenishment reasons. Imagine the scene: locals timidly venturing into their neighborhoods, a bit like explorers in a magical world of snow!
A crisis that creates late arrivals #
These climatic conditions are not without consequences, particularly on the arrival and departure of holidaymakers. During the school vacation period for zones B and C, traffic to the resorts has been significantly hindered. The RD902 road between Séez and Tignes-Val d’Isère is closed, making access impossible, and with it halting the skiers’ hope of descending the slopes. Fallen trees on the roads add to a scene that one could almost describe as apocalyptic!
A nature that reminds us of caution #
There are plenty of testimonies from the residents. A resident of Tignes speaks of the snow calming for a moment, just before more flakes begin to fall again. Val d’Isère has also taken similar measures, closing its ski area. Cédric Bonnevie, the director of the slopes, mentions snowfall that is even “out of the ordinary” for this time of year. Thus, the future of winter sports appears under a heavy gray sky full of promises, but also of danger.
Calm in the storm #
Despite this delicate situation, the resort managers do not seem completely panicked. Frédéric Porte, general director of Tignes Développement, remains optimistic, hoping for a return to normal very soon. Holidaymakers can still hold out hope for a pleasant Easter weekend, even if the challenge imposed by nature is substantial. As Coralie Lenfant from Tignes Développement puts it, “This bodes well for the end of our season.” A wonderful way to remind us that the mountains always reserve surprises, but it’s best to remain cautious!
For those who wish to discover other mountain gems, feel free to consult this selection of mountain villages to explore, where charm and traditions await you, even if the snow is acting elusive this year.
A business opportunity #
Despite the weather-related mishaps, the smiles of hoteliers and restaurateurs can already be heard, as new bookings are rising thanks to this preview of snowy adventures, transforming a crisis into a golden opportunity. At Club Med, children are laughing and families are rejoicing. After all, snow is part of the charm of vacationing in the mountains, and as Moez Cherif, the director of hospitality, confides, the magic happens when bookings flow in while gazing upon this fairy-tale landscape.
This proves that even in turbulent times, the passion for the mountains remains intact, and these resorts, the best ambassadors of the snowflakes, will continue to attract crowds. Whether it’s for skiing or simply to admire the spectacle, these times of quarantine reveal the undeniable resilience of alpine hearts. So, get the skis ready and hope for the best!
