Ski Lifts opening this Weekend November 24th, 2008
It’s probably not a surprise to anyone in the UK that we’ve just had a huge fall of snow in the French Alps. The several centimetres of snow that fell around the UK were produced by the cold Arctic winds sweeping down across Europe, the same storms have dropped over 50cms of snow around the chalet and nearly 150cms at the top of the slopes. With temperatures keeping well below zero, down to -20°C at night, the snow certainly going to be sticking around and staying in great condition.
Chatel and most of the other resorts in the Portes du Soleil are planning to open their lifts this coming weekend, one week earlier than planned
New French Driving Laws November 18th, 2008
Anyone planning to drive to the French Alps this winter needs to be aware of the new French requirement to have a high-vis jacket and warning triangle in their vehicle. The jacket must be available to wear as you exit the vehicle in the case of a breakdown, hence storing it in the boot under all your luggage is not acceptable.
This new law came into force on the 1st October 2008, with on the spot fines of between €90 and €135 for non compliance. Not what you need at the start of your holiday.