A Typical Day
Morning
Wake up and jump out of bed to catch the first glimpse of the mountains from the window. It’s no let-down. A perfect layer of fresh snow is on the balcony and beyond, snow-covered peaks and tree-lined slopes sparkle in the sun.
Breakfast is delicious. Fresh crusty breads, warm croissants, local cheeses & ham, yoghurts and fruit – no need to worry about the extra helpings - those calories will be burnt off later.
Kitted out for the first morning on snow, it’s off to the ski hire shop where the Neilson rep is waiting to direct beginners to the ski and boot fitting area. Everyone’s grateful for the rep’s helpful tips and advice on how to do up the strange, clumpy ski boots and how to carry skis without taking someone’s head off!
Then it’s off to the ski school meeting point where the group meets their instructor. Everyone’s in the same boat - no one has ever set skis on snow before and within minutes there’s already a sense of camaraderie. To begin with, the most important technique is taught – stopping. Then it’s getting used to the feeling of gliding on snow and getting used to balancing on skis. The morning whizzes by as new found skills are practiced on the nursery slopes, lots of laughs along the way.
Lunchtime
By midday, everyone’s glad for a long, leisurely lunch break. A cosy restaurant next to the slopes is called for. Local mountain specialities like a pan-fried potato, bacon and cheese dish, fresh salads and crusty bread are washed down with lots of water and a glass of wine.
Afternoon
The afternoon ski lesson starts and there’s the chance to practice what was learnt in the morning. Then it’s taking the first lift – a gentle drag lift to the top of the nursery slope. It’s all fun and games. Not everyone gets it first time but that’s what brings much hilarity.
It would be rude not to join the instructor and the rest of the group for a well-earned beer and much banter about the day’s proceedings. What better setting than a lively bar overlooking the slopes and a glorious sunset behind the mountains.
Although it’s tempting to lie down, the allure of a hot sauna and soothing outdoor hot tub is too much to ignore. Besides, tired limbs will appreciate this treatment.
Evening
Time for some drinks around the open fire before enjoying a freshly prepared dinner. Just enough energy for some after-dinner coffee and liqueurs and a couple of card games. Some of the others venture out to check out a local bar. Comfy beds and a blissful night’s sleep are calling the rest of us.