Bonus Post

Hi everyone, me again, you know that over-excited Méribel ski instructor. In the lead up to the ski lifts opening, I've been splitting my time between unpacking, admin-ey things, and some selfish 'me time'. In other words getting out of the apartment and going for a stroll around, normally with a camera in my hand. And you know what, even though I only blogged a few days ago, why not squirt another one out to show you some of the love that Méribel keeps giving?

The Altiport was looking good the other day, and that was before temperatures turned much colder, which enabled the snow cannons to be switched on with much vigor.

The following day, in the sunshine, I couldn't resist heading up to the Tueda Nature Reserve near Méribel Mottaret. If you haven't ever been up there, I can't recommend it enough. It's beautiful in any season.

It can get quite chilly up there, which means it's possible to find some 'Surface Hoar', ie frost. This type of frost is different, in that the snow crystals on the surface transform into elongated feathers. These crystals are very delicate and brittle; they are extremely pretty, but also have a particularly evil side to them. If they are located in certain areas on the mountain (ie off-piste away from controlled areas), the avalanche risk can rocket! If you fancy reading more about this subject, click on this link.

Here's more of the feathery stuff on the picnic bench and table.

The following day I ventured a little closer to the pistes to have a nose around. Here you can see that the chilly nights are being put to good use with the snow making. It can take quite a while for the snow base to be created on the pistes, but early signs are that it is going very well. I took these photos between the Rond Point and the Tourist Offise steps above Méribel Town.

It looks great doesn't it? Especially since it's only the first weekend in December. I'll let you into a little secret as well, I went for my first ski of the season this morning. Yippee! Courchevel opened some of its ski lifts today for the winter, and I couldn't wait to kick-start the season. I'll report back later this week, once I've gathered a few more experiences and photos. Oh, it was much fun by the way. Have a great weekend everyone. Live With Passion. Martin.