It’s not uncommon for the Alps to have a slow start to the ski season but this is becoming ridiculous.
With low snow totals and warm temperatures melting away the majority of snow that fell in November, two French resorts are actually asking locals to stay off the piste, leaving more snow for tourists during the holidays.
This past week the mayor of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, André Plaisance said in a statement, “We want to offer our loyal customers the best-quality skiing experience, while looking after their safety on the slopes. We have no choice but to take measures to restrict access.”
Saint-Martin-de-Belleville is home to ski areas Val Thorens and Les Ménuires and according to The Connexion, the mayor is hoping to keep locals off the slopes from December 27th to January 2nd.
A spokesperson for the resort clarified the comment later saying the mayor’s words are “just a recommendation.”
This measure to restrict locals access to the slopes would make little to no difference on the state of the on-piste trails, which are currently surrounded by rocks and grass.
What makes a difference?
Snowmaking and lots of it. If they’d like to offer their holiday clientele a product worth anything not to mention safe, these resorts are going to have to confront the problem with something that may not appear awesome on brochures– man-made snow.
Related: British Teenager Dies While Skiing At Meribel
Fortunately, a bit of snow is in the forecast for the French Alps by the end of the week. Switzerland, Austria, and Italy seem to be missing out on the majority of snowfall forecasted for the end of the week.
LET IT SNOW!
Read the Entire Connexion Article Here: Resorts ask locals not to go skiing