VIP SKI Blog

The key to staying warm in winter is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. We love merino thermals as they are odour-resistant (you only need a couple of sets for a week’s holiday). Merino base layers vary in price from around £30 at Decathlon, to £80 from our friends at Snow Finel. Then add an insulating fleece, merino or down layer for warmth and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shield against the elements. This trio ensures you're ready for whatever winter throws your way. 

Invest in an insulated layer: Your outer layer should be insulated with high-quality materials like down or synthetic fibres. These materials trap heat effectively while remaining breathable, preventing you from overheating (though you will notice the warmth when you are walking to the ski lift)!

Fingers and toes are often the first victims of the cold. Opt for insulated, waterproof gloves specially designed for skiing or mittens which will help your hands stay warmer for longer. You could even invest in some rechargeable USB hand warmers to slip into your mittens when you’re on the ski lift. For ultimate comfort, if you suffer from cold feet when you're skiing, electric rechargeable heated socks or foot beds are a game changer and would make a great gift for a skier.

Most skiers and snowboarders wear helmets which help to keep their heads warm but a well-insulated hat or balaclava that can be worn underneath a helmet makes a big difference. A buff or neck gaiter will protect your face from windburn. Goggles will also help to keep your face warm and protect your eyes from the sun's reflective glare on the snow and the cold. Although it may not seem possible, you can get sunburn while skiing so don’t forget your SPF even on snowy days.

In extreme cold, it's crucial to recognise when your body needs a break. Head to a cosy restaurant or café to allow your body to recover, and warm up indoors. To prevent frostnip, ask your ski friends to keep an eye out for white patches on each other's faces. Act quickly if you start to feel pins and needles, numbness or throbbing in your fingers, toes, nose or ears.

Cold weather can quickly lead to dehydration. Hydrate well before hitting the slopes and carry a water bottle to sip on throughout the day. Take some snacks to keep your energy levels up, as your body burns more calories in the cold. Save the vin chaud for après-ski and choose a non-alcoholic option whilst you’re skiing!

Staying active generates body heat. Take breaks but try to keep moving to maintain your body'’s internal warmth. Quick, light exercises during breaks can help keep the blood flowing.

Plan your skiing during the warmer parts of the day. Late mornings and early afternoons usually offer more favourable conditions than early mornings or late evenings.

With the right gear, mindset and planning, you can enjoy skiing even in the coldest weather. Often some of the best snow conditions are to be found in December, January and February. If you prefer warmer temperatures and longer lunches soaking up the sun, then a ski holiday in March or April could be just the ticket.

Now that you know the basics of your ski gear, protection and maintaining body heat, we can assure you you'll be extra toasty when hitting the slopes in winter. Make sure to stay safe and stay warm on your skiing adventures!

Need a packing list for your ski holiday? Take a look at our What to wear skiing blog.

We have a complimentary transfer perfectly timed to meet the Ski Solutions plane and whisk you straight to your chosen resort.

The 09.05 departure from London Gatwick (40 minutes earlier over the festive period) is perfect for arriving in time for afternoon tea and sorting out your ski hire before dinner.

A week later, the 13.10 arrival back at Gatwick (an hour earlier over the festive period), allows you to be home in good time for a late Sunday lunch without having to get up in the middle of the night.

Where will you fly to?

Be in Morzine by 3pm

Returning guests are loyal to this family-friendly resort for so many reasons: ski schools, restaurants, sprawling ski area, but certainly the speedy hour and a half transfer from Geneva is a major factor. Our village centre accommodation in Morzine ranges from 4-bedroom private chalets to our beloved Colibri apartments and the spectacular Manoir. Whichever chalet you choose, this authentic village with quick links to Avoriaz delights groups of guests of all ages.

Fly from Gatwick to Geneva on the Ski Solutions easyJet flight and you are in Morzine before three o’clock, plenty of time to get the ski gear sorted, graze on your afternoon tea and a wander around resort for a taste of après before dinner. Even better is our leisurely 9am bus for the short trip back to Geneva a week later, and still home in time for a late Sunday lunch.

Head to Avoriaz @ 1800m altitude

Perched on the edge of a cliff at 1800m altitude, Avoriaz overlooks Morzine in the valley below. The skiing in the Portes du Soleil is varied and extends to over 600km of pistes, amazing for all types of skier and perfect for mixed ability groups. It’s possible to ski between 13 different resorts, including several in Switzerland. We have 7 luxury piste-side ski chalets in Avoriaz meaning that you can hop straight from the breakfast table onto the piste.

Fly from Gatwick to Geneva on the Ski Solutions easyJet flight and our quick and painless transfer arrives in Avoriaz in the middle of the afternoon, plenty of time for afternoon tea and a wander around resort for a taste of après before dinner.

See you on the slopes of Les Gets

Les Gets is the perfect resort for those looking for a traditional French Alpine experience. It has maintained a certain sleepy cache and exclusivity when compared to Morzine, its better-known neighbour, with the resort centre a delightful mix of cobbled streets, piste side bars and traffic free retail therapy. Our CLUB chalet Altitude Lodge sits 300 metres above Les Gets providing the ultimate ski in ski out location, uniquely tranquil at night but with lifts right outside the door giving access to the huge Portes du Soleil ski area.

Fly from Gatwick to Geneva on the Ski Solutions easyJet flight and we’ll transfer you up to the wonderful, piste side Altitude Lodge before three o’clock where the dedicated team will be waiting to welcome you. 

See you in Val d’Isère in time for afternoon tea

Skiing in Val d’Isère is renowned for being among the most challenging in the world with black and red runs packed in at every turn. But don’t be put off if you’re a beginner, there are great green and blue runs too, and some of the best ski schools in the Alps. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re seeking the best high altitude skiing in Europe, or to chillax and enjoy the boutiques, shops and excellent restaurants.

Fly from Gatwick to Geneva on the Ski Solutions easyJet flight and our complimentary 3hr transfer arrives in Val d’Isère around 16.30, plenty of time for afternoon tea and a wander around resort for a taste of après before dinner.

Fly high to Arc 1950

What makes Arc 1950 so special is its unique combination as a picturesque purpose-built village (an oxymoron surely!) on the top of a mountain. It’s traffic free so great for kids to wander around, high altitude (there is a clue in the name!) and always has amazing snow. The Paradiski region celebrates its 20th anniversary with La Plagne this year and embraces first time skiers and experts alike. If you stay in our apartments or hotel rooms in Bear Lodge then the journey from breakfast to piste is measured in seconds not minutes.

Fly from Gatwick to Geneva on the Ski Solutions easyJet flight and our complimentary 3hr transfer arrives in Les Arcs around 16.30, plenty of time for afternoon tea and a wander around resort for a taste of après before dinner.

Ski Solutions only have a limited number of Gatwick to Geneva flight seats to partner with our programme for this winter, so don’t hang around, book now to ensure you don’t miss out. With prices from £165 return including 23kg of hold luggage and complimentary carry-on, it doesn’t look like there is any need to shop around.

Call us today or drop us an email, we’d love to hear from you.

It probably goes without saying, but you should always use the right equipment for skiing. Boots should be fitted correctly, and your ski bindings should be adjusted by a professional. Furthermore, the type of ski you choose should suit your level of ability and experience, as well as the type of snow you’re likely to be encountering. If borrowing equipment from a friend rather than buying or renting your own, you should have it thoroughly checked and fitted in a shop all the same, just in case.

Helmets
You can never be 100% safe when skiing of course, but wearing a helmet will greatly reduce your risk of suffering a serious head injury. Strange as it might seem, it was not until recently that ski helmets became ubiquitous. In fact, just 10 years ago, probably no more than half the skiers you’d have seen would have had any more head protection than a woolly hat. But improved designs, reduced prices, and several high profile, awareness-raising tragedies such as those involving Natasha Richardson and Michael Schumacher mean that it is now quite rare to see anyone on the slopes without a helmet.

Body Armour
Modern ski body armour isn’t just designed to protect your back and torso - it’s also lightweight, and unobtrusive enough to hide beneath your jacket. Basic body armour is available for under £100 and is worth the investment if you’re prone to wiping out at speed, you enjoy hanging out in the snowpark or simply want to get the maximum protection for yourself and your family.

Avalanche kit
Once your family has learned to ski at an advanced level, you may like to go off-piste occasionally, in which case it’s always best to be prepared for any eventuality. That means being fully aware of current and future weather conditions, and always booking a ski instructor or guide if you'd like to ski off-piste. They will provide you with the essential avalanche kit; transceiver, collapsible shovel and probe and take you to your favourite backcountry spots away from the crowds.

Ultimately, there is only so much that having the correct ski safety equipment can do. More than anything else, it’s sensible behaviour on the slopes that will protect you.

Always dress for the weather
On the mountain, weather conditions can change very rapidly, and it’s not uncommon for even the most experienced of skiers to be caught out. Packing for a ski holiday can be an artform but you should be looking to layer clothing, with an insulating mid-layer that can be removed and put in a backpack if necessary. Waterproof gloves are essential, and it’s sensible to bring both goggles and sunglasses so that you can cope with both sunny and snowy conditions.

Ski sober
Remember that drinking alcohol at high altitudes can lower the amount of oxygen getting to the brain, which is why so many air-rage incidents are blamed on in-flight drinking. Alcohol can lead to overconfidence, getting sloppy with technique and accidents, so if you’re skiing with your kids, it’s doubly important to abstain. Instead of beer or wine at lunch, drink water or soft drinks and save the alcohol for the apres-ski. It’s also a good idea to carry reusable water bottles in backpacks so that you can all stay well hydrated throughout the day.

Stretch
One way to help your family to avoid aches and strains while skiing, and reduce the risk of more serious injuries, is to get everyone performing some light stretching exercises before and after. It’s also a good idea to take regular rest breaks while skiing, pausing mid-run and for at least an hour at lunch, to catch your breath and give your legs a rest.

Remember the basic rules of ski etiquette at all times, especially in high risk such as lift queues, or when one piste joins another. There are several golden rules in skiing - remember that the skier or snowboarder below you ALWAYS has priority, control your speed, and keep a safe distance from others, especially beginners in lessons and groups of children.

Lift etiquette
In popular resorts, some lifts will have long, tightly packed queues waiting for them. When approaching a lift queue, it’s vital to reduce your speed well in advance of reaching the end of the line or you could cause a major accident. Standard ski safety tips for lifts include making sure your poles are in one hand and your skis straight as you sit down, removing backpacks, and not raising the safety bar until just before you get off.

Flat light and blizzards

We all hope for blue skies and sunshine on our ski holidays (with a nice dusting of powder during the night) but sometimes, we must cope with flat light or skiing in a blizzard. Flat light refers to overcast weather conditions where the light on the snow becomes diffuse, creating minimal shadows and contrasts. This can make it challenging for skiers to distinguish changes in terrain and navigate slopes safely. Skiers often find it helpful to use low-light or flat-light lenses on their goggles to improve visibility in such conditions.

If the weather changes whilst you’re out for the day, head for tree-lined areas where possible (La Daille in Val d’Isère, Les Boisses and Brévières in Tignes, the Lil Stash and down into Les Lindarets in Avoriaz, Arc 1600 and Villaroger in Les Arcs). Put your goggles on and keep the piste markers (lollipops) on your right-hand side. (In France, the pole on the right-hand side of the piste has an orange top, helping you ensure you stay on track and don’t venture off-piste) and take your time!

Alternatively, why not head back to your chalet for a relaxing soak in the hot tub or a warm up in the sauna before everyone else gets back?

Being aware of your own abilities and not pushing yourself too far is something else that ought to come up early with instruction. Every year, many accidents are caused by skiers who try to tackle runs that are beyond their capability and end up in trouble. Pistes are clearly marked to denote the level of difficulty that can be expected, and maps are freely available too. If you do find yourself in a situation that you’re not confident that you can handle, slowly make your way to the nearest lift station.

Much of the above advice might seem obvious, but you would be surprised how often it is neglected. Just as many drivers will forget the basics of road safety over time, it’s common for experienced skiers to make common errors too. Parents have a responsibility when taking their children on family ski holidays to follow best practise at all times, as children will learn by example. And just as taking the odd lesson now and again can help you sharpen your technique, it can also refresh the memory on ski safety too.

End the day on a high

It’s not uncommon to have tired aching legs during a ski holiday, especially if you haven’t managed to do as much pre-season fitness training as you’d hoped. If you’re feeling tired, there’s no shame in taking the ski lift back down into the village and avoiding the often crowded and icy home run at the end of the day. If there isn’t an option to download, then head back down to the chalet earlier in the afternoon before the crowds and make the most of the delicious afternoon tea that will be waiting for you...

Base Layer
It’s commonly recommended to use three layers of clothing for skiing. The base layer serves to keep you dry and warm, wicking off moisture, as skiing is an energetic activity that causes sweating which can be unpleasant. Many people opt for thermal clothing for this layer, but warmth is secondary to a layer that stays dry and comfortable over the course of the day.

Mid Layer
The mid layer should be for insulation purposes, and is most necessary when you’re expecting very cold conditions. If you’re heading to resort later in the season, such as around Easter, then you might be tempted to skip this layer, but it’s worth putting it on your ski clothing list anyway just in case. It doesn’t need to be especially thick - a lightweight fleece will do the job perfectly.

Outer Layer
Your outer layer is what offers protection from the elements, so it should be both waterproof and windproof, as well as durable. It is composed of the ski jacket (which often comes with a zip-pocket on the left sleeve where you can conveniently keep your lift pass), and your ski pants, otherwise known as salopettes. What to wear under ski pants? If you feel it’s necessary, a thin tracksuit or thermal leggings will do nicely. In terms of material, think Gore-Tex or similar. Note that although outer layers can often be purchased for a very reasonable price, if you don’t feel ready to make that kind of investment yet, they can also be hired from many suppliers.

Goggles / Sunglasses
It’s best to bring both goggles and sunglasses. The latter are suitable for when the weather is good and the white of the snow can be almost blindingly brilliant, while goggles are necessary for snowy or windy conditions. Bear in mind that goggles can steam up, obscuring visibility, so a pack of wipes can come in handy too. Bringing both along while you ski allows you flexibility. Most ski helmets have a strap to keep goggles attached. Spending a little more for extra UV protection and anti-fogging is a good idea.

Helmet
20 years ago it was rare to see anyone skiing with a helmet. Today, it’s rare to see someone skiing without one. A helmet offers you an extra piece of protection against collisions and falls on surfaces that are often a lot harder than they might look. Modern ski helmets are stylish, comfortable and lightweight. While they can be rented alongside skis, poles and boots if required, if you want to invest in your own then expect to pay upwards of £50 for a high-quality ski helmet. Keep in mind that if your helmet takes a serious knock, but appears undamaged, it may still have an invisible crack that can render it useless in future.

Ski Socks
Choosing the right type of ski socks is an area where many people get it wrong when deciding what to wear when skiing. You might think you want thick socks such as for hiking, but actually ski boots are usually well-insulated themselves, so thinner, calf-length socks are more appropriate. Again look for a breathable fabric, and something odour-free, especially if you plan on bringing just a couple of pairs to last you a week. Thin socks can easily be washed and left to dry on a radiator overnight.

Hat
You’ll want a warm, woolly hat to wear around resort when not skiing. Ear-flaps and comedy-stylings are optional.

Gloves
Ski gloves need to be waterproof above all else. That’s vital especially if you’re a beginner, and can be expected to fall over a lot, as wearing wet gloves all day long is a very unpleasant situation. Mittens suit very cold weather, or you can also get removable linings.

The above covers how to dress for skiing, but there are optional extras that can also be of use. These include:

Neck warmer
This might be a specific garment made of a warm, breathable fabric, or simply a scarf or balaclava. It covers the gap between your jacket and helmet and will stave off chilly winds - particularly appreciated on high lifts.

Back protector
You don’t see many people wearing this body armour, but if you’re a little accident-prone, paranoid about major wipeouts, or enjoy pulling tricks in the snowpark, then you might consider it a worthwhile investment. It can prevent spinal injury, and is usually both lightweight and unobtrusive under a jacket.

Backpack
If you’re spending a whole day on the piste then taking a backpack with you removes the need to stuff the pockets of your ski jacket and salopettes. You can carry around all the sunscreen,chapstick, extra layers, sunglasses, water and snacks you need, as well as your phone and a spare map in just a small waterproof pack. Do remember that it’s good practise to remove a backpack before boarding a chairlift, and keeping it on your lap.

One final thing to note about skiing clothes is that, if you’re borrowing kit from friends and family, always try it on a few days before departure, as if it’s not right, you’ll struggle to find bargain replacements when in resort.

If you've not yet booked your next ski holiday, we're sure to have something to suit your party. 

In our book a Jubilee celebration cake should be table leg groaningly big. It should have at least one candle, possibly a sparkler and icing as thick as the snow on the roof of your chalet. 

Four layers – two vanilla, two raspberry – sandwiched with a decadent mascarpone raspberry icing. Phwoar. When you cut into it a magical Battenburg-esque layering system ensures everyone gets a double flavour whammy in every iced slice. 

Make two sponges to your favourite recipe in 8-inch tins. Flavour one with vanilla, and one with a good amount of pink food colouring and raspberries (frozen will do). Once cool, slice in half horizontally. Cut a small circle of cake from each middle (ramekin size) and then another circle (cereal bowl size). Separate the circles and rebuild so you have two halves of cake with vanilla outer circles, pink inner wheels and a vanilla centre and two that have pink outer circles, vanilla inner wheels and a pink centre.

- 150g raspberries
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
- 250g Mascarpone
- 300ml Double Cream

Beat the raspberries, caster sugar and Mascarpone together well before adding the cream. Using an electric beater whisk until stiff and mousse like. Resist licking the spoon until after you’ve iced your cooled cake.

Finish with a smooth topping of icing and sprinkle with dehydrated raspberry pieces, fresh raspberries, Malteasers, white chocolate shavings, or anything else you fancy and throw on a candle with a flourish! Happy Jubilee Celebrations to you! 

If this tasty pud has whet your appetite for afternoon tea and catered chalets, browse live availability now. Our office will be closed over the Jubilee bank holiday but you can book online 24-7, and there's a Jubilee special offer to be snapped up too!