ST JOHN'S SKI TRIP EASTER 2023

Important Travel Update: WE ARE NOW EXPECTED TO ARRIVE AT ST JOHN’S AT 2.20pm. 

We were all up early to enjoy our last day of skiing despite a wild night of partying and a few husky voices. Conditions at the top of the mountain were sublime following another dusting of snow and a clear blue backdrop. All groups made significant progress throughout the week and were observed skiing at higher altitudes. Some even managed to traverse the infamous ‘Casse Du Boeuf’ which got the better of Mr Field on his penultimate run. We were greeted by the smell of flame-grilled burgers as we made our way back down the mountain and everyone enjoyed a delicious BBQ in the sunshine before returning to our final session. Students made a concerted effort to keep rooms tidy during the week which ensured that we departed on time.

As noted yesterday, we woke to the hope of fresh snow further up the mountain and on opening the curtains the freeze line was really clear.  The whole party were superb in listening to the instructions regarding the new weather conditions. With temperatures of -14 degrees, driven down by biting high winds, all students and staff prepared with extra layers, buffs and even balaclavas. It's a very simple rule in the mountains..."better to be too warm than too cold!". Hot soup was a real saviour at lunch before putting all the gear back on and heading up into even colder winds. The payback was several inches of fresh snow at the very top of the mountains. The evening saw a fantastic disco/karaoke organised by a combination of the hotel staff and the St John's staff. This night was certainly one to remember for a long time, with lung-busting songs sung in "delightful" union!  

The following photos show a significant shift in conditions. As predicted the blue skies quickly with heavy clouds pushing hard up the mountain valley. This flattened the light somewhat and just ensured that all skiers checked their speed appropriately. This change was absolutely in line with the weather report and the prediction of later snow. All returned to the hotel before the drop in temperature and the start of the snow fall. 

Another day of beautiful blue skies and calm conditions. All skiers of all abilities have really progressed further up the mountain and are now practising on a much wider range of piste. It is fascinating to see the absolute beginners progressing at over 2,400 metres, and the layout of this resort allows high access to some wonderful green runs at altitude. The evening activity saw nearly the whole party travel to the neighbouring village of Chantemerle to enjoy the bowling and games centre. Much fun was had amongst the strikes, spares, arcade games and air hockey!