The Perfect Spring Day on the Slopes

Jan. 31, 2024

Two words are all it takes to sum up the perfect day in the mountains in March or April: skiing and outdoor dining! Because, yes, in the spring, nothing is more enjoyable than soaking up the sun and the mild temperatures from morning until night, without ever setting foot indoors. Follow our guide!

8 a.m.: a quick cup of coffee on the balcony, facing the snow-capped mountains

You insisted on an east/southeast-facing apartment when you made your reservation… and you made the right choice! Thanks to this wise decision, you can enjoy the golden light of the morning sun while relaxing on the living room sofa.

Just long enough for the aroma of your coffee to fill the whole apartment… Hurry, it’s ready! Some socks, a pair of fur-lined Birkenstocks, a large cashmere shawl—and off you go for breakfast with a view of the snow-capped mountains, snuggled up in the armchairs on your sunny balcony.

9:00 a.m.: Head to the east- and south-facing slopes as soon as the lifts open

There’s not a minute to lose! In the spring, the sun’s rays warm the snow much faster than in the winter. It then slowly but surely transforms into a soft “carpet” beneath your ski tips. It will continue to change hour by hour, until the next freeze sets in overnight.

As soon as the ski lifts open, head to the east- and south-facing slopes before they get too warm for your liking. You’ll have plenty of time to hit the west- and north-facing slopes as the day goes on.

A great idea: hire a ski instructor to guide you through the ski area hour by hour (exposure, altitude, etc.).

10:30 a.m.: First break on the terrace of a mountain restaurant

In the spring, temperatures are (generally) milder than in December, January, or February. Take advantage of this to try “terrace skiing”! This “discipline”—which will appeal to epicurean skiers—involves… skiing from one terrace to the next, without worrying about athletic performance at all. It’s just about having a good time in the sun.

A plain coffee, a Viennese hot chocolate, or a Perrier with a slice of lemon to quench your thirst… Choose without hesitation: you’ll be able to try something else at the next outdoor café ;)

©andyparant.com

11 a.m.: Back on the slopes—head up to higher elevations

It’s time to strap on your skis again for the last few runs of the morning. Keep following the sun, and head higher up to find snow that’s still cold (for example: on the Grande Motte glacier in Tignes, where the ski runs reach an altitude of nearly 3,500 m).

It’s still early enough to set out and explore the slopes farthest from your vacation rental—make the most of it! Just be sure to check the ski lift schedules so you have plenty of time to get back before they close at the end of the day. It would be a shame to have to take a bus or a taxi home…

12:30 p.m.: Lunch on the slopes... with your non-skier friends

Did you know? There are many mountain restaurants that are accessible to non-skiers thanks to ski lifts that are open to pedestrians.

Meet up with your friends at lunchtime on the terrace of a mountain restaurant and share a fondue in the sunshine! It’s a unique experience—and all the more enjoyable in March and April, when temperatures are rising (so the cheese doesn’t harden instantly on your piece of bread…).

Be sure to pack some SPF 50 sunscreen in your pocket— it’s essential for protecting yourself from the sun and the very strong glare off the snow in the spring. Your face, ears, and arms if you take off your jacket… Don’t forget a single square centimeter of exposed skin!

Are you used to skiing with a goggle? Be sure to pack a pair of Category 3 or 4 sunglasses in your bag (in a protective hard case). You’ll be more comfortable during lunch (and you’ll avoid that dreaded tan line concentrated on your cheeks…).

Lunch on the slopes of La Rosière - Photo: Propaganda73

2:00 p.m.: Two options for continuing to ski in the afternoon

After your fondue, you might not have the energy left to ski… The more cautious among you will have made sure to book a table at a mountain restaurant near the resort center (or close to a gondola or funicular, so you can get back without having to ski).

Or did you decide to have a lighter meal instead? You have two options:

1. Keep gaining elevation (when possible) and head for the slopes that are still in the shade if you’re not a fan of the spring “soup”
2. Switch up your gear and try touring skis! Then head to the trails designated for ski tourers to get started safely. It’s a great opportunity to explore the ski area at a “slow” pace, in a more contemplative way.

4:00 p.m.: Last break on the terrace at snack time

At this late hour in the afternoon, we put skiing aside and enjoy the snow-covered mountains in a different way… from a lounge chair!

Whether you’re on the slopes, at the base of the slopes, or in the heart of the resort enjoying that “village” atmosphere, pick a sunny terrace and savor a slice of blueberry tart—THE traditional Savoyard dessert. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your gorgeous purple smile: it’s sure to be a hit on Instagram ;)

5:30 p.m.: Are the ski lifts closed? Time for some après-ski!

A day of skiing in the spring wouldn't be complete without an après-ski session worthy of the name! On vacation in La Plagne, La Rosière or Tignes, let your ears guide you to the liveliest terraces at the base of the slopes. Whether it’s a DJ set, a mini-concert, or a cozier musical atmosphere—it’s up to you to choose the soundtrack that pairs best with your mulled wine or mocktail!

Can you already picture yourself there? Don't wait any longer: book your apartment in La Plagne now at La Rosière or Tignes for spring break!

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