A Change To The Ski Season in France

Well, what to say, because of the Coronavirus, this has certainly been a tricky year for us all.

The ski season here in France officially started with a couple of big destinations already open, but as of last week the whole of country is now on lock down until at least December 1st so what will this mean for your holiday travel plans?

Like this past summer, none of us knew what to expect and monitored the news on a daily basis intensely for any travel restriction changes. 

So, how will the ski season be different this year with coronavirus-related regulations in place?

The director of the tourism office at l'Alpe d'Huez, François Badjily, admitted it would be complicated, but he was confident of having a normal season.

“We’ve put everything in place to reassure people: Barrier gestures in shops, ski stations, slopes etc.,” 

The director of France Montagnes, Jean-Marc Silva, an association that groups French mountain tourism sectors, agreed.

“Our mountains can handle the concerns that our clients have in terms of health well.

“We are convinced that the value of the mountains will match the expectations of people. People need to feel good; they need the mountain air.”

Here is the current safety update:

Skiing

Masks will not be mandatory while skiing.

Catered chalets

One big change is that there are likely to be fewer catered chalets this year. For obvious reasons, those traveling as a group should stay within their own bubble. We understand each booking situation so will be different and adjustments can be made for your stay.

Public transport

The rules on public transport for getting to the ski stations will remain the same as in the rest of the country. Masks will be mandatory.

Chairlifts

Wearing a mask is compulsory while in queues and on the chairlifts. Chairlifts will be disinfected daily. 

Shops / Ski Rental Shops

Wearing a mask will be mandatory and hydro-alcoholic gel should be made available. All rental equipment should be regularly disinfected.

Restaurants / Bars

Bars and restaurants will, in theory, be open. However, as time will tell, this may change depending on the government recommendations and local requirements. 

If an option, bars and restaurants will only be offering seated consumption, and masks will be mandatory when customers are moving around and not at the table.

Accommodation

Masks will be mandatory when in a communal area. There are no extra requirements if you are in self-catered accommodation.  

Everything is a bit of a prediction right now, but one thing going in everyone's favor is that it is only the beginning of the ski season which means hopefully things will be cleared up even more for European Gay Ski Week in March 2021.

With this past summer, as a bit of awareness, we noticed since France lifted restrictions within the country first, French nationals were booking very quickly and at every location so if you get the opportunity once things are clear, don't hesitate in supporting the European Gay Ski Week or the slopes in general for that matter.

We're all in this together!