Ski Club of Manchester Trip to Arc 1800, January 2025

Reporter: Frances Bannister

As a surprise, the ski holiday to Les Arcs was an amazing, but an initially daunting, birthday present. I'd had a significant birthday and hadn’t skied for nearly seven years. Would I even be able to stay upright? What about my dodgy knee? I had visions of being stretchered down the mountain and coming home in plaster.

The holiday began before leaving the UK with a club session at Chill Factor^e. Guided by teacher Ellie, I managed to get from top to bottom, unscathed, several times, even managing a few turns. Just as importantly, I was warmly welcomed by Jen and the other group members and had a nice chat with my prospective roommate, Val. So, I now faced the holiday with a little more confidence.

The hotel in Les Arcs was great, very comfortable, lovely food etc. Additional facilities, such as the hotel spa and the almost new municipal swimming pool, were an added bonus.

Now to the skiing…

Day 1 saw me on the green slope, nervously snow ploughing, kindly guided by Jen, Jackie, Lorraine, Helen and Yvonne. So far, so good, until I skied into the back of Helen, knocking us both over. So sorry, Helen…

On days 2 and 3 I had individual lessons with the lovely Frederic, a superb teacher from ESF. This was key to the improvement of my technique and confidence, allowing me to enjoy the rest of the week, cautiously skiing the long blues with the guidance and company of my patient ski club friends.

Great skiing, great company, great facilities. Altogether a great holiday and one I hope to repeat!