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Instead of après ski in the Swiss Alps, why not slalom down the peaks of Pembrokeshire and make it back home in time for tea?
30-year-old skier Chris Morris believes that the snow conditions in Wales are comparable to the best snow, particularly after experiencing the Pembrokeshire Dangler. This weather phenomenon involves a concentrated and intense band of precipitation coming from the Irish Sea, resulting in a significant amount of powder snow on Foel Eryr, his preferred skiing spot, on January 19th.
The manager of a property in Reynalton, Pembrokeshire shared with The Independent that they find it more fulfilling to search for usable snow nearby instead of relying on artificial means.
Chris Morris returns to Wales once more.
He mentioned that he has been skiing in the Welsh hills and mountains for a few years, and that it always feels rewarding to finally put on his skis and make a descent after a strenuous hike while carrying all his gear.
Skiing on my nearby hills in Pembrokeshire is a particularly enjoyable experience, as these slopes rarely receive enough snowfall for skiing.
“I typically have to travel to the Brecon Beacons or Snowdonia for more consistent and longer-lasting snow.”
Chris is a member of a skiing group that prefers Welsh mountains over the Alps.
He claimed to be a member of a small yet expanding group of skiers who prefer Welsh mountains over the Alps, referring to the sport as “not for the timid.”
He stated, “Regrettably, the snow in Wales is highly fleeting, meaning that we may experience a significant amount one day and it will disappear the following day.”
“So I could never say ‘come to Wales instead of the Alps’ because skiing in Wales is a very spontaneous thing and it’s something that requires a pinch of salt.
Some days, you may lose track of your location. The skiing experience in Wales has been as good as some of my off-piste adventures in the Alps. It’s difficult to compare to traditional ski runs because there aren’t any in Wales.
“On certain days, the snow has been deep and powdery, making for great skiing with a few turns.”
Next on his bucket list is Wales’ tallest mountain, Yr Wyddfa, also known as Snowdon with the ‘Welsh ski season’ running from November to May.
He stated, “There is no specific time period during which snow-cover is guaranteed, so the optimal days could potentially fall between November and May.”
“The duration of snowfall typically extends from December to March, resulting in more consistent skiing conditions during this period. Skiing outside of these months is more unpredictable.”
“I am usually the sole individual on the mountain using skis. However, there is a small but active skiing community in Wales – therefore, it is not uncommon to spot around twelve skiers and snowboarders on Pen y Fan after a significant snowfall.”
While Les Trois Vallées may not be an option, Mr Morris is emphasizing that there are many excellent valleys that are closer to home.
Source: independent.co.uk
