December means obsessively checking the snow reports. January means freezing cold temperatures. February means long lift queues and busy slopes. That’s why we say March is the best month of the year to go skiing! Despite its unfair reputation, March often has piles of snow. The days are longer, the sun comes out of hibernation and the big winter sports rush calms down enough so that you don’t have to spend all day queuing. Of course, not everybody has the luxury of going on a winter sports holiday outside of the school holidays. But if you can swing it, then we definitely recommend giving this ideal skiing month a go.
We know, we know, you’ve already waited all year to get back out there. We’re also guilty of binge-watching skiing movies and checking the snow reports as early as September or October to see which glaciers are open for business. But trust us, the wait is more than worth it. The snow conditions in March are usually much better than the snow conditions at the beginning of the season – especially this year, it would seem!
As the days get longer in the UK, so do they too in the Alps. Is there anything better than relaxing in the sun on a warm mountain terrace with a cold drink in hand, contemplating the magnificent views of the mountains? As an added bonus, the dawn breaks earlier too, so you have time to fit everything in: an early start on the slopes followed by more than one break throughout the day. If there ever was a time to pull off a spectacular goggle tan, March has to be the month.
If you assumed that the snow in March will be melting in streams and running down the side of the mountain, you’re wrong. Of course, there will be somewhat less snow in the valley, in keeping with the warmer spring temperatures. But there’s usually more than enough snow on the slopes, especially in the higher-up ski areas – if you choose a ski area with pistes above 2000m, then in all likelihood you’ll be very impressed with the quality of the snow on the slopes. Lower pistes might be mushy later in the day, but you can usually get a few good runs in early in the morning. And let’s be honest, it’s more fun to ski on mushy snow than sheer ice!
Last but not least is the general atmosphere that takes over ski resorts in March and April. Now that it’s no longer high season, you can find some amazing deals on accommodation, and even the ski passes are usually cheaper. Take advantage of this amazing time of year! Plus, the ski resort is half-empty and the people who ARE there are in a good mood because they’re getting such a good deal! Just one more reason why March is the best month for a skiing or snowboarding holiday!
Born and raised in the ski paradise of Vancouver, Canada, I learned to ski before I can remember, balancing precariously on my parents’ skis as they sailed down the hill. I started snowboarding in my teens and am now delighted to be exploring everything Europe’s ski scene has to offer!
