Skiing has long been on my bucket list, yet the environmental implications and high costs have often deterred me. I’ve often wondered if ski resorts are merely artificial paradises, much like Las Vegas, with their synthetic snow and ecological footprints that are hard to ignore. But if there’s a way to experience a family ski holiday sustainably, I’m all in. Let me share how to achieve this eco-friendly winter adventure.
Choose How You Get There
Travel emissions are typically the most significant contributors to the environmental impact of a ski trip. According to Dom Winter from Protect Our Winters UK, “The greenest ski resort is the one you get to without flying.” With that in mind, we opted for the French Alps, accessible via train.
We boarded the Eurostar Snow train in London at 9 AM, making a seamless transfer at Lille to the high-speed TGV. This train whisks travelers to renowned ski destinations like Val d’Isère, Tignes, and Méribel by evening. Alternatively, for those who prefer a more leisurely route, you can spend a day in Paris before hopping on the overnight ski sleeper train.
Traveling by train offers numerous advantages:
- Space and Comfort: The train allows for movement and relaxation, with no baggage restrictions on regular-sized items.
- Scenic Views: The journey showcases the beautiful landscapes of France, culminating in breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: Our trip generated only 4.7 kg of CO2e per person, a stark contrast to the 110 kg we would have produced if we had flown.
Rent Your Kit
Renting equipment at the resort is a given, but what about clothing? Many outdoor enthusiasts don’t own specialized ski apparel, and investing in expensive gear for just one week a year doesn’t make sense. This is where Ecoski comes into play.
Ecoski is a remarkable skiwear rental service that provides:
- High-Quality Gear: Options range from gloves to ski suits, all from reputable brands.
- Convenience: The gear is delivered directly to your home before departure and returned post-trip without needing to be cleaned.
- Flexibility: You can try the gear before deciding to keep it, making it a perfect “try before you buy” option.
Go High and Choose Sustainable
Climate change is reshaping the Alps, with many ski resorts facing closure. The key to sustainable skiing is to choose resorts that prioritize eco-friendly practices. I decided on Les Arcs, which has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability.
The Flocon Vert scheme in France certifies ski resorts meeting rigorous sustainability standards. Les Arcs, a 2 Flocons Verts destination, focuses on:
- Resource Management: Efficient use of water, energy, and waste reduction.
- Community Support: Ensuring tourism benefits local communities.
- Environmental Commitment: Limiting artificial snow production and utilizing renewable energy sources.
As Marie Clémence Vallier from ADS, which operates Les Arcs, noted, “We’re committed to managing the mountain respectfully.” Their approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also ensures that every small action contributes to a larger cause.
Learn and Enjoy
Experiencing the beauty of nature fosters a deep connection to it. Our first day included ski lessons where I learned quickly, despite a few tumbles. The joy of mastering a new skill, however basic, is invigorating.
After our skiing adventure, we indulged in local cuisine, savoring fresh, regional specialties. The following day, we ventured snowshoeing with a guide, where we learned about local wildlife and enjoyed the serene beauty of the snowy landscape.
By the end of the week, our ski instructor rewarded us with achievement badges, celebrating our progress. This experience underscored that sustainable skiing is not only possible but also immensely rewarding.
The trip was made possible by Inghams Ski, with a package starting at £999 per person, including travel, transfers, and accommodation in Arc 1950. Rental costs for clothing through Ecoski ranged from £130 to £200 for the week.
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