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Powder snow and a sense of boundless freedom
Dear journalists,
Valais: 36 ski areas, 2,000 kilometres of marked pistes. The pristine, snow-covered slopes draw large numbers of freeride enthusiasts, keen to explore this vast winter landscape. In Valais, "freetracks" and "itineraries" - runs that are marked and secured but not groomed - guarantee a thrilling experience for powder fans. 19 heliski landing sites up in the mountains allow experienced freeriders to reach new heights and leave their tracks in virgin powder. Various ski areas also offer exciting descents by fatbike - for a completely new sensation of gliding over snow.
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Freedom! Freeride on the freetracks
“Freetracks” and “itineraries” are runs that are marked and secured but not groomed. These are aimed at experienced freeriders, powder fans who avoid ill-considered risks. At Verbier-Nendaz, Zinal and Zermatt, freeride enthusiasts will find dedicated terrain with immaculate landscapes, steep slopes, fresh powder – and above all that coveted blast of adrenalin. Skiers and snowboarders can also practise using their transceivers and other avalanche rescue equipment at special “Safety Parks”. Valais has three: at Verbier, Zinal and Les Crosets.
Paul-Victor Amaudruz, head of piste security at Téléverbier S.A. and mountain guide with Les Guides de Verbier:
“There’s nothing better than tracing a flowing line in fresh powder after it has snowed. I was born in the mountains and I live for skiing. The safety of my clients and of our guests is my priority, whether as a mountain guide or on the pistes. For me, a feeling of freedom means being able to let go, and this is possible specifically when I feel safe. The marked ski itineraries offer just this combination: adrenalin and the freedom to ski on the powder snow of a non-prepared run in secured terrain.”
Mr “Patrouille des Glaciers”: Florent Troillet
He already knew in 1985, at the age of 4, that one day he wanted to win the legendary Patrouille des Glaciers. In 2010, he established the record for the course with his team-mates: an objective from the very start of the race. A border guard by profession, Troillet has now retired from championship-level competition, but he is still involved with the iconic race across Valais. In 2016, he introduced two Chinese athletes with little experience of high-altitude conditions to the challenges of tackling 4,000-metre summits – and ended up accompanying them on the Patrouille.
Florent Troillet, ski mountaineering champion and winner of the Patrouille des Glaciers:
“The Patrouille des Glaciers is one of the world’s toughest ski mountaineering races. Every competitor has to be in top form, both physically and mentally. At a certain point, when the body is pushed to its limits, the motivation to reach the chosen goal and the wish to cross the finish line become a mental challenge. Preparing for the race demands a serious and regular training schedule.”
Dream descents
The famously long, scenic runs of Valais offer skiers endless unadulterated fun. Here, skiers enjoy runs up to 25 kilometres long – without having to take a single lift. Some physical fitness is required, and especially a love of skiing! And off you go down the perfect pistes, from the high peaks down to the valley floor – with fantastic carving conditions, challenging slopes and headlong schusses. The only reason for skiers to stop is to call at one of the many picturesque ski huts situated along the pistes.
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The magic of winter in Valais – in figures
- 2,000 kilometres of piste
- 45 peaks higher than 4,000 metres
- 36 ski areas
- 6 spa resorts
- 75 gourmet restaurants
- 1040 Gault&Millau points
- 12 Michelin stars
