The list of ‘other’ activities you can enjoy in a ski resort, other than skiing and snowboarding, seems to grow longer every year. Last season Skier & Snowboarder editor Frank ‘Scoop’ Baldwin witnessed two of the more unusual ones in Les 2 Alpes

MANY skiers and snowboarders are tempted to try some of the many other activities now available in resorts during their holiday. This could be an adrenalin filled snowmobile ride or ice driving course although more popular are the relaxing or even romantic activities such as dog sledding, ice skating, a sleigh ride or snow shoeing.

NIGHT TRAIL: Racers on the night run have a choice of three distances. PHOTO: Office de Tourisme Les 2 Alpes Monica Dalmasso

But in the French resort of Les 2 Alpes the calendar of attractions includes several more energetic activities and two of them will be held over the weekend of 19 and 20 January this season.

On the first day will be the 7th Les 2 Alpes Night Snow Trail, a running event in the snow which last year attracted 500 entries. Racers have the unusual experience of racing above the resort at night when you can sill enjoy the stunning views by the light of the moon. The races start at 5.30pm on Les Crêtes area (2100m) and participants, who pay a €25 entry fee, have three distances to choose from:

10km race: 220m altitude climb, 760m altitude descent.

15km race: 450m altitude climb, 900m altitude descent.

20 km race: 700m altitude climb, 1200m altitude descent.

The following day (Sunday) is the Les 2 Alpes Mad Snow Race which is described as a walking or jogging obstacle course in the snow.

TYRED OUT: One of the obstacles during the Mad Snow Race

The race is a 5k fun challenge which includes obstacles, moguls, climbs, descents and sliding zones and has to be completed as a team of two – fancy dress is encouraged. The organisers can help find a partner if needed.  The race starts and finishes at the Palais des Sports in Les 2 Alpes and competitors must be prepared to help each other run, jump, crawl, climb, slide and launch themselves down a run in an inner tube and jump into a large air bag at the finish.

TRAVEL FACTS

Frank Baldwin stayed at the Hotel Souleil Or during his trip to Les 2 Alpes

He also took advantage of the spa facilities at the Cote Brune Hotel in the resort.

For more information about the resort and taking part in the Les 2 Alpes Night Snow Trail and the Mad Snow Race go to: www.les2alpes.com

COME FLY WITH ME: One of the Mad Snow Race teams takes off in a tube

GAME TIME: The Mario Brothers join in the fun

HELPING HAND:  Now there’s something you don’t see every day. A lobster giving someone a boost

SHOOTING MATCH: Mad Snow Race team members aim for their targets

LEAP OF FAITH: Competitors jump into a giant air bag at the end of the Mad Snow Race

During his visit to Les 2 Alpes, Skier & Snowboarder editor Frank ‘Scoop’ Baldwin enjoyed an after dinner Génépi with top chef Fabien Poirot who has opened Chamois Lodge restaurant and hotel in the resort. For the full story click here 

Categories: France