Champoussin: Schneevorhersage

Champoussin was originally built around a Nederlands Ski-Club shed (now derelict), there are still more Dutch visitors than other nationalities, but increasing numbers of English as well in the last five years (we have an apartment there!). Skiing is best for intermediate skiers, with easy half-day access to a good variety of blue and red runs and a couple of black, between Les Crosets and Morgins. There are also short and highly visible off-piste areas. Go out for the day, and you have the full Portes de Soleil in reach. Nowhere in Champoussin is more than 100m from the piste. There are also snow-shoe trails, and a 3km sledge run (return by bus). The village has half a dozen bars and restaurants, but is mainly a family resort. There are a couple of ski shops, and a single general supplies shop. The road to Champoussin is narrow and winding, but locals (including the bus) drive it as if on a motorway. The nearest towns (Champery and Monthey) are 30 min by car – but snow chains may be needed (20% probability?) if you have no snow tyres. Geneva airport is 1h40m by car in good conditions, but can be reached by public transport in 3 hours (bus to Val d’Illiez, funicular to Aigle and main-line train to Geneva airport). Tim Lowe, Surrey