The La Tania Ski Blog
Latest news, snow, pics, gossip and information from the locals in La Tania – latania.co.uk
All the latest news from around the Three Valleys from the La Tania locals. A real blog since 2006, not just endless re-posts for search engine optimisaton! Photos, gossip, snow reports, what's on and all the latest on the Apres Ski scene... Now fully optimised for iPhone, Touch and Android Mobiles - just go to latania.co.uk/blog and view on your phone. Our other past blogs & favourites here
ESCAPADE 2024: Job, Henriette, Stefan & Merle from The Netherlands
02 February 2024
Job, Henriette, Stefan & Merle from The Netherlands
Hello there! Better late than never…
February, 2nd, 2024 – Job, Henriette, Stefan & Merle (from Rotterdam, the Netherlands)
Awesome BIGGGG day! We started with the first Legends lift from Meribel and finished with only 3 minutes to spare at our last lift (Golf). Free tip: bring lunch, you really don’t have time to buy lunch or even a snack-to-go (thanks to the big queues in ValTho).
Shoutout to Maria and David, who joined us half the day and supported us from the air on their paragliding adventure. And also a special mention to Annemiek, Ewoud, Cynthia and Koen, who cheered us on while enjoying drinks on a sunny terrace ;-).
ESCAPADE 2025 – What’s this all about…
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
It all started out as a late night “is it possible?” discussion – the history and our original route from 2006 are here
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 80km skiing (140km total distance). With the newer, longer, faster lifts we’re back down to 30 lifts and the age range for successful completion is from 8 to 76 years old! The latest ESCAPADE route
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
Changes through the years
2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used.
2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now!
2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens.
2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count!
2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access.
2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola.
2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift.
2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets.
2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name.
2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed.
2020 – Cime Caron now back in use.
2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used.
2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
2024 – No changes to 2023 route!
2025 – No changes to 2024 route!
ESCAPADE 2025: James and Seb
22 January 2025
James and Seb
Last year in March 2024 I made 2 consecutive unsuccessful attempts with Andy Langley (name checked for the epic failures).
Scuppered by zero visibility on day 1 and then high winds closing Mt Valon on day 2.
So this year I substituted Andy for Seb Philips and tried again.
The weather forecast was for light snow and cloud, but it actually turned out with clear blue skies and sun.
Starting from the Tovets lift in 1550 (our hotel is opposite) we set off with a meticulous plan of route and timings.
Once at Orelle we knew we were ahead of scheduled, but it was only once hit Aiguille du Fruit at 16:15 that we knew we were safe
(it closes at 16:35 this early in the season).
Interestingly, the successful route was 52.9 miles, but last year’s unsuccessful attempt was 57miles (I guess I turned more!).
ESCAPADE 2025 – What’s this all about…
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
It all started out as a late night “is it possible?” discussion – the history and our original route from 2006 are here
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 80km skiing (140km total distance). With the newer, longer, faster lifts we’re back down to 30 lifts and the age range for successful completion is from 8 to 76 years old! The latest ESCAPADE route
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
Changes through the years
2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used.
2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now!
2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens.
2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count!
2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access.
2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola.
2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift.
2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets.
2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name.
2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed.
2020 – Cime Caron now back in use.
2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used.
2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
2024 – No changes to 2023 route!
2025 – No changes to 2024 route!
ESCAPADE 2025: Macroom Ski Club
21 January 2025
Macroom Ski Club, 3 Skiers, 2 Boarders
It was an early start to the day as the group three Irish, one Swiss and one Irish/American (three skiers, two snowboarders) set out and were on first lifts for 9:15 am (strategic decision and not laziness). The first section in Val Thorens went well and a few top speeds of the day were achieved early on before the fatigue set in. Queues were on our side as we managed to traverse over the valley into Maribel.
Having scouted the Maribel and Courchaval section of the route on Monday we managed to navigate the two towns and make good time as we started the turn back to home.
Quick 5 minute rest at the top of the golf lift to refresh and refuel, highly recommend as a pit stop when trying to complete the loop.
By the time we were skiing into Saint Martin all eyes of the group were on trying to finish and make last lifts back into Val Thorens.
None of the group had managed to check out the Pointe de la Masse yet so we were unsure what to expect. Run down was fairly icy but managed to reach the Bruyeres lift with 10 min to spare and all members that started the day successfully completing the entire route on our first attempt.
Macroom Ski Club Race Team Members:
Steve Hannon (Top speed of the day)
Josh ‘JPS’ Coyne (Chief Navigator)
Fabien Zellweger (Motivational Strategist)
Laura Murphy (Team Matriarch)
Tadhg Murphy (Team Captain)
Lastly thanks for maintaining the website and this tradition as it added a lot to our trip having something to aim for and to keep the challenge alive!
ESCAPADE 2025 – What’s this all about…
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
It all started out as a late night “is it possible?” discussion – the history and our original route from 2006 are here
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 80km skiing (140km total distance). With the newer, longer, faster lifts we’re back down to 30 lifts and the age range for successful completion is from 8 to 76 years old! The latest ESCAPADE route
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
Changes through the years
2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used.
2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now!
2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens.
2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count!
2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access.
2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola.
2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift.
2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets.
2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name.
2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed.
2020 – Cime Caron now back in use.
2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used.
2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
2024 – No changes to 2023 route!
2025 – No changes to 2024 route!
ESCAPADE 2025: Hendrik from South Africa
20 January 2025
Hendrik (and nearly his wife Fran)
Hendrik from South Africa on a snowboard, completed the Escapade on 20 January 2025 with no time to spare. Starting in Bruyeres, Les Menuires, managed to finish just in time, catching the second-to-last lift (Pont de la Masse) with the last group allowed on.
The morning began with wind and cloud cover, but conditions improved as soon as we made our way toward Courchevel. Spent 100% of the time on lifts and pistes, with only a slight delay in Méribel due to a busy lift – otherwise, it was smooth carving.
The challenge was tough so early in the season, since had less time to finish but it was incredibly fun and rewarding. Shout out to my wife Fran who almost completed but took the wrong lift at lift 29 after a skier crashed into her and we lost each other!
ESCAPADE 2025 – What’s this all about…
The 3 Valleys Escapade was the lift company promotion of visiting (originally in 2006) 14 points across the Three Valleys and gaining a certificate & badge over the period of your holiday – doing it in a day was a bit tricky though!
It all started out as a late night “is it possible?” discussion – the history and our original route from 2006 are here
Originally punch cards had to be stamped at each check point until electronic passes arrived and then the use of a lift was recorded – now we use Apps such as Ski Tracks or Relive to prove our route.
Note that the Escapade is no longer officially promoted by Les 3 Vallees from Winter 2017 but we still record successful tracks for anyone who is interested in being in the sought after La Tania Escapade Hall of Fame
The original Escapade took 30 lifts, around 13000m vertical with 70km length and by 2016 reached 34 lifts, 17000m vertical (twice the height of Everest) and around 80km skiing (140km total distance). With the newer, longer, faster lifts we’re back down to 30 lifts and the age range for successful completion is from 8 to 76 years old! The latest ESCAPADE route
This is NOT a race
ALWAYS CONTROL YOUR SPEED. You do this entirely at your own risk, act responsibly, take full ownership for your own actions and all of those with you, respect other people (& the mountain), ski & ride within your limits, always obey the skiers & snowboarders code, observe all signs, pay attention to all notices, advice & instructions from Pisteurs, only ski off piste if fully equipped & knowledgeable, it’s not a race (you won’t be insured), think about the safety of others as well as yourself but above all, think of other people, take care, don’t wreck things for others & don’t even think of blaming anyone else if it all goes wrong…..
Changes through the years
2006 – First year and cards with hole punches stationed at lifties huts are used.
2008 – Electronic lift analysis is now used – no use hiking out the 4th Valley now!
2010 – The piste map did not include the top of the 4th Valley and the Col lift in Val Thorens.
2011 – The X-Wing Discovery was launched but only had 10 check points and doesn’t count!
2012 – Peclet included and Biollay / Vizelle used for Saulire access.
2015 – Foret used instead of La Tania gondola.
2016 – Mont Vallon is included for the first time plus the Montaulever drag lift.
2017 – Chapelets replaced by Petite Boss drag and La Tania’s Bouc Blanc chair replaces Tovets.
2018 – The new Roc de Tougne chair replaces the drag lift of the same name.
2019 – Legends replaces Roc de Fer and the Montaulever drag in Les Menuires has been removed.
2020 – Cime Caron now back in use.
2022 – New Pointe de la Masse and Orelle-Caron Gondolas (for example) could be used.
2023 – Using the new lifts, we ski all the resorts, all the perimeters and classic peaks – ESCAPADE 2023
2024 – No changes to 2023 route!
2025 – No changes to 2024 route!
The Franglish Comedy Festival is back! 27 – 31 January 2025
Top comics including Marcus Brigstocke, Harriet Kemsley, Tatty Macleod and Lou Sanders appear in Méribel from 27th to 31st January 2025.
Live stand-up in two languages!
The Franglish comedy festival is coming to Meribel next week to host the very best of Francophone and Anglophone comics.
There will be English language shows, French Language shows and shows in both languages!
Shows take place in resort bars and the main shows will be at the Meribel Auditorium theatre. If you like laughing or skiing you’ll love the Franglish Comedy Festival!
Tickets and further information at: www.franglishfestival.com
Hot Air Balloon Rescue!
Not sure what was going on with the hot air balloon that we often see above Courchevel 1850 on still mornings.
It gave Biollay a close shave at 09:30 this morning and landed between the lift and the family park. It then took off again and we assumed it was a drill.
Then a little later we get pics from Paddy from Ski Some Day of the balloon coming down in La Tania. Surely this wasn’t planned?
Skiing thrills in the French Alps and road adventures in South Africa
The French Alps are renowned for their breathtaking scenery—snow-capped peaks, pristine slopes, and an abundance of winter activities. Beyond skiing, visitors can engage in snowshoeing, a peaceful way to explore the serene landscapes, or for the more adventurous, paragliding offers a bird’s-eye view of the stunning alpine vistas. La Tania is strategically positioned to provide access to a variety of slopes, catering to all skill levels, from beginners to expert skiers.
The charm of La Tania extends beyond its slopes. The village itself is a picturesque setting with cozy chalets and welcoming après-ski venues. It’s a place where families can bond over hot chocolate by the fireplace or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the snow-laden paths. The resort’s commitment to sustainability also adds to its appeal, with efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote eco-friendly tourism.
But what if the thrill of skiing could be complemented by an entirely different adventure? Imagine transitioning from the icy slopes of the Alps to the diverse landscapes of Southern Africa—a journey that combines the thrill of skiing with the wonder of exploring new terrains. Could such a contrast enhance the overall travel experience? For those intrigued by such a journey, Drive South Africa offers a gateway to explore the stunning diversity of Southern Africa’s landscapes.
Drive South Africa: A journey through diverse landscapes
South Africa offers a tapestry of landscapes that beckon exploration. From the lush greenery of the Garden Route to the dramatic vistas of the Panorama Route, a self-drive adventure through South Africa promises an unforgettable experience. The country’s diverse ecosystems—ranging from savannahs teeming with wildlife to rugged coastlines—present a stark contrast to the snowy peaks of the French Alps.
Driving through South Africa allows travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s natural beauty at their own pace. The Garden Route, with its scenic coastal views and quaint towns, is a popular choice for road trippers. Meanwhile, the Panorama Route offers breathtaking views of the Blyde River Canyon and cascading waterfalls, a testament to nature’s grandeur.
Interestingly, Southern Africa is not devoid of ski opportunities. Afriski Mountain Resort in Lesotho provides a unique skiing experience in the heart of Africa. Though not as expansive as the Alps, Afriski offers a distinct charm, with its high-altitude slopes and vibrant cultural backdrop. The juxtaposition of skiing in the Alps and in Africa highlights the diversity of global ski destinations.
The thrill of skiing in the French Alps and the adventure of a South African road trip may seem worlds apart, yet they share a common thread—a love for exploration and discovery. Both destinations offer a chance to step outside one’s comfort zone and embrace the wonders of the natural world.
The allure of active holidays
Active holidays have gained popularity among travelers seeking more than just relaxation. The combination of physical activity and exploration provides a fulfilling travel experience, appealing to those who cherish nature and adventure. Skiing in La Tania and exploring Southern Africa embody this spirit of active holidays.
In La Tania, the invigorating rush of skiing down the slopes is complemented by the tranquility of the surrounding alpine environment. It’s a destination where physical exertion meets serene beauty, offering a holistic escape from the mundane. Similarly, a self-drive journey through South Africa invites travelers to engage with the landscape, whether it’s hiking through national parks or observing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Both destinations cater to the desire for unique experiences, allowing travelers to connect with nature in meaningful ways. The allure of active holidays lies in the balance of adventure and relaxation, providing a refreshing break from the routine of daily life.
Planning your next adventure
For those inspired to combine a ski trip to the French Alps with a road trip through South Africa, careful planning is essential. Timing is a crucial factor; the ski season in the Alps typically runs from December to April, while the best time for a South African road trip is during the dry season, from May to September.
Travelers should consider flight logistics and the necessary visas for each destination. It may be beneficial to fly into major European hubs before heading to La Tania, and from there, plan the journey to South Africa. Rental car arrangements and accommodation bookings should be made in advance, especially during peak travel periods.
Resources such as travel guides and online forums can provide valuable insights into both regions. For those seeking a seamless experience, travel agencies specializing in bespoke itineraries can offer tailored packages that encompass both skiing and self-drive adventures.
From peaks to plains: A journey of contrasts
The journey from the peaks of the French Alps to the plains of Southern Africa is one of contrasts—yet these differences create a harmonious travel narrative. The adrenaline of skiing is balanced by the tranquility of South Africa’s landscapes, offering travelers a unique blend of excitement and serenity.
While the Alps captivate with their majestic heights and winter allure, Southern Africa enchants with its vast horizons and vibrant ecosystems. Each destination offers its own brand of adventure, inviting travelers to embrace the diversity of experiences available across the globe.
In the end, the journey is not just about the destinations but the stories and memories created along the way. Whether carving through the snow or driving through the savannah, the spirit of adventure remains a constant companion, encouraging us to explore the world with open hearts and curious minds.
Escapade in a Day – The Spaniards!
Chema, Ramón, Julia, Carlos and Miguel back on the 1st January 2008. Original link broken so re-posted here!
A great effort – click on the images for the full size pics
Is skiing your favourite winter sport? Make sure to put your safety first by keeping these 5 tips in mind
Many people wait enthusiastically for winter only because they can go skiing – and for good reason, as few sports in the world can truly match the agility, speed, and adventure of skiing, combining breathtaking scenery with the opportunity to rocket down a mountain’s side at over 40 mph. However, as with all sports out there, skiing can be dangerous, especially if you don’t take the right precautions.
Due to the speed it involves and the mountainous terrain, skiing can lead to serious accidents. Thankfully, you can avoid any distressing incidents if you take skiing seriously and stay safe while on the slopes. Below, you can find our top 5 tips on ski safety, so read on!
Don’t disregard skiing rules
There is a code for drivers that tells them how they should behave on the road, and if they don’t follow the rules, they could get sued in case another driver gets involved in a traffic collision due to their negligence. Similarly, the FIS (International Ski Federation) also has conduct rules for skiers, which are legally binding and cover different scenarios, among which the most important rule is to give priority to the person in front of you.
Others rules that are worth mentioning here include overtaking ( which is allowed, but only if you leave enough space for movements that the skier in front may do), descending or climbing on foot ( which you can only do if you stay to the side of the piste), as well as stopping on piste, which is prohibited unless there’s no other option ( for instance, when there are low-visibility or narrow areas on the slope). These are just a few rules that the FIS has laid down, but it’s essential to check them all to stay safe on piste.
Always wear a helmet
This is a tip that you shouldn’t overlook, because it will make a ton of difference when it comes to your safety on piste. In fact, it’s just as essential as wearing a helmet while on the motorcycle because many skiers exceed 30mph (surprising, but true), and ice on the slope can be really hard. Skiing is among the top 20 recreational activities leading to head injuries, while severe head trauma accounts for about 20% of all ski-related injuries.
In fact, head injuries are a frequent cause of death for skiers, and if they aren’t fatal, they can cause severe disability. This is why many insurance companies make it a condition to wear a helmet when skiing, and it’s recommended to check it when buying a policy.
Make sure your boots fit properly
Your boots should be a good fit because they will ensure you have the necessary support and control when skiing. If they are too loose or too tight, you will likely feel uncomfortable on the slopes and want to stop skiing sooner than expected.
So, in order to get your money’s worth out of the ski pass, it’s imperative to take additional measures to ensure that your gear fits perfectly and makes you feel comfortable when enjoying your time on the slopes.
Know your limits
Here’s the thing: you should never ski on a trail that exceeds your skill level because this could be incredibly risky for you and other individuals on the piste. It’s best to err on the side of the caution and opt for a trail that fits your ability level. If you aren’t sure which path you should take, it’s best to start with the easier trail, and work your way up more challenging terrain as soon as you become more experienced.
Our recommendation is to watch other skiers on the slope, as this will help you get a sense of how difficult the trail is – for instance, if other skiers fall frequently or struggle on the piste, this indicates that the piste isn’t suitable for you, as it is too hard -and that’s alright! After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry, right? So, be cautious and look for any moguls, drop-offs, or other features that can only be navigated safely by skiers with advanced skills.
Stay alert in hazardous weather conditions
High winds or heavy snowfall can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to skiing, as these extreme weather conditions can increase the risk of falling and experiencing severe injuries. If the weather makes you feel uncomfortable and unsafe, it’s definitely wise to wait out in a designated ski lodge, warming hut, or any other protected area. If you cannot find shelter, staying with your group is recommended to ensure that no one is left behind.
When planning your time on the slopes, it’s a good idea to check the weather announcements beforehand or check if the resort staff is giving any warnings. If they do, you should consider their recommendations, such as staying off the mountain or avoiding certain areas, because they are meant to keep you safe. Besides inclement weather, also be aware of tree wells. If you’re generally on the lookout for fresh snow, you probably enjoy skiing in the trees; however, as the snow falls, it can form a tree well which can be very risky if you aren’t careful and take the necessary precautions. Falling into a tree well could lead to you being buried because of how soft the snow is. So, be mindful of the terrain and choose to ski in big open spaces between the trees.
The bottom lin
It’s very important to follow the advice in this blog when on the slopes because this will help you avoid an injury that, at worst, could threaten your life. As enjoyable as skiing is, it also poses risks, and it’s always better to take preventive measures to avoid any potential disaster from happening and turning your life upside down. Stay safe out there and enjoy your skiing adventure!
RIP Mitch – La Tania Family Loses A Much Loved Local, Colleague and Friend
Awful, tragic news hit the La Tania community very hard last week as we lost a much loved local, colleague and friend, Mitchell Hopkins. Just starting his third season with girlfriend Michaela running a catered chalet after being out here all Summer enjoying the biking, hiking, via ferrata climbing, padel tennis etc and even covering a few shifts in Pub Le Ski Lodge – it was a pleasure to get to know him and enjoy a pint together.
Always willing to help out anyone, and always with a smile on his face, he even did a Snow Report for us on the opening day of the season in Val Thorens on 23 November this year as the only person we knew who was travelling across that day – something we are sure was out of his comfort zone, but being Mitch he wanted to help us out.
I think I first met Mitch at a Chalet Test Meal just before a season started and after some excellent food we had a late night discussion and taste tests on which coffee pods were the best (pretty sure we agreed it was Lidle actually!).
Speaking to people this week, so many mentioned his smile, his love of La Tania in Summer & Winter and of course his love for soul mate Michaela (aka Kayla) who shared his passion for life out here. Recently he stated that this was the best year of his life – so sad and so unfair that it has been cut so short.
Very proud of the La Tania Family that immediately rallied round offering love and support to Michaela plus help and assistance in getting families out here, sorting accommodation and transfers plus people covering shifts and work rotas to make sure visitors holidays still go ahead. Please make sure we continue to look after everyone who is close to this.
Seeing the amazing strength of Kayla and meeting her and Mitch’s family last week was very emotional but also very comforting to to see the support they are getting and seeing their love for Mitch.
Mitch was on his return down to La Tania when the tragedy happened, collapsing with heart failure and despite the efforts of the Ski Patrol Medics (a doctor also flown in immediately by helicopter once the alert was raised) they were unable to revive him. Mitch was only 35 years old.
We’re absolutely sure Mitch will be riding in the sky looking down on Folyères each time we pass by – you will be missed by so many who had the pleasure of meeting you.
There is a GoFundMe page for Mitch’s family to help them through this awful time and a donation to a charity of their choice will be made. Please Donate Here
Finally a few words from Kayla:
“He was doing what he absolutely loved on one of his favourite ski slopes. He was happy, listening to country music and had the best weather for his final ski“
Lots of love and commiserations to all family and all friends, RIP.
