School Break Skiing at La Vue des Alpes
La Vue des Alpes is at the crest of a pass between Neuchatel and La Chaux des Fonds. We took this pass many times during our summer trips to Switzerland - but never saw the Alps from it. However, in winter when the air is dry and clear, one can see the Alps in a 100 km panorama.
About 10 years ago, the ever efficient Swiss constructed a tunnel between Neuchatel and La Chaux des Fonds (the Swiss watch making centre) to spare commuters the need to climb up the snowy pass when travelling between the two cities. Today, only tourists (and students learning to ski) mount the pass for the spectacular view. During the mornings, the slopes were almost empty. During the afternoons, groups of one to two dozen children (from the age of less than five up it seems) follow the instructors down the slope.
One day, I saw a twenty-something woman lying flat on the slope surrounded by two "girl friends". Down the slope rushed a young boy no more than 5 or 6 who skate stopped in front of her and asked (in French) "if she needed any help". At least, it helped her humour. The three girls burst out laughing at the absurdity of the situation!
As one skis down the slope at La Vue des Alpes, one can see the Alps themselves between 50 and 100 km away!
About 10 years ago, the ever efficient Swiss constructed a tunnel between Neuchatel and La Chaux des Fonds (the Swiss watch making centre) to spare commuters the need to climb up the snowy pass when travelling between the two cities. Today, only tourists (and students learning to ski) mount the pass for the spectacular view. During the mornings, the slopes were almost empty. During the afternoons, groups of one to two dozen children (from the age of less than five up it seems) follow the instructors down the slope.
One day, I saw a twenty-something woman lying flat on the slope surrounded by two "girl friends". Down the slope rushed a young boy no more than 5 or 6 who skate stopped in front of her and asked (in French) "if she needed any help". At least, it helped her humour. The three girls burst out laughing at the absurdity of the situation!
The old restaurant at La Vue des Alpes.
As one skis down the slope at La Vue des Alpes, one can see the Alps themselves between 50 and 100 km away!
Sandra and Brandon putting our their ski gear in our outdoor "change room".
Brandon executing a turn as he zooms down the slope.
Sandra (grandma, that is) tentatively gliding in to the mid point entrance to the ski slope after a ten year absence from down hill skiing.
Brandon executing a turn as he zooms down the slope.
Sandra (grandma, that is) tentatively gliding in to the mid point entrance to the ski slope after a ten year absence from down hill skiing.
Comments
I didn't know that adults had to wear a helmet. Does Mark wear one? Is it a special one for skiing?