Experiences labelled with 'winter'
Nestled in the French Alps near the borders with Switzerland and Italy, Chamonix Mont Blanc is probably the most famous destination in Europe for skiing. It’s not hard to see why – this beautiful area has a host of scenic peaks plus a wide range of slopes. From beginner slopes to longer tracts including free-ride and off-piste, there’s something to suit all levels. The town’s three ski areas are: Brévent/Flégère, which has south-facing slopes with amazing views of the Mont Blanc peaks; the Grands Montets, high altitude slopes facing to the north; and the Balme area, wide open slopes atop Chamonix valley next to Switzerland. There’s also a sister resort at the other end of the valley called les Houches. If you’re an absolute beginner, ...
Never heard of ice cross downhill before? Neither had most of Canada until the Red Bull Crashed Ice World Championship exploded onto the world of hockey in 2001. Now held annually in January, this extreme sports event in Quebec City draws followers and participants from around the world. Think of downhill skiing but substitute skating instead; then add in some great roller derby action. Throw in some BMX biking jumps. Combine all of this with ice hockey athletes, a 196-foot vertical drop over a 1,280 foot track—and you’ve got ice cross downhill. This exciting new sport sends four skaters down the course as they vie to finish first while careening along at speeds up to 43 mph. It’s crazy, fun and scary all at the ...
When you hear the word “Sapporo” you might think of a delicious glass of beer. However, for many people in Sapporo, Japan, that word often precedes “Snow Festival”. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a yearly event taking place for a week in February. The main attractions at the Sapporo Snow Festival is the snow and ice sculptures which turn parts of of the city into a veritable winter wonderland. Glistening ice and pristine white snow are used to create beautiful and elaborate sculptures that amaze tourists and locals alike. The Sapporo Snow Festival is huge now, but came from very humble beginnings. In the year 1950, a group of high school students built six snow sculptures in Odori Park: a local, central park. The festival ...
