Why spring skiing is right for you

Whether you are looking to venture off-piste, top up your tan, feel the festival buzz or just wear fewer layers, consider a late-season escape

XBEGINNERFRIENDLY FUN Beginners in particular can benefit from heading to the slopes at the end of the season. There is less risk of being put off by white-out conditions or being caught off-guard on a chilly chairlift, plus packing is easier: fewer layers, lighter gloves and no hand warmers needed.

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OFF-PISTE PLEASURES

As the weather gets warmer, snow melts during the day and then freezes overnight to create a good solid base less likely to avalanche. This, combined with the longer sunny days, makes late season popular with ski tourers, who head away from the lifts in search of perfectly preserved powder. It’s advisable to venture off-piste with a local mountain guide.

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TERRACE TANNING

As spring arrives in the mountains, lunchtimes and après-ski are less about huddling around a vin chaud, trying to dry out damp kit, and more about enjoying a glass of rosé on a high-altitude terrace, getting some much-needed vitamin D after a long lunch and a morning on the pistes. Many resorts host special events and festivals at the end of the season too, often involving world-famous music acts and pondskimming competitions.

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SURPRISE SHOWERS Mention spring and many skiers picture overworked slopes turning to slush. But there is often fresh snowfall late in the season, particularly at high altitude, and snow freezes overnight, refreshing the pistes each morning. X

FAMILY FORTUNES Compared with the February half-term holidays, the Easter break is often a more appealing option for families – the warmer weather means there is less chance of having to battle through freezing conditions with little ones. Parents will find lots of extra activities on offer too, reducing the stress of keeping children entertained once the lessons are over.