Serre Chevalier in the Southern French Alps has been moving its beginner slopes up to the top of the mountain as part of its climate change adaptation strategy which a resort spokesperson says,
"…ensures good ski learning conditions for years to come while reducing the need for artificial snow."
The move began last winter with the new opening of the new Pontillas gondola in the resort's the Villeneuve sector. This winter, the base station will offer ski lockers, an ESF office, a ski shop, automatic ticket machines, and a new restaurant.
The eight-minute gondola ride takes skiers to the Méa sector at 2,255 meters altitude where a 1.9 hectare beginner area has been developed, including a large 150-metre long covered conveyor lift which opens this winter.
This new lift will allowing beginner skiers to easily and safely ascend the gentle slope of the Méa plateau, protected skiers from bad weather and cold temperatures.
In line with its environmental commitments to buy locally where possible, Serre Chevalier have opted for a French supplier, The Ficalp Company.
Further development of this beginner area are planned with a 450-meter long button lift installation to be added for winter 2025/2026.