Chamonix Snow Report: 12th November 2010

On the brighter side Verbier is set to open a couple of its lifts for the first time tomorrow and with sunshine forecasted those who purchased their early season Mont Blanc Unlimited pass at a discounted rate will be very happy! If your itching to get away from the UK and looking for a cheap ski weekend then this time of year can be of real benefit, with bars, restaurants open, and some lifts looking like they will open with discounted lift tickets, along with cheaper accommodation options how could you resist getting the skis or board out before the season really kicks off!

In between snow and rain storms I've been doing as much as I can to get the legs ready for the fast approaching winter. Getting down the gym and doing some squats etc is always a good one, but where it's been possible using the mountain to get fit is my favourite. When the trails have been dry running or getting out on the bike has been a good choice, but in the past week with the snow fall it was a better option to be on the road.

You can rent road bikes from Zero G even at this time of year! Which make it much easier for climbing up to some of the cols in the area. I use a mountain bike which is a lot slower and heavier but good to get some exercise when the temperature allows it. With the much colder temperatures it's great for going uphill, however you will need warm clothes, jumpers and definitely gloves for the ride back downhill. I forgot my gloves the other day and even though it was fairly sunny and in the middle of the day I felt pretty close to frostbite!

If you're coming out for some early season skiing or snowboarding and need a bit of coaching to help you make the most of those first few sessions on the hill, then get in touch with www.bluemilesnowsports.com for some high quality snowboard coaching or www.allmountainperformance.com for some great ski coaching. They will be offering on demand private coaching sessions and operate all over the Alps so they will be able to take you around the hill in Verbier this weekend if you're out in the mountains.

Check out our Mountain Guide Listings for contact details of local guiding and activity companies.

Check out what to do around town once the lifts have closed with our Apres Ski Report - a weekly round up of what's hot and where to party in Chamonix!