Chamonix Snow Report: 5th November 2010

No more snow but it has been fairly cold although slightly warmer than the previous week, which may well just be a psychological factor with the sun that's decided to poke its lovely head out! Verbier will be opening for the weekends from next week 11th November snow conditions permitting, which will hopefully be arriving soon and build a good solid foundation for a nice snowy winter.

With the sunnier weather it has dried up a few of the lower trails in the area making it a bit more pleasant for walking and especially biking. With the motivation to get the legs ready for a bit of riding next week I have been getting the bike out again for as much riding as possible. Right now you can decide on getting a road bike out and going on a grand tour of the valley or the mountain bike and get out in to the wilderness, tranquillity and beauty which is all around during this special time of year. Warm clothes are a must! Especially if your mixing a bit of sweaty uphill with a blustery very cold downhill! So getting the thermals out and packing an extra jumper, facemask, and some gloves is a very good investment for your comfort levels!

There are many low down trails in the area two of my favourites for riding, and as I live up in Argentiere are the Petite Balcon Nord and Sud. I do these two as a circuit and it has a good bit of up and downhill on both and with some very nice views along the way. Today I chose to ride down the Nord and up the Sud which actually involves the least amount of effort, but it has the best downhill section for getting your adrenaline pumping! So reversing this circuit you can get a bit more exercise in and might not need that extra jumper!

A lot of people think that this time of year means there isn't anything open and the whole valley might seem like a ghost town! While this is true for some resorts like Courchevel 1850, it certainly isn't for Chamonix! There are still many cafes, restaurants and bars open to cater for the international community that live here year round, along with those who cleverly know to visit the area for some fresh air and exercise.

So if you're getting yourself revved up for the winter why not come out and let the mountains be your gym, with cheap flights and places to stay at this time of year even those on a budget will be able to have a great time and get in shape for the exciting season to come!

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!