Olympian Britt Cox's Top Tips For A Winter SKi Escape

Olympian Britt Cox's Top Tips For A Winter SKi Escape

Rally your family and friends

Ski holidays are a great way to spend time with your friends and family – the more, the better! There is something magic about a winter ski escape, so get a group organised for a ski holiday which works for all ages and abilities. To avoid the crowds, book outside of school holidays in June/July. 

Do your homework

Put a bit of time into researching your destination online, taking into account your group's snow sports ability and other interests. A little bit of research ahead of time can definitely make a difference in determining which resort you decide to visit by comparing the number of green, blue and black runs and ski school offerings for your group, and other activities available. Falls Creek has a huge array of different runs, suitable for all levels, and loads of activities on and off the snow – taking out all the guesswork!

Invest in ski-in, ski-out accommodation

To make the most of your snow holiday, you want to make it as easy as possible to get to and from the slopes (this is especially important for families and beginners). Try and book accommodation as close to the slopes as possible to ensure you can ski from first lifts until last and even ski home for lunch or a rest! The unique mountain-side position of Falls Creek's beautiful alpine village means there is loads of fantastic ski-in, ski-out accommodation, ideal for those who love a long day of skiing or for families looking to cater for children of different ages.

 

Snow essentials

There are some absolute essentials when it comes to clothing and equipment. You want to pack the warmest, most waterproof gear you own. Thermals, warm socks and hats, gloves, scarves and anything you can use to layer up is fine (layers keep you warm, and also give you more flexibility on sunny days in the snow). Woollen and synthetic clothing is better than cotton, which tends to absorb snow and sweat, and can make you feel wet and cold.

Don't worry if you don't have all the gear. Most snow clothes and equipment can be rented on the mountain, including jackets, pants, helmets, skis, snowboards, boots, walking shoes and more. Renting your gear on the mountain saves all the lugging around and means the experts fit you out in the correct kit – too easy. Just about the only things you'll need to buy or borrow are gloves and goggles (which can't be rented for hygiene reasons).

The skiing secret weapon

Refuel and warm up at -The Pass'. Grab a slope side coffee for caffeine hit between runs on the mountain. Keep the little ones happy with a Hot Choccy and Marshmallows, need I say more?

 

Salute the sun with sunscreen

While you might not expect it, the combination of snow and sun creates a reflection which can quite easily turn to sunburn. Much like you would on a beach holiday – slip, slop, slap across the day with a high SPF sunscreen. The cold can often make you forget to dink enough water, so make sure you stay well hydrated.

Wine and dine

It's not just about the slopes when you are at the snow. Make sure you take part in the après ski festivities by indulging in delicious mulled wine and other culinary delights the mountain has to offer. Falls Creek has more than 30 bars and restaurants, with some of my favorites including QT Bazaar and Elk restaurant.

Training

Minimise the risk of injury and maximise the opportunities of your alpine escape by getting fit before you go, either by doing your own pre-ski exercises at home or with a friend. Get into it early to allow yourself time to be prepared for your holiday. Try simple exercises like balancing on one leg, taking the stairs, or dial it up with walking lunges, plank with opposite arm and leg lifts and single leg squats.

Book in advance

Booking your holiday in advance can save you time and money – so my suggestion is to lock in your accommodation, lessons and passes all in the one go! The added bonus of being so organised means you have more time to ski when you get to the resort. Falls Creek has some online savings when you buy lift tickets, lessons and/or rental equipment online, providing savings up to 15% and more, and if you package accommodation in the white space periods at the start and end of the season!