High elevation means winter sports elation

Last winter’s awesome snow conditions ensured that UK winter sports enthusiasts enjoyed one of the longest ever seasons in the Rockies. With resorts opening from November through to May families, couples and individuals had ample opportunity to visit Alberta’s world-class resorts.

The draw of champagne powder snow, along with non-existent lift queues, favourable exchange rate and friendly expert tuition is tempting more Brits to head for the Rockies and experience the thrill of skiing in one of the world’s most pristine and beautiful mountain environments.

Building on last years success UK airlines and tour operators are providing the capacity and access to make reaching the Rockies even easier. Air Canada has just announced that their new London Heathrow to Edmonton flight will operate daily throughout the winter for the first time. Edmonton acts as a perfect gateway to Jasper National Park and the resort of Marmot Basin.

British Airways has been successfully operating its London Heathrow to Calgary flight for nearly a year, experiencing considerable demand. Crystal Ski has doubled its flight capacity to Alberta this winter as in addition to their existing charter seats they have also committed to a major allocation on the British Airways flight.

Likewise Inghams has capitalised on this increased demand by expanding its established winter sports programme. Zoom Airlines has strengthened its Canadian programme and operates flights from Gatwick, Manchester and Glasgow to Calgary, whilst Canadian Affair continues to offer great value, with two dedicated Calgary flights a week from Gatwick and Manchester.

With expectations of a great 2007/8 winter season Alberta’s resorts are gearing up for more great snow and an influx of visitors.

For Travel Alberta’s winter sports website see SkiCanadianRockies.com.