Grimentz is located in the Valais region of Switzerland, not too far from Verbier. The valley holds several small resorts, all covered by the same pass. The separate nature of the resorts gives plenty of easy-access backcountry runs between resorts, with easy tours or valley buses back to base.
Grimentz itself has rad freeride terrain, both in and out of bounds. The lifts go from well below the treeline all the way to 3000m and give access to most aspects so it's almost always possible to find good snow, especially as it's very quiet and rarely tracked-out.
The resort village is really authentic, with the original old town still preserved and in-use. By Swiss standards, it's also pretty affordable.
Program:
Arrive in resort and check in to chalet on Saturday 27th Jan. The course includes 5 days of guided riding. This will usually be Monday-Friday, giving you Sunday as a warm-up day to get your legs moving but if it makes sense with the weather or snow conditions, we may start right away on the Sunday and take a rest day later in the week. Check out of the chalet on Saturday 3rd Feb.
Accommodation:
Chalet Jean
Meals:
Breakfast every day and evening meals 6 nights per week are included in the course cost. We work with a caterer who delivers fresh-cooked meals to the chalet. All we have to do is clear up afterwards!
TRAVEL:
Grimentz is in the Swiss Valais region. The easiest travel option is to fly to Geneva airport, then take a train and bus combination (pretty cheap) to resort. This may sound complicated, but it all runs like, well, a Swiss railway. I'll be around with a van to pick up from the bus stop or in case of any dramas!
Riding level:
This course is for intermediate and up level riders with some backcountry experience. You should have at least 8-10 weeks riding experience and have at least some experience of enjoying turns in off-piste conditions.
fitness level:
You should have a reasonable level of fitness as we will very likely do some hiking during the week in order to find fresh lines. Usually about 1hr or 300m maximum.
Equipment required:
Standard snowboard gear. Avalanche safety equipment loan is included in the course price if you don't have your own. If we need snowshoe or splitboard gear, this can be rented locally.
additional costs (not included):
Travel, Lift pass, 1 evening meal, Lunch & Apres