Nearly Christmas and time to go skiing (Alps)

After 5 years we have established many Christmas traditions at Grande Terche; Christmas eve and New Years eve are marked by fireworks and the Ski Instructors' torch light descent of the mountain. But I think they do this throughout the season and spectators are teated to free vin chaud.

Now we don't barbecue our turkey on the balcony anymore (it took hours) we are free to go up the Grande Terche ski bubble lift and have a light lunch on the slopes, there are 2 cafes there with sunny terraces and it's great to watch the skiers antics here - the only spot on the mountain that ever gets congested with 3 tows setting off and ski school learning the ropes.

One of the first things we do after our arrival is go for a walk and collect some pine fronds to decorate the balcony, here's Karl and Michael returning with the skiers who have just completed the Roc d'Enfer circuit, so as you can see you can ski right to our door (also possible if coming off the mountain in the opposite direction).