Crystal #SkiExplorer - Piste Princess

I’ve skied for almost as long as I can remember. I love the feeling of new tracks cutting through fresh powder. I adore the first-lift feeling and I especially love a bluebird day.

Even though I have a touch of Dawn Patrol and a dash of Fairweather Fred in me when it came to choosing a ski-persona from Crystal I couldn’t help but imagine myself as a bit of a Piste Princess. On the hill I’m all about the designer gear and faux-fur headbands, sipping on champagne whilst looking over the most amazing snow-covered scenery.

So here is a day as a true Piste Princess.

“Stretching out across the four-poster bed, eyes crinkle open and settle on my ski gear, laid out pristine on the chaise-lounge at the end of an epic bed. A black and white theme today – perfect. Time to wrap up in the fluffiest dressing gown – a fresh one that feels like a solitary cloud in a clear sky - wiggle toes into fur-lined slippers and make my way to breakfast.

Time to start the day.  

Breakfast is always served on a balcony that overlooks The Eiger, always an awe-inspiring view to feast your eyes on before you’re fully awake. Silver pots of steaming tea are sipped on whilst croissants and toast and jam are devoured to set me up for the day.

Once I’m dressed in my ski suit, it’s down to the boot room to pull on the heated boots that have been gloriously warmed overnight. My ski’s are handed to me, freshly waxed and it’s time to hit the slopes.

 Nothing beats that first lift. The snow glitters like little diamonds around me and there’s a blue sky above. Crystal flakes decorate the trees and shimmer under the sun’s beams. Paradise.

After the first few runs my legs warm-up. Perfect parallel turns as I wind my way down. I can ski with the best of them and my elegant style is what makes me impeccable. Swish-swish, I watch my ski’s track down the runs, creating their path. I climb up the lifts, breathing in the mountain air and swoosh down, hair billowing behind me.

After a couple of hours exploring the mountain routes it’s time to stop for a hot chocolate.

A frothy, indulgent and luxurious hot chocolate. The rich, dark type that needs a dollop of cream.

Then back out onto the mountains, stopping at the top of the lifts to admire the stunning views. The Jungfrau that seems to tower over the ant-like skiers that dance in its the shadow. The magnificent stretch of scenery all the way to Interlaken that glitters in the blue sky. And the Schilthorn, blowing fragments of jewels off in the breeze.

Before too long it’s time to re-fuel, only at the best restaurant on the mountain of course – a little gem hidden away that only after a winding and adventurous journey you can reach. It’s a special place, only for those in the know.

As we relax into the sheepskin covered seats a waiter pours the fizz. Bubbles are the best way to start lunch on the hill. Many toasts later and we tuck into a delicious smorgasbord of traditional foods, made with decadent twists. Think cheese and ham rosti with shavings of truffle. It bubbles and melts creating heaven on a plate. Matched with a delicious local red, we dig in occasionally glancing around at the epic backdrop.

Coffee laced with local liqueur and apple strudel finish the feast and it’s time to head off again.

The afternoon follows the same pattern as the morning. Climbing up lifts, laughter ringing in the clear air and spiralling in and out of trees on the way back down. The Mile Muncher is determined to get in as many runs as he can. And I’m generally happy to oblige – soaring up and speeding down.

But eventually the Après Animal in everyone calls – Piste Princess style of course.

I happily sink into a deck chair, perfectly positioned to catch the last rays of the Easter sun disappearing behind the peaks, with the last of the mountain explorers’ ski-daddling down. A bottle makes an oh-so-satisfying pop nearby and the bubbles fill empty glasses, reached out in eager anticipation.

Back in the chalet, giggling from the fizz and sharing stories of the slopes there will be just be enough hours left in the evening to relaxing in a bubbling Jacuzzi. Snow sparkling around me, chilled white wine in hand - dreaming of the delicious meal still to come.

Filled up on gorgeous cheeses, red wine and local delicacies I’m ready to collapse into bed and dream about doing it all again tomorrow…”

I'm away to dream of skiing and champagne in the snow... 

**This post has been written for Crystal Ski #SkiExplorer competition in the persona of a Piste Princess. I really just need a crown to wear on the slopes now…