Famous ski resort at the foot of the French Alps has been closed due to lack of snow
The resort of La Sambuy is affected by the region’s mild winters. It was one of the most popular family destinations in the cold season.
Climate change is unforgiving.
As the cold sets in, many winter sports enthusiasts count the days until the first snowfall so they can head to their favorite ski resorts. In France the reality is different this year. One of the country’s most popular resorts is closing due to a chronic lack of snow.
Over the years, La Sambuy, near Mont Blanc in the French Alps, has become a popular winter sports destination for families. The problem is that climate change has made it impossible to maintain the natural park and the cable cars have already been removed.
“We used to have snow practically from December 1st to March 30th”Jacques Dalex, the city’s mayor, told CNN. During the cold season last year there was only very light “four weeks of snow”which caused rocks and rocks to quickly appear on the track.
The little white scenario leads to huge losses. Since they can only be open for about five weeks in January and February, a tax loss of 500,000 euros was expected. The maintenance of an elevator requires 80,000 euros per year.
Despite the panoramic views of the mountains and lakes, Le Sambuy is considered a more “intimate” park. It has three lifts and ski slopes with a maximum height of 1850 meters. Thanks to these characteristics, it became a very popular destination for families who wanted a simpler and more discreet alpine experience.
With the decision to close the space, which opened in 2016, Dalex added that the goal is to make the resort a summer destination for “discovering and protecting nature, hiking, sports” and outdoor walks to do.
On La Sambuy’s official website you can read a message informing visitors that the resort was “permanently closed” on September 10 by decision of the local council. “Thank you all for the last summer season of 2023 and for all the wonderful years you spent by your side.”