The Pyrenees Gain Ground as the Alps Enter Resistance Mode

Contrast marks the beginning of the 2025-2026 ski season in Europe. While the Pyrenees consolidate one of their most consistent starts in recent winters, much of the Alps face December in resistance mode, constrained by the lack of natural snow at lower altitudes.

The scene repeats itself in numerous Alpine resorts: ribbons of artificial snow winding over green and brown slopes, a sight now common in mild winters, but one that is especially evident this year. The Alpine map is divided into two very clear realities: the high mountains, which maintain good conditions, and the domains below 1,200 meters, which are experiencing one of the most challenging Decembers of the last decade.

In Austria, key regions such as Tirol and Salzburg have openly acknowledged the problem. The term Schneemangel, or snow scarcity, has dominated headlines in national and local media. Abnormally high temperatures have even limited artificial snow production for much of the month. Even so, the glaciers are holding their own: Sölden, Hintertux, and Stubai operate normally, although access to the valley is, in many cases, restricted to lifts or expert skiers.

Pressure is concentrated on the few open sectors, with long queues and a highly concentrated skiing experience. This situation contrasts with the fluidity presented by many Pyrenean resorts at the start of this winter.

In Italy, the season is sustained by infrastructure. Dolomiti Superski once again demonstrates its leadership in programmed snowmaking, with over 6,000 cannons guaranteeing the opening of key routes like the Sellaronda, despite the absence of natural snowfall until very late. Skiing is assured, but freeride remains anecdotal in the eastern sector.

The Italian western Alps have fared better. Piedmont and the Aosta Valley, including areas like Via Lattea and Cervinia, received southwesterly fronts in mid-month that left a more natural base and significantly better conditions.

In Switzerland, the impact has been particularly severe in small, low-altitude resorts, many of which have been forced to close temporarily due to insufficient snow.

Attention now turns to the turn of the year. According to Alpine meteorological services, the anticyclone will continue to dominate until December 29, with thermal inversions, sunny days, and hard snow in the early hours that transforms quickly. Ideal days for "terrace skiing," but not very encouraging for renewing the snow cover.

The possible turning point will arrive between December 30 and 31, with the breakdown of the anticyclonic block and the entry of a cold front from the North Atlantic. The forecast points to a notable drop in temperatures and a snow line that could descend to 800-1,000 meters, especially on the northern side of the Alps.

If confirmed, the Alpine valleys could finally bid farewell to 2025 by regaining their winter postcard. Meanwhile, the Pyrenees seize the advantage and position themselves, once again, as one of Europe's great skiing havens in an increasingly unpredictable winter.