Tag: ski

From Snow to Saddle: Why Road Cycling Is A Super Summer Sport 🚴‍♂️❄️

From Snow to Saddle: Why Road Cycling Is A Super Summer Sport 🚴‍♂️❄️

When ski season winds down and the snow begins to melt, many people pack away their gear and wait patiently for winter to return. Not me. As soon as the skis are back in the garage, another passion takes over — road cycling. 🚲

There’s something magical about riding a road bike. It’s simple, silent, and deeply personal. Just me, the bike, the road, and the rhythm of my legs turning the cranks. It’s a different kind of mountain adventure, but one that gives me the same sense of freedom and connection to nature 🌄. While winter gives me the mountains in white, summer gifts me the roads in green 🌿.

I’ve always loved cycling, but over the years it’s become much more than a hobby — it’s my favorite off-season training 💪. Why? Because it keeps me fit, clears my mind, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly complementary to skiing 🎿.

The muscles we use on the bike — especially the quads, hamstrings, and glutes — are exactly the ones that skiers need strong and responsive. Every climb on the bike is a strength session for the legs 🔥; every descent a mental focus exercise. 🧠

More than that, there’s a very specific connection between cycling and skiing technique: when you take a corner on a bike, you learn to lean in, manage balance, and control the outside leg — exactly what we do when carving down a ski slope ⛷️. When I’m descending a curvy road at speed, I can’t help but think how similar it feels to a clean GS turn on hard-packed snow.

Nowadays, I typically go for shorter, more focused rides — around 50 to 60 kilometers — which means about two hours or a bit more of riding ⏱️. It’s the sweet spot for me: long enough to get a proper workout, short enough to fit into a busy day.

I used to do much longer rides in the past — 100 km or more wasn’t unusual — and while I still love the idea of long, slow days in the saddle, lately I prefer a faster rhythm ⚡. Maybe one day I’ll find the spark again to go for those epic full-day adventures. For now, though, I enjoy the intensity and efficiency of my current sessions.

Cycling is also fantastic for the mind. It’s meditative, especially when I’m out early in the morning or riding through quiet forest roads 🌲. It’s time for myself — to think, breathe, or just switch off. As a ski instructor, I spend most of my winter talking, teaching, guiding. On the bike, I find my own pace, my own silence.

One of the best parts? The landscape. Whether it’s riding up to a mountain pass or along the valley floor surrounded by wildflowers 🌸, cycling lets me experience the Alps in a completely different way. No lifts, no crowds — just leg power and the sound of tires on tarmac. The same mountains I ski in winter, I ride in summer. And that, to me, is incredibly special 💫.

If you’re a skier and haven’t tried road cycling yet, I can’t recommend it enough. Not only will it keep your legs strong for the next season, but it will also sharpen your awareness, balance, and endurance. It’s the perfect cross-training — and it makes you appreciate winter even more when it comes back around 🔄❄️.

Curious about my rides? I share them regularly on Strava, where you can find me as @riccardovaraldo 📲. Maybe you’ll get inspired to hop on your bike and see where the road takes you!

Because in the end, whether it’s skis or pedals, it’s all about the ride — and the joy of movement 🚵‍♂️🎿

See you on two wheels… or two skis.

– Riky

2025-05-20

🌼 Spring Skiing in Cervinia: What to Expect This May

Spring Skiing in Cervinia: What to Expect This May

It’s May — flowers are blooming, bikes are back on the road, and beach towels are making their first appearances… but up here in Cervinia, winter isn’t quite ready to say goodbye. If you’re like me and not quite done with ski season yet, you’re in luck: spring skiing in Cervinia kicks off again from May 5th, 2025, with a reduced but still very skiable area open for all the snow lovers out there.

So, what can you expect if you’re planning a late-season trip?

🎿 What Slopes and Lifts Will Be Open?

Even though it’s technically the start of the off-season, there’s still plenty of snow up high, and that means a good number of runs are staying open:

Pista 6 and 46 will be groomed and open, with return skiing available all the way down to Plan Maison, the spring skiing hub.
The Bontadini chairlift will operate daily from 9:00 to 14:45.
The Breuil-Cervinia – Plateau Rosà cable cars are also running, giving access to the spectacular slope 7, which reaches up to Cime Bianche Laghi. This area will be skiable until 15:00.

📅 On selected dates — May 9–11 and May 16–18 — the Baby La Vieille skilift will be open too, along with slope 8 bis, from 8:30 to 16:30. A great bonus for those looking for a few extra runs on the weekend!

❄️ What About the Swiss Side?

Conditions permitting, the Swiss glacier section (Trockener Steg and the Furggsattel chairlift) will also be open. This area usually maintains excellent snow quality in May and offers that unique experience of summer skiing with stunning Alpine views.

💶 Summer Skipass Prices – May 2025

Spring skiing also means better value. From May 5th until the Italian side closes, Cervinia runs on a special summer season skipass price list.

✅ Skipass Prices – Consecutive Days

Days	Adult	Senior / Young	Junior
1 Day	€63.00	€55.50	€31.50
2 Days	€121.00	€106.50	€60.50
3 Days	€174.00	€153.00	€87.00
4 Days	€222.00	€195.00	€111.00
5 Days	€264.50	€233.00	€132.50
6 Days	€302.50	€266.00	€151.00

🔁 Skipass Prices – Non-Consecutive Days

Days	Adult	Senior / Young	Junior
2 Days	€123.50	€108.50	€61.50
3 Days	€181.50	€159.50	€90.50
4 Days	€237.00	€208.50	€118.50
5 Days	€290.00	€255.00	€145.00
6 Days	€340.00	€299.50	€170.00

🧒 Baby (born after 31/10/2016): ski free with a paying adult
🎉 Over 80s (born before 01/11/1944): ski completely free!
🆔 All discounted categories must show valid ID at the ticket office.

🌞 My Take on Spring Skiing

Spring skiing in Cervinia has a vibe of its own. The snow might be a bit softer, but the sun is stronger, the lines are shorter, and there’s something magical about carving down slopes in just a light jacket — or even in a t-shirt some days!

Personally, I always love this time of year. It’s more relaxed, more social, and it feels like a reward for those of us who just can’t get enough of the mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just want to extend your season one more time, Cervinia in May delivers.

📲 Stay in Touch!

If you’re curious to see more behind-the-scenes from Cervinia or just follow along my spring adventures — from ski slopes to road bike rides — make sure to follow me on Instagram:
👉 @riccardovaraldo

And don’t miss out on the weekly vlog on my YouTube channel — in Italian, but with subtitles available!

That’s all for now — get your skis ready, throw on some sunscreen, and I’ll see you on the slopes (or online)!
Next week, new updates as always — between Tuesday and Wednesday!

Cheers,
Riky 🎿

2025-05-13

Surfing the Rain and Waiting for Summer

he weather lately has been far from summer vibes—cloudy skies and scattered rain showers seem to be the theme of these days. But hey, not all is lost!
As you can see from the photo, I’m using this time to surf every chance I get. Wet suit on, board under my feet, and salt water in my hair… there’s still a lot of fun to be had—even under grey skies.

I’m still staying consistent with my diet, but to be honest, the scale isn’t rewarding me yet 😅
But I’m not giving up—consistency always wins in the long run.

Meanwhile, in Cervinia, from Plan Maison and above, it’s snowing again! Yes, in May! Looks like summer is in no rush to show up in the Alps, which makes me smile—because deep down, I never really get tired of snow.

Back home in Liguria, I’m enjoying the gym sessions and the first bike rides of the season.
I’ll admit it—getting back on the bike after a long winter takes effort. The legs are complaining, but it’s a good kind of struggle.
One ride at a time, the shape will come back.

That’s it for now—thanks as always for following along. I’ll be back next week with a new blog post, as usual between Tuesday and Wednesday.

Catch you soon,
—Riky

2025-05-06
A Fresh Look for Summer: New Haircut, Big Plans

Just a week has passed since I returned home to Liguria, and things are already in full swing! First of all—you probably noticed the new haircut 😉
I felt like it was time for a change: something lighter, fresher, and definitely more practical for the hot summer days ahead. It feels great!

Life back home is treating me well. After a long and intense winter season, it’s refreshing to slow down just a bit and enjoy everything this region has to offer. Even though it’s only been a few days, I’ve already packed in a lot—and to make sure you don’t miss anything, make sure you follow me on Instagram: @riccardovaraldo. That’s where I post behind-the-scenes moments from my everyday life.

And there’s more: I’ve officially launched my weekly vlog on YouTube! 🎥
It’s currently only in Italian, so if you don’t speak the language, just turn on the subtitles. Every week I share a glimpse into my off-season life—from workouts to local adventures and everything in between.

Speaking of off-season… not everything is sunshine and spritz. This winter I gained a few extra kilos (thanks, raclette and polenta!). So starting this Monday, I’m officially back on a clean diet. And to support the effort, I’ve also resumed gym training three times a week and got back on my road bike!
I’ve only done one ride so far, but my weekly goal is at least two rides, ideally three. It feels so good to be moving again and chasing new goals—even in the off-season.

That’s it for now, friends. Stay tuned for next week’s blog post—coming, as usual, between Tuesday and Wednesday. Thanks for following my journey, both on and off the slopes!

Catch you soon,
Riky

2025-04-30
The Winter Season Ends, but the Blog Stays Alive

It’s official—my winter ski season has come to an end, and I’ve finally made my way back home to Liguria, where the sea replaces the snow, and the surfboard takes the place of my skis. After months of early mornings, perfect turns, powder days, and unforgettable moments on the slopes, it’s time for a little break 🌊

I want to thank each and every one of you—clients, friends, fellow instructors, and everyone I met on this journey—for making this winter truly special. Your energy, passion, and smiles made this season one of the best yet. I couldn’t have asked for more ❤️

But just because the lifts have stopped turning doesn’t mean the blog takes a break! I’ll keep sharing new blog posts every Tuesday or Wednesday, just like during the season. Expect stories about skiing, mountain life, gear tips, off-season insights, and maybe a little bit of surf and sunshine from the coast.

For now, it’s time to rest and recharge, and enjoy some waves before jumping back into planning for next winter—which, believe it or not, isn’t far off. Time flies, and I can’t wait to hit the slopes with all of you again soon.

Stay tuned, and thanks again for an amazing season.
See you in the waves… or on the snow soon!

—Riky 🏄‍♂️⛷️

2025-04-23
Spring Skiing, Wildlife Surprises, and a Snowstorm Incoming

Spring Skiing and Wildlife Encounters Ahead of a Historic Snowfall

Spring skiing has its own unique charm—not just for the longer days and softer snow, but also for the incredible wildlife encounters that become more frequent as the season changes. Just the other day, while skiing high up in the Alps, I had the amazing chance to spot an ibex (stambecco) standing proudly on a ridge, watching the skiers below. Marmots have also begun to emerge, filling the alpine silence with their cheerful whistles. For nature lovers, this is the season to keep your eyes open while gliding down the slopes!

Snow Is on the Way: A Powerful Weather Shift Incoming

While the sun is shining now, the forecast is about to take a dramatic turn. In less than 24 hours, our region is expected to experience what could become one of the most intense snowstorms of the last two decades. Weather maps show potentially historic snowfall totals, with predictions of 300–400 mm of precipitation in the lower valleys and up to 2 meters of snow accumulating in areas such as Gran Paradiso, Cervino, and Monte Rosa.

A deep trough is expected to dive into the Mediterranean, setting up a dynamic that has historically led to the heaviest precipitation for northwestern Italy. As warm scirocco winds from the southeast collide with the Alpine barrier, a powerful orographic lift will trap the moisture, causing substantial snowfall on the windward slopes.

When and Where: The Forecast in Detail

The worsening weather pattern is expected to begin Tuesday evening with the arrival of the pre-frontal zone, triggering showers and thunderstorms that will gradually move into the Valle d’Aosta and VCO. Between Wednesday and Thursday, forecasts become more concerning, with widespread and intense precipitation expected.

The most intense phase will likely occur between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning. Thunderstorms, heavy snowfall, and even convective events such as lightning and thunder are possible along alpine valleys. Areas such as the Gran Paradiso National Park, southern and eastern Valle d’Aosta, Biellese, and Verbano-Cusio-Ossola will likely experience the highest accumulations, with totals reaching up to 300–400 mm by Friday morning.

Thanks to the persistent southeast airflow, even the inner alpine valleys—Valtournenche, Valle di Ayas, Valle del Lys, Cogne, and Champorcher—will likely receive significant snow, with totals ranging from 100 to 200 mm, potentially more near the Piemonte border.

A Unique Time to Ski and Explore

If you’re planning to hit the slopes in the coming days, be prepared for a bit of everything. Right now, conditions above 2500 meters remain solid and wintry, offering some of the best skiing of the season. The added thrill of wildlife sightings, like marmots and ibexes, only enhances the spring skiing experience.

But be mindful—if this storm unfolds as predicted, it could cause temporary closures or delays in lift operations due to avalanche risk and heavy snow management. Stay informed, follow local advisories, and be flexible with your plans.

In Conclusion

Spring skiing is full of surprises—whether it’s a marmot peeking out of the snow or a massive snowstorm rolling in from the south. This week, the Alps are set to receive a dramatic reminder of winter’s power, even as the season edges closer to its end. If you love deep snow, wild weather, and magical mountain moments, this could be your chance to experience something truly unforgettable.

Stay safe and see you on the slopes!

Riky

2025-04-15
Chasing Perfect Spring Snow in Zermatt

Spring is in the air, but that doesn’t mean the skiing has to stop. Quite the opposite—today in Zermatt proved once again that if you know where to go, you can still find incredible snow even in April.

We started the day on the high-altitude slopes of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, making the most of the altitude to stay above the softening snow. With the temperatures climbing, the best conditions were definitely up high, and that’s exactly where we headed first.

The Furgsattel and Hirli chairlifts were our playground for the morning. Up here, the snow was still surprisingly firm and grippy—perfect for high-speed carving. The views were, as always, jaw-dropping, with the towering Matterhorn watching over every turn.

Around midday, we decided to explore a bit lower and descended all the way to Furi. As expected, the snow down here had a more spring-like texture, but it still held up well, especially on the shadier slopes. For April, it was more than anyone could ask for.

Lunch was a highlight of the day. We stopped at Stafelalp, a cozy mountain restaurant with an unbeatable view of the Matterhorn. A delicious meal under the sun, surrounded by snow-covered peaks—what more could you want?

After refueling, we took another lap up Hirli, enjoying one last round of great snow and amazing scenery. Then it was time to cruise down to Aroleid, a picturesque spot nestled in the forest just above Furi. From there, we made our way back across the border, returning to Italy with tired legs and huge smiles.

Spring skiing days like this are truly special—less crowded slopes, warm sunshine, and if you time it right, excellent snow conditions. Zermatt delivered on all fronts, offering a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Days like this remind me why I love what I do.

See you on the slopes!

2025-04-08
Spring Skiing: Warm Temperatures but Perfect Snow Conditions

The past few days have brought unseasonably warm temperatures to the Alps, but for those wondering if the ski season is still in full swing—fear not! Despite the warmth, the snow conditions remain fantastic, especially at higher altitudes.

The Magic of High-Altitude Skiing

One of the great advantages of skiing in areas like Cervinia and Zermatt is the altitude. With slopes reaching well above 2500m, the snow retains its winter quality, ensuring a great skiing experience even when lower areas begin to soften. While the lower runs might start to feel spring-like by midday, the upper slopes are still offering crisp, packed snow perfect for carving turns.

Early Mornings and High-Altitude Adventures

With warmer days, the key to making the most of your ski sessions is timing. Mornings are ideal, with perfectly groomed pistes and firmer snow. As the sun rises higher, some lower areas can soften, but above 2500m, you can still enjoy that classic winter snow feel throughout the day.

Why Spring Skiing is Underrated

While some people start thinking about summer as temperatures rise, spring skiing offers some of the best conditions of the season. The combination of great snow at higher elevations, longer daylight hours, and fewer crowds makes this period one of the best times to hit the slopes. Plus, there’s nothing quite like enjoying an après-ski drink under the sun after an epic day on the mountain!

Don’t Pack Away Your Skis Just Yet!

If you’re hesitating about booking that late-season ski trip, don’t! The snow remains in top shape above 2500m, and with the right approach—early starts, high-altitude runs, and a good après-ski session—spring skiing might just be your new favorite part of the season.

See you on the slopes!

2025-03-31
From Beginners to Black Slopes: A Year of Progress with Two Young Skiers
One of the most rewarding experiences as a ski instructor is witnessing the progress of students over time. This season, I had the pleasure of skiing again with two young English skiers who first started learning with me last year. They arrived as complete beginners back then, and this year, they returned ready to take on an even greater challenge: black slopes! Seeing their confidence and technique improve so much in just one year was incredible.

Last Year’s Journey: From Zero to Blue Slopes

When these two kids first stepped onto the snow last season, they had never skied before. Like all beginners, we started with the basics: balancing, stopping, and making simple turns. The first few days were all about getting comfortable on skis and understanding how to move with control. There were plenty of falls, laughs, and moments of doubt, but they never gave up.

By the end of their first week, they had already mastered the blue slopes, a huge achievement for anyone starting from scratch. Their progress was a testament to their determination and enthusiasm for the sport. I could see they had caught the skiing bug, and I had a feeling they would be back.

This Year’s Challenge: Black Slopes

True to my expectations, they returned this season, eager to push their limits even further. From the very first day, it was clear that their muscle memory had kicked in. They picked up where they left off, carving smoothly down red slopes with confidence and control.

After a few days of refining technique and building confidence, it was time for the big challenge: skiing black slopes. These runs are steeper, icier, and demand precise control and strong technique. Understandably, they were nervous at first, but their excitement quickly took over.

With a bit of coaching, they made their way down, carefully at first, but gaining confidence with each turn. By the bottom of the run, their faces lit up with pure joy and accomplishment. They had done it!

The Key to Their Progress

What made their improvement so remarkable? Several key factors played a role:
1. Consistent Practice – Returning for another season meant they could build on what they had already learned rather than starting from scratch.
2. A Positive Attitude – They were always eager to learn and never discouraged by challenges.
3. Gradual Progression – We made sure to move from easy slopes to harder ones step by step, reinforcing their skills along the way.
4. Trust in the Process – They followed instructions carefully and trusted their ability to improve with time.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

After conquering black slopes, these two young skiers are already excited for next season. Their parents have told me how much they love skiing and that they’re eager to return for even bigger challenges. Maybe next year, we’ll tackle some off-piste adventures!

Watching students grow in skill and confidence is the best part of being a ski instructor. I have no doubt that these two will continue to improve, and I can’t wait to see them back on the slopes next winter.

See you next season! ⛷️❄️
2025-03-26
From Total Beginners to Red Slopes in Just Three Days: An Incredible Journey in Courmayeur

As a ski instructor, I have the privilege of witnessing incredible transformations on the slopes. This week, I had the pleasure of skiing with two young girls who, on Monday, had never worn a pair of skis before. Fast forward to today, their third full day of skiing, and they confidently tackled two challenging red slopes in Courmayeur!

Day One: The First Steps on Skis

Monday morning, the girls arrived at the slopes as complete beginners. Our first goal was simple: get them comfortable with the feeling of skis on snow. We started on flat terrain, focusing on basic balance, how to slide, and most importantly, how to stop. At first, every movement felt unfamiliar, but with patience and enthusiasm, they started getting the hang of it.

By the afternoon, they had made their first controlled descents on a gentle slope. I could already see their confidence growing, and their smiles said it all—they were having fun and eager to learn more.

Day Two: Progressing to Blue Runs

With the basics in place, Tuesday was all about building skills and gaining independence. We moved to blue slopes, where they practiced linking turns, controlling their speed, and getting used to different snow conditions. The girls quickly adapted, showing impressive determination and energy.

One of the most rewarding moments was seeing them complete their first long run without falling. It was a huge confidence boost for them, and it was clear they were hungry for more challenges.

Day Three: Conquering Red Slopes in Courmayeur

Today, on their third full day, we took things to the next level. After a warm-up on familiar blue runs, we decided to try a red slope—a big step forward in their skiing journey.

The first challenge was the steep start, which can be intimidating for new skiers. But with a deep breath and some encouragement, they set off, following my lead and applying everything they had learned. Their turns were controlled, their posture strong, and their confidence unmistakable.

By the time we reached the bottom, the excitement was electric. They had just skied their first difficult red slope, and their joy was contagious. Since they felt ready for more, we tackled another one, solidifying their incredible progress.

A Journey to Remember

Seeing how these two young skiers evolved in just three days was nothing short of inspiring. From hesitant beginners to confident skiers handling red slopes, their journey proves that with the right guidance, dedication, and a bit of courage, anything is possible.

This experience reminded me why I love teaching skiing. Watching students push their limits, gain confidence, and discover a passion for the sport is an incredible feeling. I have no doubt that these two girls will continue to progress, and I can’t wait to see what challenges they’ll take on next time!

See you on the slopes! ⛷️❄️

2025-03-19
Epic Freeride Day in Cervinia and Zermatt

Some ski days are just unforgettable, and today was one of those perfect moments on the mountain. I had the pleasure of spending a full day of freeride skiing with two amazing clients, a father and daughter from the US. And what a day it was! With over 40 cm of fresh snow falling overnight, the conditions were simply spectacular.

Fresh Powder and First Tracks

We kicked off the day early, eager to make the most of the untouched powder. The first descents in Cervinia were nothing short of magical. The snow was soft and deep, perfect for carving smooth, flowing turns. We explored some hidden lines, finding the best pockets of powder and enjoying the sensation of floating down the mountainside.

The energy was incredible. Watching the father and daughter duo embrace the thrill of freeriding together was inspiring. Their excitement and smiles said it all—this was a day they would never forget.

Crossing into Zermatt for More Adventure

After a morning of incredible runs in Cervinia, we decided to take our adventure a step further by crossing into Zermatt. The views were breathtaking, with the Matterhorn standing proudly in the background. The descents on the Swiss side offered new challenges, steeper lines, and even more powder to enjoy.

The bond between father and daughter shone through as they encouraged each other and celebrated every successful turn. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love guiding. Sharing the thrill of the mountains and seeing the joy it brings is unbeatable.

A Well-Deserved Mountain Lunch

All that skiing worked up quite an appetite, so we took a well-deserved break for a delicious mountain lunch. There’s nothing like enjoying a hearty meal with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks all around. It was the perfect chance to relax, share stories, and soak in the magic of the day.

Back for More and Apres-Ski Fun

With renewed energy, we headed back for a couple more runs, eager to squeeze every last drop of fun from the day. The snow was still incredible, and the final descents were a perfect end to our freeride adventure.

But the day wasn’t over yet! We wrapped up with some well-deserved apres-ski fun, laughing, relaxing, and reliving the best moments of the day. There’s something special about winding down after an epic day on the slopes with good company and good vibes.

Final Thoughts

Days like this are what skiing is all about—adventure, connection, and unforgettable memories. It was a privilege to guide such enthusiastic and skilled skiers and to witness their joy and passion for the mountains.

If you’re dreaming of an incredible freeride experience in Cervinia or Zermatt, I’m here to guide you to the best lines and share in the magic of the mountains. See you on the slopes!

2025-03-12
Coaching a Young Ski Talent

When I think of perfect skiing days, yesterday in Zermatt immediately comes to mind. The sun was shining brightly over the majestic Alps, the snow was pristine, and the atmosphere was electric with excitement. It was one of those days that reminded me why I love my job as a ski instructor and today I find a young ski talent.

This time, my client was a younger skier, full of energy and determination to improve his technique. Despite his age, his passion for skiing and eagerness to learn were truly inspiring. We started the day with a warm-up run, and it quickly became clear that he had a natural talent for the sport and coaching him has been very funny.

We focused on refining his turns, building confidence on steeper slopes, and introducing him to the thrilling experience of carving on fresh snow. He was a quick learner, and by the afternoon, I could see his progress shining through as he tackled more challenging runs with ease and enthusiasm.

Of course, the breathtaking scenery of Zermatt added to the magic of the day. We took a break at a charming mountain hut to enjoy a delicious Swiss hot chocolate while soaking in the incredible views of the Matterhorn.

By the end of the day, my young client was skiing with more precision and confidence than ever. The smile on his face as he conquered each slope was the highlight of my day. It’s moments like these that make every hour on the mountain so rewarding.

If you’re looking to make unforgettable memories on the slopes or want to take your skiing skills to the next level, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether you’re a young beginner or a seasoned skier, Zermatt has something special to offer everyone.

See you on the slopes!

2025-02-11