MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR…
Pascal is ski and snowboard instructor for New Generation
Pascal Prot
Location: Tignes, France
Job: Ski and snowboard instructor for New Generation
Welcome to our new Ski+board series, where we introduce you to an instructor or guide from one of our much-lauded Instructor-led Guiding sessions. First up, say “salut” to Pascal Prot
HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN TIGNES?
I was born in Versailles (Paris) and went skiing for the very first time in Tignes more than 20 years ago during a school trip. I’ve been working as a ski and snowboard instructor here for seven years now. I recently bought my own flat, so I guess you could say I’m a true local now!
WHAT IS IT YOU LOVE ABOUT TIGNES?
When training to become a ski instructor, I travelled to many resorts across the Alps. For me, Tignes is the perfect resort. It’s not too big, not too small, and has many different aspects for every level of skier. From two snowparks, accessible off-piste, gentle beginner slopes and a vast backcountry in the Vanoise National Park, there is so much variety. There are still places in Tignes that I’m yet to discover, and I’ve been here a long time.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRST SKIING EXPERIENCE IN TIGNES…
I first visited Tignes in the summer when I was training.
I would ski in the morning on the glacier, and mountain bike in the afternoon. I remember thinking that life here must be pretty cool all year round.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR MOST MEMORABLE DAY SKIING TIGNES…
I have so many great memories, so that’s difficult to answer! But one time that really stands out was back in 2012. There was a massive snowstorm and I remember there was so much snow that I had to exit the building I lived in from the second floor. The skiing that day was epic. Deep, deep powder…
WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE SKI LIFT?
The Grattalu. Why? Because it’s in the sun all day long. With wide easy blue runs and the snowpark nearby, it’s the perfect sunny spot for mellow skiing and boarding.
IT’S A POWDER DAY: WHERE DO YOU HEAD FOR FIRST TRACKS?
I’m afraid that’s a secret I can’t reveal! When I’m with clients, one of my favourite places to head for powder is the Guerlain Chicherit, a freeride area named after a French pro extreme skier. The slow triple chairlift is a bit long, but the run is definitely worth it – steep cliffs and narrow chutes that are so much fun after a snowfall.
WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT ON THE MOUNTAIN?
Panoramic at 3,032m on the Grande Motte glacier. It has a Michelin star. It is quite fancy but one of my favourites for tasty Savoie food.
AND FOR AN APRÈS-SKI DRINK?
Cocorico in Val Claret. Live music every day, epic shows and a free shuttle to bring you back home. Parfait!
TELL US SOMETHING WE DON’T KNOW ABOUT TIGNES…
Persillé de Tignes is a very unique cheese made by just one producer in the Tarentaise Valley. It’s a white cheese made with both goat and cow’s milk. It is delicious and you can buy it locally.
‘Tignes is the perfect resort’ says Pascal of his home town
PHOTO ANDY PARANT