Description

The valley return route is generally only open during the coldest months of winter, despite recent investments in snowmaking on the lower half.

That being said, when it is open the 7km cruise down a narrow cat track in the trees is a very pleasant run, and is a great alternative to getting the cable car down if you choose to base yourself in the valley. Starting from outside the excellent Winteregg Restaurant, the track winds down through an open field - great on a powder day for some mini "pillow line" skiing.

Once in the trees, the narrow treelined slope offers a nice cruise down into the valley, affording some stunning glimpses of the deep former glacial trough, which forms the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Be sure to keep your speed relatively high along the straight stretches, before slowing down when prompted before the hairpin bends in order to avoid an unwelcome visit to the trees lining the piste.

Once you recross the cable car line, and run over a bridge crossing the ancient funicular, you will reach an open field for the final stretch.

This can get steep and icy after rainfall or a spell of warm weather, so take care and follow the groomed route.

Head towards the cable car station, where the snow sadly runs out and a 100m walk down some steps is required.

Take care in slippery conditions as the stairs can get somewhat treacherous.

If the slope is marked closed at Winteregg, do not attempt to ski the run.

Even if the snow appears great at the top, it may well have melted out towards the bottom - so don't risk it!