Many readers and their families will be heading off to the mountains to ski during the half term holiday this week and next, but many of the Pyrenean ski stations are in financial difficulties.
A report by the local "Cour des Comptes" - a sort of bankruptcy court - warns that the level of borrowing, often 300-400% of their revenue will lead to closure.
Uncertain snow levels, aging infrastructure, poor communications, lack of investment in other attractions are all given as reasons for the decline. The court suggests that the smaller stations group together to reduce costs and improve services and marketing. If you value your winter skiing on your doorstep now is a good time to go and support them - and have a good time doing it.
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