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The main reason that people return time and time again for a ski breakn is not the après scene, the luxury catered ski chalet or the pampering sessions in state-of-the-art spas (although these play a huge part!). It is that surge of adrenaline that you get at the top of the slopes and the thrill of conquering a particularly challenging piste! You can also get this surge of adrenaline from some of the world’s most extreme ski lifts. Some of these will have you shaking like a leaf as you ascend into the heavens! Here are a few of my favourites from around the globe. Vanoise Express, Paradiski - France This incredibly impressive lift links the gigantic Paradiski region, which consists of Les Arcs and La Plagne. The double-decker lift stretches 5,900 ft, 1,250 ft over the valley and takes just 4 minutes to cross! What makes it even more impressive is that it manages this with a capacity of over 200 people. Aiguille Du Midi, Chamonix - France Boasting the highest vertical ascent on the planet from 3,396 to a breathtaking 12,605 ft in around 20 minutes, this is an amazing experience as you are lifted high into the clouds. What I particularly like about this lift is the drop-off point, where there is now a new glass box terrace where you can stand with absolutely nothing beneath you. Disclaimer: This is not for the faint of heart! The Tram, Jackson Hole - USA This tram has become a symbol for the town and rises 4,139 feet in just 12 minutes. On this ascent, you will get fantastic panoramic vistas, including views of Grand Teton National Park - be sure to look out for rare wildlife! Many claim it is the best tram in North America, largely because it serves terrific terrain and backcountry access. It also plays cool music on the way up to get you in the zone for your descent. The Imperial Express SuperChair, Breckenridge - USA The Imperial Express SuperChair is the highest chairlift in the northern hemisphere, rising to an astonishing 12,840 ft. It is also one of the shorter chairlifts in the region, rising 939 ft in just under 3 minutes. The real thrill from this lift comes from stepping off and taking in the sublime views from up in the heavens - you will feel on top of the world here. Le Lessiers, Val d’Isere - France There is a real rollercoaster-feel about this unique chairlift. It takes you all the way up to the top of the peak, and then down the steep other side in an experience that is sure to make your stomach flip! Also known as the “up and over”, many people claim that this is one of the scariest lifts in the world... Peak2Peak, Whistler - Canada The fantastic Peak2Peak gondola connects Whistler with the brilliant Blackcomb mountains in British Columbia with a stretch over almost two miles of unsupported cable. In addition to this, many have glass bottoms - this provides spectacular views down 1,430 feet, but it can also make many skiers (understandably) a little uneasy! These extreme ski lifts will all get your blood pumping before you have even stepped off! The catered ski chalet, luxury facilities and unique setting are all big reasons why people love wintersport holidays, but the key factor is the adrenaline rush and the amazing views you get from these great heights. Get in touch today to discuss your holiday or to book your catered ski chalet with us. Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service that has been helping avid skiers craft their perfect winter holiday for over a quarter of a century. If you're looking for a fantastic catered ski chalet in the Three Valleys, Paradiski, Espace Killy or Chamonix Valley, Ski Amis is the go-to company for winter sports fans searching for the holiday of a lifetime.
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