Resorts lure Easter skiers

EASTER is usually the second peak of the skiing season in Slovakia, especially when it's early in the year. There's still enough snow in March, yet the day stays light a little longer and skiers' sleeves are a bit shorter.

But this Easter will be white only in resorts at altitudes higher than 1,200 metres above sea level, such as Jasná, Štrbské Pleso, Martinské Hole, Lomnické Sedlo, Zverovka and Vrátna - Chleb. The ski lift operators at these locations are counting the centimetres of new snow every day, while other resorts are experiencing warm weather and rain.

Meteorologists don't predict spring will force its way onto the scene any time soon. At the start of the week, resorts at altitudes of 700 metres might get some new snow as well. The temperature will fall to -4/-6 degrees at 1,500 metres.

The weather forecast for the whole week shows signs of a gust of warm air that will push the temperature up to 3 degrees at the altitude of 2,000 metres. This will probably signal the end of winter in Slovakia. After Easter, only the above-mentioned ski resorts will remain open andki pass prices will drop.

The Tatras, where the snow layer is 100 to 200 centimetres thick, will be the site of some pleasant spring skiing.

Skiers can enjoy the end of the season in Donovaly, where Skočsy, a ski event set to some DJ beats, will take place on March 22. On the same day, the southern slopes of the Chopok peak, near Kosodrevina, will host the Snow Show, where skiers will show off their acrobatic skills.

Before going to a ski resort, check the local ski conditions, as they change frequently.

For more information, go to www.holidayinfo.sk.

Ski resort price of daily ski pass snow depth

Štrbské PlesoSk590/69070 - 160cm***

Vrátna - ChlebSk59060cm***

Jasná - SeverSk79055cm***

Jasná - JuhSk65070 - 160cm**

Zverovka - SpálenáSk65060cm***

Martinské HoleSk69050cm***

Lomnické SedloSk690190cm***

Conditions: *limited **good ***very good