This
winter, Eurostar is forging an exciting partnership with the
international high-speed train service, "TGV Lyria" to
launch a new weekly service between London and
some of Switzerland's most popular ski
resorts.
On
sale from Thursday 11 October, the new ski service will carry ski
and snowboarding enthusiasts
from St Pancras International and Ashford International to the heart
of the Swiss Alps and the Valais region. Resorts including; Verbier,
Zermatt, Saas Fee and Gstaad will be served on the new route from
Saturday 22 December until Saturday 13 April 2013.
With
an easy connection in Lille Europe on to a high-speed "TGV
Lyria" service, passengers who travel to the Alps will arrive
into Aigle, Martigny, Visp and Brig stations for quick onward
transfers to their ski resorts. For added convenience, Eurostar
and TGV Lyria will allow ski passengers to carry on-board an extra
item of luggage in addition to the normal luggage allowance - such as
a pair of skis or a snowboard -
at no extra cost.
Nick
Mercer, Commercial Director for Eurostar said: "Our research shows
ski customers are seeking a more civilised way to reach their resorts
by travelling by high-speed rail from London to the heart
of the Swiss Alps. Our direct ski services to the French Alps have
grown in popularity year on year and we expect this new service to
the Swiss Alps to have similar appeal.
"With
the highest runs in Europe, spectacular scenery and reliable snow,
Swiss skiing offers something for everyone. With the resorts located
just a short distance from the train stations, passengers have a much
more seamless journey than travelling by air."
Travellers
can indulge themselves on their way to and from the slopes by
travelling Standard Premier, where they will enjoy more spacious
seating as well as light meals and drinks served at their seat.
Tickets
are on sale from Thursday 11 October and passengers are advised to
book early to avoid disappointment.
Eurostar's
direct ski services to the heart of the French Alps are also open for
sale. The direct day and night services carry ski
and snowboarding enthusiasts direct to the popular French
ski towns of Moûtiers, Aime-La-Plagne* and Bourg St Maurice. The
2012/2013 seasonal ski services will run from 22 December (day
services) and 21 December (night services) until 13 April 2013.
Tickets
for Eurostar's new Swiss Alps ski service and the direct ski services
to the French Alps will be available from http://www.eurostar.com or
by calling 08432 186 186.
