Sales of Eurostar’s new connecting service for wintersports passengers heading to the French Alps start on Thursday (August 31).
In July, the train operator said its direct service to the ski slopes would be dropped this winter, with a new option being introduced with a change of train in Lille.
Travellers on the new Eurostar Snow service from London via Lille Europe can reach ski resorts such as Chambéry, Albertville, Moutiers, Aime-La Plagne and Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
Starting on December 16, Eurostar Snow will run for eight weekends throughout the ski season.
Eurostar said: “Leaving on Saturday morning, the train will arrive at the slopes in perfect time for après-ski. The journey back to London will depart Sunday morning, arriving at St Pancras International in the afternoon.”
Francois Le Doze, chief commercial officer at Eurostar Group, said: “We’re proud to offer our customers a sustainable travel option to the Alps by launching our first connecting service as Eurostar Group.
“With a quick and easy connection, competitive pricing and five stops to choose from, passengers can enjoy a seamless experience with us from the city of London to the snowcapped mountains of France.”
Fixed fares start from £99 one-way in standard and £149 in standard premier. Passengers can carry skis or snowboard at no extra cost.
Passengers travelling from France back to the UK will go through check-in, security and immigration on arrival to Lille Europe before continuing their journey to London.
Specialist operator Travelski used to offer packages with the direct service that included train travel, accommodation, resort transfers and a seven-day lift pass.
It is now offering packages for this winter featuring the new service via Lille, where the connection time is 50 minutes for outbound travellers and one hour 15 minutes on the journey back to London.
Travelski works with a range of ski specialist travel agents including Ski Solutions, Sno, Iglu and others.