Inghams Ski has committed to supporting a new Eurostar connecting route to the Alps by purchasing an allocation of 10 seats a week throughout the winter.
The operator, a leading voice in a campaign to bring back the original long running ski train which ceased operations due to the pandemic, has also taken the option to sell more on request.
The new Eurostar Snow service from London to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, with a change of trains in Lille, will run for eight weekends from December 16.
The Inghams rail-based packages will serve the Val d’Isère, Tignes and Les Arcs ski areas.
Operating from Saturday to Sunday, the new train not only offers skiers and boarders a more sustainable travel option, but also an extra day to on the slopes.
With traditional ski packages running Saturday to Saturday, Inghams Ski has arranged seven-day lift passes for the price of six for customers returning by train on the Sunday, with the option to store luggage in their hotel or chalet.
Customers will then be transferred on Saturday night to accommodation next to the station in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, ready for their return journey on Sunday morning.
Hotelplan UK and Inghams Ski senior sustainability manager Krissy Roe said: “We are so excited to be able to offer our customers a new, more sustainable travel option after a frustrating few years of debate around the ski train.
“We are proud to be one of Eurostar’s partners at the launch of this service and are committed to supporting them on this venture.”
She added: “Flying is the fastest growing source of carbon emissions and has the largest slice of the pie when it comes to the carbon footprint of our customers holidays. To be able to offer a lower carbon alternative that is convenient and competitive on price is hugely welcomed.
“We’re expecting the train to prove popular with guests this coming season as people seek out more sustainable holidays.”
The Hotelplan UK group of brands, which includes Inghams Ski, has committed to cutting emissions by 50% by 2030.
Prices for eight nights half board at Hotel Ducs de Savoie, Val d’Isère start at £1,298 per person, departing on January 6 from Kings Cross St. Pancras including rail travel, transfers and overnight stay in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, based on two adults sharing.