We have reached the half-way point of our skiing trip to Madonna di Campiglio in Italy and the months of anticipation have been vindicated already.
It was both a late and early start for the group on Friday as we congregated outside the school at 11pm to embark on the arduous journey to Dublin Airport. Our early morning flight came and passed quickly and after a scenic bus route to the Dolomites, we were finally at our destination at Hotel Perla on Saturday Afternoon.
The group settled into their rooms and spent the evening rambling around the town of Madonna di Campiglio followed by dinner in our hotel. An early night was had by all because with Sunday came the promise of the first day on the slopes.
Sunday commenced with a brief commute to our base hotel where we store our equipment and have lunch everyday. Once we zipped up our ski jackets, clipped on our boots and strapped on our helmets, we were ready to go! The first day was beautifully clear and it was dedicated to refining the art of braking on the nursery slopes. The evening finished with a leisurely trip to the supermarket and dinner in our hotel.
On Monday, our daily routine was in full swing as we had our breakfast and travelled to the slopes once again where groups sought to practise how to turn and progress down the slope. Fatigue permeated throughout the group at this point due to the strenuous activity and travelling and hence, a quiet night was had.
Tuesday was a formative day for all because we saw major improvements in terms of skiing ability within the group. Most took their first gondola and tackled blue slopes. Some even dared to descend red ones with the guidance of their knowledgeable ski instructors. Tuesday evening featured a very enjoyable dinner night at a local pizzeria which was the perfect climax to a very exciting day.
There is still more skiing and activities to come for the 5th years and they are enjoying every minute of it.
