Late snowfall and sunshine save French winter season

The Observatoire National des Stations de Montagne noted 88% average occupancy across the country, up 0.9% on the year before.

Tourist residences were stable at 92% occupancy, as were rentals between members of the public or via agencies.

Hotels saw a rise, from 79% in 2018 to 86%, partly explained by increased flexibility on lengths of stay and more people taking short breaks.

Good snow depth and fine weather gave a boost but the number of nights booked in accommodation by Britons fell, though only by 2.6%.

Charles-Ange Ginésy, of the ski resort mayors’ association, said “very favourable weather conditions over the winter holidays boosted figures and offset a late start to the season at some resorts. Hard work allowed very good occupancy rates”.

The Pyrenees were badly hit by poor early snow and even the February boost did not help.

Cauterets was an exception and was the last resort to close. It had 30,000 skiers in April.