In early April, the Aosta Valley of northern Italy presents a unique blend of seasons. At the base of Courmayeur, nestled beneath Mont Blanc, spring's arrival is evident with budding trees and bustling terraces filled with Italians enjoying the warm weather. However, higher up, winter still holds its grip, with fresh snow coating the slopes after a late-season storm. This dichotomy highlights the impact of climate change on alpine regions, where Danielle Stynes, founder of SwisSkiSafari, has been navigating these changes for two decades. Her approach to creating custom ski safaris across Switzerland, France, and Italy showcases her adaptability and resourcefulness in finding optimal snow conditions despite warming trends.

Danielle Stynes, an Australian expatriate who has lived in Switzerland for 30 years, has built her business around being nimble and adaptable. Recognizing that climate change affects snowfall patterns, she emphasizes the importance of flexibility in planning ski trips. While many in the industry lament the diminishing snow cover, Stynes sees this as an opportunity to be more creative. She employs advanced forecasting techniques and maintains close relationships with helicopter and snowmobile companies to ensure her clients can access the best terrain at any given time. One of her standout experiences includes organizing a James Bond-themed ski safari, complete with faux spies, a mountaintop casino, and a torch-lit descent pursued by ski patrollers disguised as villains.

The Aosta Valley, located in the Western Alps, offers a lesser-known yet promising destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Stynes believes this region, with its high-altitude resorts and glacier skiing, holds untapped potential, especially as temperatures fluctuate. She begins her safaris in Zermatt, Switzerland, where guests enjoy skiing under the shadow of the Matterhorn before moving on to explore the Mont Blanc massif in Courmayeur. The valley also serves as a base for developing new spring-safari routes that capitalize on milder winters, late-season storms, and longer daylight hours. Stynes aims to integrate cultural experiences into these trips, such as wine tasting and boating, offering a comprehensive alpine adventure beyond just skiing.

Stynes' expertise in coordinating logistics is exemplified during a reconnaissance trip to scout new experiences. After consulting with Robert Bolognesi, a snow forecasting expert, she adjusts the itinerary to optimize conditions. Guests are whisked away by helicopter to L’Albereta, a luxury property in Lombardy’s Franciacorta wine region, where they enjoy winery tours and boat rides on Lake Iseo. Upon returning to Courmayeur, they experience a perfect powder run on Glacier du Trient, followed by a ski tour of the Great Saint Bernard Pass. The journey culminates with a visit to l’Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard, a medieval refuge perched at 8,100 feet.

Despite the challenges posed by climate change, Stynes remains optimistic. She plans to introduce a new spring-safari format for 2025, combining skiing with Michelin-star meals, wine tastings, and spa treatments. Her philosophy centers on creating memorable experiences regardless of weather conditions. "We can't control the weather," she says, "but we can create a memorable experience around what Mother Nature deals us." Through her innovative approach, Stynes ensures that skiers can still find joy and adventure in the ever-changing alpine landscape.