Les Orres, France
One of the largest ski areas in the Southern Alps, with 17 lifts and 100km of slopes, Les Orres needed to expand and modernize its snowmaking infrastructure to consistently achieve 80% trail coverage before Christmas across rugged alpine terrain.
Objectives and Solutions
Les Orres, France features 17 lifts, 100 km of slopes and is one of the largest ski areas in the Southern Alps. Les Orres first tried SMI’s products in 2007 and has had a strong relationship ever since. Over the past decade, Les Orres has partnered with SMI to invest in new snowmaking infrastructure, including a new snowmaking reservoir, piping, and guns.
Another interesting fact is that at the end of the season, the Les Orres team removes the snowmaking equipment via helicopter, and reinstalls prior to the season. Due to the rugged build of the equipment, it is safe to fly via helicopter and is simple and quick to re-install.
In 2021, the ski area has invested in a new beginner area, detachable ski lift and new snowmaking infrastructure including vaults, piping and snowguns.
With an annual snowmaking goal of covering 80% of the trails before Christmas, this system packs a punch and gets the job done.
Thank you to the Les Orres team for trusting SMI with your snowmaking and for our continued partnership.
SMI Infrastructure Installed
Pumping & Water Management:
50 m³/hr pumping capacity with a gravity-fed system
Multiple pump stations controlled remotely
Valve house at the lake
Piping & Distribution (2012 expansion):
1,500 meters (4,921 feet) of cast iron pipes and cables
11 high-technology vaults with a unique 2-piece concrete square ring design and a culvert with a side inlet connection
Additional vaults and piping for the 2021 beginner area expansion
Automation & Control:
SmartSnow software controls valve house, multiple pump stations, and the entire snowmaking fleet
Snowmaking Equipment:
47 Pumas and PoleCats
25 V2 and Grizzly units (hill air)
Grizzly LowE sticks for the terrain park near the chalets (reduced noise)
Grizzly NT units for cat tracks
Performance & Results:
Consistent 80% trail coverage achieved before Christmas annually
Durable equipment withstands seasonal helicopter removal and reinstallation
Noise-reduced equipment maintains guest experience near chalets
