When the sun shines as if it were high summer, the Punch Bowl saves the day. Like many parts of the Wengen ski area, it was named the best part of a century ago by British skiers enjoying a leisurely winter in the Bernese Oberland. The runs back to the Eigernordwand chair, in the shadow of the north face of the Eiger, were in great condition until late in the afternoon.
Earlier, there had been some decent skiing on Mannlichen but by midday the snow was past its best. It is spring, but winter weather is still trying hard to show up, with some snow in prospect over the weekend. Whether it happens or not, the forecast may keep the mountain quiet on Saturday.
A very good day, courtesy of the Punch Bowl, brought 10,240 vertical metres in 20 lift rides and 60 kilometres travelled.
Idle thoughts from a mountain 