At 74, I never imagined a broken hip would reignite my passion for skiing. But here’s where it gets controversial: could my injury, sustained on indoor snow rather than a slippery sidewalk, have actually helped my case for a full hip replacement? The hospital consultant seemed to think so, opting for surgery over a temporary fix. Little did I know, this setback would lead to a remarkable comeback on the slopes.
In the bleak aftermath, doubts clouded my mind. Would I ever ski again? This despair was compounded by the loss of the previous year’s ski holiday due to a technical glitch at Heathrow’s Terminal 5. Two years stolen from my skiing lifespan felt like a devastating blow. Skiing isn’t just a vacation—it’s a lifelong passion. For over 30 years, my non-skiing husband has patiently supported my annual pilgrimage to the mountains, while I’ve carved my way down slopes across the globe. Could this cherished tradition really be over?
But here’s the part most people miss: age and injury don’t have to end your skiing days. As I leaned on my crutches, searching for answers, I stumbled upon a Facebook group called “UK Creaky Skiers.” Created by two retired teachers just days before my accident, this community became my lifeline. The advice from fellow “Creakies” was nothing short of inspiring. Broken bones, replaced joints, even missing limbs—nothing stops these determined skiers. One 84-year-old woman shared her story of breaking her leg and vowed to return to the slopes after 18 months of fitness training. Inspired, I began weekly gym sessions, starting with the daunting task of simply putting weight on my injured leg.
The group’s discussions were both practical and hilarious: the best ski trousers to fit over knee braces, boots for arthritic feet, and even shock-absorbing underwear designed for athletes. And this is the part most people miss: the camaraderie among older skiers is unparalleled. We’re not just skiing; we’re defying expectations and redefining what it means to age gracefully.
Somebody suggested I explore the Ski Club of Great Britain’s Freshtracks “Peak Experience” holidays—a clever way of saying over-60s trips. Skeptical at first, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to find a perfect fit. You simply select your skill level, choose between lessons or social skiing, and voilà—options across Europe, North America, and Japan appear. All it takes is a Ski Club membership (starting at £90).
On my hip’s first anniversary, I joined 24 other skiers (and one mountain-loving non-skier) aged 62 to 83 in Lenzerheide, a charming Swiss village nestled beside a lake. This overlooked gem boasts 225km of pistes, an excellent lift system linking to Arosa, and a four-star hotel with a pool, sauna, and steam room. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite being a favorite of Roger Federer and Margaret Thatcher, Lenzerheide remains relatively unknown in the UK. Why? Locals whisper about the British royals’ preference for Klosters.
Yet, Lenzerheide is making a comeback. With significant investments, including a cable-car link to Arosa at 2,500m, it’s carving its way back onto the map. In high season, it offers tobogganing, light shows, and even biathlon experiences—yes, you can try cross-country skiing and shooting for just 99CHF (£93). Off-peak, it’s quieter, with cafés closing early, but the hotels and bars still offer plenty of charm.
Our week was a mix of adventure and camaraderie. Divided into small guided groups based on skill and speed, we explored wide, empty pistes with no lift queues. It felt like having the mountain to ourselves. We bonded over family-style meals, shared stories, and even formed a WhatsApp group. And this is the part most people miss: you’re never too old to make new friends or rediscover your passion.
The debate over King Charles giving up skiing at 76 sparked lively discussions. Most agreed: keep skiing as long as you’re fit and enjoy it. But be ski intelligent—choose the right conditions and know your limits. Two of our group retired hurt in the final days, one wondering if it was the end of an era, while the other has already rebooked for 2026.
For me, after a shaky start, I found myself soaring under blue skies once more. Maybe not as fast or far as in my forties, but back in my happy place—and in the best company imaginable.
Controversial question for you: Should there be an age limit for skiing, or is it a sport for life? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Liz Vercoe traveled independently. The Ski Club of Great Britain offers seven nights’ half-board on a Freshtracks Peak Experience holiday to Lenzerheide from £2,495pp, including flights, transfers, and a six-day lift pass. Next departures: February 1 and March 15. A year’s adult Ski Club membership costs from £90 (skiclub.co.uk).
