Eurostar has announced a new ski service from London to the Alps. From 16 December, ski and snowboard enthusiasts can head to the pistes by making a quick and easy connection in Lille before continuing their journey on a Eurostar continental train.

Offering a hassle-free and sustainable alternative to flying, Eurostar Snow will whisk travellers to top ski resorts, such as Chambéry, Albertville, Moutiers, Aime-La Plagne, before arriving in Bourg-Saint-Maurice as its final destination.

The service will run for eight weekends throughout the ski season. Leaving on Saturday morning, the train will arrive at the slopes in perfect time for après-ski. The journey back to London will depart Sunday morning, arriving at St Pancras International in the afternoon.

With fixed fares starting from £99 one-way in Standard and £149 in Standard Premier, passengers will also benefit from a generous luggage allowance offering each traveller two suitcases, one piece of hand luggage and skis or snowboard at no extra cost.

Those travelling from France back to the UK will go through check-in, security, and immigration on arrival to Lille Europe before continuing their journey to London.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via Eurostar.com.