Snow Base have obviously looked at existing indoor slopes and made sure that they got theirs right.
They have massive windows at the top and bottom of the main slope, giving it a light airy feel. Nearly all of the areas within the building benefit from natural light. With 41 metres of drop and at 220 metres long, the main slope is longer than an any of the current UK indoor slopes. The changing area is upstairs along with the entry exit turnstiles and the ski / snowboard equipment hire counter. There is even a view of the slope from the locker area. Lockers are available at a reasonable 50 Euro cents (non refundable). Buying slope time from 1 to 4 hours, gives you just that. Your time on the slope is counted as you enter and leave through the turnstiles. If you decide to go for a drink in the bar or have a meal in the middle of your session you will not lose out.
Uplift on the main slope is by two Poma Buttons tows on either side. Most of the lift pulleys are suspended from the roof in order to save space.
Snow Base also has a 110 metre long learner's slope. This is served by a "magic carpet".
I first visited on a Sunday Afternoon in April and the slopes were reasonably quiet. No lift queues and or queues to use the snow park equipment on the right hand side of the main slope.
Snow Base includes an outdoor pursuits shop with a selection of ski and snowboard equipment along with clothing. There is also a fitness centre / gym in the complex while a number of empty units have yet to be leased.
Snow Base has a big restaurant on the Ground Floor giving it excellent views of the whole slope. Food is reasonably priced. The décor is modern, no pine cladding and old skis mounted on the walls. There are a number of large screen TV's around the complex including the restaurant, bars and the equipment hire desk. While I was there a snowboard DVD was showing. In addition to the restaurant Snow Base has two bars. One adjacent to the restaurant with its own open fire and one upstairs by the lockers and equipment hire desk. Another unique feature is the outside patio on the First Floor. Here you can sit, eat, drink or lie on sun lounger and work on your goggle tan while watching the windmills turning.
Prices
An hours slope time starts at €17.50 for an adult Monday to Friday While a day pass costs €35 at the weekend. Midweek you can get 10 hours on the slope for €34.50 or €36.50 on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. Equipment hire is not included so it pays to take your own. The really good deals are for season tickets. You can buy a pass for 10 full days for €105.