Contrary to appearances, there is also a good aspect to a snowy winter ? for fans of 'the white craze' snow and frost mean a longer ski season. In Poznan you can go skiing without leaving the city. The Malta ski slope is covered by more than 70 cm of real snow.

The Malta ski slope is open all year round. But for most of the year, skiers may enjoy schussing down only artificial surface. For Poznan's skiers, the long, cold, snowy winter means a bit of a substitute for real mountains.

As the winter begins, Malta becomes covered by real snow. The level of snow on the slope may be also possibly augmented by snow cannons, and due to the low temperatures snow can be properly controlled, as the Malta ski centre possesses a necessary snow groomer.

Skiers may get to the top of the Malta ski slope by using either of two lifts: a ski tow or a chair lift. Although the slope attracts many enthusiasts of skiing on weekends, you won't queue for too long even in the rush hours. That is why you can really enjoy skiing. 'Of course, these are not real mountains, but you can practice your technique, take exercise and get some fresh air,? says Kalina, who visits Malta with her children several times a week. Marek's opinion is similar ? 'It's hard to compare it with the Tatra Mountains or Alps, but the opportunity of skiing without leaving Poznan has some pros.'

With artificial lighting, the slope is open until 10.00 pm.

The All-year-round Malta Ski Centre was launched in February 1993. Since its inception, the centre has also offered skiing and snowboarding lessons, dozens of instructors teaching both children and adults. It is worth mentioning that it was right here that many Poznan skiers began their skiing adventure.