Hi everyone,
Am trying to make plans for next winter. So far the idea is to convert a van over the next few months and set off in November to spend the winter in Europe, working a little but mainly living in the van and riding and climbing as much as possible.

I’ve been looking at Spain as I speak ok Spanish and it all sounds a little more chill than the Alps, but have no idea where to start after that really.
Am basically after a relatively relaxed place (as in not filled with crazy parties and posh kids on their “gap yah”, but with a good backcountry scene and easy to meet people), with some lifts for lazy days and access to “mid-level” backcountry – i’m not after super exposed alpine gnar. A mix of low angle pow and steeper faces and chutes but without too much consequence, stuff you can ride fast and fun would be my cup of tea!
I’m also a keen winter climber, so somewhere that also ties in with good alpine or ice routes and surrounding scene would be ideal.

Any other tips for van life and finding work (have lots of experience in the hospitality industry, both front and back of house, but also enjoy working outdoors and good at woodwork and general maintenance. Would ideally like to find a part time job that gets me a lift pass plus a bit of cash) would be much appreciated.

And if anyone wants to show a dirtbag van dwelling scotsman round their local turf, let me know!