Swooshing downhill, side by side, Kate Middleton and Prince William show that their relationship is definitely on the up.

A playful Miss Middleton even gave her chap a tap with her ski pole as they descended the Alpine slopes.

The couple are enjoying a week-long break together in Klosters, where biting winds and heavy snowfalls have made skiing conditions less than ideal.

Scroll down for more...

The prince and the snow girl: Kate Middleton's playful prod with a ski pole shows how close she and Prince William are as they enjoy the slopes of Klosters

That has not deterred 26-year-old Miss Middleton, who confidently tackled some challenging off-piste runs before enjoying a romantic lunch with William in a chalet high in the mountains.

Their obvious closeness puts paid to mischievous rumours that their four-year relationship is on the rocks again following their temporary split last year.

While they have spent only a handful of weekends together since the beginning of the year, this is due to Army officer William's intensive three-month attachment to the RAF.

Scroll down for more...

Kate and William's visit to the exclusive ski resort scotches rumours their relationship is on the rocks

The reality, friends say, is that their romance is stronger than ever.

The pair are due to be joined in Switzerland later in the week by Prince Charles, further cementing Miss Middleton's growing confidence at the heart of the Royal Family.

A source close to William told the Daily Mail: "His father sees Kate often and has become very fond of her. It is going to be a real family holiday."

William pauses to give Kate a helping hand as she adjusts her ski goggles