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Welcome to Consensio’s seventh annual ski and lifestyle magazine.
This winter we see the launch of our first catered ski chalet in Switzerland, a luxury ski lodge right by the piste (page 56, Tivoli Lodge), and unveil a fantastic new self-catered apartment (page 28, Apartment Jossane). Also take a look inside the latest addition to our popular Relaxed Catered Chalet portfolio, which provides a more understated level of luxury chalet holiday (page 10, Chalet Chopine).
This summer we become one of the first winter ski operators to publish their actual carbon footprint along with a Net Zero sustainability plan. Working with Ecollective, we calculated that we on average produce 171kg CO2e per guest night. Based on this, we have set a target of reducing our emissions by 7% each year, with the target of reaching Net Zero by 2035.
This is the start of our journey, and we do not have all the answers yet, but that is not stopping us from taking the first step. Read about how to enjoy an eco-friendly holiday (page
38), and how to avoid flying by travelling to the Alps by train (page 60).
Accessibility is something both we and our partner charity Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK) believe in. We have teamed up with them to ensure that everyone can enjoy a holiday in our amazing properties, no matter what their requirements are. Read all about it (page 76).
The DSUK team are experts in accessible snowsports and are working with us to ensure that fully accessible holidays can be enjoyed while not compromising on luxury, bringing the Consensio experience to all.
We are also delighted to once again be sponsoring a free ski lesson so a child can learn to ski each week of the winter season.
We look forward to welcoming you to one of our Consensio properties this winter.
Ceri Tinley Co-Founder / Managing Director
Consensio Chalets, 9 Reece Mews, South Kensington, London SW7 3HE +44 (0) 203 393 0833 sales@consensiochalets.co.uk www.consensiochalets.co.uk
6 Keeping children happy on a ski trip
Top tips from Mummy in the Mountains expert Simi Johnson-Curt.
10 Chilled-out luxury ski holidays
Read all about Consensio’s new Relaxed Catered Chalet.
16 Après-ski for the soul!
Bonne Santé’s experts advise on how to relax in style and stay mountain fit.
20 Self-catered apartment vs luxury hotel
How to choose the best accommodation to suit you, your family or your group.
24 The secret life of a chalet manager
An insight into how Consensio’s Marcus Harrison-Empey keeps one of France’s greatest ski chalets running smoothly.
28 The hottest new apartment in Méribel뵀
Consensio’s luxurious new apartment takes pole position in this fabulous French resort.
38 Carbon-conscious ski travel
Consensio is on a major mission to go green. MD Ceri Tinley reveals how you can reduce your footprint on a ski trip.
42 Mixing it up…
Love cocktails? Mountain mixologist
Myles Knight tempts our taste buds with his new, personalised chalet service.
60
A group of friends cut their carbon (and their costs) by jumping on the Eurostar and into a Tesla, and absolutely loved it!
64 It’s a nice day for a white wedding
A wedding amid the magical snow is as romantic as it gets, whether big or small.
68 Off the beaten piste
46 Aim for the sky
The thrill of heli-skiing with a renovated Relaxed Catered Chalet to come home to.
50 Now for something completely different – try some non-ski activities!
It doesn’t have to be all about skiing – see other ways to get the adrenaline pumping.
Learn the vital steps to be fully prepared for backcountry/off-piste adventures.
72 Building your dream chalet
A chalet owner tells us how he created his own luxury chalet in Courchevel, which Consensio guests can enjoy too.
34 Let sleeping dogs lie in luxury
Want to bring your dog on your next ski holiday? Here’s how – read on.
56 Swiss you were here…
Take a peek at Consensio’s first Ultimate Chalet in the Swiss Alps!
76 “Why shouldn’t a wheelchair be on top of a mountain?”
Disability Snowsport UK explains how they offer accessible snowsports to all!
Going skiing with children is one of the best things ever, subject to the right organisation and forward planning. The experiences and shared family moments are quite simply unforgettable.
My own ski holidays as a child fuelled my passion for the mountains. Based in the French Alps for over 20 years, and now a mother of three active girls, I ski with them as much as possible.
In fact, my love of the mountains inspired my blog ‘Mummy In The Mountains’, and then the creation of my company ‘MIM – Play & Explore’. We create eco-friendly, personalised and creative gifts, and welcome packs that reinforce kids’ love of the mountains and super-cool destinations.
In partnership with award-winning chalet company Consensio, we have put together here our personal top tips for skiing as a family. Our aim is to help make the experience of skiing with your children as enjoyable as possible.
Like an event, preplanning is key Location, location, location. Where you are based can make or break your holiday. So use the expertise of a company like Consensio, which can advise you on resorts and properties to suit your group’s specific needs. The team’s insider knowledge and experience will help you choose the right resort for the time of year and then the best property, whether you enjoy the charm of being in the heart of a mountain village or prefer something more secluded.
A home from home, all of Consensio’s properties have been hand-picked to match family needs, enabling you to relax and
enjoy your holiday. All chalets have family-focused facilities and services, from stair gates and bed guards to baby monitors, and pool rooms can be locked off if required. They also come fully stocked with toys, books and games consoles to make the holiday even more fun for the little ones.
Regarding catering, there are three categories – Ultimate Catered Chalets, Relaxed Catered Chalets and Self-Catered Apartments. For Ultimate Catered, Chalet Le Namaste is one of the leading private homes in Courchevel 1850 and is perfect for a holiday with children.
Located in the exclusive, gated Hameau de Cachemire, it boasts one of the most desired addresses in this fashionable resort and provides easy direct ski-in ski-out access to the green Bellecôte piste, bringing you directly to the heart of the resort and main lift departures. This means your little ones can ski right into the chalet at the end of the day.
This modern Alpine chalet recently underwent a €1m renovation, increasing the size of the property and bringing you four floors of complete luxury. Ultimate Chalet Namaste sleeps 10 adults and four children, and features a gorgeous
bunk room for little ones, complete with an en suite. Adjacent to the children’s room there is a convenient lounge area with a TV – great for youngsters to relax and play in their own space.
With a spa, indoor swimming pool, sauna, massage room and a Pilates/yoga/stretching/workout area, Namaste has something for the whole family to enjoy.
When your kids are not skiing, it’s good to have downtime activities planned to avoid the ultimate temptation of watching screens all the time. Consensio has the right balance of activities organised for everyone, from the above mentioned child-focused in-chalet amenities to little extra presents.
Upon arrival on a Consensio holiday, kids get their very own Charlie Bear (a lovable soft teddy bear), who is waiting on their bed to give them special cuddles and help them feel at home.
For a stress-free week, max out on the pre-arrival concierge service as far in advance as possible Certain in-resort activities tend to fill up super quickly – whether it’s a specific restaurant, the husky ride your son or daughter has dreamed of doing, or the promised torch-lit descent down a mountain. Let the Consensio team help and advise you on activities to avoid any disappointment.
Pre-book ski instructors and leave teaching to the pros
It’s best to book private professional instructors for the children. This will give you greater flexibility in drop-off points and better direct communication with the instructor, and you can always plan lunch or an improvised run together. Keep the focus on having fun rather than performance.
Remember, like everything, every child will progress at their own pace – even if a friend of the same age is at a better level, who cares? We all have good and bad days. If your children want an afternoon off, let them. Even active kids need time to relax.
Dress for the mountain and the cold Warm, dry children equals happy children. Ensuring your kids are warm, comfortable and as safe as possible is a fine art composed of a mixture of lots of different elements when it comes to snowsports.
Helmets, back protection, gloves, decent socks, neck warmers and goggles can be just as important as the jackets and trousers. A child with cold hands will not enjoy their holiday (I speak from experience!)
Consensio chalet boot room is stocked with a range of snacks to pop in your pocket, so make sure you do to keep both you and your little ones full of vital energy while out adventuring.
Last, but not least… have fun, enjoy the adventure and look around you – it’s beautiful!
You can’t ski well on an empty stomach Ensure your kids eat a good breakfast. The luxury of staying in a fully catered chalet is that they can choose whatever they like to eat before they venture out to ensure they are fully fuelled for the day ahead!
I find it is always handy to pop a mini chocolate or energy bar into your kids’ pockets, too, especially if it is super cold. Every
Book Chalet Le Namaste online for your next luxury ski holiday. www.consensiochalets.co.uk
MIM – Play & Explore specialises in creating personalised, playful, creative gifts for families. Founded in 2017 and based in the Alps, it offers products made in the mountains with local artists, and printed in Europe on recycled paper from sustainable sources. Conscious of environmental changes, it gives 1% of its turnover to associations involved in mountain conservation through the organisation ‘1% for the Planet’. Its philosophy is based on sharing moments as a family while reinforcing mountain love through creative activities. www.mimplayandexplore.com/en
Mummy in the Mountains provides children’s entertainment packs for businesses and individuals alike.
Etsy: MummyintheMountains
Consensio’s exclusive new Relaxed Catered portfolio benefits from the world-class personal concierge service afforded to all its guests, plus an in-house Consensio chalet team that includes two dedicated hosts/ cooks and a housekeeper, as well as an in-resort chalet-to-piste chauffeur service.
Chalet Chopine was the founding chalet of this collection and makes for a wonderful mountain escape. Wonderfully cosy and nestled in the heart of Méribel, Chopine has been designed with Alpine style at its forefront and is home to bespoke furniture and lovely little details around each corner.
Sleeping 10 guests in complete comfort, Relaxed Chalet Chopine is located in the private Dou du Pont area, just a couple of minutes’ drive from the La Chaudanne lifts in your private Consensio chalet-to-piste shuttle.
Additionally, the centre of the resort – offering restaurants, shops and bars – is only a short walk from the chalet’s front door.
After a long day exploring the phenomenal, far-reaching
pistes of the Trois Vallées, sit back and put your feet up by the open log fire while enjoying a mouth-watering afternoon tea.
Chalet Chopine features a sauna, hammam and a large indoor Jacuzzi where you can enjoy your favourite choice of music while relaxing. Your chalet team can also arrange any kind of massage or spa treatment to make your stay that extra bit special. And while the team prepare your evening meal, why not unwind in the spa with a glass of complimentary Perrier-Jouët Champagne?
For an evening spent cuddled up with your loved ones, the separate TV snug is perfect for both adults and children to switch off and enjoy the latest blockbuster hits.
Wrapping around the chalet is a large terrace that looks out on to incredible panoramic vistas of Mont Vallon. This is a fabulous spot to admire the beauty of a star-spangled clear night sky while enjoying your favourite drink from the open chalet bar before bed.
After a restful night’s sleep you can enjoy a truly delicious breakfast prepared by your chalet team and head to the ski room to find your boots all cosy and warmed after a night on the heated boot warmers. A great start to the morning.
This new chalet collection from Consensio offers affordable luxury
to those wanting to upgrade their normal hotel or self-catered ski bookings, and these Relaxed Catered ski chalets are ideal for families with young children or groups looking for a more lowkey mountain escape.
Book Chalet Chopine direct online at: www.consensiochalets.co.uk
Unlike a beach or city break, a trip to some snowy hills is inherently active, and exercise is proven to aid both mental and physical health in several ways. Whether it is skiing, boarding, hiking, or simply walking through a snowy Alpine town centre, you are moving, and the air is thinner at altitude and your body has to work harder in general.
These forms of challenging and exhilarating aerobic exercises increase your blood flow, improve fitness and calm an overstressed mind, providing a truly restful break.
Ultimately, physical exertion in the mountains releases happiness-boosting endorphins and dopamine, which is why adventuring while on holiday gives you that feel-good buzz.
The beauty of snowsports is that they offer a limitless set of challenges for both beginners and experts so you can stay mentally and physically stimulated.
Ask anyone – the joy of successfully completing your first black run, or beating a hill of moguls, is difficult to replicate. You can push your limits and engage in more thrill-seeking activities, or you can stick to the relaxing slopes if this is more fulfilling.
So, what about the more holistic approach? Read on to find out…
“If you have muscular aches and pains post-workout, want to improve your athletic performance during downtime, or simply want to relax, a massage is an incredible solution.”
Anna Marie Gleeson, clinical lead at Bonne Santé Alps Physiotherapy and Wellbeing
state-of-the-art projector screen descending at the touch of a button, along with a massage room, sauna, hammam, gym and indoor Jacuzzi. A further outdoor hot tub is accessed via the front bedroom terraces.
And you can rest assured that Chalet Lhotse’s pools and Jacuzzis use the latest ozone technology to be completely chlorine-free. The natural freshwater oxygen process provides a non-toxic, healthy and environmentally-friendly alternative.
If that still doesn’t create enough Zen on your trip, then how about some yoga?
Studies into massage have demonstrated that it is an effective treatment for a variety of conditions and situations. Some studies have found the practice decreases muscle soreness and tension, reduces recovery time from an injury, improves muscle flexibility and circulation, and improves your sleep quality.
An in-chalet massage is the ultimate chill experience, enhanced by a scenic backdrop and the quiet, calming and healing powers of the mountain.
And why not sink thankfully into your own personal spa facilities afterwards for true bliss?
All Consensio chalets come complete with spa facilities, however if you want a truly amazing winter wellness break, Ultimate Catered Chalet Lhotse is for you!
Chalet Lhotse’s spa facilities are truly phenomenal. Located on the ground floor is a large indoor swimming pool with a
Jennie Martin, owner of Bonne Santé Alps Physiotherapy and Wellbeing.
Yoga is the yin to skiing’s yang. They complement each other perfectly. When you incorporate yoga practice into your holiday, you allow your body a chance to recover, awaken and engage. You can strengthen muscles in the morning and relax and lengthen them in the afternoon and evenings.
Not only is there the physical asana (body posture) aspect of yoga to consider, but the meditative breathwork provides synergistic benefits such as core strength, flexibility, relaxation, positivity and, predominantly, that mind-body (and mountain)
“Yoga links the mind and body in and out of balance through the flowing of breath. It is a live, breathing art, inspired from the depths of nature. So, what perfect place to honour and celebrate this than in the breathtaking views of the Alps. Everyone should experience yoga in the mountains… it’s unforgettable!”
connection. Yoga ‘creates space’ and is a deeply nourishing and restorative practice – the ideal companion to an energetic day on the slopes.
When staying in Chalet Lhotse, the Bonne Santé team can come to you to provide incredible yoga classes.
Whether you’re enjoying a class in the warmth of the spa or gym or in the fresh Alpine air out on the balcony overlooking the mountains, you will truly unwind in sumptuous surroundings offered by Consensio.
Alpine holidays offer the ultimate break from the stresses of day-to-day life. A snow trip will not only allow you to spend quality time with family and friends amid the beauty and peace of nature, but you will find that holidaying up amongst the
clouds also works wonders for your physical and mental health. You can switch off, breathe in the purifying air and truly indulge in whatever ‘time away’ means to you.
Book Chalet Lhotse online for your next luxury ski holiday. www.consensiochalets.co.uk
To book any of these treatments while on a Consensio holiday, simply call your sales concierge before your stay or ask your chalet manager to arrange once you are in the resort. Alternatively, contact Bonne Santé Alps Physiotherapy and Wellbeing directly to get details of treatments or classes this winter season. www.bonnesantealps.com @bonnesantealps
ONCE YOU HAVE CHOSEN WHERE TO SKI, ONE OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT DECISIONS IS YOUR PREFERRED STYLE OF ACCOMMODATION. GETTING THIS RIGHT CAN BE THE UNDERPINNING OF EITHER A GOOD OR BAD EXPERIENCE…
Imagine waking every morning to breathtaking mountain views and a delicious fresh breakfast basket from the local boulangerie, with your day’s activities pre-arranged by your apartment manager!
Unlike a hotel, a luxury self-catered apartment offers the exclusive opportunity to create your dream holiday without the restraints of hotel timings and restaurant-packed tables, with an added element of unparalleled privacy and safety.
A private luxury apartment is synonymous with comfort and flexibility. Whether you feel like spending the day lounging in front of an open fire, skiing your favourite piste, or sampling the latest gourmet cuisine delivery from a Michelin-starred restaurant, you are free to steer your course.
At the heart of any luxury holiday there are three essential factors – the destination, the service and the guests. Consensio’s exclusive portfolio of self-catered apartments is a curated selection of the finest properties located across Val d’Isère and Méribel in the French Alps. Each apartment is unique in design and features an abundance of desirable features.
A spectacular destination is one thing, but the all-determining factor that sets a great tour operator apart from the masses is its service. If you research the details of most luxury ski holiday packages, the prescriptive nature of what is on offer quickly
becomes apparent. However, true luxury should not be inflexible, but personal to the individual.
As such, the service Consensio offers is entirely client-led and every single detail is tailored to match the unique needs and preferences of the guests. Ultimately, the guests make the rules and Consensio helps them curate the very best experience.
So how does a luxury apartment holiday differ from a five-star stay in a top Alpine hotel in the same resort? And is the apartment experience suited to everyone?
An authentic ski holiday experience is, without a doubt, characterised by a cosy Alpine setting. Nothing quite compares to a roaring fire, laid-out fluffy slippers and a home-away-fromhome ambience – and, of course, it wouldn’t be a Consensio holiday without a welcoming bottle of complimentary PerrierJouët Champagne cooling in the fridge.
Self-Catered Apartment Etoile Filante is a modern luxury duplex apartment in the high-altitude resort of Val d’Isère.
With an open-plan seating arrangement around a cosy, atmospheric fireplace, this authentically Alpine luxury apartment is also home to an elegant dining room and a separate kitchen which opens onto a balcony with mountain views.
Upstairs you will find a study area for those who need a quiet space to catch up with some work – a useful luxury not often available in a hotel.
Compared to a hotel, the dining table seats 10, so all guests can enjoy a quiet evening meal together rather than eating in
a noisy shared restaurant space. Additionally, all child-friendly equipment, including high chairs, can be arranged before your visit so they’re in place for your arrival and easily accessible for you all week.
Consensio operates a very small collection of self-catered apartments for which it also provides a dedicated concierge service. Compared to a hotel concierge service, where they are caring for many guests, your personal sales director has the time to get to know you and your party well and will be with you every step of the way, from your initial enquiry right through to the moment you arrive back home.
All services can be arranged, including pre-arrival shopping, food delivery, ski hire, ski guides, lift passes, transfers, nannies, restaurant reservations and resort activities.
Party size also is a great determining factor in whether an apartment or hotel is best for your needs.
Apartments tend to be more suited to the needs of families and larger groups, whereas a couple may find that a five-star hotel is better for them.
It is also important to remember that while Consensio apartments are serviced by apartment and resort managers and overseen by an apartment sales specialist, there is no 24-hour service on offer.
The bottom line? If you are travelling alone or as a couple, are likely to need help during the night or enjoy making friends by dining among strangers, think about a hotel for your next ski holiday. However, if you want a more personalised, private holiday
with a group of loved ones away from all the hubbub of a busy hotel, a luxury Alpine apartment is for you.
And the price comparison may also surprise you! A stay in Apartment Etoile Filante during the last week of many children’s Easter holiday breaks costs just €1,434 per head for nine people, whereas a nearby luxury Val d’Isère hotel costs almost double at a whopping €2,520 per head for the same dates.
If you would like to enquire about Apartment Etoile Filante, or any of Consensio’s other self-catered apartments, contact their dedicated ski sales specialist: sales@consensiochalets.co.uk +44 (0) 203 393 0833 www.consensiochalets.co.uk
STAYING IN A WORLD-FAMOUS SKI CHALET IS ONE THING, BUT WHAT IS IT LIKE TO WORK IN ONE? CONSENSIO’S MARCUS HARRISON-EMPEY GIVES US THE INSIDER LOOK ON WHAT LIFE IS LIKE AS A CHALET MANAGER FOR ONE OF FRANCE’S GREATEST SKI CHALETS…
Istarted my career working in the world of hospitality on cruise liners. I was a hotel manager on five-star cruises for 20 years, and whilst I loved being at sea, I then decided to start looking for a change.
I had a member of staff on board with me who had worked previously in ski chalets and she suggested that I would be an ideal chalet manager. The next Christmas period on my ship’s tour had been cancelled, so I decided to give it everything I had and really immerse myself in the ski season world.
The job was everything I thought it would be and more! Working for Consensio, attention to detail was essential, and while it was a demanding role, it was greatly satisfying when the guests’ expectations were surpassed.
I was hooked, and have spent the last 10 years working as a chalet manager for Consensio, ever since its inception. Over the last decade I have worked in five Consensio chalets, but my favourite has to be its flagship chalet, Marco Polo.
I have managed Marco Polo since it was built in 2012 and am very proud to work in what has become the thrice-titled ‘France’s Best Ski Chalet’ at the World Ski Awards.
Off the bat, I quickly learnt to adapt and improvise at short notice, whether it be responding to friends of guests arriving for dinner without any notice or organising surprise engagement celebrations. While last-minute changes can be challenging, I take pride in providing a superior service and thrive for those moments when I discover a solution.
Change-over day is one of my favourites. Preparation of the chalet can seem somewhat chaotic from the outside looking in, but with a well-oiled team we work like clockwork to get our chalet perfect and ready for our next guests. It is the epitome of ‘teamwork makes the dream work’.
As chalet manager, I do the accounts and stock check while chalet staff start the deep clean – not a quick job!
Once the chalet is immaculate, with all the beds remade and rooms prepared, we then go around it room by room to triple check for any imperfections in the cleaning. We ensure that all towels, dressing gowns and hangers are hanging beautifully, plus do many other little checks, such as making sure every single light bulb works throughout.
My top tip for guests wanting to make the most of their stay would be to make good use of their chalet and concierge team. Every group has their own private Consensio concierge who can make all restaurant, ski guide and experience bookings and reservations before they arrive.
Your concierge also creates a fantastic manifest for me and my chalet team. The more information you provide them with, the better we can make your holiday.
Let them know your favourite cocktails and music and we will have the drinks made and ready for your arrival with a
personalised playlist playing throughout the chalet – and this is just the tip of the service iceberg!
Throughout the week we make sure our guests have all the current information for the rest of their stay, such as when they can go husky sledging or do a torch-light descent, when the best markets are open, or where to go for the best après-ski. As a team, we have a wealth of knowledge on the resort – so use us!
I also love going that extra mile for our guests and creating unforgettable experiences for their friends and families.
My favourite ‘wow’ moment was when we organised a surprise themed birthday party from the film ‘Frozen’ for one of our guests’ children. We bought Frozen fancy-dress costumes for the kids and decorated the entire chalet with Frozen balloons and banners. The children especially loved eating their favourite party food from the Frozen-themed cups and plates we had laid out. I imagine they will remember that party forever – we certainly will. It was a lot of fun for everyone there!
No request is too much for a Consensio team. I remember
getting a request for an outdoor midnight BBQ party on New Year’s Eve. We were delighted to host such a different celebration to welcome in the new year – complete with fireworks, of course!
Over the years I have also hosted many a murder-mystery party – these are always great fun.
As much as I enjoy the mountains, and working in the best chalets in France, it’s the guests who always make the job so special. My favourite guests are those that come back year on year; I cannot name names, but one family in particular is just great and has the most adorable children who I love seeing grow older every year.
While working for Consensio, I have been given some spectacular gifts from guests, too. Alongside fantastic tips, I’ve also been given Dom Perignon vintage Champagne, a Ralph Lauren ski jacket, and many bottles of lovely wine to name but a few appreciative gifts. Our guests truly are the best!
During the summer months I run a boutique chambre d’hôte (private bed and breakfast) in the South of France. However, my heart will always be in Val d’Isère.
Everything in this incredible snow-sure resort is so accessible and flat with a great ambience.
It is my favourite resort by far and one I highly recommend to beginners and experienced skiers alike.
Ultimate Catered Chalet Marco Polo is situated in the heart of Val d’Isère, and comfortably sleeps 10 adults and four children over 1000m² of Alpine-chic living space. The expansive, open-plan living and dining areas open out onto a large balcony offering breathtaking panoramic views of the notorious, blackrated La Face piste.
The incredible eco-friendly, chlorine-free pool in Chalet Marco Polo was designed by Christian Lacroix and is covered in gold leaf for that extra level of indulgence.
Chalet Marco Polo also boasts a spa, a cheese and wine cave, a games and entertainment room, a fully equipped gym, and an interactive racing car game for up to eight players.
Book Chalet Marco Polo online for your next luxury ski holiday. www.consensiochalets.co.uk
Gone are the days when self-catering was a byword for compromise: Apartment Jossane aims to delight guests with its high-end interior design, attention to detail and impressive shared facilities, all within snowballthrowing distance from the piste.
Completed in Spring 2022, the new development has been cleverly designed to ensure the building maximises its position within its enviable surroundings.
Thanks to its location and dual south/south-west aspect, the building benefits from the most sunshine in the valley, which means it is light all day long even in the winter.
And its location at the Rond Point des Pistes means all amenities are close by. Lifts and ski shops are within walking distance and ski school meeting points are 100m away. Méribel centre is only a few minutes away by free bus ride should dinner in one of its many restaurants be on the agenda.
Apartment Jossane comfortably sleeps four adults and four children in two double bedrooms and one children’s room with two full-size single bunk beds, each with a private bathroom.
Bedecked in natural light, the floor-to-ceiling windows stretch across the whole open-plan living and dining area. The dining table seats eight, so all guests can dine in comfort, and the well-designed kitchen makes catering a pleasure.
Jossane also features a 23m2 private wrap-around balcony providing phenomenal views of the pistes and mountain ranges beyond.
If busy skiing mornings and slower-pace afternoons are your thing, after skiing back to only 100m from the ski room door you can sit back, relax and watch the resort action from the comfort of Jossane’s sunny terrace.
Within the building guests can enjoy all of the high-end luxurious facilities one might expect to find in an ultimate luxury chalet. These include an exclusive wellness area boasting a spa and massage rooms where therapists will be waiting to ease the aches and pains of a long day on the slopes.
And if you would like to swap snowballs for golf balls, guests can practise their swing in the building’s golf room, which hosts the latestgeneration golf driving range!
Everything in the development has been designed with guest comfort and convenience in mind – from the generous underground parking spaces with EV chargers to spacious ski lockers fitted with boot dryers.
The ski room has been designed with lots of communal seating and is a great place to meet ski guides before heading off up the stairs – which give direct access to the inviting slopes. For more information about availability within Jossane this coming winter, simply contact Consensio: www.consensiochalets.co.uk +44 (0) 203 393 0833
Afamily ski holiday with your dog can be a great way to spend time together and enjoy quality bonding as well as some outdoor activities. But there’s also plenty that you need to think about before embarking on such an adventure.
The first thing to consider is the location of the chalet. You want to be close enough to the ski slopes so you can get to them quickly, but not in a location that is too noisy as that could alarm your pup, especially if left unattended during the day.
There are many different types of dog-friendly ski chalets so it’s important to find the one that best suits you and your furry friend. Consensio operates an exquisite portfolio of handpicked
Image: © Unsplash
and award-winning dog-friendly luxury chalets in the French Alpine resorts of Courchevel and Val d’Isère.
A stunning example is the ski-in/ski-out Shemshak Lodge, located in an enviable position directly on the piste at Courchevel 1850, which is an ideal destination for humans and dogs alike.
Shemshak sleeps eight adults in four en-suite bedrooms and up to two adults and three children in an en-suite family room. The lodge embodies Alpine-chic design, with furnishings and materials brought together by a top London interior designer.
The chalet’s desirable location means that you are within walking distance of the famous boutiques of Courchevel 1850.
As standard with Consensio, you benefit from having your own private in-resort driver service to whisk you back and forth from the chalet, or to bring your dog to you in the middle of the day for a sunny lunch together.
In the French Alps there is a whole host of fun activities you can do with your pooch. Hiking is great for humans and dogs alike, and you can find many hiking trails that are dog friendly as well as ideal for those who don’t ski or who want a day off from snowsports. Hiking is not only a great way to spend time with your furry friend, but also a great opportunity to explore new places and take in the snowy scenery.
Alternatively, if you would prefer to look for something that’s easy on your joints and fun to do with your dog, snowshoeing is a superb option! It’s also very easy to find trails suitable for dogs.
It’s also worth noting that it is a common misconception that ski resorts allow pets on
the slopes all day. Only rescue dogs are allowed on the pistes during working hours across most ski resorts.
However, many ski resorts allow you to walk your dog on the pistes before the lifts open for the day, providing owners keep their dogs on leashes or under voice control.
For your days on the slopes, your dedicated concierge can arrange for dog-walking and dog-sitting services to take the stress out of your stay.
Consensio’s team will ensure that both your stay and your four-legged friend’s are uncompromisingly bespoke, providing you with the ultimate winter chalet experience.
If you would like to bring your dog with you on your next ski holiday, get in touch with Consensio to find the ideal chalet for you both. www.consensiochalets.co.uk
WE ARE ALL LOOKING FOR WAYS TO REDUCE OUR IMPACT ON THE PLANET, AND WHILE A SKI TRIP CAN BE A CARBONHEAVY LUXURY, THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO HELP MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY GREENER. HERE ARE SOME TIPS FROM CONSENSIO’S MANAGING DIRECTOR, CERI TINLEY, WHO IS PASSIONATE ABOUT CARBON-CONSCIOUS TRAVEL AND IS COMMITTED TO DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY INTO CONSENSIO’S OPERATIONS WHILE EXCEEDING GUESTS’ EXPECTATIONS…
The most sustainable ways to travel to ski resorts from the UK are by train or self-drive.
Taking the Eurostar to the Alps is a fabulous way to start your holiday. Trains are available from December through to April and you can catch the Eurostar Ski Train direct to Moûtiers to access the 3 Valleys, or to Bourg Saint Maurice if staying in Val d’Isère.
Driving to France uses a lot less carbon than flying, especially if it’s in a hybrid or electric vehicle. All Consensio properties come with private parking and many now feature EV charging ports, so both you and your car can recharge in the Alps.
Finally, don’t print your boarding passes, tickets or travel confirmations unless you really have to. You can save paper by downloading them to your phone.
Ethically-produced and sustainably-sourced ski clothing is becoming easier to find. If you’re purchasing new equipment, check out the brands that use sustainable materials, such as skis constructed using responsibly-sourced wood; thermals and socks made from organic cotton or bamboo fabric; or outerwear
created with recycled materials. Additionally, make sure when buying ski or snowboard wax that you opt for biodegradable wax.
If you don’t already own your own equipment, then hiring is a good way to support local businesses and shrink your carbon footprint further by not adding to your baggage weight. Ecoski is a great company which allows you to rent performance ski wear, or you could research and purchase from sustainable brands.
Consensio can also arrange for all your ski equipment to be provided via local suppliers’ ski-fitting services.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury catered chalet experience or something more understated, take care in choosing a company that takes tangible steps towards reducing its carbon footprint and impact on the environment.
When you are staying with Consensio Chalets, your carbon footprint is calculated annually in order to offset it as part of your holiday package.
Consensio offers three different types of ski holiday: Ultimate Catered Chalets, Relaxed Catered Chalets and Self-Catered Alpine Apartments, so there is something to suit everyone. A number of chalets even feature environmentally-friendly ozone technology to enable their pools and hot tubs to be chlorinefree, including Chalet Marco Polo and Chalet Lhotse in Val d’Isère.
“There is a perception that providing a luxury product makes sustainability hard to achieve. Consensio proves that sustainability can be at the very heart of luxury travel.”
Ceri Tinley, Consensio’s Managing Director
Staying on a Consensio holiday also allows you to opt for a lower ambient temperature for your chalet to save opening windows. Additionally, Consensio properties have exit switches which allow you to turn off all lights when you leave the property.
When staying in a Consensio Catered Chalet, ask your chef to create a plant-based or focused menu using locally-sourced ingredients. While enjoying lunch on the mountain, try regional specialities and local wines – not only will they taste amazing, but they also have a lower carbon footprint than meals sourced from further afield.
While on-piste skiing and using lifts to get between ski resorts is the norm, ski touring is a fantastic way to explore the mountains. Ski touring involves off-piste skiing without using a lift, and equipment and guides are easily organised by your in-chalet ski hire company.
By using your own power to ascend the mountains, not only is it a greener way to ski, but it enables you to get off the beaten track and find hidden slopes and views. Nothing beats the feeling of skiing back down knowing you earned the pleasure by getting yourself to the top without electricity.
Also, if you are skiing on the piste, download the piste map on your phone so that you don’t need a paper copy.
Alternatively, if you want to try something different to skiing, the recreational activity of snowshoeing allows you to explore the marked trails around your resort. Snow racquets are attached to your own shoes and the trails are graded so you can select the route best suited to you.
To book a holiday with Consensio visit: www.consensiochalets.co.uk
For information about the Eurostar Ski Train, visit: www.eurostar.com
For Ecoski clothing, visit: www.ecoski.co.uk
Like so many before him, Myles came to Méribel in 2012 to do a ski season and ended up falling in love with the mountains. And after working in cocktail bars during his first year of university 12 years ago, he has thrived in that industry ever since.
Myles had a leading role in the initial concept and setup of the brand ‘Copiña’, a luxury cocktail and tapas bar in Méribel and a restaurant in Courchevel Moriond. It was there where he enjoyed the platform to get creative and grow into the mixologist he is today.
The idea behind The Mountain Mixologist stemmed from the amazing food that holiday companies like Consensio offer in their chalets.
Consensio and other hosts attract some of the best chefs in the world, serving truly some of the finest food available. But as far as drinks were concerned, especially cocktails, Myles felt the chalet service could benefit even further from his expertise, and he now offers an incredible cocktail bar experience to these guests.
He tells us: “We took the model that most top bars around the world adopt – make almost everything in-house.”
Myles is at the forefront of cocktail development in the world. From simple things like flavoured sugar syrups and alcohol infusions to the weird and wonderful ‘fat washing’ spirits and ‘shrubs’ (drinking vinegars), everything the team use at Mountain Mixologist is made by them and so is completely unique.
Now the Mountain Mixologist service offers guests an opportunity to experience cocktails of a standard often seen in the top bars in London and the Alps, without ever leaving their chalet.
Over the winter, Myles and his team are based in Méribel, the heart of the Trois Vallées, and serve almost every resort in the French Alps.
“Méribel and Courchevel really are stunning resorts with so much to offer and are the reason I have lived in the Alps for almost 10 years now,” he reveals.
the room and served into the sitting area, which has an amazing-looking comfy seating section where people tend to congregate. I have done a couple of pre-dinner cocktail sessions in there and it works so well.
“People have a couple of hours of cocktails with me in the sumptuous living room and then move round to the other side of the fireplace to the dining area, ready to be served dinner from the big open kitchen, where their chef creates magic.”
“The skiing is some of the best you will find anywhere, and it’s the largest skiable area in the world, so there is always something new to find or another run that you haven’t discovered yet.”
In the summer Myles and his team move to Cannes in the South of France to serve the whole of the Côte d’Azur from Saint-Tropez to Monaco. From private events, weddings and yacht parties to corporate events and masterclasses, they are busy all year round.
As well as creating a bespoke cocktail menu to suit each event and set of guests, Myles also makes sure at least half of every menu can be made alcohol-free, as quite often the children of guests want to get involved, or some people choose not to drink. Because of this, the team have an almost equally large list of ‘mocktails’ as they do cocktails.
Explaining how a typical evening might work, Myles says: “My favourite gig was in Chalet Le Grenier in Méribel. We set up the bar right next to the enormous roaring fire in the middle
Le Grenier is a stunning chalet in the heart of Méribel. Located a very short distance from the slopes, it is the perfect ski-in/ski-out family chalet, and the Consensio bespoke service provides guests with an unforgettable stay.
Featuring triple-height windows and panoramic mountain views, the chalet is large and imposing and exquisitely designed. It accommodates up to 12 guests and features an indoor sunken family-size Jacuzzi alongside a massage room, sauna and gym.
It is also home to a library/study, which is very handy for keeping in touch with work or for teenagers who need to study. Alternatively, those who want to unwind can head upstairs to find the games room/snug, complete with a snooker table, TV, PlayStation 4 and comfy seating.
Chalet Le Grenier is the ideal destination to relax with a complimentary glass of on-tap Champagne or an incredible hand-crafted cocktail by Myles.
of
“It’s literally everything you want from an evening in the Alps – cosy fire, good food and delicious cocktails!”
Myles Knight
Due to their great success in the Alps, The Mountain Mixologist team is expanding and retraining rapidly to keep up with demand and ever-evolving trends.
By way of explanation, Myles comments: “Cocktails are always changing, so our aim is to stay at the absolute forefront of the change. People’s tastes change and things come in and out of fashion, so it is almost a full-time job just keeping up with that, but we love it!”
To book The Mountain Mixologist on your next Consensio holiday, or to discover more about Chalet Le Grenier, please get in touch: sales@consensiochalets.co.uk www.themountainmixologist.com
Val Heliski was a shared dream between Tom Jeffery and his wife Claire, who met while doing a ski instructor course in Banff, amid Canada’s Rockies. After pursuing careers as a chartered surveyor and lawyer, respectively, they returned to the mountains in 2009 to fulfil their dream – setting up a heliski company in France.
Val Heliski provides backcountry skiing and snowboarding adventures, heliskiing and heliboarding, reverse heliskiing, helicopter airport transfers and heli-scenic tours for guests staying in the Tarentaise area of the French Alps.
Anyone keen on skiing or snowboarding should add a heliskiing trip to their bucket list. It guarantees quality snow conditions and takes you thousands of vertical metres in a short space of time. It is one of the most adventurous activities you can do in the mountains, and the thrill of accessing and skiing untouched powder in the wilderness is unparalleled.
After a relaxing night in Val d’Isère’s Chalet Blackcomb, Val Heliski can take you on a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of the nearby Italian Alps.
Heliskiing uses special landing zones, chosen because they are out of the wind, to be as safe as possible. Once landed, you will notice that each of those zones has a huge number of route options down.
Going off-piste comes with a greater risk than skiing on pisted routes, so to reduce the risk of avalanches, the mountains are checked daily, routes are regulated by guides, and very steep slopes are avoided.
After a fantastic day exploring with Val Heliski, head back to Blackcomb’s private boot room to leave your ski boots on the heated warmers overnight so they are lovely and toasty for you the next morning.
Relaxed Catered Chalet Blackcomb is only a short drive in your private chalet-to-piste shuttle to the main Front De Neige or La Daille ski areas. It comfortably sleeps 10 guests in five twin or double en-suite bedrooms, and comes complete with an exclusive private Consensio chalet team, including two dedicated hosts/cooks, a shared driver and a housekeeper.
And not only does the chalet feature an outdoor Jacuzzi, but its ground floor is also home to a large indoor swimming pool which uses environmentally-friendly ozone technology to be chlorine-free.
Also featuring an expansive open-plan dining and lounge area with an open fireplace, Blackcomb opens onto a large private balcony with incredible views overlooking the valley so you can take in the panorama from the ground before taking to the skies for a completely different perspective.
For those who want to take in the phenomenal sights of the Alps from above, Val Heliski also offers heli tours. Sit back, relax, and take in awe-inspiring views as you soar as far as Mont Blanc over France and into Italy.
You’ll see beautiful snow-capped chalets, rolling powder fields, huge cliff faces, glaciers, and wide expanses of forest and National Parks during the flight.
You may even spot wolves, marmots and chamois – a real mountain safari!
You can also use a helicopter for faster airport transfers. Chalet Blackcomb is a 2hr, 40min drive from Geneva Airport in off-peak periods, however with Val Heliski the journey takes just 30 minutes and makes for a great travel experience. Staff will meet you off your private or commercial plane and guide you to the helicopter in the airport terminal. This all happens while staying airside to avoid the hustle and bustle of the arrivals processes and queues. The helicopters can accommodate five guests with small luggage and will fly you directly to your resort.
Tom Jeffery tells us: “We do many scenic flights from resorts, but we feel like people could use the transfer option to kill two birds with one stone as the heli transfer has roughly the same views!”
On the eco-front, to combat carbon usage, Val Heliski offers clients the option to pay to plant a tree on its mountainside land to sequester their carbon emissions for the day, or to go above and beyond and offset the emissions from their entire holiday.
As an interesting, more down-to-earth aside, especially for dog lovers, after dog-sitting clients’ four-legged friends during trips, the team at Val Heliski were inspired to help rescue abandoned dogs from the harsh conditions of the war zone in Ukraine. They are now working to grow a dog-sitting and adoption service, Val Alpage des Animaux, in Sainte Foy.
Val Heliski operates in Val d’Isère, Courchevel and Méribel. www.valheliski.com
Book Chalet Blackcomb online for your next luxury ski holiday at: www.consensiochalets.co.uk
“Heliskiing is incredibly addictive! It is not one of those things you do only once!”
Jeffery, founder of Val Heliski
THE ALPS ARE HOME TO SOME OF THE BEST SKI RESORTS IN THE WORLD, WHICH OFTEN LEADS PEOPLE TO THINK THEY ARE ONLY GOOD FOR ONE THING – SKIING. BUT THAT IS JUST THE TIP OF THE SNOW-CAPPED MOUNTAINS! THERE’S MUCH MORE TO ENJOY, FROM OTHER ADRENALINE-FILLED ACTIVITIES TO SIGHTSEEING TOURS IN THE AIR
The French Alps may well have more than 10,000km of slopes serviced by over 3,000 ski lifts, but you don’t need to strap on a pair of skis to enjoy all the region has to offer by way of fun this winter. Just take a look at our list of alternative activities to see why.
And when choosing a non-ski holiday in the Alps, destination is everything. Apartment Les Sorbiers is located within a luxury building and ideally situated at the very heart of high-altitude resort Val d’Isère.
Lying just 100m from the church in the old village, this open-plan duplex apartment sleeps 10 adults and four children and is perfect for families and groups of friends alike.
It also features an outdoor Jacuzzi, TV snug and office area, so it’s a superb place from which to explore all the non-skiing options available.
Leave the crowds behind and discover the ‘real’ mountains off the beaten track. Snowshoes allow everyone to go off-piste, and the best part? It’s easy!
Snowshoeing is an almost silent way of exploring the Alps, allowing you to experience the peaceful stillness of the picturesque surroundings. It is truly a great way to reconnect with nature and see all the wonderful wildlife there. Discover
the fauna, forest and local history of the resort from a new perspective while taking part in aerobic, low-impact exercise.
Evolution 2 operates half-day and full-day snowshoeing experiences from Val d’Isère. www.evolution2.com
Want to go at speed through the mountains but without having to learn to ski? Then try this original way to explore.
Enjoy an adventure while comfortably seated in a sled with a pack of adorable pointers and mushers guiding the way. Dog sledding is an experience like no other and is a wonderful way for skiers and nonskiers alike to take in the breathtaking scenery of the slopes.
If you love the idea of dog sledding, but would like a little more adrenaline, then why not lead a pack yourself? Dog driving requires a basic level of fitness and is open to adventurers over 12.
Activity firm Evolution 2 also operates incredible dog-sledding experiences from Val d’Isère.
Visit a sports centre Aqua Sportif in the centre of Val d’Isère is a hub of non-ski adventure for both adults and children, boasting 800m² of water-based fun!
A whole host of activities can be carried out in a leisure pool or lazy river, with water cannons, massage jets, bubble bench, and a 25m swimming pool so you can get in some good lengths while at high altitude.
If you would like to relax, Aqua Sportif also offers a traditional sauna, an infra sauna, a hammam, spas, massages, wellbeing body and facial treatments and even waxing.
For adventurers, there is a 200m², 12-metre-high climbing wall, while fans of sports such as volleyball, indoor football,
basketball, badminton and table tennis will enjoy the centre’s 540m² multi-activity hall.
So there’s more than enough to occupy the whole family for a whole day and more! www.centre-aquasportif.com
Sit back, relax and take in awe-inspiring views from a helicopter as you explore the French Alps and into Italy as far as Mont Blanc.
Val Heliski will fly you over your resort so you can see the beautiful snow-dusted chalets from above, and then travel away to see rolling powder fields, huge cliff faces, gorgeous glaciers and wide expanses of forest and national parks during the trip.
Val Heliski’s heli-scenic tours are available from Val d’Isère, Courchevel and Méribel. Read more in our feature ‘Aim for the sky’ (page 46). www.valheliski.com
Soaring above those glistening white mountains is quite unforgettable! Take in phenomenal 360° views while gently descending over Val d’Isère’s stunning snowy peaks.
From the summit of Tovière, or the glacier of la Grande Motte, let yourself slide on skis for a few metres before taking off for the experience of a lifetime. Sit back in the harness, relax and take in the magnificent panorama
as your instructor takes care of the rest. If conditions allow, you may even be allowed to take the controls for a few moments.
Evolution 2 operates flights of 500m to 1,300m descent, meeting near the Tignes le Lac centre – only a 20-minute drive from Apartment Les Sorbiers.
If you would like to enjoy any of these activities while on a Consensio holiday, simply call your sales concierge before your stay or ask your resort manager to arrange once in resort. To book Apartment Les Sorbiers for your next non-skiing adventure in the Alps, get in touch. www.consensiochalets.co.uk
Located in Davos, Ultimate Catered Tivoli Lodge boasts more than 700 sqm of luxurious living space. Its traditional exterior merges seamlessly into a classic yet contemporary interior, all within a quiet mountainside setting.
Tivoli Lodge boasts six individually-styled twin or super king bedrooms, all with en suites or private bathrooms, and a magical children’s room with three built-in, full-size bunk beds and a further en-suite bathroom.
This lodge is the ideal winter destination for children –with it featuring a two-storey ice castle soft play area on the lower ground floor, you may struggle to persuade your little ones to leave!
Guests of all ages can unwind in the steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. Alternatively, swim in the spectacular pool or relax on the loungers nearby.
Let your private chalet team serve you Champagne from the comfort of the wellness area, or they can even arrange an
in-house massage for that extra level of blissful indulgence. The spa can also be turned into a family fun zone in seconds, with inflatable toys, pool games, a fountain and water jets. The pool is shallow in depth, creating a safe and comfortable environment.
In addition, the TV lounge offers a large selection of movies, board games, books, puzzles and toys.
If you can’t find the film of your choice, simply download it from the Apple TV app.
The lodge also has table football and table tennis for those wanting some fun away from screens.
If you enjoy taking in fresh air and views while in the mountains, then Tivoli Lodge is definitely for you.
Home to many south-facing balconies, it offers fantastic outdoor spaces to sit, relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the Engadine Valley.
Start your day on the mountains in style by skiing straight from the piste directly opposite the chalet’s ski room, which comes complete with plenty of storage and those popular heated boot warmers.
As with all Consensio Ultimate Chalets, while staying in Tivoli Lodge you will have a complete team of dedicated staff. They include a private chef, chalet manager, hosts and
an in-resort private 4×4 chauffeur. Meanwhile, your dedicated concierge is available to assist you with any aspect of your Consensio holiday, from booking private flights or arranging lift tickets, ski tuition and ski hire to co-ordinating in-chalet events and entertainment, as well as going through bespoke menu consultations and suggesting activities available within your resort.
Finally, the all-important food and drink. Alongside cooked breakfasts made to order, mouth-watering afternoon teas and bespoke evening dinners, Consensio also offers a well-stocked complimentary bar packed with your favourite spirits, a separate gin bar and chilled Perrier-Jouët Champagne served on tap throughout your stay.
To be the first to experience this phenomenal Consensio chalet in Davos, Switzerland, please get in touch. www.consensiochalets.co.uk
HEADING TO THE ALPS BY RAIL CAN SEEM DAUNTING AT FIRST, BUT DEBORAH TURNER, WHO RECENTLY DID JUST THAT, SAYS SHE’LL NEVER GO BACK TO FLYING NOW…
We didn’t know what to expect when opting to travel to our skiing holiday by train, but I have to say we were instantly hooked! Flight costs were sky-rocketing, and a desire to reduce our carbon footprint prompted my four friends and I to give alternative travel a go.
After an early start and quick tube ride across to St Pancras Station, we were soon going through security to get onto the Eurostar.
Compared to Gatwick Airport’s security procedures, we were immediately surprised by how much shorter and quieter the queues were. The stress from the busy background atmosphere you often find at airports was just not there.
Once through security we were straight onto the train, missing out on the lengthy trek to the gate we normally must deal with at airports.
With no restrictive weight limits on luggage either, we all had rather over-packed for the trip, but the train had plenty of storage space for suitcases.
After securing our bags away, we sat down and were ready to start our adventure.
High on the kind of adrenaline you can only get from travelling to a desperately needed holiday, we decided that 8am was a perfectly suitable time to order a bottle of Champagne from the onboard café. It was certainly a step up from the coffee from Prêt we’d usually be considering at this point in our travel!
After only two hours and 20 minutes we had arrived in Paris, and for the cost of the Champagne and a £44.50 train ticket we felt like we’d found the secret to stress-free travelling.
Once off the train we logged on to our Virtuo app, where we had splashed out and pre-booked a state-of-the-art long-range Tesla to hire for the week. By using Virtuo we didn’t
have to worry about queues, paperwork, restrictive opening hours or any unpleasant surprises. However, it did feel a bit strange getting into a car without an attendant handing it over.
The Tesla was fully charged when we collected it and we smashed out a three-hour drive south, arriving at beautiful Beaune for a late lunch.
Beaune is a walled town surrounded by the Côte d’Or vineyards and is the centre of the Burgundy winemaking region in France. As such, my friends decided that it would be rude not to sample the nearby produce and support the local economy over lunch! (As the designated driver, I bought a bottle to take to our apartment to enjoy later).
The Tesla Supercharger in Beaune needed only 20 minutes to top up the car (it can charge 200 miles in only 15 minutes), but we opted to stop for an hour to really refresh ourselves. After all, we reasoned, why not make the scenic journey part of the holiday?
Back on the road, we pumped out classics from the 80s and 90s while taking in the passing scenery. It took another three and a half hours to get to snowy Méribel, but with good company the drive flew by.
By 6.45pm we had pulled up to Apartment Petit Chamois, parked in the spacious underground private parking spot, plugged the Tesla into the EV charger provided, and gone up to unpack our bags and open that bottle of Burgundy.
Walking into the apartment, we were taken aback by the size of the place. Petit Chamois is not what you would associate with the word ‘apartment’, nor ‘petit’.
The spacious interior was decked out with designer furniture and oozed Alpine chic. We have since found out that the designer, Nicky Dobree, was featured on Grand Designs.
Skiing right back to Petit Chamois each afternoon really was the cherry on the cake after a phenomenal day of skiing the Trois Vallées.
We tended to enjoy big Savoyard meals, packed with potatoes and cheese, for lunches, so when it came to dinnertime we cooked simple dishes together in the big openplan kitchen while planning our routes for the next day.
As with all holidays, the week sped by and it was soon time to make our way home. After another cheeky boozy lunch in Beaune for my friends, we headed on to Paris for our 7pm train.
Dropping off the Tesla was as easy as collecting it, and we were through the Eurostar security and back on the train in no
time. Better still, I was home, sat back, feet up, catching up on my favourite TV shows by 9.30pm.
When considering the train tickets, car hire and car charging costs, we spent only £184 each on travel. Not only much cheaper than flights, but we all agreed that travelling by train felt like it extended our holiday as we made so many enjoyable memories on the journey.
A large selection of Consensio properties feature an EV charger. Get in touch to discover more. www.consensiochalets.co.uk +44 (0) 203 393 0833
NOTHING SAYS ROMANCE LIKE A SNOWY WEDDING. THE BEAUTY OF A CEREMONY IN THE ALPS IS THAT YOU CAN BE AS WILD AND ADVENTUROUS OR AS SERENE AND RELAXED AS YOU LIKE…
The mountains lend themselves perfectly to all types of celebration. Whether you want something more traditional, or you’d like to toss out the rule book, either way you can create your own wonderful winter wedding!
Say ‘I do’ to an unforgettable proposal Not yet engaged and want to make your proposal one they’ll never forget? Consensio’s ski chalets and Alpine apartments are situated in the most beautiful locations in the French Alps, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. What better location could you ask for to pop the question to the love of your life?
Say ‘I do’ to a pre-wedding holiday Relax and have enjoyable stress-free days in the lead-up to your big event by hitting the slopes with your guests. Perhaps
enjoy a private husky sledging experience or a scenic flight over the Alps.
Guided by your vision, Consensio can create irresistible intimate winter settings featuring fur sofas, log fires and Champagne ice-bars. Your guests will be wowed by the finest dining offset by stunning views, while the stage is set for a truly memorable celebration later in your stay.
Chalets provide the ideal setting for a wedding celebration. Together with an impeccable customer concierge service, they allow you to create a perfect day tailored to your individual tastes and needs.
Say ‘I do’ to a luxury chalet destination
Nestled in the French Alps, Consensio’s award-winning Ultimate
If you want somewhere truly special for your big day, Chalet Le Rocher in Val d’Isère is extraordinary. With seven beautifully designed bedrooms made from reclaimed wood from Mongolia, and featuring intricately carved furnishings, it is a wonderful base for you and your closest family and friends ahead of your wedding.
For the happy couple, the main suite is vast, complete with his and her dressing rooms, while the expansive living area with vaulted ceiling and stylish decor is a dream setting for a wedding celebration. Cowhide sofas and light shades are complemented by sensational modern glass chandeliers and a crackling log fire – the focal point of the room.
Say ‘I do’ to the celebration of a lifetime Finally, throw an unforgettable wedding celebration to mark the ultimate romantic occasion with all your friends and family around you.
With Perrier-Jouët Champagne on tap, your favourite dishes created by your private chalet chef and a cosy fire stoked by your chalet hosts, Consensio will make sure you have everything you need to make your big event that extra bit special.
The party can continue into the night with your choice of entertainment – be it a magician, live band or classical pianist.
With Consensio, you make the rules!
A winter wonderland in the Alps is a fabulous environment for a magical event. To enquire about hosting yours in a luxury French chalet, get in touch with Consensio. www.consensiochalets.co.uk sales@consensiochalets.co.uk
Say ‘I do’ to the winter wedding of your dreams
If you want a wintery elopement with your nearest and dearest, consider coming to the French Alps. If you are not from France, legally you will have to get married in your home country, but that doesn’t stop you from having your main ceremony in the mountains. With the legal paperwork out of the way, you can handpick a dream destination for your special day – whether in the comfort of your luxury chalet, by a frozen lake, or even up on the mountain tops.
Amongst sumptuous or snowy surroundings, your wedding photos will rival any sun-drenched summer snapshot.
Image: © Sebastien BoudotOFF-PISTE OR BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURES ARE FANTASTIC FUN, ESPECIALLY WHEN GOING WITH A SMALL GROUP OF FRIENDS. BUT WHEN TAKING ON EXTRA RISKS IT IS VITAL TO DO SOME EXTRA PLANNING AND PREPARATION BEFORE BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY…
First, it’s important to create an off-piste packing checklist for you and your skiing buddies. This isn’t for how many pairs of salopettes or ski socks you want to bring, but a detailed list of the safety equipment you want with you in case of an emergency.
At the top of your list should be a well-fitting helmet. This is recommended for on-piste adventures, too, but for going off-piste it is imperative.
Next, everyone must always wear an avalanche transceiver when skiing off-piste. When everything goes wrong, these emergency locator beacons are used to find people who have been buried under snow, or anything else.
Once you have used your transceiver to locate the position of the buried person, it is important to have an avalanche shovel to dig the person out of the snow.
Avalanche shovels pull apart to pack small in your backpack, so you can easily carry one when in the backcountry.
Finally, an avalanche probe is great to have. They are used for poking into the snow to find and determine the depth of the buried victim. All probes have depth markers down their length and fold up into short segments when not being used.
It is important to acknowledge the skills you and your friends have and plan accordingly.
For example, if you haven’t learnt how to rescue someone out of a crevasse, make sure to keep off any glaciated routes. If you are not a strong navigator, then plan to stay close to the resort in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. And if you are new to off-piste skiing, or to the area you want to explore, it is
highly recommended to take a guide or instructor out with you. Consensio books highly qualified, experienced ski instructors and mountain guides who spend most of their time off-piste and know where to find the best snow. They can help you plan the safest routes and provide assistance if things go wrong.
Before heading out to the Alps, you must notify your travel insurance company if you intend to ski off-piste. You do not want to be stuck with a hefty helicopter bill for an air ambulance trip to the local hospital
Val d’Isère, without doubt, is one of the best places to go off-piste skiing, both for the more advanced, thrill-seeking mountain enthusiasts and for those just starting to go beyond the pisted routes in search of adventure.
With over 300km to explore, the Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area provides almost endless backcountry possibilities.
If this appeals, then choosing a property on the piste means you don’t have to bother with ski buses or waiting for a taxi at the end of an otherwise amazing day on the mountains.
Self-Catered Apartment Tournesol is a phenomenal ski-in property, meaning you can ski directly to the front door, and in the morning there is only a short walk to the bottom of the Solaise to get to the lifts.
It is also near to Val d’Isère’s main avenue, which features a large choice of shops, bars, cafés and restaurants.
Tournesol is a fantastic apartment. Sleeping eight guests in four double en-suite bedrooms, it is suitable for a group of friends who want to experience an affordable backcountry holiday of a lifetime. The open-plan living and dining areas lead to a private terrace with views of the iconic La Face piste, a mighty cliff face that only the bravest should attempt.
When it comes to ski routes, it is worth noting that anything out of bounds is classed either as backcountry or off-piste. If you go through a gate or under a rope that warns the route is closed or you’re entering at your own risk, always remember that there is no rescue or avalanche control, nor a lift back to the resort if you get tired or out of your depth.
Your ski guide can advise on which routes to choose each day, depending on the weather, the time of day and the risk of avalanches.
When skiing off piste, don’t forget to visit the Bellevarde side of the mountain. Three slopes in particular have stand-out off-piste terrain:
If you want adrenaline, The Banana is a very large vertical drop allowing plenty of opportunity for your heart rate to soar. Please note, however, that the snow there warms earlier in the day, so head there first thing.
Because of its south-facing aspect, one of the most wellknown off-piste routes in Val d’Isère is The Charvet Tour. This route is great if you have mixed abilities in your group, as less experienced skiers can choose to traverse to the right towards the far end of the bowl, following the bottom of the valley back to the left, while others may prefer to go straight down for a more challenging ride.
Again, there is a high risk of snow-sliding, so try to avoid this route in the afternoons.
If you’re looking for quieter areas to carve fresh tracks into untouched powder, then check out Le Fornet for an aweinspiring experience.
Finally, the Couloir des Pisteurs must also win an honourable mention – named thus as only the pisteurs (those who maintain the pistes) are good enough, or brave enough, to ski it.
Tackling this challenge requires a very steep, difficult and scary hike to the peak of the Rocher du Charvet from the top of the Grand Pré chairlift, then a hard 45-minute trek to reach the entrance of the couloir. It’s narrow, steep and long, and once you’re in there’s no way out.
As you reach the bottom of the drop you will find yourself
enjoying the best snow in Val d’Isère, becoming one of the first to create fresh tracks even long after a snowfall.
After an epic day discovering all the off-piste routes Tignes-Val d’Isère has to offer, just glide down the 1km Traversée du Laisinant trail straight back to Apartment Tournesol to relax and reset for another day of adventuring. The perfect end to a perfect day… To book a stay in Apartment Tournesol, simply get in touch and let Consensio do the rest. www.consensiochalets.co.uk
Choosing the perfect ski chalet for a holiday in the mountains can be tricky. Finding one that suits your needs, tastes and budget requires working closely with a great travel operator that knows its properties and resorts well.
However, some people like to take things a step further – such as the owner of Chalet Bacchus, one of the hottest new chalets in Courchevel. He created his very own dream chalet to use all year round.
We got in touch with him to find out what’s involved with building your perfect chalet from the ground up:
What was the most important thing for you when previously choosing a ski chalet to rent?
We ski every year with the same group of friends and so the biggest challenge was finding a chalet large enough to take us! After that, the most important criteria were facilities and location, with ski-in ski-out particularly important to us. I hate messing around and so the ability to ski to and from your ski room door is great.
Why did you choose to build a new chalet rather than renovating one already built?
A new build meant we could get everything we wanted. We worked with the developer to completely change the originally planned size and layout to provide seven spacious en-suite bedrooms, a large spa, a cinema and a huge lounge, bar and dining room.
With a renovation, not only are you more limited on size and layout, but often you are faced with the difficult decision to leave some of the existing finishes, which,
while not what you would have chosen, are still perfectly serviceable. Building from scratch enabled us to specify the finishes we wanted without compromise.
location that offered both until we came across this plot in Courchevel Moriond. It’s right on the piste, yet only a short stroll from town. It’s practically front de neige!
Can you tell us about the process behind your design decision-making?
The layout was much easier than the interior design. We knew that we wanted the bedrooms and common areas to feel spacious (which can’t be said of all chalets), and we knew which facilities we wanted.
Then it was simply a case of working with the architect to get all of this into the footprint while designing a building that looked beautiful externally.
What made you choose Courchevel Moriond?
We love Courchevel Moriond. It’s less flashy than 1850 yet within a short drive for a change of scenery. Equally, Courchevel Le Praz is a similar distance in the opposite direction and is a lovely authentic Alpine village.
Moriond has a lovely family feel with some great bars and restaurants at much more reasonable prices than 1850. The slopes there tend to be a lot quieter than in other areas, with a good mix of difficulty and plenty of provision for beginners.
Of course, the rest of Les Trois Vallées is seamlessly connected and we really enjoy skiing all the way over to the far end at Orelle and back in a day.
The interior design was much harder and far more timeconsuming, and we probably underestimated what would be required. It wasn’t just a matter of the colour of the wallpaper and wood. Every detail had to be drawn and specified –architraves, thresholds, doors, cabinetry, ironmongery, sanitaryware, tiling layouts… I could go on and on. All in all, the final specification stretched to 330 pages.
Fortunately, we had a terrific interior design company helping us. They have designed numerous chalets, including well-known chalets such as Richard Branson’s ‘The Lodge’ in Verbier, and so were able to guide us through all the decisions that we needed to make.
We hope you will agree that the results are stunning!
How long did it take you to find the ideal project?
Years! My wife and I wanted ski-in ski-out and our children wanted to be close to nightlife. We couldn’t find a chalet
What advice would you give to someone thinking about building a new ski property?
A couple of things – first, make sure that you include a detailed specification in the contract. This will help to ensure
that there are no misunderstandings about your expectations from the start, and can help protect you in the event of any disagreements.
We had our designer produce a 20-page ‘look and feel’ document, and we also included a mechanical and electrical specification that ran to about 10 pages. While our notaire said that he had never seen anything as detailed, we now know it wasn’t detailed enough and, if we had our time again, we would go into even more depth!
Secondly, make sure you assemble a great team to support you. We didn’t speak much French, and so a French-speaking project manager was incredibly important for us.
We were introduced to Simon Tinley (husband of Consensio co-founder Ceri Tinley) who was a massive help. A good notaire and accountant are also very important, and, as I have said, an interior designer that understands chalets and the ways of building in the mountains.
What is the real ‘wow factor’ in the chalet?
The location and views are very special, but, facilities aside, we hope guests are wowed by the quality of the finishes and the attention to detail. So much thought and care has gone into the design and we hope that this shines through to everyone who stays.
Which is your favourite room?
That’s a tough one. I think my wife would say the spa, and I suspect my kids might go for the cinema. For me, though, it’s the bar!
Ultimate Catered Chalet Bacchus comes complete with a large team of staff, including a private chef and chauffeur, and is exclusively operated by Consensio Chalets. Book Chalet Bacchus online for your next luxury ski holiday at: www.consensiochalets.co.uk
UK FOUNDER DAVID MORRIS ASKED THIS SIMPLE QUESTION 48 YEARS AGO, THE CHARITY HAS BEEN MAKING THAT – AND MORE –POSSIBLE EVER SINCE…
With Disability Snowport UK (DSUK) schools in snow domes and dry slopes across the UK, as well as in the Scottish mountains in the winter, it’s very easy to take the first step into adaptive skiing or snowboarding. Especially as the charity’s aim is for snowsports to be ‘open to all’,
To provide adaptive snowsports, DSUK teachers adjust the way they teach, or the equipment used, so that everyone is welcome on the snow.
From offering learning on a sit ski to providing a specialist approach, to teaching for someone with autism, a learning
disability or sensory impairment, the charity tailors every lesson to the client’s unique needs.
Virginia Anderson, the CEO of DSUK, says: “We really can welcome every type of person to snowsports.
“We have skiers who have a lifelong condition and have always been adaptive skiers right through to people who have had a life-changing illness or injury.
“Adaptive snowsport means that they can return to the sport but learn to take part using different equipment or techniques to give them back the freedom of the mountains.”
The first step is to book a lesson. The bookings team talk to every new client to ensure DSUK pairs the best instructor with them, putting the right support in place from the start.
Every first lesson lasts longer to ensure there’s enough time to make the new skier or snowboarder feel at ease, find the right equipment for the way their body works, and understand their learning needs.
From there, learners build up skills and confidence from lesson to lesson until they are ready to progress to a local recreational snowsport group.
The charity also supports families and friends to ski and snowboard together, often with a parent or partner learning how to support the adaptive skier so that they can access the mountains or ski slopes independently, too.
Additionally, DSUK’s local groups provide regular skiing and snowboarding sessions. From Edinburgh to Hemel Hempstead, groups are led by specially trained volunteers and this also allows skiers and snowboarders to make new friends. The social aspect of the groups is almost as important as the snowsport.
The next step for many is going on a holiday with family and friends, either through a DSUK group holiday or another accessible ski holiday provider like Consensio.
It is notable that more holiday providers are now offering suitable accommodation and trips for adaptive skiers as they recognise the importance of inclusivity for disabled people.
Consensio operates a range of accessible ski destinations, including three Ultimate Catered Chalets and two Self-Catered Alpine Apartments.
If you would like an accessible, self-catered stay in the high, snow-sure resort of Val d’Isère, then look no further than Consensio’s luxury Apartment Lorenzo. It’s ideally located only a
short distance from the shops and main ski lifts, and after a day on the slopes you can ski home straight to your back door!
Apartment Lorenzo can accommodate up to eight guests in its four bedrooms, all of which have en-suite bathrooms.
Inside, the layout is both comfortable and practical, and has been designed to maximise the natural light in the living areas, creating a lovely welcoming feel.
As with all Consensio apartments, you also benefit from a world-class concierge service before and during your stay.
Along with a welcome basket complete with Perrier-Jouët Champagne and a daily cleaning service, this isn’t your standard self-catering holiday!
Consensio can provide boulangerie breakfast deliveries and pre-arrival shopping to make your stay as stress-free as possible.
It can additionally arrange ski hire, adaptive snowsports guides,
lift passes, transfers, nannies, restaurant reservations, resort activities, and much more.
Elaine Boyd, a Glasgow skier and accountant who has cerebral palsy, has been on this whole journey. She openly admits: “Learning to ski was way out of my comfort zone and was something that really scared me.
“But from the beginning, DSUK provided me with the opportunity to overcome that fear and take part in something
I really enjoy. The instructors put me at ease and encouraged me to progress and enjoy skiing. I expected to be on a sit ski, and sometimes I have to pinch myself when I realise I am standing and skiing!
“I use a link to connect the skis and have tethers that allow my instructor to control my speed.
“I have also gained more confidence generally, and I’m sure that’s down to learning to ski. My instructor has taught me that it’s OK to fall, you just need to stand up afterwards.
“For the first time ever, we have been able to participate in a sport together as a family. It was the most incredible experience going down the slopes. The distance covered and the feeling of speed with the sun shining on us was amazing.
“My skiing and independence improved over the week, and by the end my daughter Jenna was able to take over on the tethers and control me during the trip – I’m sure she enjoyed taking control of her Mum!
“I have been blown away by the impact of learning to ski.”
Consensio strongly believes that the mountains should be accessible to everyone; as such it has partnered with DSUK to better support its work. For every week of the winter season, Consensio has donated a private accessible snowsports lesson for a child with a disability.
Discover more about Consensio’s accessible ski holidays at: www.consensiochalets.co.uk
And find out more about booking an adaptive lesson or holiday with DSUK (Disability Snowsport UK) at: www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk
hello@disabilitysnowsport.org.uk
+44 (0) 1479 788 770
9 REECE MEWS, SOUTH KENSINGTON, LONDON, SW7 3HE +44 (0) 203 393 0833 – SALES@CONSENSIOCHALETS.CO.UK WWW.CONSENSIOCHALETS.CO.UK
