Consensio Luxury Lifestyle Magazine - Third Edition 2016

Y O U R

L U X U R Y

L I F E S T Y L E

I S S U E

N O . 3

M A G A Z I N E

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Welcome

CONSENSIO

Welcome to the third edition of our lifestyle magazine, and what an exciting year it has been! Winning the Best Ski Chalet in France in the Wold Ski Awards for the third year in a row, we have been working hard on improving our chalet portfolio with the addition of the brand new Calistoga in Val d’Isère (pages 24-26) and creating our more flexible self-catered luxury apartment portfolio.

Launching this winter, these fabulous apartments offer an alternative to our chalet collection with smaller properties and a more bespoke holiday experience. Build your holiday: Try the fabulous local restaurants, or a personal chef for a night or two; breakfast baskets delivered to your door or prearrival shopping are also possible. The options are endless.

If you are thinking about planning a celebration this year, why not combine it with your ski trip and let us arrange everything. We have been organising weddings (pages 60-62), milestone birthdays and family reunions with spectacular results and would be delighted to help you create your perfect event.

Food is always on our minds here at Consensio, which is why we are all very excited about our new partnership with Duck & Waffle. It’s open 24/7 and located at the top of the Heron Tower in London.

Teaming up with Executive Chef Tom Cenci, we will be replicating their famous breakfast dishes in our award-winning Alpine chalets (page 30).

Finally, we invite you to enjoy the exclusive benefits of becoming a Consensio VIP card holder. This winter you will receive your personal VIP card from us, giving you access to exclusive discounts and products from our partners both in the UK and out in the Alps.

Ceri Tinley Co-founder / Managing Director Consensio Chalets

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L I F E S T Y L E

M A G A Z I N E

Editor Clare Meaney For all media and marketing enquiries please contact Clare on 07941 568679 Or email: clare@consensiochalets.co.uk

C O N T R I B U T O R S Gabriella Le Breton has been skiing since she was two and a half and writing about skiing for nearly a decade.

She contributes regularly to national newspapers and magazines including The Daily Telegraph, Financial Times, Condé Nast Traveller and Vanity Fair and is the author of ‘The Stylish Life of Skiing’ and ‘The Ultimate Ski Book’.

Neil English is in his 23rd year as specialist ski/travel correspondent for The Mail on Sunday, also writing freelance for numerous national titles, magazines and websites with joint sporting and epicurean interests in golf, cycling, hiking and all things gourmet.

Michael Cranmer is an award-winning freelance travel writer and photographer specialising in skiing. A former qualified instructor, he now spends his winters sampling a wide variety of resorts. “Courchevel is like a magnet to me,” he said. “No matter where I go, no matter how good the mountains, Courchevel is still my favourite.”

Arnie Wilson was the Financial Times ski correspondent for 15 years and then edited the Ski Club of Great Britain’s magazine Ski+board for 13 years until 2014. In 1994 he skied every day of the year in 240 resorts in 13 countries and has now skied a total of 729 resorts, including ski areas in all 38 of America’s ‘skiing states’.

Steve Loader has written on a vast range of subjects including skiing and travel, but all roads lead back to a lifelong passion for cars sparked at eight years old by a thrilling first ride in his dad’s Austin Healey 100 two-seater.

Rachael Meaney has been skiing since she was two. She’s about to study Politics and Religion at Leeds University where she can’t wait to join the University of Leeds Ski Club.

9 REECE M EWS , S O U TH K E NS IN GTON , LON DON , SW7 3HE | +44 (0) 203 393 0833 SALES @CO NS ENS IO C H ALETS.CO.UK | WWW.CON SEN SI OCHA LETS.CO.U K

CONSENSIO

Contents 6 - 9 Meditating in Méribel

44 – 45 The ultimate buzz

10 – 11 Get fit at Chel-Ski

46 – 49 World Ski Awards

12 – 15 My Perfect Day

50 – 52 Memories of Méribel

18 – 19 Colourful Les Gets

54 – 55 Be prepared to ski

20 – 23 Yoga lifestyle

56 – 59 Stargazing in Courchevel

24 – 26 Historic hamlet

60 – 62 Weddings in the snow

28 – 31 What’s new?

64 – 66 Eating out

32 – 33 A vine romance

68 – 71 Beautiful Bentley

34 – 39 Fashion and gizmos

72 - 74 Helping our heroes

40 – 42 To infinity and beyond

75 Facts and figures

Photographers Andy Parant The Chalet Photographers Office de Tourisme Val d’Isère Office de Tourisme Les Gets Design & Print Anthony Thornley Design – ant@thornleydesign.com Mountain Marketing Ltd – Frank.baldwin@mountainmarketing.co.uk

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CONSENSIO

When yin led to yang in MĂŠribel Neil English spotted wildlife, met six lovely chalet mates, and discovered the joys of yin yoga at Chalet Les Brames in MĂŠribel

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CONSENSIO

T

he frogs frolicking on top of one

something of a wildlife theme to the trip.

another in the snow in Méribel

Our itinerary took us around Lac du

were simply carrying their young

Tuéda, hiking up a path adjacent to a rapid

according to one of my chalet mates – but

running stream where we cooled our necks

for my money we were, literally, witnessing

and faces with handfuls of fresh, freezing

wildlife in the making.

water, before ascending about 10 minutes

My lawyer friend David, whom I’ve long

further to the rustic mountain restaurant,

considered a measured judge in myriad

Refuge du Plan.

situations, clearly agreed with me when he

From our outdoor picnic-style benches

blurted out: ‘Go on my son!’ And why not

and tables, we delighted in watching

have a little fun in the melting patches of

marmots emerging from their rocky holes

snow on a hot spring day in the famous

only 20-30 metres from us, happily taking

Three Valleys ski area?

in the sun while chirping to each other, not

With the ski lifts already closed in Méribel

remotely phased by our presence. My

at this late stage of the season, we were

lunching companions didn’t believe me

enjoying a mountain ramble from just

when I told them I once hand-fed carrots

above the village in the forested nature

to wild marmots on a summer walk in the

reserve of Plan de la Tuéda. It turned

Swiss resort of Saas-Fee, and sadly I had

out that our frog-fest siting established

no veggies on hand to prove it.

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CONSENSIO As luck would have it, David and I arrived for our short stay at the handsome Chalet Les Brames, nestled in a private enclave amidst the forested Tuéda hills between Méribel and Mottaret, at the same time as a six-strong team from Scott Ideas PR agency.

These charming young ladies were on a familiarisation trip to this exciting property, which has six en suite doubles and 560 square metres of living area spread

luxuriously

over

three

floors,

including a cinema room, indoor plunge pool, steam room, gym area and massage suites.

The ladies certainly added to the already stunning scenery, and I think David quietly hoped that the wildlife theme might extend through the sliding glass doors of our huge twin room on to the ground

hue as we rejoiced in our day, quaffing

That delicious game led to another after

floor sun deck and into the eight-person

Perrier-Jouët from elegant flutes and

dinner, when I greatly enjoyed teaching

savouring delicious canapés prepared by

our group to play ‘killer’ on the pool table,

our talented chef.

claiming a fairly easy victory.

As this heady, pre-dinner ambience flowed

Guests feel a calming sense of isolation at

out on to the sun deck and gardens beyond,

Brames. There’s no ambient noise or light,

somebody

just a rustling of trees when the breeze

suddenly

gasped,

pointing

outside through the open floor-to-ceiling windows. A trio of fully grown deer pranced across the lawn near the decking, pausing and turning to glance, unflustered, in our direction before disappearing into the forest – a wonderful natural moment, outdoor hot tub. I could not possibly

adding to our collective afterglow. But

comment.

I was relieved these beautiful creatures

However, the wildlife show was far from

didn’t hang around to see our dinner menu,

over. The sun set behind the mountains,

which included a main course of peppered

bathing the peaks in a pleasing, deep red

venison loin with red wine sauce.

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kicks up – cue a wonderful sleep.

CONSENSIO On another sunny day, the PR ladies invited David and I to join them for a light meditation session on the sun deck. Having experienced an introductory session of yin yoga that morning from the Elite Ski Team (a local school of experts in many fields, from all forms of skiing through to massage and various disciplines of yoga), we felt it only appropriate to further embrace the school of Zen. Yin yoga involves holding a few protracted stretches rather than many shorter ones, so I felt my body was elastic enough to complete our human circle, sitting crosslegged on the decking for 10 minutes of meditation conducted from the brilliant Headspace app on a smartphone.

the app, which provides myriad tutorials

The Headspace founders – former monk

from beginner to expert, helping ordinary

Andy

advertising

folk like us to use mindfulness to achieve

executive Rich Pierson – constructed

personal goals, or just to cope and make

Puddicombe

and

the most of our everyday lives.

I was truly drawn into narrator Andy’s soothing but commanding voice, and focused

hard

on

accomplishing

his

relaxation techniques, harnessing them as best I could to distract from the searing pain in my glutes from sitting crosslegged. The meditation definitely helped me

avoid

disturbing

this

otherwise

perfectly harmonious alpine meditation scene.

I haven’t revisited yin yoga, though I know for sure that I should. But this most unlikely of cynical candidates can reveal that he has now downloaded and created a personal account in Headspace.

Look out world!

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CONSENSIO

A taste of the Alps London’s largest indoor ski and snowboard centre, Chel-Ski in the heart of Chelsea, provides a fun, safe and controlled setting for lessons. And it’s warm and dry!

S

o, you’ve got that super luxury ski chalet booked in a beautiful ski resort, but there’s only one

problem… you still can’t ski! Well, there’s a capital solution – you can pop along to London’s Chel-Ski to make sure you can before you head off to the airport. With your new moves, you may just want to get straight on those slopes instead of heading straight to the bar.

For most people learning to ski is, well, how shall we put it, boring. Just good old-fashioned boring. There. We’ve said it.

There’s no denying it. Normally it’s cold, even freezing, and we are waiting for that person in the group not to fall over for the 10th time. We would like the instructor not to be bothered about how good-looking he is, in fact all we want by the end is to get to that nearest après ski bar as soon as possible. Sounds familiar? If so, the quick and easy lessons at Chel-Ski might be just what you’re looking for.

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CONSENSIO

As you come into reception to get your boots and skis, it’s happiness all the way.

With no lifts or queues, Chel-Ski is the perfect place to take your first steps on to the slopes. It caters for all levels from first timers through to experienced skiers. It’s about developing technique under close personal supervision, and the whole idea is that everyone has fun.

The instructors look after a maximum of

three

customers

on

how

they

assessing

well

each

slope,

are

doing

and providing feedback on areas of improvement. The angle and speed of their slopes can be adjusted to match your ability, and the support bars help you to improve your balance and learn basic techniques.

On top of this, the large mirrors allow you to watch yourself ski, the slopes are great for building muscle memory, and the most fabulous thing is you burn a LOT of calories during each session.

The surface of the ski slope is a moving floor, and is adjusted to match your ability – a dream for beginners. Before you know it, you’ll soon be skiing a double diamond.

Afterwards, you can plough into Chel-Ski’s fabulous alpine-themed café and bar to enjoy some well-earned après ski, all within the space of an hour.

Not bad! See you on the slopes…

Chel-Ski.uk

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CONSENSIO

M Y P E R F E C T D AY I N C O U R C H E V E L

Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards Eddie in Courchevel

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CONSENSIO

Michael ‘Eddie’ Edwards has been a firm favourite with skiers all over the world since he shot to fame in 1988 as the first person to represent Great Britain in Winter Olympic Ski-Jumping since 1928.

Earlier this year his trials and tribulations were portrayed

by Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman in the fascinating movie Eddie the Eagle.

Just before the film was released in the UK, he returned to ski-jumping in Courchevel for the charity competition ‘Jump with Eddie’, in aid of Ski 4 Cancer.

Clare Meaney caught up with the lovable legend to find out how he would spend a Perfect Day in the resort

Eddie was in Courchevel last season at a Ski 4 Cancer charity event when he taught four lucky competition winners how to ski jump.

Who would you choose to spend your

I’ve stayed in at Courchevel have been

perfect day in Courchevel with?

absolutely beautiful – nice hot baths so I

A beautiful young, gorgeous model. But

can relax after a long day on the slopes,

she’d have to be a reasonable skier. If she

great wine, and British TV so I can watch

was a beginner, forget it. As long as she

Coronation Street in the evening. Terrific

could keep up that would be fine!

food, wine, a bath – especially with a big group – what more could you want?

What kind of accommodation do you prefer?

What would you choose for breakfast?

I prefer chalet accommodation because

I would probably go for some porridge

it’s more personal than a hotel, especially

made with milk (it has to be milk, not

when you take over the whole chalet –

water) with tea, toast, some fruit and a

it’s more like a home really. The chalets

couple of boiled eggs as well. I do like to

now have such great chefs and the ones

stop for a caffe latte, mind you.

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CONSENSIO Where would you have lunch and what would you eat?

Again it doesn’t matter, as long as there’s a plate of chips.

Where might you enjoy a spot of après?

I’m not really a pub/club type person, but I do like to dance and it’s a certain kind of dance, although we can dance to most music. But I’d rather have a private chalet to dance in rather than a nightclub. I don’t mind going off the slope to have a hot chocolate or some wine, or something like that, but after skiing hard all day with the lovely looking lady I’d like to be skiing with I’d like to get back to the chalet and jump in the sauna or the Jacuzzi, or both!

What would you drink?

Normally I would drink milk or water, but I do drink the very occasional glass of wine or glass of cider, and I even have the odd schnapps, but I generally go for water, milk and wine in that order. All in the same glass.

What would you do to relax before dinner?

I do love a massage, but I also like to go for a sauna, a plunge pool and a Jacuzzi – all before dinner!

Would your perfect day include anything The film Eddie the Eagle about Eddie’s exploits is now available on DVD and Blu-ray

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else – such as a massage, skydiving, a sleigh ride, or a snowmobile or husky ride?

CONSENSIO Oh yes, I love that kind of thing. If I’m with a perfect date who’s beautiful I’ll go on a sleigh ride, a husky ride or a moonlit walk through the woods. I like all of that.

Is there any particular reason why you would choose to spend your perfect day in Courchevel?

It’s a beautiful resort, there are loads and loads of things to do there – you don’t have to ski or board to have a good time, there are lots of other things to do. And all four ski villages are lovely – especially 1850 – it’s like walking down Fifth Avenue in New York with beautiful shops like Chanel and Louis Vuitton to look at. If I go again, I’m going to teach myself French and Russian.

Which

is

the

most

technically

challenging run in Courchevel?

Probably the 120-metre ski jump!

Are you competitive in everything you do?

he played me so well, and it was amazing

I used to be, but not so much now. I do

looking at him on set because he looked

to

like to compete, and if I am competing I

exactly like I did 28 years ago.

youngsters starting off in ski racing or

always train hard to try to win. But I’m

ski-jumping today?

not as excessive as I used to be – I just

And what about Hugh Jackman, who

I would say get your head down, work

like to have a bit of fun.

played your coach – was he a nice chap?

What

advice

would

you

give

hard and train hard – the more you

Yes, he is a really nice guy. I spent time

put in the more you’ll get out of it –

We would like to ask you a bit about the

with him on set and then I spent a month

and enjoy every second of being an

film. The young man who played you,

with him travelling around the world

athlete. If you get the opportunity to

Taron Egerton, looked amazingly like

to promote the film – he’s got plenty

ski somewhere else then take it and just

you, didn’t he?

of time for everybody. For an A-lister

enjoy it. You’re doing something you

Yes he did – he had the chin, the

movie star, he’s a lovely guy.

love doing and that is a wonderful thing.

moustache, the glasses, the hairstyle.

Take advantage of every opportunity

He sounded like me, acted like me – he

Sounds a lot like you then Eddie!

that comes your way.

made the film so easy to watch because

Thank you.

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PERRIER-JOUËT, THE ALLURING CHAMPAGNE

Photography by Warren & Nick

Since its foundation in 1811, the champagne house Perrier-Jouët has crafted elegant, floral wines of rare finesse with a Chardonnay hallmark.

The elegance of the cuvees echoes that of the Art Nouveau anemones adorning the Belle Epoque bottle and offers moments of pure delight and beauty. www.perrier-jouet.com

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY

CONSENSIO

Join the colour fun

Who wants to dress in a white ski suit with hundreds of other skiers, get completely covered in different coloured powder and have as much fun as humanly possible? Well, on 11 March 2017 in the Portes du Soleil you can, when the psychedelic SkiColor run arrives in Les Gets 18

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CONSENSIO

S

kiColor, is a magnificent event, based

by the volunteer “Colour Bombers” as they

You can find different registration packages

on the Color Run concept, which

whizz through the separate zones. Add in

online with prices ranging from €6 for

started in America in 2011 to improve

some tunnels, balloons and pumping music,

children, to €10 for adults. You can wear your

health, wellness and fitness. Running the

what’s not to love. Incidentally, the coloured

normal ski clothes and helmets and the white

‘Happiest 5k on the Planet’, has fast turned

powder is totally natural and mountain-

protective suits are provided. Participants

into a charity phenomenon and is now the

friendly, which is in keeping with the ‘eco-

must have a minimum level of of skiing

single largest event series in the world.

village’ ethos of Les Gets.

experience, (level 3 star) and children age 12

The first SkiColor event was held in 2015

At the end of the day (and the run), a

and under must be accompanied. There’s a

and made history when more than 800

mass of entertainment comes alive when

‘Pedestrian Pack’ for non- skiiers, too.

people took part. Fun-loving participants

the SkiColor village buzzes with music,

So,if you want to go to bed with a huge smile

take to the slopes to ski down a specially

performances, live DJs and dancing.

on your face, raise money for your favourite

prepared run on the Mont-Chéry side of the

There is something for everyone – children’s

charity, or just fancy a fun fitness boost, the

resort. Participants wear protective white

workshops, a big concert on a stage facing

SkiColor run could be just for you!

suits and SkiColor hats and are immersed

Mont Blanc, art exhibitions and group

www.skicolor.com/en/ and

in explosions of coloured powder thrown

collaborative mural painting.

www.facebook.com/skicolor

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CONSENSIO

The incredible journey Charlotte Saint Jean describes herself as ‘a mummy, yoga teacher, and lover of life’

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CONSENSIO

Y

oga found me in London in

My life took an unexpected turn shortly

the mid-1990s amidst a haze

after my yoga discovery. I went on holiday

of career, ambition and living,

to Val d’Isère in the French Alps, had an

working and partying hard à la Bridget

afternoon’s ski lesson and fell in love with

Jones. In my 20s, and amidst a masculine

my ski instructor (such a cliché – I know!)

world fighting to be an equal and never

Fast forward a few years and I quit my job

quite achieving those goals, I found

in London, moved to Val d’Isère, married my

myself

ski instructor and had children.

one

Sunday

afternoon

in

an

Ashtanga Yoga class.

There was no yoga in the resort when I

It was in a crowded, chic London gym

arrived, only big wide eyes at the mention of

surrounded by people who knew what they

the word. But I got to work on it and today

were doing. I moved and flopped my way

there are many yoga teachers, and even

through the class and left dripping wet,

better an annual festival, which I created

exhausted… and intrigued. My yoga journey

more than four years ago with the support

had begun.

of the Town Hall and Tourist Office.

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CONSENSIO ‘So why come to yoga in Val d’Isère?’, you may ask? Well, there are many chic ski resorts, but Val d’Isère maintains a sporty edge over some of its rivals. And combining different mountain sports with the practice of yoga is such a logical progression. It helps to prepare your body physically and mentally, thus helping to prevent injuries. It also assists in stretching out your muscles, ligaments and joints to avoid stiffness so you can fully enjoy the next day on the slopes.

But more than that, yoga is really about how you feel in your body and mind on a deeper level. Your time is precious and modern-day lives are often extremely busy, so your time in the resort should be a special gift to yourself.

I have a background in the Hatha, Yin and

Yoga has become a total way of life for me, and

There is something for everyone, from the

Ashtanga styles of yoga, but I mostly teach

despite now being divorced I see no reason to

regular classes and festival to workshops

Prana Flow now – a total fusion and harmony

leave this amazing mountain region, so I will

and special events in the yurts in and around

of breath and movement. A box of tools to

continue my journey and the Alpine lifestyle

Val d’Isère, brunch yoga sessions and a

cater for your needs, today, this evening, or

I am blessed to enjoy – cycling, walking and

sacred Yoga Circle just for women. There are

just at the present time in your life.

running in the summer, skiing and Telemarking

online and DVD classes, too.

Created by Shiva Rea and infused with

in the winter and, of course, yoga.

But if you are looking to offer yourself

Ayurvedic and Tantra techniques, Prana

As we practise this wonderful form of

that special gift – a class designed just

Flow is a beautifully flowing and very

wellbeing here in the mountains I try to

for you – then private classes or the

intuitive style of yoga. I teach from the heart

capture the incredible energy we are

Prestige pack are just what you need.

and from a wide range of yoga practices,

lucky enough to live within, from the

My services range from one-off sessions,

as well as my teaching and life experiences.

nature that surrounds us to the many

or just spending a little extra time on you

Yoga can be, and is, for everyone.

people who, for whatever reason, have

to cater for your physical and mental

With a personal background that includes

found themselves in this special resort.

needs, to the full Prestige Lifestyle

a career in a stressful sales environment,

Yoga here is a precious moment of

Package. It is the ultimate gift for your

two children and a lot of issues needing

connection.

body, mind and soul. Treat yourself and

attention, my classes are a fusion of all of

I teach a variety of group classes to wake

enjoy!

this. Plus my very British sense of humour.

up your day or stretch out your body in

I do hope to see you on a mat here in Val

I have taught yoga and lived in Val d’Isère for

the company of like-minded people, and of

d’Isère soon and to share some of that

well over 15 years now, and am lucky enough

course you can come and enjoy the annual

fantastic journey with you.

to be able to live from my passion so that

Val d’Isère Yoga Festival at the end of the

As they say in yoga, ‘the sweet divine in me

every day is a gift.

winter season.

salutes the sweet divine in you’.

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CONSENSIO

The Prestige Lifestyle Package This offers you a tailored session over a half day or a full day, spread over the week you are in the resort, to really recharge your batteries and replenish your body and mind. And all in the comfort of your own chalet.

It includes: • Your own personal Yoga Menu • De-stressing & Mindfulness • Detoxing • Relaxing & Reboosting • Preparing your ski day or stretching

it out

• Balancing your hormones with a

Hormonal Yoga session for women pre,

during and post menopause

• Providing lifestyle & healthy

living advice

• Meditation & Breathing • Simply taking some time out for you

Charlotte Saint Jean Yoga teacher www.yoga-with-altitude.net Founder of www.yogachezmoi.com Creator of the Yoga Festival, Val d’Isère

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CONSENSIO

Relax in this historic hamlet Chalet Calistoga, located in the exclusive Le Crêt area of Val d’Isère, is brand new to the Consensio portfolio. Having been completely renovated and with a large terrace offering stunning mountain views, what’s not to like?

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CONSENSIO

FACILITIES • Sleeps 10 adults in five bedrooms • Large indoor swimming pool

N

• Sauna with shower estled in a prestigious area of the

guests in five en suite bedrooms all

• Massage room with shower

resort and completed in 2007,

enjoying spectacular mountain views.

• Children’s games room with TV

Calistoga is the most recently

The

• TV snug with Sky and Apple TV

double

height

living

area

has

built chalet in the charm filled historic

panoramic views of the valley through

hamlet of “Le Cret”. For the history

floor-to-ceiling

buffs, there are seven original chalets

opening out on to a large terrace. There

and a chapel in Le Cret dating back to

is a relaxed seating area around the

the 1600s, the first erected around 1624.

fireplace next to the spacious dining

Apart from being beautifully historic, it’s

area, where the Consensio staff will be

a peaceful and tranquil neighbourhood

serving the usual sumptuous fare. On

where you can relax away from the hustle

the same floor you will find a TV snug,

and bustle of central Val d’Isère.

perfect for enjoying a movie, Sky or

Newly renovated Calistoga sleeps 10

Apple TV.

windows,

with

doors

• Wi-Fi • Ski room with heated boot warmers • Large terrace with stunning views • Exclusive location in the Le Crêt enclave • 4x4 Caravelle-chauffeured facility • Garage for four cars

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CONSENSIO

On the lower floor there is a children’s

Spa facilities at the chalet include a large

games

twin/superking

swimming pool, sauna, shower and separate

bedrooms both with access to the terrace

massage room and your Consensio team can

at garden level, and a third double

arrange a relaxing massage or treatement at

bedroom

the chalet after a hard day’s skiing.

room,

two

alongside

a

smaller

fourth

bedroom with a twin/superking bed. The

As

usual,

fifth Austrian twin/ superking bedroom is

chauffeur will be on hand to whisk you

on the lower ground level, with amazing

from pillow to piste throughout the day.

mountain views.

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your

private

Consensio

Your Healthy Lifestyle Starts Here…

Welcome to Healthouse Las Dunas. Located on the peaceful southern shores of Spain’s Andalucian coast, Healthouse Las Dunas is a five-star luxury health and wellness centre, boasting world-class facilities and surrounded by lush sub-tropical gardens with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the African coast.

Health and wellbeing are at the epi-centre of what Healthouse Las Dunas offers, with fitness and specially-formulated spa treatments as key to each itinerary. The retreat also prides itself on its gastronomy, not least with the appointment of world famous chef Andoni Luis Aduriz, a two Michelin starred chef of renowned restaurant Mugaritz. The experienced team tailor-make a personalised plan for each guest, whether in need of a detox, weight loss, quit-smoking or destress programme, ensuring every guest is provided with the right care for their needs.

Healthouse Las Dunas

Urbanizacion la Boladilla Baja – Carretera Marbella-Estepona, km 163,500 29689 Estepona, Malaga - T +34 951 082 090 info@healthouse-naturhouse.com - www.healthouse-naturhouse.com

CONSENSIO

So – what’s new?

We are always eager to tell you what’s next in the wonderful world of Consensio and we have some irresistible gems for you this season. Here’s a selection of what’s new for the coming season, both in our chalets and our resorts

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CONSENSIO

Who doesn’t love fireworks?

Party On! As we all know, all the best parties start

in between. Maybe a spectacular firework

endless possibilities at your fingertips.

with a bang and over the years here at

display, a fancy dress party, a birthday

And of course we can also arrange a whole

Consensio we have been arranging the most

or marriage proposal all captured by a

assortment of fun ways of sliding down the

spectacular, bespoke events and parties for

professional cameraman or film crew.

hill. Depending on your adrenaline levels,

our guests. Be it a romantic liaison or a big

As well as literally lighting up the peaks,

you might want to try an airboards, snow

occasion, chat to your concierge and let us

Animation Services can also help you

scooters, snake gliss, inner tubes, parets,

arrange something really special for you.

experience the mountains in ways you

sleds, saucers, or yooners.

Along with our colleagues at Animation

may never have thought possible. Maybe

The Alps really are your oyster and you’ve

Services we really can turn a dream into

dinner in a cable car, an intimate drink in a

only got to ask!

reality - an intimate tête-à-tête for two, or

teepee, a sleigh ride, a torchlight descent,

a full-blown party for 200 and everything

dog sledding, ski joëring, ice sculpturing …

New lift pass Val d’Isère have launched a new ‘Solaise area only’ lift pass this winter to coincide with

the

opening

of

the

massively

improved €16 million Solaise Gondola lift. The revamped lift is included in the exclusive new pass, along with the Madeleine, Datcha and Glacier chairs, the Legettaz and Rogoney village lifts and the three magic carpets. It can be purchased a day at a time at a cost of €35 (adults).

Aswell as the new pass, another excellent offer: Get a half-price six-day Val d’Isère to Tignes pass for just €139, when you book a week of beginner lessons with a recognised ski school. More details are available from your concierge. www.valdisere.ski/en

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CONSENSIO

Were are no longer exclusively Chalets! Luxury Apartments Consensio Holidays has introduced a choice of luxury Alpine Apartments to expand on its collection of award- winning ski chalets in the French Alps. ‘Etoile Filante’ (Shooting Star) is a stunning, newly built duplex with breathtaking views of Val d’Isère, available with various catering and staffing packages.

We

will

be

expanding

our

apartment

portfolio

continually during the season and preseason, so keep an eye on the website. www.consensiochalets.co.uk

Consensio teams up with London’s iconic 24-hour eatery Duck & Waffle Here at Consensio we and our chefs have a passion for food, using only the finest ingredients, and where possible, in season, local produce, and this exciting new partnership will only further enhance this. This winter we will launch our new exclusive breakfast menu in partnership with one of London’s most popular restaurants, Duck & Waffle, offering guests the ultimate breakfast ahead of a hard days ski.

Executive Chef, Tom Cenci, will share an exclusive Duck & Waffle menu with us. He will be working with the Consensio chefs in the lead up to the start of the season to ensure a full reflection of the unique dishes that have made Duck & Waffle London’s most celebrated brunch spot.

The signature dish is their namesake ‘Duck & Waffle’ - a crispy confit duck leg on a waffle topped with a fried duck egg and mustard maple syrup and we fully recommend visiting this high altitude restaurant located in the Heron Tower in London. For those who are early birds, book to experience sunrise first thing in the morning! www.duckandwaffle.com

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C CO ON N SS EE N N SS II O O

A little freshen up!

In 2016, we will be refreshing our brand with the launch of an exciting new user friendly website and logo. In addition, and to make your experience even better, we will shortly be offering 3 new services, focusing on tailor-made experiences and concierge assistance.

These

will

include

VIP

privileges,

destination events and experience packages.

We would love to hear your feedback. www.consensiochalets.co.uk

Become a VIP As part of an initiative to demonstrate Consensio’s appreciation for their loyal clients, in 2016/17 they will be introducing a VIP privilege scheme.

Upon booking a Consensio chalet, guests will receive a VIP card that will unlock a variety of privileges, both in the resort and across a selection of Consensio’s exclusive partners.

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CONSENSIO

A vine romance Consensio’s wine expert Antoine Veuriot is the proprietor of La Cave sur le comptoir in Val d’Isère. Here, the sommelier explains why he only stocks French wines, and why his country has raised the bar worldwide

I

n Val d’Isère, 65 per cent of our clients

clients are prepared to pay more for them.

product

are international and regularly ask me

This means that today all the regions of France

affecting one’s health.

why I do not sell New World wines. I

are producing very high-quality wines, and

In France we say that consumers have chosen

explain that I choose to only sell French wines

the ones I sell in my shop starting from €25 a

to drink less but to drink better quality. This

because we are in a French village where they

bottle are all very good. As you go up in price,

results in us selling fewer bottles but we sell

have come to experience a French ski holiday.

they can be excellent and even exceptional.

more of our premium wines.

French wines have moved forward in the

It is amusing to note that the New World is now

I do not sell international wines, however

last 20 years, and they partly have the New

following the same trend and producing more

I regularly drink them myself and, like my

World wines to thank for that. They have had

and more premium wines. The winemakers are

clients, I only buy the best.

to improve their quality and attract a more

trying to produce ‘French wines’ – in that they

This is why this winter at La Cave you will find

premium client, and the most well-known

would like their wines to possess the flavour

a variety of organic and pure wines of high

have multiplied their prices, with some now

of the soil or of the vines that have grown the

quality. You can enjoy them with our artisan

costing 20 times more than 30 years ago.

grapes. This is what we call the ‘terroir’, and to

cheese and charcuterie platters together

The reason behind this is the international

preserve this taste the winemakers try not to

with some bread baked especially for us by

demand for authentic, high-quality products

add anything else, so their wines are more and

Patrick Chevallot, who is a Meilleur Ouvrier

has permitted the vineyards to decrease their

more organic and pure.

de France (Top Craftsman in France) – the

yield to produce better wines – because their

Wine consumed in moderation is a great

Val d’Isère baker.

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which

brings

pleasure

without

CONSENSIO

Wine Quiz 1. Which of the following isn’t a white grape?

6. Which country produces Chateau Musar?

a. Albarino

a. France

b. Airen

b. Lebanon

c. Aglianico

c. Switzerland

2. Chablis is made from which grape? a. Chardonnay

7. What is the flower depicted on a bottle of Perrier-Jouët Champagne?

b. Sauvignon Blanc

a. Anemone

c. Chenin Blanc

b. Aster c. Azalea

3. Which is the only wine that is actually said to taste like grapes?

8. Which river flows through Bordeaux?

a. Pinot Blanc

a. Garonne

b. Viognier

b. Loire

c. Muscat

c. Dordogne

4. Which is the main grape of Sancerre?

9. What was Winston Churchill’s favourite champagne?

a. Sauvignon Blanc

a. Bollinger

b. Cabernet Sauvignon

b. Pol Roger

c. Chardonnay

c. Dom Pérignon

5. Which country is the largest consumer of wine?

10. What does the word ‘Côtes’ mean in Côtes du Rhône?

a. France

a. River

b. Germany

b. Slopes

c. USA

c. Region

Wine quiz answers 1 c. 2 a. 3 c. 4 a. 5 c. 6 b. 7 a. 8 a. 9 b. 10 b.

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CONSENSIO

Get kitted out Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports reviews eight of this season’s most desirable pieces of equipment Arc’teryx Voltair 30 £1279.99 Statistically proven to increase the survival rate of skiers and snowboarders caught in an avalanche, airbag backpacks have become the new cornerstone of backcountry snow safety kit.

The Voltair 30 from Arc’teryx utilises an advanced engineered centrifugal blower to fill the 150-litre airbag and delivers more initial pressure than any other batterypowered avalanche airbag system on the market.

The pack itself has been crafted from N400rAC² fabric with Arc’teryx’s WaterTight zippers to deliver strength and durability, while a purposeful feature set allows you to carry skis or snowboard plus all your essential backcountry gear with ease.

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CONSENSIO

Suunto Spartan Ultra All Black Titanium (HR) £599.99 This stunning new GPS sports watch from Suunto delivers an array of information to your wrist for easy access via its colour touchscreen.

Track your ascent and descent, keep an eye on the weather and make sure you don’t miss the last lift off the mountain with this smartwatch. Featuring fully customisable screen options and powerful multisport functionality, the Spartan Ultra is the ultimate tool to guide you through an active, adventurous lifestyle.

Spartan Ultra watches are handmade in Finland and built to last.

DPS Wailer 112 RP2 Pure3 £1000.00 The Wailer 112 RP2 Pure3 is a special ski, appealing to serious skiers and anyone who can appreciate a brand that pushes the boundaries of construction and design techniques. Aerospace pre-impregnated carbon fibre, nanotech technology and the very finest accompanying materials help create a ski that is 30% lighter than competitors and is still stronger, responds faster and is more powerful. All-condition skiing has never so effectively moved from such impressive powder handling to all-out piste performance.

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CONSENSIO

Exonde XO V3/V7 £640.00 With the XO V7 and V3 skis from super exclusive Swiss brand Exonde, the need to decide between light weight and high-performance has been removed. A traditional racing construction combined with light materials makes these skis exceptionally easy to handle yet with the grip and response you would expect from a racing model. Pick them up and you notice the difference straight away; get them on snow and just enjoy the sensations of a ski that is less tiring, more precise and better performing.

Oakley Line Miner Inferno Goggle £215.00 Fogging inside goggles is a frustrating issue for skiers and snowboarders, but with Oakley’s newest model, the Line Miner, it will become a problem of the past. The push of one button heats the lens to evaporate any fog, or just prevent it from creeping up in the first place. Add this to Oakley’s proven optical expertise and the amazing peripheral vison of the new lens and it’s easy to see why this model is going to be so sought after.

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CONSENSIO

Therm-ic PowerGloves Mittens IC 1300 Unisex 2.0 £220.00 Banish cold hands with Therm-ic’s PowerGlove Mitten IC 1300. These neat mitts cleverly tuck away a rechargeable battery in the cuff so you can barely notice it’s there. This powers a series of elements that will gently warm the back of your fingers with a choice of three heat settings, all controlled from two simple buttons neatly integrated into the back of the hand. A must have for anyone that suffers from cold hands, bad circulation or Raynaud’s, or just if you want toasty fingers all day long.

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CONSENSIO

Girls Roxy Mini Jetty Jkt £89.99 In an adorable owl print this jacket is a must have for any little trendsetter and the Grow system means as your kid grows, it does too!

Colour – Little Owl White print Age – 4, 6

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CONSENSIO

Barts Monster Beanie £22.99 Popular beanie that kids will love to wear and wear!

Available Colours, Rose or Blue

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

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CONSENSIO

Hitting new heights Voted Best Ski Chalet France at the 2015 World Ski Awards, it is hard to imagine how the fabulous luxury chalet Grand Corniche in family-friendly Les Gets, France, could get any better with all its impressive facilities. But to elevate it to even greater heights, a showstopper feature is set to be added – an outdoor heated infinity swimming pool

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CONSENSIO

S

o as if things could get any better

And the innovations don’t

at uber-luxurious Grande Corniche

stop there. In addition to the

in Les Gets, you will soon be able

pool, Grand Corniche will also

to take a dip under the alpine skies and

feature its very own two-tier

literally float on top of the world in the

cinema this winter. Imagine

privacy of your own chalet.

watching a James Bond film,

Ready just in time for winter 2016/17, the

in your own James Bond

brand spanking new infinity pool overlooks

chalet...

the valley with its spectacular views across

With

the mountains.

bedrooms,

So that you really can enjoy the alpine

sleeps up to 12 adults and three

air while you swim, this beautiful pool

children, with the capacity to

will utilise the latest water treatment

accommodate

technology, allowing you to enjoy an

four guests in a cosy garden mazot. Named

screen TV and enjoys stunning views

entirely

Petite Corniche, it’s perfect for larger families

across the valley. On a clear day you can

with nannies, teenagers or grandparents.

see the Mont Blanc from the open-plan

chemical-free

swim

odourless and chlorine- free.

–

clean,

elegantly Grand

an

designed Corniche

additional

Each suite is equipped with a plasma

FACILITIES • Sleeps 12 adults and 3 children in 7 bedrooms (additional 4 in Petit Corniche) • Glass sauna and conversation pit • Outdoor infinity heated swimming pool (chlorine-free) • Outdoor Jacuzzi • Snooker room • Large cinema room with two-tier floor • Wine cellar • Gym area • Grand piano • Ski room with heated boot warmers • Large terrace • Chauffeured 4x4 Caravelle facility • Private chef

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41

CONSENSIO dining/living area and master bedroom.

The chalet also has a glass sauna and outdoor hot tub, both with spectacular views, a gym, a bar with a slide to the wine cellar (really!), a snooker table and even a grand piano.

Les Gets – a mere hour’s drive from Geneva airport – is a firm favourite with families, corporate ski trips and the ideal resort for a long weekend break. It is one of 12 resorts that make up the vast Portes du Soleil ski area straddling the Swiss-French border.

Offering

a

distinctly

“different”

ski

experience to that of Les Trois Vallées, the Portes du Soleil delivers some serious mileage with 650km of varied terrain.

The majority of runs are suited to the intermediate skier, but with so much to choose from, Les Gets is the perfect

this once traditional dairy farming village

Les Gets is an accredited “Famille Plus

destination if you are looking for a resort

is a community that dates back to the 12th

Montage” resort. Children will love the

to accommodate a broad range of abilities.

century and its real beauty is that it has

mini-train connecting the main ski lifts and

Les Gets itself is a small, picturesque

not lost its soul. As such it is better known

the Mont Chéry area.

village lying at an altitude of 1,172m and

for its warm atmosphere as opposed to its

There is also a superb children’s zone

oozes Alpine charm and traditional Haute

party scene, attracting those interested in

(somewhat unfortunately) called “Grand

Savoie ambience. Entrenched in history,

a more authentic, varied ski experience.

Cry”,

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reserved

exclusively

for

families

That being said, there are a

and only accessible when accompanying

good selection of restaurants

a child. Themed around trappers and

and cosy bars and plenty

Indians, your little ones can safely practice

of nightlife to check out.

their skills over small bumps and round

Although it might not be

bends before stopping by an Indian teepee

quite as jumping as its 3

to catch their (or your) breath.

Valley

most

There really is something for everyone in

bars are open to 2am and

neighbours,

the Les Gets area. The Pistes are generally

for those looking to power

quieter than Les Trois Vallées, making it

on into the early hours, the

a popular destination amongst French

Igloo nightclub (Discothèque

holidaymakers:

l’Igloo) is open to 5am.

As they say, “locals usually know best”

CONSENSIO

© Phillipe Rebreyend

SKI SCHOOL & GUIDING

LUXURY CONCIERGE SERVICE

ELITE COACHING Ski with a pro +33 (6) 662 039 402

ELITE POWDER Heliski, Freeride, Ski Touring |

ELITE PINK Ski & Yoga for Girls

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

contact@eliteskiteam.com

|

www.eliteskiteam.com

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CONSENSIO

The ultimate buzz Ski guide Brice Lequertier, founder of the Elite Ski Group, describes how a day with his Elite Ski Team combines the best of mountain sport , with a little bit of ‘Heliskiing’ , all served up with a culinary twist

44

E

lite Ski promise the ultimate in

Elite Ski specialise in ‘Heliskiing’, where

luxury ski guiding in the Alps

you are literally chauffered by helicopter

and around the world. In the 3

from the soft, deep snow to a gourmet

Valleys, imagine skiing untracked, fluffy

restaurant, where you can relive your off-

champagne powder in places you never

piste adventures over the finest libations

thought you would experience, without all

and a Michelin-star meal.

the worry of whether you will get back for

Safety is paramount and your day will begin

that all-important lunch or dinner, or get

first thing in the morning with a briefing at

back at all for that matter!

the chalet. Elite equips its clients with the

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

CONSENSIO

latest ABS technology and avalanche safety

But while getting off piste requires no

three Michelin-starred restaurant in Savoie

equipment and to say their guides are

effort at all, getting back is another

– La Bouitte in St Marcel.

experienced is a massive understatement!

story, unless that is, you happen to have

The restaurant really is extraordinary! The

Team Manager Florent Chretien, climbed

a helicopter waiting to pick you up – well,

chef’s flagship dishes include Foie Gras De

the 7,760-metre Gurlamandata mountain

that’s fortunate!

Canard En Escalope for meat lovers, and

in Tibet and descended from the summit

Your helicopter will arrive at the bottom of

Truite Fario Cuite Au Bleu for those who

on a snowboard. Brice himself, skied down

the run in the tiny hamlet of Bourtacombe,

favour fish and the cheeseboard is to die

Everest. So youre in safe hands!

ready to take off for the neighbouring

for.

You will set off from your chalet towards

resort of Valmorel. After a short heli ride

You might find it a struggle to move after

the Vallées des Belleville, aiming to reach

you will take the lift up to Pointe du Grand

your decadent lunch, so its handy that your

the top of La Masse using the lifts. From

Niélard, before pointing your skis at the

helicopter will be waiting to run you back

here, the first off-piste challenges of the

second off-piste thrill of the day – Le

to the comforts of your chalet, replete in

day are waiting – fresh, crisp and easy

Gollet.

every way – and feeling very much like a

rolling bowls, overlooking the stunning

Again, there is no walking or special

film star. That buzz will last a long time!

Encombres Valley. The trip requires zero

effort required before you start. Another

walking, so you can save all your energy

spectacular run later, you will be met by

for the skiing.

a taxi who will whisk you off to the only

eliteskiteam.com

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

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CONSENSIO

World Ski Awards 2016 The master bedroom at Chalet Marco Polo in Val d’Isère

This year’s World Ski Awards are nearly upon us again, with the grand finale just around the corner!

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C CO ON N SS EE N N SS II O O The stunning indoor pool area at Chalet Lhotse in Val d’Isère

The outdoor Jacuzzi at Chalet Grande Corniche in Les Gets

The spa and pool area at Shemshak Lodge in Courchevel

T

he World Ski Awards take place over

of the weekend will be the red carpet

are proud to say that this is the third time we

the weekend of 18 – 20 November

awards ceremony held on the evening of 19

have been nominated.

at the A-ROSA hotel in Kitzbühel,

November.

From chic and designer, to traditional and

overlooking the legendary Hahnenkamm

This year Consensio has received no less than

homely, the “Best Ski Chalet in France”

downhill course. Launched in 2013, the aim

nine nominations for the ‘Best Ski Chalet in

award does exactly what it says on the tin.

of the awards is to drive up standards within

France’ award ,as well as being nominated

Winners in this category offer impeccable

the ski industry by rewarding organisations

as the ‘World’s Best Ski Tour Operator’. This

levels of service, cuisine and location, in the

who are leaders in their field.

prestigious category is open to companies

most beautiful accommodation.

This year’s event will be a three-day

who

We’ll let you know how we get on!

programme of networking, dinners and

specialist knowledge to give the consumer

Here are some images of our nominated

some exclusive ski experiences. The highlight

the best ski holiday experience possible. We

properties.

combine

proven

expertise,

with

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CONSENSIO

The attractive dining room at Chalet Jejalp in Morzine

A snow-covered Chalet Mont Tremblant in MĂŠribel

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C CO ON N SS EE N N SS II O O

Relax in the bar at Chalet Les Brames in Méribel

Enjoy a drink in the bar at Chalet Montana in Val d’Isère

Get a good night’s sleep in the splendour of the master bedroom at Le Rocher in Val d’Isère

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CONSENSIO

The Lindsay legend lives on Arnie Wilson delves into some family history to discover how a Scotsman turned the tiny French hamlet of Méribel into one of Europe’s best-known ski resorts

A 1950 view of the Méribel Valley from above the hamlet of Le Raffort

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CONSENSIO

Méribel Altiport pictured in the ‘60s

I

f you’re lucky enough to stay in any

valley and asked a former member of

of Consensio’s luxurious chalets in

the Chasseurs Alpins (the elite mountain

Méribel, it’s hard to believe that

infantry of the French army) to show him

when the Second World War ended

round the valley ‘on ski’.

in 1945 there was hardly a hint of how

The legendary Arnold Lunn had already

upscale and fashionable this picturesque

visited the area much earlier, in 1925, and

and tasteful ski resort was going to

reported favourably on its potential as a

become.

ski area. Lindsay, an estate agent, was

Back then Méribel was scarcely more

equally impressed. But the war intervened.

than a hamlet – but it was marked for

He joined the Irish Guards and then

great things. And the man who waved the

volunteered

magic wand to start its gentle but high-

Operations Executive (SOE). He was sent

quality evolution was an Anglo-Scotsman,

to Burma, seriously wounded, and awarded

Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lindsay.

the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for

Before the war, he’d visited the Les Allues

bravery.

to

join

the

elite

Special

David Lindsay

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

51

CONSENSIO The war over, he returned to Les Allues and,

perhaps the best non-competitive British

softly softly, started developing Méribel as

skier I’ve ever seen.

a ski area. And here’s the thing, because he

So it’s well worth joining one of his annual

was not a property developer and didn’t

skiing get-togethers in Méribel. “In 2008,”

sell land to property developers, he was

he said, “20 years since I’d worn the red

never really flush with cash. As a result,

Méribel ESF jacket, I was persuaded to dig

Méribel’s development – the first in what

it out again to run a two-week course for

is now known as Les Trois Vallées – was

a group interested in doing some off-piste.

gentle and almost serene, in stark contrast

Although I don’t do these off-piste courses

to some of the more ugly architecture

any more, I still ski with some clients in

incorporated later in such resorts as La

the last week of January and first week of

Plagne and Flaine.

February.

whatever standard who wants to ski off-

Méribel became a chalet resort, requiring

“This coming winter that’s from Sunday

piste during that period.”

its chalets and small hotels to be built in

22 January till Saturday 4 February. I’d

So you see the Lindsay effect in Méribel

the stone, wood and slanted slate-roof

be delighted to hear from any skier of

lives on!

David Lindsay’s parents on the balcony of Chalet Tara – Peter Lindsay’s first chalet - in 1958

style that has long since defined the resort.

To this day, 80 years after Peter Lindsay first arrived, this style is still enshrined in the buildings today and has to be adhered to in the ‘cahier des charges’ or design specification of any new developments.

No wonder Consensio’s luxury chalets fit the bill so charmingly.

But this is not the only legacy from the early Lindsay days. The colonel’s son David, born in 1956, has continued the Lindsay legend. His father died in 1971, when he was only 15, but David later went on to run Méribel’s international ski school, sometimes doing back-to-back winters in Thredbo, Australia and Mount Dobson, New Zealand.

He’s a very modest chap and he won’t like me saying this, but having skied quite a few runs in Méribel with him, including some fairly challenging (to me at least) runs like the Couloir de L’Antenne, David is

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Ski School

Val d'Isère and Tignes leading Ski & Snowboard School

Fully Qualified Instructors Beginners to Expert Lessons Private and Small Group Lessons Kids and Teen Groups Off Piste and Freeride Free ABS Bags

enquiries@progressionski.com | +44 (0) 208 123 3001

www.progressionski.com

CONSENSIO

Be prepared for your day on the hill Ken Smith from Progression Ski & Snowboard School offers some tips to make your trip more enjoyable

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CONSENSIO

G

etting ready for the first run of the

around when you shake your head. Take

as soon as you book your chalet book all

day is not just about stretching

along your goggles as well as some brands

the lessons and guiding you will need in

those

and/or shapes don’t fit on some helmets.

resort.

stretches before we get on the hill. So let’s

Easy Mistakes

Lunches

not even go there.

Time and time again I see people leaving

If you like a nice lunch, book in advance.

their lift passes in their chalet. It normally

Some restaurants only take bookings on

Pre-arrival

comes about if people have different ski

the day so ask your chalet host or instructor

Getting ready for that first run actually

jackets and forget to change the lift pass

to make a plan and book for lunch.

starts well before the holiday even begins,

over from one to another or if people put

so the first rule is to put in place as many

it in a pocket which they empty at nights.

Stress-free

things as possible pre-arrival. When you

Children are the worst culprits so double

Treat yourself to a massage to ease

arrive at the chalet you want to be sipping

check!

away those second-day aches and pains.

tight

hamstrings.

Let’s

face it, very few of us manage to do any

a nice glass of champagne rather than

Swimming is a great warm down as well.

thinking about your lift passes, ski school,

Lessons and Guides

rental equipment and those all-important

Always book in advance as the better

And Stretch

gloves! Most of this can be done through

schools are always in demand. The later

You probably won’t but it does help!

the fantastic Concensio concierge service

you book, particularly for high season

at the time of booking.

weeks, the less availability there will be so

progressionski.com

Goggles and Gloves The two items of equipment that cause the most frustration and grief are gloves and goggles. Even if your goggles are akin to that worn by an F-15 fighter pilot and your gloves are of the finest leather, if they are damp in the morning they will remain damp and cold or fogged up throughout the day so make sure you dry them overnight.

Helmets A lot of people now wear helmets but remember it is the fit that counts and not the look. We all have different shaped heads so try a lot of different ones on and buy one that is snug and doesn’t move

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CONSENSIO

Stargazing in Courchevel Michael Cranmer takes us on a tour of one of the chicest resorts in the world, where the rich glitter as much as the night sky

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H

ave you ever wondered how many stars there are in the observable universe? There are

various estimates ranging upwards of a billion trillion, give or take a few. Now for a slightly trickier question. How many stars are there in the French ski resort Courchevel? The answer is, it’s impossible to say.

For a kick-off, it depends on how one defines ‘star’. Let’s just take it as a noun: Celestial

body,

megastar,

celebrity,

luminary,

big

leading

name,

man

or

lady, lead, hero or heroine, principal, main attraction… et al. But it gets more complicated as there are even more stars.

Michelin awards stars for a restaurant’s excellence. The new French hotel system

luxury hotels with a five-star ranking. Only

secretaries,

retains the one to four-star ratings, but

a few hotels in France have a Palace rating,

wives even (!) gravitate as night falls and

has added a fifth star for outstanding

and two of those are in the resort’s tree-

thoughts turn to who is buying what,

properties and a ‘Palace’ designation for

lined Jardin Alpin area. It has the most

what to be seen in, and the extraction of

the finest hotels. Huh!

Michelin-starred restaurants of any ski

insider gossip from shop assistants – a fat

‘What’s the point of all this?’ I sense you

resort, seven of which share 11 Michelin

backhander if it’s particularly juicy.

asking. Well, the point is the points, and

stars, including four with two stars.

Then on to the next shop, branded bags

what do points mean? Prizes! Glittering

Are you keeping up? Seeing stars? Stay

draped casually but ostentatiously over

prizes.

with me, there’s more, much more, to

fur-clad arms, sometimes large bulky men

Courchevel is like a huge golden magnet

come.

in black Puffa jackets with shaven heads

drawing in the rich and the famous.

With an average price of €37,000 per

revealing earpieces in one ear following

When you’re a billionaire, the zeros on the

square metre of property, Courchevel

a regulation three paces behind, eyes

cheque become meaningless. It’s about

trumps cities like Hong Kong, Cannes and

flicking round for kidnap signs, one hand

conspicuous spending, splashing out as

Tokyo. And Le Shopping! Louis Vuitton,

always tucked inside the unzipped jacket

publicly as possible, demanding the best

Hermès, Valentino, Loro Piana, Prada,

clutching something lumpy. The women

and getting it instantly, whether it’s food,

Cartier, Fendi, Dior, Graf, Moncler, Chanel

probably see more of these men than they

hotels, jewellery, clothes, access or travel.

– all within walking distance of each other,

do their husbands, partners, etc (often a

So back to the stars, and time to get some

clustered around the Rue du Rocher.

little too much) – truly body-guards.

facts out of the way. Courchevel has 11

It’s here that the personal assistants,

You can feel the super-wattage in the

Money

attracts

money

and

companions,

amoureux,

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CONSENSIO

shopping arcade after dark, a mixture of

This will get you a cool 493km of runs, not

high-intensity

diamonds

to mention the off-piste areas, which are

and the glitter of gold, money and power.

endless and superb. When I’m asked the

Be bold. Venture into any shop past more

inevitable question: ‘What’s your favourite

Men in Black and you are subjected to

ski resort?’ Courchevel is always top. The

a practised assessment by the haughty

reasons? An endless variety of terrain,

vendeur. It takes a fraction of a second

whatever the conditions, reliable snow,

for them to suss out your credentials.

and good craic.

Zero, Nada, Nul. Eyes follow you, waves of

You really don’t have to be an oligarch to

freezing animosity envelope the shop. Time

afford it. Over the many years I have been

to smile, wish them ‘Bonsoir’ and make a

going to Courchevel I’ve self-catered,

dignified exit before you’re asked to.

slept on people’s floors and grabbed last-

But hold on there! We’re forgetting the

minute, all-in chalet bargains.

primary reason so many are drawn to

Plot

Courchevel…

spotlights

the

skiing!

on

Anyone

the

top-trumps

hotels,

chalets,

with

restaurants and nightclubs on a map and

€280-odd can buy a Three Valleys lift

you’ll find them clustered around the

pass and access the biggest ski area in the

Jardin Alpin, Courchevel’s Mayfair. This

world (it’s actually four valleys, but who’s

is no coincidence as you’ll also find the

highways that even the shakiest beginner

counting?)

most flattering pistes – wide, sunny ski-

can negotiate after a couple of days‘ instruction.

This is also one of the hot-spots for lunch.

We’re not talking a plate of frites and a glass of beer here. If you’re known, or rich, you’ll get the best table where you can see and be seen.

Another way to make your arrival noticed is to drop in by plane, as Kate and William did in March. They were seen on the sun terrace of Le Pilatus right next to Courchevel’s

Altiport,

ranked

seventh

most dangerous airport in the world with its short, upslope runway.

Fortunately for the future of the monarchy, the £5m plane owned by the Duke of Westminster made a perfect landing. The pair were later photographed outside

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CONSENSIO

the £70m Chalet Lalisa, owned by Saudi Arabian businessman Mansour Ojjeh. It does to have connections!

Other celestials spotted in the resort have included George Clooney, Christina Aguilera, Geri Halliwell, Lionel Richie, the Saudi royal family, Robbie Williams and Giorgio Armani. Roman Abramovich once requested the entire resort be shut for his own private skiing (request denied). Vlad ‘The Bad’ Putin also came for lunch, and the Beckhams have been known to pop by.

The vagaries of the pound, euro, and rouble don’t seem to deter the uberrich, and Courchevel really lights up for Russian Christmas and New Year, when the glittering lights of the swankiest joints in

chalets at €11,300 per night, including,

able to spot someone’s American Express

swanksville signal the big spend.

of course, a private butler, who not only

Centurion Card behind the bar. The ‘Black

Five-star Le Kilimanjaro boasts individual

waits at table but also has your ski boots

Card’, the number one most exclusive

warmed for you in the morning. Nice.

credit card in the world, requires you to

Consensio’s Shemshak Lodge is a snip

have charged at least $250,000 on your

at £99,000 for New Year with unlimited

American Express Platinum Card within

Perrier-Jouët Champagne, your own chef,

the last year, after which you might be

manager and chauffeur and – need you

invited over to the Black Side. You still

ask? – Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, massage

have to cough up an initial $5,000 fee plus

room and gym.

an annual fee of $2,500. Respect.

Lunch? Take your pick. Nicking a baguette

A good place to sample the Alpha males

and some cheese from breakfast, like I do,

flexing their money-muscles is Les Caves,

is definitely out. Head for the Michelin two-

a dance-till-dawn discotheque where the

star Le Chabichou where starters kick off

jeroboams (3 ltr) of Dom Pérignon flow

at €75 and the menu du jour is €110. Add

like water in the VIP room.

a couple of bottles of decent wine and the

But to really impress a girl (or boy), a

bill for four won’t leave much change from

Nebuchadnezzar (15 ltr) or two of Moët

€1,000.

must be the ultimate status symbol.

Small potatoes compared to the jingling tills of the nightclubs where you might be

Then you’ll certainly be seeing stars!

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CONSENSIO

Winter wonderland weddings Every bride and groom wants to find the perfect spot for pure romance on their big wedding day.

And you can’t get more magical than the twinkling, snow-covered Alps says Gabriella Le Breton

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CONSENSIO

P

icture this. The sun is beaming down on Mont Blanc from a cobalt sky, snow sparkles glitter in the crisp

mountain air and bottles of Perrier-Jouët Champagne are chilling in the powder.

Despite the soothing sound of piano music and wood fire-scented air drifting through the lavish chalet that’s become home, there’s a tangible sense of anticipation. The children, in their dapper little outfits, can barely contain their excitement.

The jingle of bells and a muffled clatter of hooves announces the arrival of the bride and groom, snuggled in furs on a horsedrawn sleigh.

These are just some of the hallmarks of a Consensio winter wedding. Place your trust – and ‘wedmin’ – in the hands of the company’s expert planners and

your

the happiness of the perfect big day,

venue, complete with a traditional French

celebrated amongst your closest family and

croquembouche

friends, with lashings of luxury and winter

chocolate favours.

wonderland magic is guaranteed.

An intimate ceremony on your secluded

Even better, your wedding won’t be over

terrace, Mont Blanc serving as the backdrop,

before you know it, but will span a whole

embroidered blankets to keep guests snug,

unforgettable week (or longer if you wish).

signature cocktails, a personalised gourmet

While the boys can burn off their energy

menu and extravagant fireworks are just

on the slopes, the girls can spend the

some of the details that will make your

first couple of days catching up over the

wedding like no other.

Perrier-Jouët on the sun-kissed terrace and

After the big day, you can celebrate with

indulging in beauty treatments in the spa.

languorous

What could be better?

dedicated chef, exhilarating husky sled

When it comes to the big day itself, nothing

expeditions, scenic Alpine helicopter rides,

is too much trouble for the Consensio team.

and picnics served in secluded snow fields.

They will work tirelessly with local florists,

And that’s before you even start thinking

pâtissiers and chocolatiers to transform

about the honeymoon.

chalet

into

the

cake

lunches

dream and

wedding

handcrafted

prepared

by

your

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

61

CONSENSIO So, the only burning question (other than

a further two adults and two children.

bar just a few steps below. You can read more

will you take this man/woman…?) is which

With its perfect views of Mont Blanc,

about Grand Corniche on pages 40-42.

wonderful Consensio chalet to choose?

new heated outdoor infinity pool and

Meanwhile, the children will be in seventh

The answer will, of course, be partly

atmospheric vaulted wine cellar and dining

heaven watching movies in the two-tier

determined by how many family and friends

room, Grande Corniche ticks more boxes

cinema, while the men can play snooker

you want with you on this most important

than you ever knew existed.

downstairs.

of adventures.

Your dedicated chalet staff will hand-carve

Whether you choose to celebrate your

But consider one of Consensio’s best-

‘snofas’ by the firepit, dot the pool with rose

wedding at Grande Corniche, Courchevel’s

loved properties, Grande Corniche in Les

petals and set up a snow stage for your

intimate

Gets. Sleeping 12 adults and three children,

musicians. The bride will have the palatial

or the eye-poppingly lavish 14-person Le

there’s the option to take the fairytale Petite

master suite in which to get ready, with her

Rocher in Val d’Isère, a Consensio wedding

Corniche in the garden as well, which sleeps

bridesmaids close to hand at the light-filled

is your guarantee of a perfect day.

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eight-adult

Shemshak

Lodge,

CONSENSIO

The place to eat in Méribel If you go down to the woods today, you are in for a big surprise says Clare Meaney

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CONSENSIO

H

ere at Consensio, we are always

mile long queues for cold Spag Bol, loos

You can get to it on foot, along a pisted

looking for great places to eat on

down three flights of stairs, nowhere to put

path – perfect for those not wanting to ski,

the slopes.

your helmet and gloves, nowhere to sit,

by horse- drawn sleigh, cross-country ski,

When you’ve been skiing all morning and

nowhere to stand …. I’ve come out in a sweat

or, easier still just ski off the side of the

looking to rest your weary legs, you just want

just thinking about it!

piste!

somewhere to relax and refuel. Unfortunately,

Then, in a quiet, magical, sun drenched

The food is fantastic with inventive salads

mountain restaurants are often far from

setting in the woods near the Altiport, we

and mouthwatering meats cooked on

relaxing. They can be crowded and noisy,

found Le Clos Bernard...

a open fire, delicious burgers and lamb

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65

CONSENSIO chops. It’s a great choice for cold, snowy days as well as hot, sunny ones.

Desserts are all homemade and include the decadent French specialty of cafĂŠ gourmand.

Le Clos Bernard is in a peaceful setting, easy to find, caters to all numbers and all types of diners as well as families – the chicken nuggets and chips are entirely homemade, not something you normally find in Alpine restaurants. restaurantleclosbernard.com

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S O P H I S T I C AT E D A N D C H I C C H O C O L AT E M A D E I N L O N D O N Available from Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges, Wholefoods and www.ameliarope.com

CONSENSIO

Beautiful Bentley Don’t be fooled by Bentley’s cheaper V8 Continental GT option – it actually enhances the allure of the British brand’s luxury tourer says Steve Loader

The Bentley Continental V8 S Convertible

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CONSENSIO

W

hisper it, but Bentley offers a

cut-price

most

version

popular

model

of

its

–

the

Facts & figures BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT Price from: £140,300

Continental GT. OK, it will still set you back at least £140k, but the four-litre V8 ‘lite’ version of this handsome luxury coupé will also save you some £10,000 against the longer established six-litre W12 engine, plus bonuses – and I’m not just talking about fuel savings.

The V8 makes the car 150 kilos lighter, stripping out the weight of two adult passengers overall and, crucially, takes it

Model featured: Continental GT V8 S £149,800 Power: 521bhp and 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds Engine: 3,993cc twin turbocharged petrol Fuel consumption: 26.7mpg combined cycle

This liberates this relatively big car and

Emissions and road tax: 246g/km CO2 and £490/year (£870 year one)

brings out more of the ‘coupé’ than the GT

Best rival: Aston Martin DB9

mostly from the front end.

(Gran Turismo) in the design.

Indeed, the V8 injected a real fun element into the Continental GT: The 2,750-kilo car will never be ‘chuckable’ and such weight carries some driver responsibility with it, but there is a surprising nimbleness to go with power that can catapult you to 62mph in 4.5 seconds in the case of the £149,800 V8 S version road-tested here.

And all-wheel drive ensures that this power is applied properly while also delivering assured handling.

What’s more, that power stays simmering below the surface most of the time, insulated from the car’s occupants by a sumptuous cabin, until there is a need to overtake or press on; the result is a classic V8 rumble, revealing that our very British Dr

Jekyll

harbours

an

only

slightly

suppressed Mr Hyde.

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69

CONSENSIO while the rear is roomier and more luxurious than before, especially now that the armchair front seats have scalloped backs for better knee room.

The centrepiece of the dashboard is an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen that just happens to be one of the best, while the standard eight-speaker sound system outputs music from various options: SixCD changer, iPod connection, SD card or 30Gb on-board hard drive.

On the road, the V8’s smooth-changing eight-speed automatic gearbox delivers an efficient manual override, available through the selector itself or steering wheel paddles – the responsive and lighter V8 model certainly encourages maximum human input when roads and Some Bentley buyers will no doubt

The

prefer the more strait-laced W12, for

generation car arrived in 2012 – also

which the higher price may be no more

heralding the new V8 option – and

than loose change, but they will get

retained the classic grille, albeit slightly

less excitement and little difference in

more upright than before.

performance.

However, this retro act is balanced by

current

and

all-new

second

And I suspect that many are overseas

greater aerodynamic attention to what

anyway,

less

was already eye-catching styling and the

critical, whereas UK buyers will almost

car’s underbody, which can only have

certainly prefer the V8’s greater agility,

helped stability along with slightly wider

better economy, lower emissions and

tracks front and rear.

that frisson of excitement that Mr Hyde

The interior is even classier than before,

delivers.

with greater cohesion in the layout to

Today’s Bentley brand is now owned by

complement very British trimming and

VW. Between them they married British

luxury that partner the big car’s ride

craftsmanship to German manufacturing

comfort – it can be both executive cruiser

efficiency

and sports car.

where

when

fuel

the

prices

are

modern-day

GT

model of 2003 became the first Bentley

The front seats are particularly cosseting,

created wholly under VW ownership.

with

70

electrical

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

adjustment

(naturally)

traffic allow.

CONSENSIO

The man behind the fame Walter Owen Bentley, engineer, designer,

This wartime service earned him an MBE,

motor car racer and founder of Bentley

but also demonstrated an exceptional

Motors, was so famous in his industry he

ability to extract the utmost from an

was known simply as ‘WO’

engine, standing him in good stead postwar, when he founded one of the world’s

Engineering genius Walter Owen Bentley

great motor racing marques.

(1888-1971) was still in his 20s when he

Walter had left school at 16 for a railway

made his name designing a revolutionary

engineer

engine for the famous British First World

indulged a passion for dabbling with

War fighter aircraft, the Sopwith Camel.

early motorcycles, and gained invaluable

Taking the then unusual step of using

experience by keeping a fleet of hard-

aluminium

other

working London cabs on the road. Before

refinements, ‘WO’ – as he became known

the outbreak of war he was tweaking

to his industry – created a more powerful

everyday

yet lighter and cheaper motor.

breaking records at the famous Brooklands

The boot was soon on the other foot,

track.

with Bentleys outstripping demand for

alloy

pistons,

plus

After

apprenticeship

production

hostilities

at

cars

ended,

Doncaster,

and

WO

then

Walter Owen Bentley Bentley’s Le Mans heritage.

founded

‘Rollers’ and causing divorce in 2002 after

Bentley Motors in a small workshop in

a takeover by the VW group; Rolls-Royces

Cricklewood, London and created the

are now made by BMW.

first Bentley 3-litre, delivered in 1921. This model soon enjoyed competition success, and a privately entered car took fourth place in the first (1923) Le Mans 24-hour race, leading to works entries enjoying consecutive wins from 1927-1930 in the hands of legendary drivers dubbed simply the ‘Bentley Boys’.

But racing success masked dire company finances, eventually leading to takeover by Rolls-Royce in 1931 and Bentleys gradually becoming ‘badge-engineered’ alternatives to RRs until the 1980s’ arrival of the Mulsanne range – a model name evoking

The ‘Bentley Boys’ recorded consecutive wins at Le Mans from 1927-1930

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71

CONSENSIO

Join a heroic challenge Here is a fantastic chance for you to help change the life of a wounded veteran by taking part in the Supporting Wounded Veterans Skiing Business Challenge in Klosters

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W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

CONSENSIO

W

e have all seen or read stories of the problems faced by our wounded

military

veterans

trying to adapt back to civilian life, often with life changing injuries. Its heartbreaking, but there is now a way you can combine your love of skiing and supporting the most worthy of causes.

Take ‘three days to change a life’ is a thrilling and rewarding ski challenge event

taking

place

in

Kloster

next

Thanks to you and the Skiing with Heroes family for giving me a glimpse of life the way it should be lived. I have come back from Klosters with a renewed energy and I am less afraid.

January and open to businesses and individuals

the

specially designed programmes. They

times it can still happen, so when I was

charity Supporting Wounded Veterans

include many servicemen who fought

given the opportunity to go on the trip

(formerly Skiing with Heroes) not only

in Iraq and Afghanistan. It costs about

I appreciated every little thing that was

will you be able to help these heroic men

£10,000 to help each veteran reclaim

done for me. I have been in the gutters

and women, but you may find yourself

their

the

and know what it is like to have nothing.

competing against Paralympians.

charity

charitable

I cannot express in words how much it

Supporting

alike.

Organised

Wounded

by

Veterans

is

a

lives

and

relies

livelihood

entirely

on

and

contributions to survive.

meant to me, what you all do and can

UK- based charity that helps medically-

The effect of their ‘skihabilitation’ weeks

only say thank you to you and all at

discharged veterans with life-changing

can be summed up by this veteran: “I’ve

Skiing with Heroes.”

injuries get back into work, through

been in some very dark places and at

The

Supporting

Skiing

Business

Wounded Challenge

Veterans is

being

held in the prestigious Swiss resort

I’ve been in some very dark places, and at times it can still happen, so when I was given the opportunity to go on the trip I appreciated every little thing that was done for me. I have been in the gutters and know what it is like to have nothing...

of Klosters from 26- 29 January 2017.

It

is

organised

by

James

Palmer-

Tomkinson of PT Ski and conceived as a way for wounded veterans and the business world to forge friendships and new connections, whilst providing an opportunity for teamwork and personal development.

The first event, in January 2015, was a huge success and this year, the business fundraising

teams

donated

almost

£180,000 to the charity. This contributed

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

73

CONSENSIO

to

a

Pain

Management

Clinic

for

wounded veterans in conjunction with King Edward VII Hospital in London.

There is a gap in the provision of adequate pain management support for discharged veterans, which can also be a barrier to future employment. When they are asked which issues are most important to them, the veterans always respond ‘pain management and getting a job’. After treatment, one veteran wrote: “I would personally like to say

I have been in the gutters and know what it is like to have nothing. I cannot express in words how much it meant to me, what you all do, and can only say thank you to you and all at Skiing with Heroes.

from the bottom of my heart... thank you so so much for all the help you are

You

providing.”

corporate teams during a ski marathon

skiers compete on equal terms.

The

Business

Challenge

slogan

will

be

tested

against

other

ensuring

able-bodied

and

disabled

is

and slalom. You will also race against

Each

‘Three days to change a life’ and the

teams consisting of former veterans

minimum of £10,000 to take part, or

amazing difference the charity makes

from the charity’s special ski training

£2,500

is summed up in the words of another

weeks, as well as Paralympians. If you

Half-board

grateful veteran: “Thanks to you and the

can’t raise a team of four challengers

passes, equipment hire and dinners are

Skiing with Heroes family for giving me

you can still take part by joining in with

included, but flights and lunches, etc,

a glimpse of life the way it should be

another team.

arent.

lived. I have come back from Klosters

The

with a renewed energy and I am less

adrenaline-fuelled

afraid.”

event.

Teams of four are being invited to take

designed the course with his intimate

part in the 2017 challenge in Klosters.

knowledge of the terrain and resort,

challenge James

is

team for

is

expected

individual

to

W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

a

participants.

accommodation,

ski

a

demanding,

Last year’s event was won by global

and

competitive

information specialists Markit and they

Palmer-Tomkinson

has

will be back defending their title in 2017.

Let the challenge begin!

I would personally like to say from the bottom of my heart… thank you so so much for all the help you are providing.

74

raise

Consensio stats 2015/16 NUMBER OF

ADULTS

1428 NUMBER OF

CHILDREN

233 Total

AMELIA ROPE

CHOCOLATE BARS

958

Total

BOTTLES OF WINE

CONSUMED

3317 Total

BOTTLES OF CHAMPAGNE

CONSUMED

1703

Total

CHARLIE

BEARS

195 W W W. C O N S E N S I O C H A L E T S . C O . U K

75

9 R EECE M EWS, SO UTH KENSINGTO N LO NDO N, SW 7 3H E +4 4 (0 ) 2 03 393 0 833 SA L ES @CO NSE NSIO CH ALETS.CO.UK WWW.CO NSE NSIO CH ALETS.CO.UK