The Les Gets local property rental experts since 2008
Property owner in Les Gets or considering becoming one?
Then working with family-run Chalets1066 is the best solution - here’s why.
We’re dedicated to Les Gets, with over 45 properties in the village. Our team is based here all year round and we know the resort inside out. Being Les Gets experts gives our property owners confidence and reassurance. Your property is in good hands with us.
We pride ourselves in offering excellent service, both to clients and chalet owners. Our loyal guests have grown used to the highest standards of service and now we’re expanding our portfolio to take on more premium properties.
We’re a holiday company who take great care of the properties we manage. We don’t sell, build or renovate property. We can, however, help with the TVA rebate process if you are purchasing a new-build property and, importantly, manage your property in line with the required regulations.
We use cutting edge IT systems, skilled marketing strategy, our team is multi-lingual and we ensure all the properties we manage are well maintained. Combined, these elements help to optimise your income whilst taking complete care of your Les Gets property.
To discuss more about how we can work together contact: Mark Nathan for English and Prisca Kempf for a conversation in French.
hello!
And welcome to the 20th issue of Morzine Source Magazine. I’m at a loss to explain where the last ten years have gone, but it’s with enormous excitement that we bring you our biggest ever issue. On the pages that follow we’ll reminisce on how our villages have changed over the last 10 years. There’s much to celebrate, and much to look forward to.
Terje Haakonsen took some getting hold of for our exclusive interview, as one might expect from the most influential snowboarder on the planet. Nothing was off limits when we finally caught up with him on a beach in Hawaii. Likewise, Glen Plake called for a chat from a truck stop in Nevada. His insight into the world of skiing over the last 50 years is fascinating and is punctuated by the memorable moments that shaped his career. Slightly closer to home, Konrad Bartelski held the title ‘Great Britains most successful ski racer’ until 2022. His story charts the highs and lows of life on the GB team. And of course this wouldn’t be a winter issue of Morzine Source
Magazine without a diary entry from 15 year old professional snowboarder Mia Brookes; this time I roped her mum Vicky in for an update too.
Casting the net far and wide to bring you these inspiring characters from the world of international winter sports is all well and good, but it takes a village to bring you this magazine. Might we one day reach a point where there’s just nothing else to write about? Unlikely, because the good people of Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz and the surrounding villages continue to launch new initiatives, activities and events year after year. Thanks to you all for your constant innovation, thanks to you all for giving me things to write about!
It’s time to dive into the 20th issue of Morzine Source Magazine and we hope you enjoy the read.
Until summer…
Amie - amie@morzinesourcemagazine.com
brought to you by…
Working with some of the most talented local writers is always a huge privilege! With thanks to…
Michael Henderson | Nicky Iseard | Oscar Wayman | Natalie Elvy | Mia Brookes | Vicky Brookes
We love our paper and we’re proud that it’s sustainably
and recyclable. We’re also very proud to support the following organisations… /MorzineSourceMagazine /MorzineSourceMagazine
Our villages make are perfect winter holiday destination as they consistently offer quality accommodation to suit all budgets, tastes and group sizes. From small, functional studios within a snowball’s throw of a lift station to expansive chalets with integrated spas and cinema rooms, Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz have it all. Here we showcase eight excellent new options to help you plan your next holiday.
Located in the heart of Morzine’s old town and part of a characterful, unique, farmhouse renovation, this luxurious, duplex apartment is comprised of three spacious bedrooms, three bathrooms, a large, open plan, split level living space with a spectacular roof terrace that features a hot tub. There’s a private entrance with plenty of storage space for your winter kit, an additional lounge or office space and large windows which make this property light and bright. The sights and sounds of Morzine are right on your doorstep, you’re within walking distance of the ski lifts and the free ski bus stop is just a stone’s throw away.
This exceptional property located within the new Kinabalu residence in Les Gets is packed full of opulent interiors, contemporary fixtures and there’s even an on-site spa too! Penthouse 34 sleeps 12 guests in six bedrooms with five bathrooms, it’s on the forth floor and offers exceptional views over the centre of the village. There are multiple terraces and balconies to enjoy, a fully-equipped kitchen, a stunning open fire place and underground parking. Elsewhere in the residence, the spa and swimming pool facilities are best enjoyed after a hard day on the slopes.
La Ferme de l’Église Penthouse 34
This is an exceptional apartment renovation, demonstrating that Avoriaz has much to offer in terms of contemporary accommodation. Facing southwest, it’s bright and light, offering stunning top-floor views towards the Hauts Forts range. There’s space for groups of up to ten people alongside a beautiful kitchen and bathroom with plenty of storage space too. The apartment is ski-in, ski-out and the sights and sounds of the resort are right on your doorstep.
Recently constructed in an authentic Savoyarde style yet packed with contemporary interiors, this chalet sits on the outskirts of Morzine village and is easily accessed using the free ski bus route. It sleeps up to 18 people in six en-suite bedroomswith an additional children’s bedroom sleeping up to six. There’s a swim spa and a sauna for your group to take advantage of, plus an allsinging, all-dancing kitchen. Any children in your group will also enjoy the play area and TV lounge on the top floor and there’s a cosy feel throughout.
Yucca Apartment
Chalet Paradis Blanc
Brand spanking new for this winter season and just minutes on foot from the Pleney and Super Morzine lift stations, this spacious apartment sleeps up to eight people in three ensuite bedrooms. There’s private underground parking, loads of storage and gorgeous interiors plus a wrap-around balcony so you can take in the views. The kitchen is well-equipped and perfect for a self-catered holiday and you can even ski right back to your apartment from Pleney Piste B when snow conditions allow.
Opened in Morzine in 1961 and run by the same family ever since, this characterful three star hotel has undergone an enormous makeover in a style that blends the history and character of our alpine village with contemporary details and lots of bold colours. Inside you’ll find 37 bedrooms, a beautiful library with a cosy fireplace, a restaurant, indoor swimming pool, Turkish bath and a gym. The interiors are the star of the show here; they’re unlike anything we’ve seen in the village and are sure to make for a truly memorable holiday.
Brand new for 2022 and spanning 60m2, this gorgeous penthouse apartment sits just next to the Pleney lift station, making it almost ski-in, ski-out! With two bedrooms and an additional bunk room, it’s perfect for both families and groups with the sights and is located in the centre of the village. The views from the balconies are incredible, there’s high ceilings, a great kitchen and beautiful interiors. The boot room will come in handy for all your kit, as will the private covered parking space, EV charging point and lift access.
Overlooking both Morzine and Montriond, this elegant new chalet spans four levels so there’s more than enough space for everyone in your group. It sleeps up to 13 people in five bedrooms with six bathrooms and there’s a huge open plan living space in which to enjoy a cosy holiday evening. On the ground floor you’ll find ample parking, a sauna and boot room, all bedrooms are flexible and ensuite and there’s a sunny terrace and open fire plus a separate TV room, which is perfect for any children in your group.
Les Samares, Lati
Apartment Buena Vista
Hotel Le Névé
Chalet Alpaga
winter
essentials
If you’re looking forward to discovering what’s new in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz this winter you won’t be disappointed. Our villages never fail to introduce exciting upgrades and we’re delighted to round them up for you on the pages that follow.
All the LOLs in Les Gets
The famous Montreux Comedy Festival has a new winter home in Les Gets. Between 14th and 21st January 2023, top British and French comedians will arrive in the village for a series of stand-up shows that are sure to add some extra special entertainment to your winter holiday. Performances from French-speaking comedians such as Gérémy Crédeville will take place on 17th and 18th January, while the British stand-up stars, including The Honourable Tom Houghton of Comedy Central and Channel 4’s First Dates fame, will be in attendance on 19th and 20th January. The Salle de la Colombière is our venue for this inaugural comedy festival, which is sure to make the perfect apres-ski night out. We’re promised a number of fridge events in bars and restaurants around Les Gets during the same week.
Discover more: montreuxcomedyfaitduski.com
Avoriaz History Tours
You may think you know the Portes du Soleil’s highest ski resort inside out, having skied through it hundreds of times over the years. Think again! New for this winter season, the resort will host an exploratory tour, revealing the secrets and anecdotes of the village, its colourful history and its even more colourful visitors. Travelling on foot and using a very clever app, you’ll discover the mountain home of Johnny Hallyday and Brigitte Bardot, you’ll uncover each of the different districts and chart the timeline of the resort’s development since the era of Jean Vuarnet in 1966. During the month of February you’ll be accompanied by a local guide to really get under the skin of the resort. Book online via the Avoriaz Office de Tourisme to enjoy this unique holiday event.
The Ultimate Bottle Shop
Perfectly located at the top of the rue du Bourg in Morzine, WINENOT? is a wine, spirit and beer retailer with a difference. Inside the shop you’ll find a range of over 400 different wines, 60 spirits and plenty of local and regional beers to see you through your holiday. The bilingual team are exceptionally friendly and knowledgable, making this the perfect place to pick up a bottle (or case) to enjoy during your stay. If you’d like to be even more efficient, head to their website to view the full selection, place your order online and they’ll deliver it directly to you.
website: winenot-morzine.com
A Pleney Makeover
Hands up if your little ones took their first cautious turns on skis in Morzine’s Penguin Park? They’ll be delighted to discover new elements and modules this winter, including a giant xylophone, totem pole, arches and more, completed as part of a €200,000 investment in dedicated children’s areas. Also benefiting from a facelift is the Chemin des Zouzous, along which you’ll find new animals, more
Les Gets’ Night Shuttle
Brand new for this winter season and running every evening between 17th December and 30th March, the village of Les Gets has introduced a permanent night shuttle bus. Between 8pm and midnight, the free bus circulates from the Mont Chéry lift station, travelling through the hamlets of Rocher, Cornuts, Perrières and Puthays before travelling up the route des Chavannes with a passage every hour. The last departure from the lift station is at 11pm, there’s no need to book your ride in advance and you can use the free PYSAE app to watch your bus in real time. Bravo Les Gets!
The Ultimate Eco Lift Pass
Les Gets has pioneered a number of sustainable initiatives over the last ten years and 2023 is no exception. In an effort to reduce the staggering 40,000 plastic lift passes distributed during both the summer and winter seasons each year, Les Gets lift operator SaGets will introduce wooden lift passes this winter. "The objective is to gradually replace all plastic ski passes in circulation with wooden ski passes,”Isabelle Dubois, sales manager at Sagets told us. “This will take several seasons, while skiers renew the passes they already have in their possession,” Isabelle predicts. Made from the very material that surrounds our pistes, and featuring new ‘tag-it’ technology, the lift passes will be credit card sized, they’ll feature the chic design of the resort and they’ll make the perfect holiday souvenir. The new wooden passes can also be recharged online, they’re compatible with the lift stations across the Portes du Soleil network and are available to buy for €6 each.
order online: www.lesgets.ski
1000D - A New Route on Nyon
This brand new itinerary will be one of the longest in the entire Portes du Soleil. Commencing at the Nyon summit and concluding just next to the Nyon car park, 1000D serves up 1000m of descent without taking a single chairlift. Taking in a mix of challenging red pistes and easier blues, you’ll descend through the forest to the foot of the Nyon gondola lift, ready to go again!
Ski with the Horses
This remains, without doubt, one of the most exhilarating and unique ways to spend a day on the mountain. Philippe and his team of exceptionally well-kept horses can be found within the forests of the Super Morzine. He offers ski-joering adventures on the trails, off the beaten tracks and far away from other skiers. Travelling at speeds that suit your ability, each trip is personalised and memorable. Choose from a 30 minute
A Mobile Mountain Refuge
Ski touring is a big deal these days, especially in resorts such as Avoriaz where three dedicated and signposted routes take adventurers across the ski area. Tourers reaching the top of the Arare this winter will discover a brand new mobile mountain refuge, fully equipped with electricity and heating provided by solar panels, plus a table and chairs for those all-important pit stops. Adjust your kit, boil a nice hot coffee and take a break before you descend back into the village.
A Pedestrianised Village Centre for Morzine
There’ve been numerous trials over the years, some successful, some less-so, but now the route through the centre of Morzine village, past the Office de Tourisme, has been entirely pedestrianised in advance of this winter season. This increased space will host enhanced entertainment for families, especially during the apres-ski hours. It’s still
The
A six-minute long ‘alpine coaster’ will be constructed on the Perrières piste in Les Gets in the months to come. Les Gets has a longcharted commitment to the principles of four seasons tourism and the recent addition of the incredible Alta Lumina is testament to this. The new toboggan run will be open all year round and features 35 sledges, each of which make a 380m ascent of the Perrières before whizzing down a 714m-long track, back to the village. You control the speed of your sledge, which will surely make this an incredible family friendly activity, whatever the weather!
recent years and Alta Lumina continues to attract crowds in all seasons. Located on the shores of Lac des Ecoles in Les Gets, Alta Lumina is an immersive light and sound experience; as night falls in the heart of the forest, you’ll follow a trail that narrates the story of a music maker, whis hot air balloon has crashed in the forest during a storm. The tale is told using fascinating holograms, lights that dance through the trees and music that echoes around the forest and while the whole experience is special in all seasons, there’s something very thrilling about Alta Lumina in the winter. The night walk is suitable for children of all ages, each trip lasts around 50 minutes and it’s easy to check availability and book online. Children’s tickets are priced at €10, adults at €19 and under fives are free of charge.
Discover more: altalumina.com
Solar-Powered Skiing
Regular readers may remember that photovoltaic panels were attached to the roof of the Proclou arrival station in Avoriaz last winter, a project that was the first of its kind in the Haute Savoie. 41m2 of solar panels produced 9000kwh, reducing the energy consumption of the ski lifts and this project continues this winter. 16 new photovoltaic panels can now be found on the Chaux Fleurie chairlift, they’re expected to produce around 6000kwh of energy, making those sunny days in the Lindarets bowl even more special.
Make Your Own Souvenirs
Each winter, sisters Annouk and Nathalie open their pottery at the La Sarre farm, high above the rooftops of Les Gets. Join them for a free tour and demonstration each Friday morning at 10.30am during the winter season, when the pottery is easily accessed using the free shuttle bus from the village centre. Also at the farm you’ll discover a beautiful boutique selling many of their creations, including tableware, vases and much more. Anouk might even give you a sneak peek at her lambs, resting patiently in the barn next door - the baby lambs arrive in February, which is an excellent time to visit! Beginners pottery classes are also available each Monday morning from 10am, at which you’ll spend a hour shaping your creations and an hour at the potters wheel, perfecting your own holiday souvenirs. Annouk and Nathalie will then glaze and fire your finished masterpiece, ready for you to collect and take home at the end of your holiday. Each session at the Poterie des Gets is priced at €45 per person, you’ll need to book in advance and children are welcome too.
Whether or not you’re a fan of ice hockey, a night at the Skoda Arena to watch our local team is an unmissable holiday experience. The atmosphere is always incredible and the Hockey Club Morzine Avoriaz have some diehard fans who never fail to get the party started. At the end of the 2021/22 season the team were promoted to France’s D1 league, escalating the club towards the top flight of national hockey and bringing in top international players. You’ll find the Skoda Arena in the centre of Morzine, tickets for home matches are priced at €12 for adults, €7 for children and you can book them online to avoid a queue on the door. There’s a bar and a cafe at the venue, the experience is great for families and each game begins at 8pm. It’s also possible to watch the team train each evening, check the club website for precise times.
Discover more: hockey-morzine.com
Chalet-Hotel La Marmotte on the front de neige in the village, the Sérémi-Cimes spa features a sauna, hammam, foot bath and no fewer than seven individual treatment rooms, in which you can indulge in an extensive range of treatments, from facials to massages, body scrubs and more. The spa is open all year round and you can book your treatments in advance by emailing spa@hotelmarmotte.com. Meanwhile, over at Spa Kinabalu by Alpine Residences you’ll discover beautiful interiors and a calming vibe that extends from the beautiful swimming pool into the private treatment rooms. Check out our Spa guide on page 146.
It’s one of the most-loved restaurants in Avoriaz, famous for its warm, welcoming hospitality and for serving up regional specialities such as fondue, raclette and pierrade. If you’re a La Cachette super fan, you’ll be delighted to hear that the restaurant has undergone a complete renovation for the Winter 23 season while also retaining it’s traditional, authentic atmosphere. La Cachette is located in the heart of Avoriaz and is open every day throughout the winter season.
Discover More: lacachetteavoriaz.com
Get Ski Fit
The team at Peak Snowsports have launched an Instagram mini series to help you prepare for the mountains this winter. In association with physiotherapists from Body Mechanics, you’ll discover the most essential exercises for ski fitness in addition to a series of mini tests you can undertake at home to assess your balance, mobility and strength. “This series is perfect for anyone trying out skiing for the first time, and for seasoned skiers too,” the team at Peak Snowsports told us. Getting your body ready for the mountains makes for a much more enjoyable ski holiday and helps you to prevent injury.
follow the series on instagram: @peaksnowsports
Unique to the Alps and easily accessible from the top of the Chaux Fleurie ski lift in Avoriaz, this giant zip wire is now open during both the summer and winter seasons. If you’re brave enough, you’ll fly through the snowy landscapes, suspended 240 metres above the ground and soaring over the pistes and skiers below. Reaching speeds of up to 100km/h along the 1200 metre cable will be one of the most memorable experiences of your ski holiday and there’s even a two-person flight option! The Fantasticable is priced at €27 per person or €54 for a tandem flight.
book online: chatelreservation.com
Rock the Pistes Music Festival
Over 25,000 music fans on skis and snowboards will gather between 12th and 18th March 2023 to enjoy free, live concerts on the pistes of the Portes du Soleil. Over the years we’ve seen an eclectic mix of international acts grace the Rock the Pistes stage, which moves around the ski area each day. There’ll be five headline concerts during the course of the week, each commencing at 1.30pm, plus over 30 individual apres-ski performances in resorts across the ski area. The whole event is free to enjoy, you’ll just need your lift pass to access the mountain performances.
Discover more: rockthepistes.com
Style
Ten apprentices from UK youth charity Snow Camp will join the team at Summit Special’s Chalet Gentiane in Les Gets this winter, gaining an insight into the life of a chalet host. “We’ve been supporting Snow Camp for a number of years,” Dave and Karen at Summit Special told us. “We’re really excited to be able to offer this year’s group of apprentices the opportunity to get involved in all aspects of chalet hosting duties, naturally they’ll get the chance to enjoy the slopes too!” As Cormac Whelan, Programme Director at Snow Camp explains, “Opportunities like this are priceless for young people who’ve had little to no exposure to ski holidays. Summit Special have gone to great lengths to ensure the apprentices will get the most from this experience. If you see us on the slopes of Les Gets, we’ll be the ones in the big blue jackets, please come and say hello!” Learn more about Snow Camp and their valuable youth work on their webite.
learn more: snow-camp.org.uk
Discover Chalet Gentiane: summitspecial.co.uk
Silver at the Global Good Awards
AliKats Mountain Holidays are the proud recipient of a silver award in the Global SME of the Year category at the Global Good Awards, recognising their sustainable business practises. Previous winners in the category include Microsoft, ITV and Canon over the last eight years, so they’re in very good company. AliKats founder Al Judge explained, “This feels like a lovely pat on the back that our hard work over the last four or so years has gained some recognition.” Bravo team!
Mountain Karting in Les Prodains
The fun doesn’t stop when the mountain closes! This winter take to the slopes for a unique apres-ski experience in Avoriaz. Late night opening of the Prodains Express gives you access to an after-hours mountain karting route, travelling through the trees and down the pistes connecting Avoriaz with Les Prodains. You’ll be able to rent your kart, helmet and head torch at the top before descending in the darkness. We’ll add more information regarding booking, times and prices to our website when they’re available.
New Brands at Hubert Sport
In case you missed it last winter, Hubert Sports in the centre of Morzine had a huge renovation with extra space for some of our favourite winter sports brands including sustainable outerwear outfit Picture Organic and beautiful bag brand Cabaïa. New for this winter season the team have launched a range of Scarpa hiking, approach and mountain shoes to keep you moving in all conditions in addition to beautifully colourful and practical raincoats from Flotte. A large range of Mizuno sports kit, Colombia clothing and Loubsol sunglasses completes the range. You’ll find Hubert Sports at 132 Route de la Plagne.
ski rental: hubertsports.com
The Châtel Fantasticable
Work Experience, Mountain
Welcome to The Hub
The Hub is a brand new co-working space in the centre of Morzine, located just a stone’s throw from the bottom of the Super Morzine lift station. Featuring large work desks, lots of natural light, a reception desk, meeting room, a kitchen, shower and even ski storage, the space has been designed for those who’ve nailed their work life balance. There are six desks in total, a sound-proof phone booth and you can book your desk by the day, week or month.
book online: thehubmorzine.com
Cafe Chaud, Upgraded
Previously home to one of the most debauched nights you could have in a mountain resort, Cafe Chaud in the centre of Morzine has undergone a facelift this winter season. From 4pm, get cosy in big armchairs and on sumptuous sofas, feast on a delicious, homemade, authentic Argentinian empanada and work your way through the enticing elixirs on the cocktail menu. Later in the evening the bar returns to its party roots with live DJs every night playing global grooves, house and disco until 2am. It’s the same Cafe Chaud vibe, upgraded.
follow proceedings on facebook: /cafechaud.morzine
The Man Behind the Curtain Returns
Treeline Chalets will once again welcome Michelin-starred chef Michael O’Hare of The Great British Menu fame for a pop-up week in the mountains. A number of other acclaimed British chefs will join him for these exclusive food-themed breaks in January, which combine the creative skills of the guest chefs with luxurious accommodation at Chalet Doyen. Each two-night stay includes dinner, bed and breakfast and is priced at €1800 per person.
Discover More: treelinechalets.com
Can you escape Le Room?
Because the weather isn’t always perfect in the mountains, Le Room is the ideal solution during those days off the slopes. Located in the centre of Morzine, this escape game features two individual rooms with two difficulty levels but fun times are guaranteed. Each game lasts 60 minutes and you’ll join the leaderboard if and when you finally emerge. Each game costs between €80 and €168 depending on the number of people in your group and the maximum number of player per game is eight.
more info: leroom.fr
Apres Ski with a Difference
Possibly one of the most exhilarating ways to spend your apres-ski hours, the Roc d’Enfer ski area, just a short drive from Morzine, invites you to take to the mountain on a gokart! These three-wheeled, engine-free karts are designed to descend the snowy pistes covering a 4km course that spans 800m of descent.
Discover more: valleedaulps.com
Expert Massage At Home
New for this winter season, experienced massage therapist Kristina Wilton launches Alpine Body Care, a mobile service which you can book online. Kristina offers recovery massage sessions and sports massage, which are perfect after a hard day on the slopes, in addition to relaxation experiences and deep tissue message, all of which take place in the comfort of your own chalet or apartment. Kristina’s handy online booking system means you can easily find a time and date to suit the rest of your holiday plans and group booking arrangements are available too. Tried and tested personally by the Morzine Source Magazine team, Kristina’s skills come highly recommended!
book online: alpinebodycaremassage.com
Staying in is the new going out
You thought your group ski holiday couldn’t get any better, then Silent Disco 74 launched a new service, delivering a silent disco experience to your chalet. Designed for those who like to boogie the night away without waking the kids or neighbours, this fantastic new service offers top of the range headphones and a transmitter, through which you broadcast a playlist of your choice to your assembled group of ravers. You can even broadcast on three different channels, customising the music to the tastes of your group. All you need to provide is the music and the people. Prices start at €150 for 10 headphones and Silent Disco 74 have 50 headphones available. book online or call:
Morzine’s Cavern Bar is an icon of the apres party scene in Morzine. If you haven’t stood on a table or a bench in the bar, furiously singing Sweet Caroline with a pint in your hand, have you even been to apres? You’ll discover lots of excellent changes in the bar this winter however, as it rebrands as Cavern Bar Live. As the name suggests, the focus from here on in is entirely live music, with apres sessions from Jukebox Joel at 5pm each day, and a further live band at 10pm each evening. The incredible Coco and the Butterfields will of course be in attendance this winter, plus a carefully-selected list of international live acts throughout the season. Follow the updates from Morzine’s very own live music venue at facebook.com/thecavernbarmorzine.
facebook: thecavernbarmorzine
It’s all about the live music
“Always Look At Your Landing”
Terje Haakonsen
by michael Henderson
The number of superlatives I could throw at Terje Haakonsen are limitless. The 48 year old Norwegian has always been considered the world’s number one snowboarder. Others call him one of the most influential snowboarders in the history of the sport, recognising his impact in addition to his medals. He dominated freestyle snowboarding throughout the 1990s, inspiring a generation of new riders, just like myself. He won the World Championships in the half pipe three times, the European Cup five times and the US Open three times. He still holds the record for highest air, rising a staggering 9.8 metres above a 10 metre quarterpipe. I could go on, but I won’t because he’s calling me from a beach in Hawaii.
In our pre-interview messages, I’d referred to these mountain resorts that we all know and love as ‘ski resorts’, which triggered a typical Terje response. “I don’t ski much these days,” he told me and we picked this subject up to launch our conversation. “Ski resorts, I guess it’s an old tradition, we all got used to saying it. But at the same time, when everyone is trying to be so correct all of the time, why can’t they be correct on this? For those people who don’t have a ski background - they always snowboarded, or did one of the other many mountain activities - it’s like saying they’re not included. I just think it’s funny. I normally call them shred resorts to make them inclusive. The other funny thing is that border-cross started way before skier-cross came along, but when you go to resorts they’ll have signs for their ‘ski-cross’. People who work in the industry are dominated by ski influences. It’s also funny that the professional, hardcore snowboarders go heli-sking. Though I did see that Justin Timberlake went heli-riding, and he called it heli-boarding, so good on him.”
The thing about Terje is that he’s quite outspoken, and we’ll get to his most outspoken moments later in this interview. He doesn’t shy away from any question, whether it’s controversial or not.
“I’m known to dis skiing a fair bit, but my good friends know that I’m actually a skier turned snowboarder. I’ll
say that snowboarding is better in powder, but skiing is better on ice. I can do both, I think it’s funny to see any conflict between skiers and snowboarders, but there’s not so much of it around anymore. Judging people according to what they’ve got on their feet, or what clothing they’re wearing. Personality is way more important.”
Opinion pieces on the influence of Terje Haakonsen are abundant on the internet. Is he so influential because of his level of skill? Or because of his approach to being at the top of his game? If he’s had the greatest impact on the sport, bar none, how does that sit with him?
“I don’t think so much about those titles and I don’t feel like I’m alone in this situation. There’s a lot of other people who’ve had a big impact on snowboarding but it’s fun to be recognised for stuff you’ve done and are doing. But honestly, it’s not in my head. I want my constitution to be with snowboarding, that I helped the sport progress and I think I did my fair share in competitions to inspire those who came after.”
The 1990s for Terje were spent competing in and winning every major title in global snowboarding and although he never official retired as a professional athlete, towards the end of the decade he began to feel there was too much emphasis on competition and >>
too little on the freeride aspect of snowboarding. In 2000, The Arctic Challenge was born with Terje and his co-founder Daniel Franck promising a snowboarding contest for riders, by riders. It was designed to be the antithesis of formal competitions and became the highlight of the Ticket To Ride world tour. I’m keen to know what else has changed in the world of snowboarding for Terje.
“As I see it, snowboarding has different types and elements. You’ve got big mountain snowboarding, urban styles, racing, freestyle, competitions, there are a lot of different scenes within snowboarding. The biggest changes I’ve seen relate to the equipmentwhat we ride. Technology has given us access to more mountain and makes the previously unachievable achievable. Riders having agents and coaches and a whole team around them these days, yeah that’s changed too. But when you get down to the fundamentals of snowboarding, if you’re having a good time riding with your friends, I don’t think that’s changed.”
OK, let’s get to the more controversial stuff. Snowboard halfpipe was introduced as an Olympic event for the 1998 games in Nagano, Japan. At the time Terje was the best half pipe snowboarder the world had ever seen. But rather than entrust the International Snowboard Foundation (ISF) to organise qualification for the games, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) selected the International Ski Federation (FIS). Terje considered this to be a theft of the sport and boycotted the games entirely.
“Listen, I may be bald, but I’m not ‘thin haired’ if you know what I mean. I’m not afraid to discuss anything. I decided not to compete at the Olympics because of the corruption of the IOC, they sanctioned a ski federation rather than a snowboard federation to manage the competition, so I didn’t go. The principle of bringing countries together for sport is a really good idea I think, but the system, it’s for dictators. There’s all these human rights violations too, crimes against nature, it’s all branded and overpriced and that’s why there’s 29 books written on the shameful practices of the IOC. Yes, you can ignore that if you want, all the best guys will be at the next Winter Games, I’m sure.”
In 2015, US freestyle skier Gus Kenworthy (now a Team GB athlete) announced that he was gay. In a resulting Twitter conversation, Terje made what many people felt to be a tonedeaf reaction, tweeting “no, @btoddrichards did this 20 years ago & isn’t all skiiers (sic) gay ; i’m hetrosextual #sospecial” tagging US snowboarder Todd Richards (who isn’t gay) along the way. The reaction was instant and furious. How’s Terje feeling about the situation now?
“In Norway, we don’t think of being gay as being an abnormal thing, or a new thing as we’re
“JUDGING PEOPLE ACCORDING TO WHAT THEY’VE GOT ON THEIR FEET, OR WHAT CLOTHING THEY’RE WEARING. PERSONALITY IS WAY MORE IMPORTANT.”
so used to it, gay marriage has been allowed there for years, like whatever. We don’t look at it as a big thing to come out of the closet and here’s where we can link Gus Kenworthy back to the Olympics. At the Sochi games in 2014, with Russia and their rules against the gay community, it was horrible. I saw that just one gay athlete from Holland actually put her rainbow flags up to the camera; she did something, said something to the world, compared to all of these other guys who were debating about whether or not they should go at all. Why didn’t they speak up? If you’re going to protest against these human rights violations, go there and protest. The next year they’re saying on Twitter about Gus, ’he’s so brave’ and that’s why I made a joke. But it doesn’t have anything to do with homosexuality. Right or wrong, we used to use the word ‘gay’ to mean ‘lame’. I know Gus personally and he just happened to be the person I dragged into the joke and I shouldn’t have and I’d give him a hug if I see him. People are always saying we’ve got to be politically correct, but think about this. Athletes, famous people, they promote unhealthy products for money and they get away with it, that’s cool. Someone once said ‘Pablo Escobar did great things for soccer’ and these days so do the energy drinks companies. Maybe his product was a little more unhealthy, but it’s still in the same category.”
Terje hasn’t finished talking about the Olympics however, and neither have I. He’s mentioned human rights violations, crimes against nature and corruption at the IOC many times, why isn’t this global organisation doing more to promote global issues?
“The IOC has all this power and everyone thinks the Olympics are like the biggest thing, or a lot of people do, and then you have all these popular sports around the world that the IOC wants to have as part of the Games; action sports are a great example. Snowboarding came in and there wasn’t even a trial run, like there would be for other sports, it just went straight in and that’s because it’s a sport that the IOC can make a lot of money from. Snowboarding was the third most watched sport at the last Winter Olympics, after ice hockey and figure skating, and it was the most popular of all the FIS sports, way ahead of skiing. Snowboarding doesn’t see the rewards of that, especially when compared to funding for alpine skiing, cross country, etc. Snowboarding isn’t prioritised. So the money and the income for the IOC is coming from snowboarding, snowboarding gets nothing from this. All these snowboarders are supposed to be strong but they let the FIS rule and dictate to them. Another good example is the prize pot. In the 90s it was bigger than what FIS is giving out now for snowboarding. At the end of the season you can see how much the alpine skiing men and women make through the winter, it’s a great number, but when you see the results for snowboarding, it’s so horrible. Ståle Sandbech has to do double the number of contests as I did in a year to get the same price money. That’s embarrassing and its hard for the sport >>
because now it’s more dangerous than ever. If you fail, there’s big consequences, the training, you’re beating up your body because everyone is trying to do more and more spectacular things.
To see all this shit with the corruption at the IOC and seeing snowboarding falling into the FIS, it’s sad that no one stands on their own feet to share their own opinions. Everyone who supports IOC - whether you watch the Olympics on TV or you go there and be a part of it, all those people are nature crimes violators and human rights violation supporters. No matter how you look at it, everyone is. So if you do that, just fu**ing shut up.”
We’re not quite done with the controversy however. Terje had been snowboarding for just two years when, at the age of 15, he joined the Burton Snowboards team. The partnership lasted a whopping 32 years, making it likely the longest rider - brand relationship in snowboarding. Then one day in October 2021, someone noticed that his profile had been removed from the Burton Snowboards website. Had Burton Snowboards cancelled Terje Haakonsen in 2021 because of his Gus Kenworthy tweet in 2015?
“I really wish I could tell you why this happened, people ask me this a lot. You’ll have to ask Burton. I haven’t gotten a really straight answer from them. I would have expected something after 30 years, maybe some flowers, an email or a phone call. I know a lot of spineless people, but some people are more spineless than others. I’m definitely over it now, but I won’t lie, it bothered me in the beginning. No one was answering and I felt frozen out. I have a friend from Switzerland that has a small board company called Zen Snowboards, and he actually knew that Burton weren’t renewing me before I knew. He reached out and told me, and he was like ‘I really wanna make a board for you.’ Despite all that, I had one of my best snowboard years last winter and I have a lot of good winters to come. Probably the good thing about parting from a company that you’ve been with for so long is that you can see other options and get introduced more, and there’s a lot of innovative people out there so it’s good for me to meet more of those people and see what’s out there. Because when you really look into the snowboard scene, there’s a lot of board builders, small ones and they have their different styles and perspectives so I think it’s been good for me.”
Terje and I both agree that we’ve spend enough time in the past at this point and I’m wondering what this current winter in the northern hemisphere looks like for him?
“I’m an equipment nerd so I’ve been riding a load of new boards lately. I did a collaboration with Zen Snowboards, they’re hand made and they’re expensive but they have a fast style and there’s two models I worked on. My friends from Yes Snowboards, some small Japanese board makers, there are so many good >>
“WHEN YOU GET DOWN TO THE FUNDAMENTALS OF SNOWBOARDING, IF YOU’RE HAVING A GOOD TIME RIDING WITH YOUR FRIENDS, I DON’T THINK THAT’S CHANGED”
boards out there. I’m probably going to sign with a new snowboard company in the coming months, and I’m excited to work with them and develop their technology. I also love pow surfers. Burton flooded the market with these old-shaped things and they were so popular, but I suggest anyone looking to buy one should do their own research. Pow surfing is so much fun, you can do a lot of fun things without bindings! I’ll probably spend some time in Japan this winter, Switzerland and of course Norway. I might do some banked slalom competitions, I had the option to go to Travis Rice’s Natural Selection but he’s changed the format, so if it works for me I’ll go, but I’m not going to hustle for it like I once did.”
And so we come full circle, back to those superlatives, and I get the impression that at the ripe age of 48, the world isn’t done with Terje Haakonsen just yet, and vice versa. What’s left to achieve?
“I was thinking about this the other day. I kind of fail my kids a little, being too much on the travel. I think my next chapter needs to include the kids more, so when I do these trips I share more of the mountains with them. There’s four of them aged between 25 years and 21 months, and although it’s great to have grown up kids, I feel the younger ones definitely get more of my attention. I also want to ride as long as possible, so being healthy is important, sharing my knowledge as a snowboarder and hopefully contribute technologically to produce products that work better. What I learned from COVID is that I travelled way too fuc**ing much, it’s not good for anyone. It’s really good to stay in places for a longer time and have a routine, especially with the kids and family. It’s really important for me to go at a slower pace and enjoy more closer family time.”
Wrapping things up, I ask Terje for the best advice he’s ever been given, and does snowboarding still mean the same after decades at the top?
“While you’re riding, jumping, always look at your landing! When you look at your landing, your body will be prepared for the impact and landing, so when it’s flat light or bad weather and you can’t see a landing, most people will crash! If you can’t look at your landing, you can’t prepare your body. I got that advice a long long time ago from Craig Kelly, he had one of the biggest influences on my riding, he was an equipment nerd too, he was like the big brother to us young team riders. When you are in the mountains, or in a back yard with friends, snowboarding will always be fun, or at least for me. It’s one of the best activities. I also like to play football and I like to be active, but when it comes to riding and having a good time with friends, that’s never changed. Not at all. I still have a big grin on my face, even when I learn new shit at an older age, it gives you that feeling. That’s what it means to me, having a good time with yourself and with friends.”
“I STILL HAVE A BIG GRIN ON MY FACE, EVEN WHEN I LEARN NEW SHIT AT AN OLDER AGE”
TEN YEARS
Making Magazines
By amie henderson
“Oh, you used to work in publishing did you?” I’ve been answering this question for ten years. “No actually, but I wish I had,” is my usual response. Might I have started this magazine if I knew what it would involve? Of course, but I’ve learned an awful lot along the way.
Ten years ago life looked very different. I’d sit at my dining table from early morning until late evening, pestering advertisers, writing article ideas, interviewing people, updating Facebook, researching printers. I’d never been self-employed before, never run my own business, yet the challenge of launching a brand new, independently published magazine was too much to resist. I’d managed to bag myself a boyfriend with graphic design skills, he came in very handy as I prepared my first issue featuring GB triathletes the Brownlee Brothers and the voice of road cycling Phil Liggett for Summer 2013.
My motivation was always to deliver as much local information and resort news as possible to enhance the holidays of English speang tourists visiting Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz. I want our social channels to inspire you to select our resorts for your holiday, I want our magazines to guide you to the best places and have the best possible experiences while you’re here, I want our e-newsletters and our magazine subscription service to remind you of your favourite mountain holiday when you’re at home in the UK. I want you to tell your friends… these are the best resorts in the Alps.
In an ideal world, we’d start working on each new issue of our magazine just as the previous one is published. In reality, two small children, a dog and a house renovation usually put me on the back foot. That graphic designing boyfriend previously mentioned is now my husband and we work year-round on the magazine together. Each issue begins with a flat plan, lining up the pages of a magazine with space allocated to advertising, our regular features and the excellent local contributors that continue to write for us. Gradually, over the course of the next few months, a theme begins to emerge for each issue; often it’s unplanned and presents itself as the pages of the flat plan begin to fill. These accidental themes are often the inspiration I need to fill the gaps, commissioning content and writing features myself. Articles are edited and proof
read before the design work begins. The final six weeks before our print deadline are intense and we rely on family flying over from the UK and the support of our local friends to keep the wheels turning. If you’re reading this and you’ve taken care of our children over the years, know that we’re still very grateful!
I used to worry that, eventually, I’d run out of things to write about. In reality, each winter and summer, our villages continue to evolve with new activities to showcase, new businesses to profile, new characters to introduce. It’s true that not every article we publish relates directly to Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz and I made the decision to include more lifestyle content a few years back. Adventure legend Sir Ranulph Fiennes told me, “I’ve never visited Morzine” as we began our interview back in 2016. I’d never imagined that he would have, but I was enthralled and inspired by his epic stories and his attitude to life and travel, I was sure that you would be too. I’m often asked which of our back issues is my favourite, and it’s always the last magazine we published. Blood, sweat and tears go into every issue of Morzine Source Magazine so I’ve convinced myself that we do a better job year after year.
As a free magazine, we’ve always relied entirely on the support of our advertisers. Their commitment to these pages not only pays for them to be written, designed, printed and distributed, but also for the time it takes us to produce content for our website and social channels, including the endless COVID-19 travel rules and regs we spent our lives updating last winter. 90% of our advertisers have been with us since our first issue and I often feel a huge responsibility to them while we’re in the final weeks of production. To the local businesses, small and large, who continue to support Morzine Source Magazine issue after issue, a big thank you.
The fact that this is an English language magazine has always been the elephant in the room.“We’re in France, write in French,” they like to tell me on Facebook. I hear it, I think carefully about it, I revisit everything we are as a magazine and as a business and I return to the same point. My idea to launch this magazine was fuelled by a desire to attract more English-speaking tourists to our valley. I believe our valley to be the perfect holiday destination, in both winter and summer and I want to share that with you. I hoped our social media channels would be a platform for mountain-lovers to ask questions and gather information from our villages to inspire their next trip. That’s why all of our publications are in English. Additionally, many of the articles you’ll read in our magazine‘What makes an adventurer?’ by TV’s Ben Fogle in our Summer ’15 issue for example, or the thoughts of Ski Sunday’s Ed Leigh, just don’t translate to an international audience. I understand that some find this disrespectful, please know that it’s not our intention to offend. We’re here to present the very best of Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz to English-speaking holiday makers in the hope that everyone benefits from Morzine Source Magazine in some way.
To say the last couple of years have been tumultuous for the global travel industry and our local tourism businesses would be an understatement. The true repercussions of Brexit continue to reveal themselves, the postCOVID-19 swell has yet to calm entirely and now there’s a global energy crisis to keep us on our toes. Never before has the magazine you’re currently holding in your hands cost anything like €2 per issue to print, as it has this winter. Yet my biggest fear for the future is the rising snow line. I used to find it very difficult to balance the harsh and obvious realities of climate change with the sunny disposition that filters through our magazines. The irony of encouraging you to fly to the Alps while carbon emissions heat the planet wasn’t lost on me and it was a conundrum I put to snowboarding legend and founder of Protect Our Winters Jeremy Jones last winter. “I think these chairlifts have created more environmentalists than anything else,” he explained. If you love the mountains as much as I do, and if you’d like to enjoy them with your families in the years to come, please respect our natural environment during your time with us.
My final thank you is for you, Morzine Source Magazine reader, for sticking with us. We hope to continue to inspire your mountain holidays for another decade at least.
“We had nothing, we spent nothing and we survived on nothing”
Konrad Bartelski
INTERVIEW
By amie henderson
It doesn’t really matter whether you were from a family that went on ski holidays back in the 1980s, or, like me, you weren’t: everyone knew who Konrad Bartelski was. For 36 years he was Great Britains best performing skier, having finished second at the Val Gardena World Cup in 1981. It’s a legacy that was only equalled in 2017 by Dave Ryding, and only surpassed, once again by Dave Ryding, in 2022. The fact that so many of us Brits love the mountains in winter can be credited to Konrad Bartelski.
“I’d always like to do more skiing,” the 68 year old tells me. “I could never do enough,” he continues. “I love exploring the world on my skis, that’s probably the best way to describe it; they’re a means of transport and I put together a number of adventures for my friends and I each winter.” Konrad has always had a passion for photography and hosts exhibitions across the globe. “My photography is of what I see in the mountains, although the disadvantage is that, because I like doing large prints, I need good quality lenses and cameras, which tend
to be quite heavy. Getting older and skinning up with five pounds of equipment, on top of everything else… it’s never easy.”
Konrad learned to ski in Kitzbuel when he was just three years old, “Kitzbuel has always been my home from a skiing point of view,” he explains. “I went there in May when they dedicated the gondola to Dave Ryding following his win, we had a huge celebration in The Londoner pub, which is a tradition that I started back in 1975. We always had a party
there after the downhill race and I still think its probably Britains biggest contribution to World Cup skiing, that party.”
Having held the title of ‘Great Britains best skier’ for so long, and especially during the years when British skiers have made some serious progress in the sport, I wonder if it felt strange to be elapsed by Dave Ryding. “I was actually in Spain when Dave won in Kitzbuel, so I couldn’t watch it on television. Winning in Kitzbuel was something I always wanted to do.
THE
I used to persuade my parents to let me stay up late during our holidays so I could watch the racers and I think that was my motivation to get into ski racing. Dave is such a great person, a great human and he’s worked so hard. To beat the Austrians in their home of ski racing, if I could’t do it then I was very happy that Dave did.”
Konrad was just 11 years old when his skiing skills came to the attention of Karl Schranz, the champion Austrian ski racer. “I was skiing with my instructor, she put some poles in the snow next to the slalom course so I could practise my turns; I wasn’t training for a race or anything, just to get better at skiing. The Austrian team were training on the course next to us and as we joined the lift queue, Karl Schranz accosted my instructor, she was very beautiful and went up the lift with her. He told her ‘that kid looks good, he’s quite talented.’ To hear that from the god of the Austrian ski team was something that sparked me and motivated me to ski better.”
In the years that followed, Konrad honed his skills at the Dutch Junior Championships, coming second to his brother - “It was a race for >>
michael@crevasseclothing.com
Kitzbuhel circa 1960
“I vowed I’d never go to another Olympics unless I could actually compete”
under 18s, I was 12 at the time,” he laughs, “and I was mega pissed off!” Later that year Konrad and his brother joined the British Junior Championships in Cairngorm. “My Grandad took us in a green caravan, we drove up, lived in the caravan and our budget for the whole week was £75 for the three of us. We didn’t buy lift passes for the first few days, we’d climb up and ski down, just to save money,” Konrad remembers. “In the slalom I came 10th, again this was a race for under 18s, I saw that I was competitive and that really was my debut into ski racing.”
“Another thing that motivated me,” Konrad continues, “was watching a downhill race with my ski instructor, I must have been aged 10 or 11 at the time. The British racer came down 15 seconds behind the leader and the instructor said ‘after the show, we bring on the clowns’. Being fiercely patriotic, that got me quite upset.”
Konrad was just 17 years old when he was selected to join the British team at the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics in Japan. “I remember being at the opening ceremony, in the speed skating rink, a beautiful, cold, sunny day. We had one of the biggest teams at the Games, and we came back with no medals. The others went there for a good time, they had double-barrelled surnames and I vowed I’d never go to another Olympics unless I could actually compete and be competitive. The idea of ‘taking part’ meant nothing to me.”
In an effort to once again hone his competitive instinct, Konrad and a couple of friends returned to Cairngorm, trained exceptionally hard and raced against a group of famous international racers. “We were competitive against them after two weeks of working hard,” Konrad remembers. “The visits to the whiskey factory probably helped.” Two years later there were two British skiers in the top 20 at the World Championships in St Moritz. “These were the building blocks,” Konrad believes.
You’ll read elsewhere in this magazine about the chaos surrounding funding for the current generation of Team GB ski racers. All of which begs the question, who paid for Konrad?
“My father worked for KLM, so I got cheap tickets. I’d combine this with ski testing for some of the brands, I’d take photos while I was away, I’d scramble together another few hundred quid, and before you knew it, I’d have what I needed for a four week training camp in Argentina or New Zealand,” Konrad
explains. “These trips wild cost me around £1000 and the four weeks on snow would be so helpful but we had nothing, we spent nothing and we survived on nothing,” he continues. “We’d call up factories, tell them we were driving passed in our van - we’d painted a Union Jack on it - and ask for free goggles, sunglasses, and some spare ones so we’d get cheaper rates in hotels. We were the kings of the road, and it was a privilege. We were 18 years old and responsible for our own destiny.”
When researching Konrad Bartelski for this interview, I’d come across several references to the BBC’s Ski Sunday, with many crediting him as the man who kept the programme on TV. “Ski Sunday was so significant,” Konrad believes. “Their coverage of the 1976 Olympics in Montreal, the drama and excitement around ski racing, it caught the imagination of the British population. David Vine was a very clever presenter, he talked to everyone in Great Britain, not just the skiers, he drew the audience in and the viewing figures got bigger and bigger. Coverage of the 1985 World Championships drew in eight million viewers, more than a Grand Prix!”
Yet I can’t imagine Konrad tuning in to watch it these days, and I can’t put my finger on why. “Sport is the greatest unscripted drama, viewers admire seeing genius on a football pitch for example. Ski Sunday has, in my view, lost the ability to highlight skiing - it has no impact. Those skiers, Bode Miller, Mikaela Shiffrin, they are the heroes of skiing, not the people who present the programme.”
And so we arrive at the start gate for Konrad’s most famous race at the 1981 World Cup in Val Gardena, Italy. You’re imaging years spent visualising what an incredible performance might look and feel like, supreme focus, unwavering attention as the skier waits his turn. “Not at all. To the contrary,” Konrad tells me. “It was the first time in my life that I didn’t stand in the starting gates, gritting my teeth and being ready to die for my country,” he explains. “Usually I’d get there, throw my neck on the line, try my hardest. This race was the first time I felt like shirking my responsibilities, all I wanted to do was get to the bottom. I mean, I didn’t want to stand up all the way to the bottom, only for my coaches to call me a chicken, so I got as low as I could, I just wanted to keep my head down and get it over with. I didn’t try to go fast, I suppose there’s a life lesson there.” >>
“It was the first time in my life that I didn’t stand in the starting gates, gritting my teeth and being ready to die for my country”
“So, I cross the finish line, I’d made a little mistake on the last jump but whatever, and I knew the fastest time was 2.07. I didn’t really want to look up because if I was way off, I didn’t want to know and I’d have got quite depressed. But at the same time, instinctively, I felt I’d got the line right, and a lot of other things. I looked up and saw 2.07, I thought great, I’ll be in the top 10 with that. To try and avoid being boring I put my hands in the air, not having a clue what I’d done. Peter Müller, the Swiss skier ran over and said ‘you idiot, without that mistake at the end you’d have won, but you’ve come second!’ and that was, quite honestly, a relief more than anything.” I’m keen to return to the life lesson Konrad mentioned earlier. “I always thought I had to do something more to ski faster. It turns out, what I actually needed to do was relax.” “It was quite funny actually, I was on the podium and they didn’t have a record of the British national anthem, so they just sort of apologised and that was that.”
Meanwhile, elsewhere, as Konrad crossed the finish line, a TV commentator was sharing the race with a global audience. “Ce n'est pas possible!” he screamed. “C'est un anglais?” he questioned. “It was funny!” says Konrad. “In my favourite pictures from that race, I’m wearing the Union Jack on the podium. Of course the next race was more difficult, I needed to substantiate what I’d done. I came 15th in Crans Montana, which did substantiate things, it was the first time I’d had World Cup points in my life.” Konrad retired from World Cup racing in 1983, moving into television, broadcasting and his
photography work. Having proven that he had what it took to be a world class ski racer just two seasons previously, this can’t have been an easy decision. “I’d trained harder and better than ever,” Konrad remembers. “Warming up for the second race of the season, I caught an edge, flipped over into the trees and landed with my back on a tree stump. For a second, I thought I’d broken my back, it was awfully painful,” Konrad remembers. “I managed to ski down, get back to the hotel, my coach came and told me to take painkillers and get up to the start. I was in serious agony, he was so ridiculously bad and ignorant. I saw an American doctor, he gave me some mega painkillers and told me not to ski. I drove home, recovered slightly and went to race in Val d’Isere two weeks later. My back never felt strong enough, my skis weren’t running well and I decided it was time to start earning a proper living and supporting myself. It was too much of a gamble to try and go on for another year. But when you stop doing what you love, it’s the most difficult decision you’ll ever make.”
Since retiring from competition (because you never retire from skiing) Konrad has worked behind the scenes, securing private sponsorship and government funding for a new generation of ski racers. “Ultimately, if you commit your life to something, life is supposed to get better, not worse. There was never enough money,” he concludes.
“Take up golf,” is Konrad’s answer to my final question. I asked him what advice he’d give to
“It was quite funny actually, I was on the podium and they didn’t have a record of the British national anthem, so they just sort of apologised and that was that.”
aspiring ski racers and he’s brutally honest. “The sport has changed and it’s horrendously expensive now. There’s too many people in the food chain, all these ski academies. Martin Bell (the former British World Cup racer) told me about kids turning up for training on their private jets, it’s insane. Skiing used to be a farmers sport, a means of getting down the mountain, now everyone’s got six pairs of skis, two pairs of boots, it’s out of control and detrimental to the sport.” But for those kids who have a genuine passion and talent? Aside from the finances… “It needs to be your choice, your decision. You need to take responsibility from the very beginning. Dave Ryding is the best example of this. Ten years ago someone asked him and a panel of other skiers what they needed to be better. Some said ‘more money,’ others ‘better equipment’, Dave said ‘I need to finish my turns better’. This one sentence is why he is world class.”
At the top of this interview I was sure that you’d all heard of Konrad Bartelski. Now I realise that even if you hadn’t, his career, the ensuing media coverage, his impact on competitive skiing in the years that followed his professional career, even his photography, will surely have influenced you in some subtle way to join us here in the mountains.
You can view Konrad's photography at konradbartelski.photography
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Michael Henderson morzine source magazine creative director
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Prism Tantalum Technical Snow Bags
RRP €260.00 europe.dragonalliance.com
Dragon really are the gift that keeps on giving when it comes to snow goggle technology. Just when you think they’ve invented everything, along comes another upgrade, and this year it’s the RVX MAG. Dragon’s groundbreaking Swiftlock 2.0 function, which allows you to change your lens in a flash, has now been augmented with magnetic contact points. There’s also a one-sided release lever which makes secure and quick sense changing a doddle, whether you’re on a chairlift or in a blizzard. As you’d expect, the new model comes with Dragon’s Lumalens colour optimised technology (try it, you’ll never go back to regular goggles), frameless design and of course they’re helmet compatible too.
Stance ‘King of NY’ Socks
RRP €29.99 stance.eu.com
“Birthdays used to be the worst days and now we sip champagne when we thirs-tay” said Biggie Smalls and who wouldn’t want to take the man out for a mountain adventure? No Morzine Source Magazine gear guide would be complete without a pair of Stance socks, and that’s because they’re so bloody good. Made with Infiknit technology and including a lifetime guarantee, these socks never rip, they never tear. There’s medium cushioning, an over-the-calf length that hits just below the knee and the merino wool blend means they barely smell, even after the most solid day. There’s a stack of other tech too, including channeled air chusioning, engineered ankle protection, boot protection and performance cushioning, but ultimately, these are the best snow socks on the market, bar none.
Coming to you from a small mountain village in Hemsedal, Norway and born from a thirst for outdoor adventure, these base layers have the power to transform your time in the mountains. The full range includes thermal tops and leggings in men and women’s specific fit, beanie hats, balaclavas and neck gaiters made from 100% biodegradable, renewable, all-natural merino wool. Woolf only use raw materials sourced from carefully-selected sheep farmers and all packaging is recyclable. You’ll never return to those itchy, synthetic base layers again.
Dragon RVX MAG Goggles
Woolf Merino Base Layers prices from €29.90 woolfmerino.com
Alpine French School offers a wide range of courses, camps and activities for adults and children. Special rates for locals and new courses for everyone! Are you looking to improve your French/English??
• French Summer Camps for children and families
• French Intensive Courses for adults
• Inter-season special offers
• Online lessons for adults & children
• School trips: bring your students to Morzine to discover the French mountains
• NVQ, GCSE & A-level preparation
• French/English tuition for adults & children for French residents from 17€/hour
• Business French
• French/English lessons financed by your professional training budget it you live and work in France
then now &
OF PISTE PREPARATION
As the ski lifts make their final turn of the day and the last stragglers leave the mountain on skis, the work begins. The sun starts to set, but nine piste bashers, charged and ready, commence their ascent, heading into far flung corners of the Morzine piste map. They’ll work all night, retracing your turns, moving snow and perfecting the pistes. If you’ve ever experienced the unadulterated joy of a first descent on untouched corduroy slopes, versus the chopped up end-of-day alternative, you’ll understand why snow grooming is important. Let’s take a look at how traditional methods have evolved over the years in Morzine, and how new technologies can help the resort meet its sustainability targets in the future.
It was the forward-facing folk of Morzine that gathered the funds required to construct the Pleney cable car in 1934. Second in France only to Chamonix, the lift quickly became an attraction for tourists, presenting a problem during the winter season. How could the lift’s operators maintain a safe and skiable slope each day? The answer was giant agricultural rollers, occasionally tethered to horses but more commonly navigated by skiers, one at the front and another behind, controlling the direction and speed of the roller.
Naturally, there’s some contention over who invented the modern day snow groomer. Some Americans will tell you it was Steve Bradley in Winter Park, Colorado in the 1950s. Others believe it was Otto Wallingford in Vail during the same decade. Regardless, those early diesel machines were hard to manoeuvre, limited to low angle slopes and couldn’t keep pace with the growing popularity of ski tourism. In 1960, following two intense years of development, PistenBully launched their imaginatively titled PB120 B prototype and the age of mechanical snow grooming was born.
In the early 1980s snow groomers began to resemble the vehicles that we see across the ski network today. The first groomer with a self-contained mounted winch launched in 1984, single-handedly improving conditions on the steepest of Alpine slopes. At regular intervals since then PistenBully have initiated new features, some to improve safety, others to improve efficiency but none more significant than the 2011
introduction of SNOWsat, a sophisticated on-board computer with GPS, designed to measure snow depth and to collect comprehensive data from across the ski area. SNOWsat can be installed on existing machinery in the fleet, so there’s no need to replace those perfectly functional existing piste bashers.
In a nutshell, SNOWsat follows the progress of piste bashers around the ski network and it’s accuracy is mind-blowing. All nine of the piste bashers operating in the Morzine ski area are equipped with this technology. Using a detailed digital map of the mountain, the platform traces the terrain, deducting the height of the snow groomer and determining the precise volume of snow underneath. Drivers can then re-distribute the snow up, across or down the slope, the end result being an even coverage that doesn’t rely on the water-intensive manufacturing of artificial snow to fill the gaps. This process also >>
Playing your favourite pop covers 90’s & 80’s classic
reduces fuel consumption and the time it takes for those charged with the maintenance of our pistes. Additionally, during those raging winter storms, SNOWsat also allows drivers to maintain their bearings, displaying slope edges, other piste bashers and snow canons on a screen in their cabin. Oh how times have changed.
The piste bashers of yesteryear gobbled up diesel like nobody’s business and were famous for their high horse power engines that could take them anywhere. Yet in these days of a retreating snowline, global warming and a genuine desire to clean up the mountains, PistenBully launched the world’s first hybrid piste basher in 2012 - the 600 E+ - with a diesel-electric drive that results in a 20% fuel reduction, 20% less noise and 20% less CO2 emissions. And for the first time, PistenBully moved away from the traditional red cab colour to - you guessed it - an entirely green machine. The follow-up model - the 100 E - represents a further major breakthrough, fuelled entirely by electric and rechargeable in 6.5 hours. We’re looking forward to seeing those on the slopes in the years to come, but for the moment Morzine’s existing piste bashers are fuelled by GTL eco-polar fuel, which is biodegradable and non-toxic.
As the planet heats up, snowfall becomes more erratic, less predictable and harder to maintain in warmer temperatures. While the whole industry recognises the problem, it’s interesting and encouraging to see the developments being made on the actual snow to keep us skiing each winter. “Morzine has been committed for many years to reducing its environmental impact during both the summer and winter seasons,” Jean Damien Baud, representative of the Morzine ski area explains. “With the energy crisis ahead of us, efforts are continuing and increasing to reduce our footprint, without impacting the experience of our customers”.
In recent years you may have enjoyed the new Eagle Park snowpark on Nyon for example. Traditionally, parks such as this were constructed entirely of banked snow - re-shaped and groomed each evening, often lifting snow from other areas and producing artificial snow to keep the park open. In Eagle Park the modules are shaped from earth and covered in a top layer of snow, reducing the volume required. Elsewhere on Nyon, ecological toilets, complete with solar panels on the roof, have been installed on the summit and there’s a self-guided nature tour taking in pristine mountain pastures and capturing beautiful mountain wildlife. The Morzine ski area is also a designated environmental observatory, measuring environmental change over the long term while defining future projects that are favourable to the environment while an awareness campaign draws attention to the problem of waste and littering on the mountain. These are just a few examples of commitment across the Morzine ski area to protecting our natural environment for generations to come and the commune is now the proud owner of a coveted Flocon Vert award in recognition of its solid measures in the fight against climate change.
Discover more:
You’ll find a full and detailed summary of the efforts being made by the Morzine ski area to take care of our mountains at www.ski-morzine.com
Nicola Iseard fall-line magazine
Are these the holy grail of goggles? They might just be. Sigma is Salomon's new photochromic colour-enhancing lens tech that helps enhance contrast and colour on flat-light days. And with these unisex Radium goggles you get mega fieldof-view too, larger than any other Salomon goggle – no more feeling like you're looking through a letterbox, hurrah! But the real ace up this flagship model's sleeve is the 16 magnets that secure the lens onto the frame. Salomon tested lots of configurations to find the combo that meant the lens never popped off unnecessarily – in a crash, for example – but which, thanks to nifty rubber grips, is easy to change even while wearing gloves (the Radium comes with two lenses). Fit is spot on, thanks to a wider frame with flex zones that conform to different face shapes (no problem for prescription glasses either).
Dalbello Veloce boots RRP from €330.00 www.dalbello.it
Dalbello has taken the tech from their race boots and wrapped it in a much comfier and more customisable package to allow skiers to have fun on the frontside without the need for a foot spa at the end of the day. Offering a flex index from 130 for the hard-chargers, all the way down to 85, the softest of the women's options, Dalbello has gone for a comfortable last of 100mm – music to the ears of those with regular to wider feet. Skiers who require further width, fear not – Dalbello has made a clever move by doing something that is rare for a boot with a powerful, smooth-flexing PU shell such as this: they have made the hot spot zones, which are most typically punchedout by boot-fitters, dimpled to allow for easier customisation. A memory foam tongue means no bruised shins, no matter how brutal the Swiss Wall is, while GripWalk soles make car park treks a breeze.
Salomon Radium Prime Sigma goggles
A trailblazer in the industry, Patagonia has just released its first ever PFC-free outerwear collection. In partnership with Gore-Tex, Patagonia set out to create a waterproof membrane that was free from harmful PFCs (perfluoro chemicals, also known as 'forever chemicals') but didn't lose any performance. Headlining the range is the Storm Shift jacket – available in men's and women's – which is also made with a 100% recycled face fabric. We love the fit and finish of Patagonia's ski/snowboard gear, so the eco-credentials are a massive bonus. The attention to detail is awesome, from the body-mapped jacquard fleece liner, to the self-tensioning powder skirt that snaps into all Patagonia Snow pants, to the roomy front pockets that are smartly located for access even with a pack on. The muted colours are super-smart, too. We want one…
Patagonia Storm Shift jacket
The legendary, mohawk'd Glen Plake has worked with Elan for years and it's great to see that they've finally given him a signature ski! The aim was to create a lightened Ripstick that is suitable for touring, yet still 'retained its superior ride quality'. The result is the Ripstick Tour 104, which flies uphill (it weighs a mere 1600g for the longest length) and rips (sorry) on the downs. Glen wanted less sidecut, knowing that skis with too tight a radius can be tricky to handle in cruddy/heavy backcountry snow. The other benefit is increased edge contact and therefore more control and grip in the steeps. This signature model is 104mm underfoot, a marginal 2mm less than Elan's standard Ripstick 106 (very particular is Glen!). It looks rad, too – hot pink and orange, as bold as the man himself. Good news gals, this ski isn't just aimed at men, with female-friendly 166/173 lengths on offer, alongside a 180 and 187.
Looking for a lightweight top-spec freeride helmet to keep your noggin über-safe this season? New this winter, the Igniter has a redesigned shell that varies in thickness depending on where the most protection is needed, which keeps the weight down. Sweet is known for its lowprofile lids - they feel neater and sleeker on your head, but there's no compromising on safety. The shock-absorbing structure inside is similarly engineered as the shell, and it comes with super-safe two-layer MIPS protection tech to reduce rotational forces on the brain. Fastening up is easy and faff-free thanks to Fidlock magnetic buckles - which we love, easy to use even with gloves on - and the active ventilation and removable earpads help keep those Chamossière pow-hunting laps sweat-free.
Elan Glen Plake Ripstick Tour 104 skis RRP €750.00 elanskis.com
Arc'teryx Rush LiTRIC avalanche pack
RRP From €1,200 arcteryx.com
Good news for the plane-hopping, powder-chasers among you: Arc'teryx and Ortovox have teamed up to vastly improve on the battery-powered avalanche pack idea. Whereas previous iterations have suffered a weight penalty compared with their gas-inflated counterparts, this LiTRIC system adds just 1080g to your standard ski pack. The LiTRIC system (fully USB-charged in 25 minutes) is flightfriendly and capable of two deployments at full charge, which means when you encounter avalanche terrain midway through a tour, you are able to redeploy if necessary; after use, a ventilation tool enables rapid deflation for simple stuff-and-go re-packing. Available in three volumes (Rush 16, 32 and 42-litre packs), there are plenty of clever features, including a battery-charge LED indicator, neat ski/snowboard-carry systems, and an innovative new leg-strap that fixes securely to the pack body, rather than merely the hip loop, thereby boosting security. Bravo Arc'teryx!
Beautiful 8 bedroom catered ski chalet in Les Gets, at the heart of the Portes du Soleil.
dinner served
By oscar wayman is
“Ever since I can remember, I wanted to do winter seasons. My dad was a sponsored snowboarder back in the day, I wanted to follow in his footsteps. From when I was around four years old, we’d spend a week or two visiting him in the mountains so they’ve always been a love of mine. Of course, the easiest way to get your foot in the door is to become a chalet chef and when I was 10 years old a friend of my dads promised me a job in his riders lodge in Bourg St Maurice when I turned 18.”
“I was so motivated to get to the mountains that my mum gave me cooking lessons once or twice a week. We’d concentrate on basic, homely style chalet food and that’s where my journey to the mountains began. Bourg St Maurice was fun for a few winters, but then I met the wonderful Steph and Dom from Skiology and I moved to Morzine to work for them.
For the last year I’ve been the Head Chef at Hideout, a restaurant which has firmly established itself on the Morzine dining scene. This winter you can expect the menu to be as flavourful and vibrant as usual, with all of your favourite dishes, but I’ve been trialing a few new dishes with inspiration from Indonesia, south east Asia and China. This is what I think makes Hideout unique - we offer the complete alternative to most of the other restaurants in the village.
I became vegan in 2016 after working in a couple of horrible kitchens in the UK. I then moved to Australia, where being vegan is really easy. By contrast, returning to Morzine in 2019, being vegan was really difficult so I began to veganise the menu at Hideout so no one is missing out. Now our vegan customers can eat almost everything on the menu and non-vegans rarely notice the difference. It’s always great when our customers review us on the Happy Cow app so we’ve quite a following now in the vegan community.
With a menu based mainly on Asian flavours, you might imagine that it’s quite difficult to get the authentic ingredients we need here in the French mountains. As luck would have it, there’s an amazing Asian store just 45 minutes drive down the mountain, which makes life a lot easier for us. They have everything we need to put our tasty recipes together.
By popular demand, we’ve added a takeaway menu to the Hideout offering this winter, which I’m sure will make a lot of people very happy! You’ll be able to find the updated menu and opening hours on the Hideout Facebook page. We’ll also be doing an apres bao bun special, which I think will be a little after-riding snack for those heading out for a night on the town. You can enjoy a bao bun and a pint for just €10! And finally, we’ve assembled many of your favourite cocktail shakers and drinks masters from our sister venues at Cafe Chaud and the legendary Paradis to create an extensive cocktail menu for the Hideout bar. There really is something for everyone.
Winter is a pretty intense time for a chef in Morzine, but this year I’m really looking forward to taking our food outside of the Hideout kitchen to cater for some big events on the mountain. We’ll be cooking up a storm at the Volcom Spot to Spot in Avoriaz, the Burton banked slalom and the Red Bull Infinite Lines event, to name just a few. And of course I’m really looking forward to getting back on my snowboard!
When the snow eventually melts, I like to spend most of my time down in Portugal, it’s like a home from home for me. Travel gives me the motivation to discover new dishes, new ingredients, new inspiration, all of which make it back to Morzine in some way on my next menu update. Getting out of town between the busy winter and summer seasons is essential and I’m hoping to travel to other parts of the world during 2023.
If you’re joining us at Hideout this winter you’ll be spoilt for choice, but my favourite dish on the menu is the Nasi Goreng. I hope you enjoy it!” View the menu and book your table at stayhideout.com or call +33 (0)7 49 28 27 56
Your personal optician and eyewear boutique in the centre of Morzine
Altitude THE EXPERTS
interview by nat elvy
Whenever I’ve heard tell of Guides de Hautes Montagnes (high mountain guides) - always in hallowed tones - my imagination conjures chamois, yetis and dahu. Feeling I ought to have a more realistic grasp on what these men and women do, I decided to find out about just what the job entails.
The Guide de Haute Montagne (GHM) diploma, created collaboratively by Austria, France, Italy and Switzerland, is an international certification that admits guides to the International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations (IFMGA) - the international goldstar accreditation for mountain guides. It allows graduates from anywhere in the world to lead expeditions to anywhere in the world, with no limits on terrain or altitude, from the jungles of Borneo to the ice sheets of Antarctica. Unlike other certifications that limit terrain or activities, an IFMGA guide from Peru can bring her clients to France without having to get an equivalent French qualification. It confirms at an international level that guides who have completed the training have the skills to guide mountaineering, climbing, ice-climbing, glacier hiking, skiing and ski touring. Few universities in the world are accredited, equipped and staffed to offer the diploma, and the Ecole Nationale de Ski et d’Alpinisme (ENSA) in Chamonix is the only one in France. Competition for places on the
four year course is fierce; less than a quarter of applicants make it through the selection process every year.
With a bit of an inferiority complex now, I met real-life Guide de Haute Montagne Quentin Colombat so he could tell me more. Originally from Nancy, he moved to Morzine 20 years ago, and now works as a GHM year-round, as well as being a ski patroller in winter. He was one of just 40 students to be accepted at ENSA in 2014 and since his successful completion of the course, he works independently and with the Bureau des Guides in Morzine. I asked him more about his job and what his clients can expect.
Why is it so tough to get on the course? What does it teach you?
“It’s tough because the most efficient way to assess applicants’ competence in all the activities they’ll be qualified to guide if they graduate, is to put them under maximum pressure and evaluate their technical abilities - as well as their physical and psychological endurance. Being able to cope with extremes is what guiding is about. If you get through the selection process, you’ve demonstrated the majority of the technical knowledge required to complete the course.
The ‘curriculum’ is designed to turn you from an amateur, capable of looking after yourself, into a professional mountaineer capable of leading and being responsible for clients. There is some additional technical knowledge about high altitude climbing techniques and rope work, as well as snow and avalanche evaluation, environmental considerations, first aid at altitude, guiding in remote areas and itinerary choice and planning; the aim is recognising, adapting and reacting to changing conditions and situations - both on the mountain, and with your clients. Increasingly the course, and the obligatory six-yearly refreshers, focus on ‘softer skills’ like risk assessment, management and avoidance, and awareness your own and your clients’ psychological and physiological reactions to extreme terrain and potentially perilous conditions.”
What is a typical expedition? Do you teach people the skills they need? How do you decide if someone can join a group? What if someone has a specific ambition?
“There isn’t a ‘typical trip’ because no client, day or season is the same! During winter we usually guide day-long expeditions off piste, ski touring or mixed skiing (using ski lifts and ski touring) to access off-piste areas. If you’re confident skiing an un-pisted red run and you’re keen to explore the area, you’ll probably enjoy being guided. GHMs won’t teach you to ski (so if you’re a beginner or you want to perfect your style, it’s a good idea to contact a ski instructor) but we can give you tips to ski safely in the backcountry, and we will teach you about using specialist mountaineering gear. If you want to try ice-climbing for example, a guide would help you with your ice-axes or crampons if you’re not confident.
We never mix groups, so you will never join a group! Everybody has different aspirations, abilities, and reactions to being challenged with new experiences. Some people want to be pushed, other people need reassurance, which is why client input is so important for each expedition. By building up a relationship from the first contact, we get a better idea of people’s previous experience, as well as what they’re hoping for. Often clients come back year after year so it’s fun to propose challenges that will suit their characters! >>
For longer trips - often in spring time when mountain refuges open - or if a new client has a particularly ambitious or specific expedition in mind, we usually suggest smaller expeditions initially. This way we can double check their equipment and experience using it, their fitness etc. before committing to anything more extreme. Social media has helped all of us become far more imaginative in what the world has to offer, and while it’s a fantastic way inspire us, it’s easy to forget the preparation and expertise that has gone into a 30 second video. My job is to manage expectations and help orient clients’ objectives towards their personal realities.”
What are the best and worst experiences you’ve had doing this job?
“I don’t have a single ‘best’ experience; the most memorable experiences are when the preparation that goes into an expedition pays off, and you get the right person, in the right place at the right time. You know you’ve exceeded your clients’ expectations because you’ve gone beyond your own too! Getting fresh tracks on a perfect day and watching speechless clients when they look back at their lines. Fighting Icelandic wind and struggling with every conversion all the way up, only to reach the summit, for the wind to stop, the cloud to break, and to look down on a perfect blue fjord. Crossing undiscovered and unmapped Northern Norway for 10 days and seeing only five other skiers in all that time. The privilege of being in places where no one else in the world is at that moment, and few have been before. That awestruck feeling - when tears prick your eyes and your smile hurts your cheeks. That is what it’s all about.
Likewise, there aren’t any ‘worst’ experiences. I’m still alive and healthy. Anytime I’ve been frightened or feel I’ve had a lucky escape, has forced me to analyse what I could have done differently to prevent it, so hopefully they will better equip me in the future.”
The famous French alpinist Gaston Rébuffat said “L'alpiniste est un homme qui conduit son corps là où, un jour, ses yeux ont regardé” (The mountaineer is a man who drives his body towards what his eyes once beheld). What is it that you drive yourself towards?
“Mountaineering is an endless story - it’s all about exploring big or small, figuring out how to access a summit I’ve seen in a photo, or a little hidden corner on a map. Bigger ambitions are Spitsbergen and the Svalbard archipelago in northern Norway, and the Altai mountains in Mongolia. I also hope to go back to climb at Wadi Rhum in Jordan - it’s unlike anywhere I’ve ever been - the atmosphere of the place is magical, infinite mountains and dessert. There are so many possibilities and each one just leads to more. Our world is an inspiration.”
While talking with Quentin it occurred to me how much experience counts - both in helping you make the most of the mountains, and even more so if things start to go wrong. His quiet confidence and discreet knowledge of the mountains is reassuring - not arrogant or intimidating, and his understated enthusiasm for his work makes it easy to see how his clients are able to have faith in him. Tragic accidents happen every year in the mountains and bland soundbites like ‘respect the mountains’ and ‘don’t take unnecessary risks’ are hard to argue with, but what do they mean
in practice? With their years of accumulated experience and knowledge, as well as specialised training in assessing and reacting to situations, Guides de Haute Montagne - those men and women whose life is the mountains - a little bit like chamois after all - can help minimise the risks inherent in the mountains, while helping you explore further and more safely.
For more information about expeditions and activities offered by Quentin and other guides around Morzine, Avoriaz, the Portes du Soleil and elsewhere in the world - in summer and winter - contact Quentin directly on qcolombat.guide@gmail.com or +33 (0) 6 69 34 31 06 or the Bureau des Guides de Morzine www.guides-morzine.com; info@guides-morzine.com, +33 (0) 6 47 10 36 69
For more information about IFMGA and the training : www.ifmga.info
DU BOURG, MORZINE
STREET-SIDE VIN CHAUD & POMME CHAUD KIOSK
STREET-SIDE VIN CHAUD & POMME CHAUD KIOSK
TRADITIONAL RACLETTE IN A TAKE AWAY SANDWICH
TRADITIONAL RACLETTE IN A TAKE AWAY SANDWICH
CHILD-FRIENDLY & VEGETARIAN DISHES PIADINA
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FLATBREAD SANDWICHES
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FLATBREAD SANDWICHES
APRÈS-SKI FONDUE TABLES BETWEEN 4PM AND 8PM
APRÈS-SKI FONDUE TABLES BETWEEN 4PM AND 8PM
The Diary of
mia brookes
aged 15
Hi Morzine Source Magazine readers, Mia here, back for another winter to update you on my life as a freestyle snowboarder, travelling the world and having the most fun! Well, most of the time…
It was nice to be back to a kind of normal winter season last year with no COVID-19 tests and being allowed to socialise properly again. The mountains were busy everywhere, but I guess that’s a good thing. I spent a lot of time in Laax but also travelled around competing in Europa Cup competitions and trying to win my own World Cup spot for the 22/23 winter season. I am very happy to say I did that, mission accomplished! I also went to the Junior World Championships and won big air, then at the end of the season I competed in the World Rookie Tour finals, where I really wanted to try and win the overall title whilst still in the Groms category. And I did! All these wins meant that I’d managed to bag myself three individual Team GB World Cup spots, which is pretty funny, since I can only use one… there’s only one Mia!
I was also invited to ride at the first ever Red Bull Rail Yard event in Austria and I couldn’t believe I won! There I was, stood on the podium with Anna Gasser in second place! She is so nice and was super happy for me. In April I was invited to the Nines event and that was insane! The set up was unreal and so so big. I was stoked to land Great Britain’s first female cab 12, they told me I was probably the youngest girl in the world to do it and one of only three females, so that was pretty epic. I also won the best style of the week award.
Aside from all the competition results, my best news of the whole winter was joining the Monster Energy team - this has been my dream since I was really little. I was invited to the Monster Hell week in Crans Montana, along with the rest of their global snow team. It was the best week ever, I’m so happy to join the Monster family! I was also invited to the States with the Capita Snowboards global girls team for the ITSTITS breast cancer awareness event. I’d
never been to America before, or on a plane so big! I loved it and we had the best time.
Of course, while all of this is going on, I have to balance school too. I actually don’t mind doing my school work. I enjoy learning and it’s good to switch off from snowboarding. My mum organises all of this while I’m riding and I usually do a few hours at the end of each day, or during a down day if the weather is bad. I have my GCSEs next year so I have more online tutors to support me, which is good.
The Team GB snowboard squad is small and we all get on really well. This summer we went to Australia for the first time, my mum and my coach Ben Kinnear came too and I met up with the Australian and NZ teams; I absolutely loved riding with everyone my own age!
While I was in Australia I was invited to a Monster Energy rail comp. On the last day we should have been heading back to Sydney, but instead my mum drove us back late at night so I could stay and enter. I came home with the most amazing trophy and the airline even let me take it on as hand luggage!
Travelling everywhere with my mum is nice, but I think i’m beginning to get ready to travel alone. That said, it’s nice having my mum or dad around to help with organising school work and anything with my sponsors.
This winter is huge for me. Because I’ll turn 16, I can finally step up to compete at the World Cups and of course I’d love to make it to the finals or even onto a podium along the way. That’s my aim. I’m also looking forward to spending time in some new places, maybe going to the European Youth Olympic Festival if it doesn’t clash with any other bigger events.
Vicky Brookes,
MIA’S MUM
While all eyes have been on Mia’s incredible progress over the last few years, it’s often Vicky’s story that fascinates me the most. What would you give up for your talented children? How much ‘potential’ is enough ‘potential’? And what if it all goes wrong? Here’s the blueprint for any parent with dreams of making professional winter sports stars out of their children.
What’s it like watching Mia fulfil her dream - and her potential?
We're incredibly proud, probably more than Mia will ever know! She works so hard juggling everything, it’s certainly not an easy journey for her, but this just proves to us how passionate she is about her snowboarding. And why we’ll do whatever it takes to keep supporting Mia, wherever she decides to take it. To see your kid happy is everything. I’m not going to lie, it’s not been an easy journey, far from it. But life isn’t always easy if you want to be the best you can be. It takes hard work and commitment and on this kind of journey, a heck of a lot of support from parents. At the level Mia competes at now, you pretty much have to be on the road all year round, chasing northern and southern hemisphere winters. Support has to come from parents first, as no one else will put everything on the line for your children.
What sacrifices have you had to make as a family for Mia to follow this journey?
I suppose I can say absolutely everything; people think and even say that we’re crazy! For the past ten years we have purely focused on, and invested everything, into snowboarding. Yes, of course, we love it too, so thats probably made it easier. When Mia was small we’d spend five to six weeks on holiday in the snow, now we’re supporting a full year programme!
Chatting with the parents of other talented children, they’re often curious about what it takes to support Mia’s journey. They’ll say “It’s OK for Mia, she’s got you to take her away, film her for Instagram, travel with her;” they imagine that our support for Mia was financially a very easy thing to do. It wasn’t. Mia showed her potential on a snowboard when she was only five or six years old, since then we’ve been travelling to the mountains in our motorhome so she could follow her dream. I stopped working - and I’d had the same job since I was 15 years old - to give Mia these opportunities. The financial and family sacrifices we’ve made are never obvious.
Are there any rules on how much schooling Mia should do, and when? And what’s her attitude towards school work?
This is where things have got very difficult, I won’t lie. Education causes us the most stress! Until this year (Mia’s year 11), the school have been pretty unsupportive, mainly because those who have the power to authorise Mia’s absences have had their hands tied. During the primary years they thought we were crazy when we told them Mia wanted to be a pro snowboarder and that she showed amazing potential. I get that now, seeing other tiny kids and their pushy parents, we probably did sound crazy. Mia’s
first head teacher, on the verge of retirement and living near Manchester, just didn’t get it. But Mia was winning major events at the age of just 13, taking her place on podiums with Olympic athletes on either side of her. Still they wouldn’t take us seriously and many in the UK education system have tried to crush her “ski boarding” idea, (you read that correctly!) suggesting jobs as a theatrical make-up artist or even a blacksmith during career advice sessions.
Moving on, and backed by a few more high profile results and bigger sponsors, the school has improved their support for Mia significantly, although there are now targets to meet and boxes to tick. Mia must have a performance licence for each trip, there are safeguarding requirements to meet and we must register our accommodation with the local authorities in each country, so they can check on Mia if needed. She must do a minimum of 15 hours of education per week (we’d always done this, or more anyway!), there must be a ‘carer’ (me!) to communicate and organise and actually, although it all sounds quite extreme, all this legal stuff makes life so much easier for everyone involved. Mia has always been very conscientious with her school work and now there are proper guidelines and tutors. We’re relieved to see the back of those threatening non-attendance letters on the door mat when we get home!
Are there any team members who’ve taken Mia under their wing? How important is that?
Mia’s situation is unique. She's so accomplished as a snowboarder, yet she hasn’t been old enough to compete on the World Cup circuit. This means she’s pretty much been on her own journey at the World Rookie comps and Europa Cups. Mia thrives off a crew so we’ve been lucky to have her dad, her coach Ben Kinnear and Morzine-based Jason Rickwood from Gypsy Snowboarding to support her. We’ve noticed that the magic happens for Mia when she has the right people around her, and to be honest, that’s snowboarding at its finest - when you’re with your mates, having a blast.
Jenny Jones (the first Brit to win an Olympic medal on snow) has had the biggest influence on Mia in the UK I think. They are very similar riders with similar personalities and Mia would absolutely go to Jenny if she had any concerns or uncertainties. Katie Ormerod (two-time Olympian) is also amazingly supportive, even though they are entirely different riders and characters. I get really excited to see them working together, there’s no competitiveness, they just bring each other on. Katie travelled with the GB team at Mia’s age so she has a huge understanding of what the next few years look like for Mia. Billy Morgan always supports Mia, Billy Cockerill is like her big brother and Jamie Nicholls is a lot of fun. Fin Bremner is super encouraging, he helps Mia get her head in the game when conditions are tough. Everyone is really great and fully supportive of Mia, even though she’s so much younger.
You and / or Nigel (Mia’s dad) travel everywhere with Mia right now, at what age will you let her go it alone to training and competitions?
We’re transitioning right now… it’s hard! The next few years are crucial for Mia; she’s a teenage girl going through all the changes that a 15 year old goes through, but in a different pair of shoes, so I feel we need to stick at this, with us in the background. I’m sure this will also help the coaches too! It certainly eases Mia knowing we,re there, as much as she rolls her eyes at us. I try to stay out the way on the mountain these days, to give Mia this independence. I was fully prepared to start letting Mia go on some trips when she turns 16 in January, but with all the new school licence requirements, I’ll follow this winter through with her. It’s a big ask for her to manage an average day of training or competing on the hill, three hours of school work, time to stretch, do physio, eat, shower and have some down time. I think all parents must go through this phase! One minute you’re sweeping up behind them because it’s just easier, the next you’re nagging them to do things for themselves!
Refuge L’Abricotine has been a warm, welcoming restaurant for hikers and skiers for 40 years
Located at the foot of the Brochaux chairlift and very close to the Cascade de Brochaux, our restaurant menu features Alpine cheese specialities, a plat du jour, plus our famous savoury and sweet crêpes.
It’s super important, this is why I wanted Mia to stay in full time education, so she can regularly return to school and be with her friends. However I can see this changing now. We were in Australia and she was with friends she’d made from across the globe, and I realised this is where she really belongs! She’s spreading her wings, but we need to get those GCSEs done first. She’s adamant that she’ll go to 6th form, but this leads straight into the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, so there’s a lot of goals going on there. She’s also part of the skateboard crew at Graystone Action Sports in Manchester, she’s always done gymnastics and she cycles all around Cheshire with her dad. She likes to surf and she loves shopping! Giving her as many opportunities as we possibly can whilst at the same time providing the normal life of a teenager, is quite a balance.
How do you deal with the days when Mia’s performance isn’t as everyone had expected and she maybe doesn’t get the results she wanted?
Believe it or not this does happen, and it is super hard! Naturally our question is always, why? Mia and her coaches take responsibility when the results aren’t as expected. As she gets older, and we can’t take her any further technically, we’ve put everything in place for her to fulfil her potential, now it’s over to her, to a degree. We all work together to support Mia and she always bounces back.
Last year Nigel had to put Mia in a medical helicopter on the mountain and that is every parents nightmare. The doctor said "are you her coach?” and he replied “no, I’m her dad,” and that’s when Nigel realised he didn’t want this job of coaching Mia anymore. He struggled with that one for sure. He couldn't go in the helicopter with her because of COVID. The next two hours, until he saw Mia in the hospital, were the worst two hours of his life. He’d much rather be her dad, cheering her on at the bottom and I think he’s confident that he can step back now.
And are there any times when Mia just doesn’t want to snowboard? How do you keep her motivated?
NO!!! Not ever. Honestly, she’d snowboard 24/7 if she could and she’s always the last one off the hill.
What advice do you have for parents with small children showing masses of potential in any sport? How do you decide how hard to push them?
Read all of the above! And in particular the second question regarding making sacrifices. Would you give up the brand new Audi so you could finance all the training camps, the travel? So your talented child could fulfil their potential? That’s the big question. Yes, she’s an extremely lucky kid, but she deserves to be the World Rookie Champion, the Junior World Champion, the European Champion. She’s worked so hard!
Who else would you like to thank for Mia’s journey so far?
The list is long! Monster Energy, Capita, Union, 686, Skull Candy, Vans, Dragon. The Snowboard Asylum. Morzine’s Sam Nelson for being Mias manager, agent, guy on the end of the phone whenever we need any advice or just want to vent. Thanks to everyone that's supporting Mia, we certainly couldnt do it without you!
our refuge you’ll discover two dormitories sleeping up to 24 people.
must book in advance and our packages include speciality
dinner, bed and breakfast for €47 per person.
Mia has a load of fun off the snow, away from snowboarding too. How important do you think this is?
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- kids -
These lightweight back protectors have been a staple in the Junior Source kit box for many years, but this year we learned something new… they’re actually designed to be worn on top of your little one’s outerwear, hence the fluorescent colours, which are designed to help avoid collisions on the slopes. The vest is constructed from a flexible, highly breathable mesh and the full-length front zipper makes it easy to put on and take off. As you’d expect from POC, everything conforms to the highest safety standards.
It’s frustrating when kids-specific outerwear doesn’t perform as well as adults-specific outerwear and we’ve experienced that with quite a few brands in recent years. This Oneskee snow suit is made for kids but performs like an adult suit and the handy Acclimate zip technology means you can unzip the jacket from the pants entirely to use them as separate elements. The age range here is from 5-6 years to 11-12 years (Oneskee make adult snow suits too, in case you’re wondering… yes, you can match!) and the Snowsense fabric has 20k waterproof and breathability rating.
There are so many reasons why a balaclava is more effective than a neck gaiter and this is especially true for the smallest skiers in your group. Neck gaiters can feel restrictive around the neck, especially when there’s a helmet strap involved, whereas a balaclava keeps your whole head warm and can be easily adjusted away from the face. This anatomically-shaped example from Namuk is made from the finest natural merino wool, it’s incredibly soft on your skin and dries quickly too.
Oneskee Nasa Snow Suit RRP €275.00 oneskee.com
Michael Henderson morzine source magazine creative director
Pocito VPD Air Vest RRP €100.00 pocsports.com
Namuk Vista Merino Balaclava RRP €35.00 namuk.com
Previous to the arrival of the Junior Source ski team, I’d watched parents trail their small people around the mountain using these harnesses; it looked like incredibly hard work, I won’t lie. But it’s not! Your little ripper wears the bum-bag style pouch around their waist, you ski behind them using the attached reins to control their speed and direction. They feel like they’re skiing and enjoying the mountains with you, which can only be a good thing!
This beautiful picture book by Nick Robinson aims to inspire excitement amongst your children before they set off for their first holiday in the mountains. It introduces them to some of the basics of skiing, including ski lifts, instructors and some initial technical tips to help them in their first ski lesson. It discusses what they can expect in a ski resort in a fun and engaging way and makes the perfect gift too. Search for the book on Amazon and place your order now!
“It’s f**king unlucky getting MND at any age, let alone when you are 30”
- DAVY ZYW
The Ride On by Morzine-based film maker Will Nangle is a feature length documentary charting two years of Davy Zyw's life. Here’s a spoiler alert; no one will finish this film dry-eyed but everyone will be inspired by the spirit and courage of Davy and his family.
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a rapidly progressing degenerative condition. It attacks the nerves that control movement (your motor neurones), so that gradually, muscles no longer work. MND is life-shortening and there’s no cure. For those with the disease, mental abilities and senses are not usually affected, meaning patients generally remain aware of their deteriorating physical condition.
“I’ve known Davy and his twin brother Tommy for 20 years,” Will explains. “We’re all from Edinburgh and met snowboarding at our local Hillend dry slope. We’d spend a lot of time up there after school, at weekends, during holidays, lapping the same jump over and over. If it snowed, we’d all head north together. We often bring up memories of riding in Scotland, it was a great time,” he continues.
“When I found out about Davy’s MND diagnosis, Davy, Tommy and I met up in a pub in Edinburgh. They had this crazy plan to cycle the NC500 and after a couple of drinks and some time spent reminiscing, I suggested I come along to document the journey.” You’d usually find Will shooting projects for global brands such as Red Bull, HSBC, Vans, Nike and BBC Sport but this project is entirely personal. “The film took just over two years to make. I funded it, so I couldn’t afford to pay others to work on it, which makes the process much longer. I broke it down into smaller chunks to make it more manageable and worked on it during spare moments between paid jobs,” Will explains.
The NC500 (that’s North Coast 500) is Scotland’s ultimate road trip; a 516 mile loop of the highlands with outstanding coastal scenery, beginning and ending at Inverness Castle. Running clockwise and serving up just under 10,000 metres of elevation gain, Davy set himself the challenge of cycling the entire route in just four days. This would be an incredible achievement for any experienced road cyclist, let alone someone with MND. Raising money and awareness for MND research was the objective, but the end result was so much more.
“Davy and Tommy had been planning a few different trips, including a 1,200km ride through the Andes, but they wanted to do something closer to home too,” Will explains. “It’s quite easy to overlook where you live, ignoring what’s right on your doorstep.” The original plan was for Davy and Tommy to go it alone on the NC500, just the two of them and a couple of bags. Very quickly the group expanded to include their younger brothers, their friends and ultimately mum Jenny and stepdad Sandy running the support crew to feed the team along the route. “It was incredible to see everyone pull together, push and support each other throughout the ride,” says Will, who’d >>
originally planned a seven to ten minute film to capture the spirit of the journey. “I felt there was a bigger story to be told and after running the longer-form film idea past Davy, we took it on.”
The Ride On shifts between a full and frank discussion with Davy as he faces his future with MND and the reactions of his family and friends. The film is a harsh lesson in never taking a single day for granted; when you’re battling a life-ending disease, each new day is literally as good as it gets. “It’s a real privilege to know someone like this,” Will admits. “Spending time with Davy really makes you realise what’s important - get up and achieve what you want to achieve.” Throughout the ride, there are small signs of the onset of MND on Davy’s hands. He struggles with a marmalade pot at breakfast, has difficulty zipping up his cycling jacket during a blustery part of the ride. Yet the wheels keep turning, the laughter continues and Will keeps the cameras rolling. “Making this film was incredibly difficult,” says Will. “I thought it may be tough when I took on the project, but I didn’t realise how much it would effect me. Documenting a close friend and his family dealing with the diagnosis was tough. Filming it on the road with the team was one thing, sitting down to edit it, looking at the footage over and over again in a dark room… yeah, that was tough,” Will concludes. “The way Davy, Tommy, family and friends opened up and spoke about their feelings is a true testament to the type of people they are. They’re incredibly brave.”
Often wild, occasionally isolating but always majestic, the Scottish highlands provide the perfect backdrop for this film. “Every single time I go up to the highlands, I’m blown away by the landscape,” says Will. “The colours, space, quiet, the people and the weather are all part of it. Butand this is a big but - the midges. I always forget how bad they actually are and they were out in full force during the ride - clouds of them! Standing in one place with a camera, not moving, waiting for the riders to pass, we all came back with hundreds of bites, but the experience was worth every one of them.”
Elsewhere in the documentary we meet Scottish rugby legend, MND suffered and founder of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, Doddie Weir. He’s committed to a leaving no stone unturned in the search for a cure for MND and his insight is as courageous as Davy’s. During the NC500 ride, Davy and the team raised £150,000 for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.
“There’s no point sulking,” says Davy as the film concludes. “I’ll end up missing the best days of my health. It’s been a difficult journey to get to today, where I have accepted my lot and I’m ready to share it with the world.”
The Ride On is Davy’s legacy. It successfully creates awareness for this vicious disease and it’s a beautiful piece of film-making by Will Nangle. It even features some of your favourite Avoriaz views too. Download and watch during your next night in or your next down day.
The Ride On is available to watch on Amazon and you can read more about the project at therideon.com. You’ll discover more information on MND and the work of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation at myname5doddie.co.uk. To view more of Will’s work head to willnangle.com
trending
- outerwear -
Born in the wilds above nearby Lake Annecy, FW is an emerging outerwear brand designing high-performance ski and snowboard apparel with a newschool style. Inspired by a dissatisfaction of what already exists in the competitive outerwear market, the small team at FW use their own experiences in the mountains as the focus for their research and development; they only create products that are different to those that already exist. FW Apparel are also officially B Corp certified, crediting their high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. They only use sustainably sourced, 100% recycled down in their puff laters for example, while their repair programme includes an expert team charged with mending any of their products, because accidents happen, right?
Openwear are no stranger to the pages of this magazine and they’ve featured in our ‘emerging brands’ article before. Yet the pandemic was not kind to these small, niche brands and for a year or so, Openwear paused, without stock but with plenty of ideas. Now owned by a larger distributor, the brand continues to push boundaries in the development of sustainable outerwear. The goal here is to produce just one line of outerwear that will only change when absolutely necessary, unlike those global snow sports brands that roll out new collections each winter. Every element of the production process at Openwear is as sustainable as possible, from the 100% recyclable fabrics to the ethical product production methods, the recycled packaging and sustainable shipping.
The lovechild of professional snowboarders Kevin Backström and Tor Lundström, Beyond Medals is an outerwear and a streetwear brand that draws on the expertise of two of the sports most accomplished riders. As we’ve come to expect from all of these emerging brands, sustainability is at the core of these products, with only 100% recycled polyester used throughout.
Known as one of the most creative and unconventional freeskiers the world has ever known, Candide Thovex left the Faction Skis team in 2022 to launch his own brand of outerwear - skis will follow, surely? In the meantime, and with a focus on timeless style, functionality and quality, Candide has conceptualised, designed and introduced a range that rolls skiwear back to the essentials, getting rid of unnecessary elements and having the utmost respect for the environment. Durable performance is the mission here; products that last a lifetime while respecting the alpine environment that we all know and love.
Designed specifically for backcountry travel, this 100% seamsealed jacket is made from recycled yarn - it’s waterproof and it stretches to move with your body. The cut of the fabric is precise to avoid any excess weight or waste and you’ll find this jacket is supremely breathable when compared to those of other outerwear brands. This makes it perfect for all seasons, from springtime sunshine tours to cold January afternoons. There’s four colour ways, six different size options and we love the adjustable helmet-compatible storm hood with a bonded protective visor.
Once again made from three-layer, lightweight and stretchy recycled yarn, its the fit of these bib pants that really makes a difference. You’ll get a more efficient stride during your touring adventures, while the Cordura side panels are incredibly soft to allow for fluid movement. Just like it’s accompanying jacket, these bib pants are ultra-breathable and waterproof, plus we love the clever expanding pocket capacity for holding ski skins or wet gloves.
The most technical jacket in Candide’s range, this three-layer option is lightweight yet technical and designed for both touring and hiking. The breathable waterproof shell will keep you protected during inclement weather conditions, there’s a front media pocket lined with Primaloft insulation and the clever Aerogel to protect and extend your phone’s battery life in cold conditions. The fit is unisex with a paired-down shape that reduces unnecessary fabric. The membrane is made of 57% bio-polyester made from sugar cane and from recycled raw materials.
Light in design, breathable and durable, the fabrics here have been specified to regulate your temperature on the sweaty, steep climbs and on the cool descents. These bib pants are designed to accompany the C1 jacket and are made using the same planet-friendly materials. The bib element is detachable to adapt to various weather conditions, there’s a removable belt and reinforced kick patches around the inner ankles. The stretchable, water-resistant boot gaiter also helps to keep your feet warm and dry all day long.
The first thing you’ll notice about Openwear products is their weight - or lack of. The three-layer Xpore Xtreme material weighs barely anything, making it easy to wear and easy to transport. This jacket features no fewer than seven pockets, including two avalanche airbag-compatable front pockets with waterproof zippers. There’s under arm ventilation for those sunny days in the backcountry, a zip-on snow skirt for those deep days and removable hand cuffs too.
We’re happy to call these the ultimate hardshell freeride pants, it’s obvious that they’ve been designed specifically for riding deep powder and the journey you’ll make to get there. The functionality of these pants is matched by their sustainability credentials and just like the jacket, they are easy to recycle when they reach the end of their life. Both products come in a range of five different colours, four sizes and there’s a lifetime product warranty.
Designed to meet any conditions that the backcountry throws at you, this three-layer shell jacket protects against both water and wind and is best combined with additional layers to keep you warm. There’s fullytaped seams, under-arm ventilation, a handy inner pocket for your goggles or gloves plus a detachable snow skirt.
With full protection against water and wind, reinforced hems, elastic waist adjustment and a stack of other features, these bib pants combine perfectly with the High Tech jacket. There’s innerleg ventilation to keep you cool, fully taped seams to keep you warm and elastic snow gaiters too.
Chalet-Hôtel La Marmotte, La Tapiaz & Spa ****
POUR UN SÉJOUR
AU GRÉ DE VOS ENVIES
Au pied des pistes des Gets, le Chalet-Hôtel**** La Marmotte, La Tapiaz et Spa est tout ce que son nom promet : douillet, familial et chaleureux. Jolis meubles anciens, objets insolites et service personnalisé : vous vous sentirez ici comme à la maison.
Profitez d’une note gourmande et savoureuse dans notre brasserie de montagne “La Biskatcha” et venez découvrir notre nouvelle carte végétarienne dans notre restaurant “La Piste Noire”.
At the foot of the slopes of Les Gets, the Chalet-Hotel**** La Marmotte, La Tapiaz and Spa is everything its name promises: cosy, family-friendly and warm. Discover antique furniture, characterful decoration and personalised service that makes you feel at home.
Enjoy a gourmet and tasty occasion in our mountain brasserie “La Biskatcha” and discover the new vegetarian menu in our restaurant “La Piste Noire”.
winter Fitness -
Eddie calls this her absolute, hands down, winner for an all round, multi-purpose jacket and the attention to detail here is incredible, from the neck zip to the sleeves, which allow for a great fit with gloves and watch. There’s a close-fitting design, adapted specifically for mountain trail running, it’s ultralightweight and easily packa away. The GORE_TEX Active shell provides reliable weather protection and the peaked hood comes in handy, should the weather turn. Eddie wears hers on on both rainy spring days and freezing winter runs. ‘It’s never failed me!’ she promises!
A new find by local running legend Eddie Sutton, these North Face trail shoes aren’t a cheap option for winter running or hiking, but in Eddie’s view they’re a really sound investment that should last for many seasons. Flight Guard shoes are The North Face’s most waterproof and responsive model, while the Vectiv technology is designed to optimise energy while you run. The protective zipped upper helps to keep out the snow, underneath is a trainer that still allows you to run freely.
Garmin’s latest run-specific model is with you for the longhaul and we’re a fan of the musical integrations on this watch too! Loaded with a whopping 14 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, or up to 30 hours in GPS mode, the Forerunner is as light as a feather, thanks to its sleek design. It lets you plan your workout strategy with daily suggested workouts and course details, there’s even advanced metrics to help you meet your training goals. Garmin Pay integration makes paying for your post-run coffee a cinch and with eight different colour ways, you’re sure to find one you love.
amie Henderson morzine source magazine editor
No more stuffing your car keys in your bra ladies, no more awkward phone armbands, the FlipBelt is here to revolutionise your running. The Classic version has been specifically designed to sit flat and securely on your hips while you move, it doesn’t bounce around or ride up your waste as you tackle those challenging hills. There’s no buckles, no uncomfortable chafing, you simply slide in your phone, your keys, your bank card and your energy gels through the multiple openings around the belt. The tubular design feels just like the waistband on your leggings and the fabric is moisture-wicking too.
Another recommendation from ultra runner legend Eddie Sutton, these socks are a total must for both freezing snowy runs, but also for rainy days. Eddie’s taken it upon herself to test the socks thoroughly in snow, ice, mud and in every alpine stream she could find. They come highly recommended and she promises that she’s never had a blister or even the faintest feeling that her feet are wet. They are also are super durable so should last for years and years. What a game changer for those who like to run, regardless of the season. These Dexshell socks are available in four different sizes, two different colour ways and they even sell high visibility and compression sock versions too.
Sold – €3,720,000
Our reach just extended Knight Frank opens a new property agency in Morzine
We’re delighted to have opened a new office in Morzine, Portes du Soleil, joining forces with the established Morzine Prestige team. With more than 18 years’ experience working with clients in the French Alps, we’re proudly local, offering a best in-class service and a deep understanding of the area and its market. With a database of 66,000 contacts between our Switzerland and French Alps offices and with 384 offices worldwide, we can draw on our global network to guide you on your unique property journey, whether you’re selling, looking for your dream mountain base or would simply like some expert advice. As your partners in property, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Your Morzine team
Matt Edelsten Director Andy Symington Director Max Rains Sales Negotiator
Ingrid Maes Senior Sales Executive Fiona Lambert Sales Negotiator
Mélissa Chalençon Administrative Assistant
Mark Harvey Department Head
Roddy Aris Sales Negotiator
Laetitia Hodson Sales Negotiator
Nyon
Our Alpine network
Lausanne Vevey
ZURICH
Previously sold by us
Gstaad
Crans-Montana MORZINE
Les Gets
Saint-Gervais-les Bains
Praz-sur-Arly
Knight Frank Sales Office Leysin
Villars-sur-Ollon Champéry
Verbier
Les Houches Combloux
Megève
Ingrid Maes
I’m delighted to be joining forces with Mountain Base | Knight Frank after 13 years of building Morzine Prestige. The new partnership will give our team a considerably wider exposure through Knight Frank’s extensive network of agencies, bringing in industry-leading expertise across a number of markets.
Roddy Aris
This year we’ve seen the strongest demand for Alpine homes emanate from the Geneva to Mont Blanc corridor, with people keen to make the most of the year-round appeal, affordable pricing and fast transfer times. Knight Frank’s Ski Property Report identified Morzine and Les Gets as the front runners in the French Alps – highlighting that the Portes du Soleil was a key missing part of our Alpine network. I’m pleased to announce the opening of our new Morzine office, from which we’ll also be looking after Les Gets.
Sold – €4,950,000
Sold – €2,000,000
Sold – €1,795,000
For further information on the Morzine market or to book your market appraisal, contact the team on +33 4 80 96 50 03 or scan the QR code here.
Davos
Klosters
Chur
Chamonix
GENEVA
WHAT A DIFFERENCE
a year makes
by natalie elvy
She shows me snaps of Ikea furniture - she’d been forwarding the images to her husband for his opinion. She was seven months pregnant and preparing the nursery. Life was exciting, she was choosing which hospital to have her baby in, what to buy for the nursery and looking forward to life as a family of four. I’ve only known Inna since April 2022 and as with any new friends, I hadn’t thought much about what her life was like before we met. Always up-beat, it hadn’t occurred to me just how challenging that cheerfulness must be until I saw those snapshots of her real life - her chosen life. They show the casual ordinary-ness of someone confident of her role and her place in her little part of the world. The mundane, day-to-day rhythm we all take for granted - until it’s not there.
When I asked Inna Akimova what she was doing this time last year, she whips out her phone and takes herself back in time. Scrolling through the images, a smile spreads over her face.
A year later, Inna has refugee status in France. It was at dawn on the 24 February 2022, her baby less than three months old, that she left her apartment ten kilometres from the centre of Kyiv. With her two young children and her mother in tow, they’d decided it was too dangerous to stay in the Ukrainian capital. So started a journey that has brought her more than 2000kms from her home and husband. The emotional journey has been even more challenging. Last year Inna’s life was ordinary, she assumed she had an element of control in her choices, and in the world around her. Over night, any assumptions of security were transformed into powerlessness and vulnerability in the face of tyrannic geo-political manoeuvring, resulting in her fleeing her country to protect her family.
This is
Inna’s story...
“At the end of 2021, ordinary Ukrainians weren’t thinking about war. Kyiv is just like any other cosmopolitan capital city and we were enjoying Christmas and New Year festivities. From early January we started to hear rumours of Russian troops being positioned on the Belarusian border. Friends and I were aware of it, but our chats were just that - chats - full of ‘what-if’ type hypotheses, never genuinely thinking about what it could all mean, it was more like entertainment than real-life. The reality of now was unthinkable then.
It was in February 2022 that I started to feel increasingly unsettled. There wasn’t anything overt but we started to notice government posters and adverts urging us to locate our nearest bomb-shelters, and to make sure they were equipped. They weren’t panicky - it was more like a housekeeping exercise. I am on some nation-wide WhatsApp groups and from their messages, I could sense the atmosphere changing across the country. I packed an emergency bag and put it in the boot, and insisted that my husband kept the car full of petrol. This makes it sound like I was prepared, but I wasn’t consciously planning - it just seemed prudent. My husband thought I was being paranoid. He is an electrician and he was working hard, and had up-coming contracts; he didn’t want to believe that
anything could happen. He couldn’t look at the bigger picture because the void of the unknown is just too vast - it’s too terrifying.
I was feeding my baby early in the morning of 24th February 2022, when I saw a WhatsApp message that war was about to start. I didn’t believe it, but then my father called at 5.30am and told me all big Ukrainian airports had been destroyed by Russian bombs - it had started. I gathered what I could put it in the car and then my husband drove me, my mother and our children to my grandmother’s village, five hours from Kyiv. Thank goodness the car was full of fuel as there were queues at petrol stations and people were starting to panic - there were a lot of accidents. The following day the main road we had used was taken by Russian troops.
We thought we’d stay with my grandmother until we could go back to Kyiv. There wasn’t much news as everything was happening so fast and no-one knew what was going on, not even journalists. I got information from WhatsApp groups and Instagram images. That’s how we knew that it was taking five days to cross the border into Poland. We stayed with my grandmother for three weeks, and it became clear we couldn’t go back. I decided, with my husband, that we had to go on. We had to go to Poland.
On the 18th March my husband drove us to the Polish border and we managed to cross in just five hours. My husband stayed in Ukraine. I haven’t seen him since. During our first days in Poland we stayed with a priest in his freezing cold, crowded house. It was dusty and dirty because so many people were there. It was not a good place for a baby and there were so many people crossing the border, I knew I had to keep moving. I looked for options in other countries, which is how I found a Swiss charity that put me in contact with some homeowners in Essert la Pierre on the outskirts of Morzine. I wasn’t keen - it was so far and I’m not used to driving - but we didn’t have a choice. So we left Poland on 4th April 2022 and arrived here on 7th April 2022, traversing 2000kms in three days, stopping only to breast-feed and to make sure we were going in the right direction.
This area is amazing, but a year ago it was unthinkable that I’d be living in France. I should be living in my apartment in Kyiv with my family around me. Instead my eldest son is in the French education system, his little brother is being looked after by the French health system, and my mother and I are negotiating the French social security system. We are learning so much about France! What we have been through is going to make us all stronger, and when we go home we will use what we’ve learned to help rebuild a strong and beautiful Ukraine. I want people to understand that nothing is a given, don’t take peace and security for granted. Life can change beyond our imaginings in an instant.”
Seven million Ukrainians have fled the country since the start of the war in February 2022, 107,000 have come to France. Inna’s baby will be walking soon, and her nine year old son is playing ice hockey and looking forward to skiing this winter. Neither little boy has seen their father since they left Ukraine on the 18th March. Inna and her mother have no idea when they’ll be able to go back to Kyiv, or what they’ll find when they get there.
“
I’m All About the Après! ”
It was 2006 when Gok Wan exploded onto our TV screens in the Channel 4 show How to Look Good Naked - how time flies! Since then he’s hosted and featured in several high profile TV shows and worked alongside some of the UK’s biggest household names. Fashion shows, cookery shows, books and more followed, but he’s also tackled more serious social issues, such as obesity and homophobia in this career. Today, we’re here to talk about music. Gok has become one of the most sought-after DJs in the UK in recent times and we’re very excited to see his name on the Snowboxx 2023 line-up.
by amie Henderson
TV presenter, stylist, designer, chef and now DJ. You’ve worn so many hats over the years, which is your favourite?
“I am so lucky that over the years my followers have allowed me to diversify my job, and wear so many hats. If I am really honest I don't have a single favourite job, I love the fact that every single day is completely different, which appeals to all my different personalities ;) lol.”
We're all hooked on Isolation Nation, the lockdown project that live streamed your kitchen rave into our living rooms. Where did your love for house music come from? And what were your musical influences when you were grown-up?
“I have always been a massive house head since my early teens. I was pretty much there at the beginning of house music, and it's always been one of my greatest passions. I never dreamed that one day I would end up DJing this incredible genre of music and I feel completely blessed every single time I walk up on stage and get behind those decks. I think house music is one of the greatest gifts to share with the world.”
Did you expect the reaction to Isolation Nation during lockdown?
“When I first started up Isolation Nation during lockdown, I had no idea at all that it would gain such a big following and create a whole community of Isolation Nation family members. It started out as a device for me to connect with the world during the most isolating moment of all of our lives, and I am so happy that I went online and started to play music. A lot of people didn’t realise that I was a DJ until that moment, but then after months and months of playing out from my kitchen, we gained 100,000's of followers, and I know it made such a difference to so many people who were having such a tough time.”
How did you transition from DJing online from your own kitchen to playing in front of a live crowd? Do you do things differently?
“I had been DJing for many years before I started Isolation Nation during lockdown. But I have to say it was very difficult coming out of lockdown and DJing in front of a live audience again, and no longer doing it from my kitchen. From the kitchen it’s very personal with lots of chat, lots of fun and lots of humour, but of course when you are DJing from a club or at a festival you use the mic minimally, and its all about the music. I guess I like DJing both ways; I love the intimacy of online streaming, but also love the big production of a huge rave!”
Have food and fashion taken a back seat these days?
“Food and fashion are still very much primary jobs of mine. I am very lucky that I get to do food, fashion and music equally. I don't think any of them will ever take a back seat as I love them so much.”
What can we expect from your Snowboxx set this winter? And have you planned a fabulous outfit to keep out those minus temperatures?
“I am so excited about DJing at Snowboxx. I am going to create a really uplifting, very happy, very vocal house set for everyone. There will definitely be some classics in there, but also some big sing-along moments. I am so excited!! I haven't even thought about what I am going to wear yet. But I am going to try and make it fabulous!”
Are you a skier?
“No I am not a skier at all, I am all about the Après!”
What projects do you have in the pipeline for 2023?
“2023 is already set to be a very busy year for us - lots of filming, and a huge project which will be taking over the beginning of the year. And then onto DJing all summer at the festivals and in Ibiza - I am so excited, and can’t wait to see you on the slopes with a mulled wine!”
You can discover the full Snowboxx line up and ticket options to see Gok rave at 1800m at snowboxx.com
JUST ANOTHER DAY AT
Founded by a pair of friends trying to organise a post-university group ski trip, Snowboxx has escalated and now welcomes thousands of ravers to Avoriaz in March each year. While the musical line-up is always spectacular, Snowboxx isn’t just about those headline events. There’s a stack of other stuff going on too…
You can follow Charlie Tee’s Snowboxx adventures on her Instagram - @charlieteedj and you’ll find everything you need to know about those Snowboxx festival and wristband tickets at snowboxx.com
A bottomless brunch is usually the best way to start your day at Snowboxx. Combine a tasty alpine breakfast with endless Prosecco, throw in a few guest DJs and party the morning away. During Snowboxx 23 bottomless brunches and bottomless lunches will run across six days of the festival, more than ever before! The pistes are calling in the afternoon, with the enormous 650km Portes du Soleil on your doorstep. Are you brave enough to take on the Snowboxx skim pool? We hope so. Snowboxx après parties are the stuff of legend, especially if there’s an igloo rave involved.
Drum and bass DJ Charlie Tee has appeared on the Snowboxx line-up no fewer than six times, but rather than fly in for her set then fly out again, she stays for the whole week! “I can honestly say, without a doubt, that Snowboxx is one of my favourite shows of the year,” the Radio 1 Drum & Bass Show hosts told us. “I stay for the whole week to watch the other acts and to ski, it’s just so sick.”
“How often do you get to watch world class DJs up a mountain?” Charlie continues. “I have so many memories from Snowboxx. Playing the main stage and also at apres parties is just so electric, everyone as such good energy. Last year they introduced a stage called The Boxx, which was just inane. The sound and the venue were so perfect for full on snow raving!” We heard rumours of a new home for The Boxx at Snowboxx 2023, with better than ever production, so watch this space.
Snowboxx added a host of new accommodation options to the 2023 festival and they quickly sold out. By popular demand, they’ve launched a whole new festival package for those who missed out. Plan your own accommodation and buy a festival wristband and lift pass combo from just €349 for four days, giving you access to all Snowboxx events. “This festival is just a full on adventure and anything can happen,” Charlie explains. “One year I played up a mountain with Shy FX, which was mad. Also last year Becky Hill did a surprise, intimate DJ set with Charlie G in the Yak Bar and it was amazing. You’re guaranteed to come home with some stores!”
As you might imagine, it gets quite cold after dark at an altitude of 1800m. “You can expect high energy, festival vibes from my set at Snowboxx in 2023. I’ll keep you warm with my high octane selections!” Charlie promises, which sounds a lot like her Saturday night show on Radio 1. “My show is a real labour of love and this is such an exciting time for drum and bass in the UK right now! I can’t wait to bring some of my favourite selections to the mountains!”!
cover story
By Jono Wood
Whether I’m working in a digital format or hand painting, I work with bold colour and with crisp lines and shapes. I try to take inspiration from my environment, from the people, places and animals or things going on around me to portray these things in my designs. Sometimes I’ll be working on a single colour logo, other times it can be a three hundred layer piece, but whatever it may be, I try and keep the style the same throughout and I think this defines my style as an artist.
I am both honoured and humbled to have been able to collaborate with so many iconic brands throughout the action sports industry, it’s tough to pin down a few favourites but I’ll have a go! Firstly, my work with Capita Snowboards must be up there. Designing snowboards that I often see on the mountain while I’m waiting in a life queue or propped up outside a mountain restaurant is very cool. Another great project was working together on a signature range with Mizu on their insulated drinks bottles. Helping the world cut down on plastic and trying to preserve our environment is so important to me so this project felt like such a perfect fit. I’d also say that one of my favourite projects was working on a mitt with Nike Snowboarding for the Olympics and getting a name check on the BBC during the coverage from my good friend Tim Warwood made my mum so happy! That was very memorable.
I was asked by the team at Morzine Source Magazine to produce the cover artwork for this milestone issue as they were familiar with my work. It takes a fair while to create a piece and I work until I’m totally happy with it. Once I’d sketched out the initial idea and concept, there was a lot of tweaking unit it matched the image I saw in my head. I tried adding more to it, such as ski lifts and cliffs, but it just kept taking away from the striking image so I reverted to the original concept.
My family bought a place here in Morzine over 20 years ago, of course it was a very different place back then. It was just a small village nestled in the French Alps, almost unheard of. If you walked to the lift or saw a snowboarder on the mountain, chances are you knew them. Obviously the place has changed a lot, but the one thing I take from my time in Morzine is the relationships you build and the people you meet along the way through our mutual love for the place and snowboarding. I have probably, at the minimum, twenty friends who’ve met their wives, husbands and long term partners in Morzine! There’s something very special about this place.
Anyone who knows the design side of the action sports industry will know how far everyone is working into the future. It’s pretty surreal sometimes, trying to predict styles and colours for so many years in advance. It’s like time travel! As I sit here in October of 2022 we are already working on designs for 2024 and my current projects are top secret i’m afraid!
Instagram is the quickest and easiest way to get a snapshot into the way I work. I try my best to keep things up to date, with the latest goings on in the art side of my life and any new releases I might have. You’ll
Dinner: 6:30pm to 1am Dîner : 18h30 à 1h
+33 (0)4 50 86 31 12 reservation@vina-annapurna.com 2421 route des Grandes Alpes, 74260 Les Gets
Déjeuner & Après-ski - Terrasse ensoleillée, skis aux pieds : 10h à 18h
+33 (0)4 50 75 80 66 - reservation@croixblanche-lesgets.com 3973 route des Chavannes, 74260 Les Gets
Ouch!
FIVE REASONS WHY YOU NEED BETTER FITTING SKI BOOTS THIS WINTER
Michel and Sebastian Rouget at Caribou Sports in Morzine are the experts when it comes to ski boot fitting. Their shop in the centre of the village is packed full of the latest technology needed to pair your boots to perfectly match your feet. But did you know that ski boots can make or break your holiday? Here’s five reasons to wear better fitting ski boots this winter.
1. You’ll ski better
Has your skiing plateaued in recent years? Are you unable to find those edges, the glide that you once loved? Do things feel just a little bit difficult? Having your ski boots moulded to fit your feet makes you more dynamic on the slopes, improving your alignment and giving you the tools to push things a little harder. You’ll have more confidence in your technique and you’ll take on more challenges, resulting in a much better day on the mountain.
2. You’ll ski longer
We’ve all experienced mid-morning toe ache and the dread of fastening up your ski boots as you emerge from your lunchtime restaurant stop. When your ski boots fit correctly, your whole body is less fatigued, which makes you much more likely to carry on throughout the afternoon and even on to apres. Skiing is supposed to be fun, you’re not supposed to hobble home with painful feet at the end of the day.
3. You’ll be safer
If having better fitting ski boots improves your ski skills while at the same time reducing tiredness, this surely makes you a safer skier. When your equipment is performing well, you’re in better control of your speed and direction and less likely to have an accident with someone else on the slopes.
4. You’ll avoid injuries
If you’re carrying any little niggles from every day life in advance of your ski holiday, the last thing you want to do is aggravate them whilst on holiday. Proper fitting ski boots will help your body to move in the right direction, saving you from the discomfort of awkward and annoying injuries that might ruin your ski holiday.
5. You’ll never rent again
When you buy your own ski boots, Michel and Sebastian custom mould the insoles in their workshop, evening out pressure distribution and creating a boot that is unique to your feet. Those rubbing, burning sensations that we’ve all experienced become a distant memory when you own and keep your own ski boots. You’ll never look back!
more info
You’ll find Caribou Sports at 95 Route de la Combe à Zore in the centre of Morzine, where they also stock a large range of ski wear and accessories in addition to offering ski and snowboard rental.
Head to caribousports.com for more details.
BRAND NEW FOR THIS WINTER SEASON, MORZINE’S VERY OWN
SHOWCASING FANTASTIC LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL MUSICIANS
TWO LIVE BANDS EVERYDAY -
Les Trois Mazots
Looking for somewhere to stay that is definitely a bit different, very stylish, full of all the usual mod cons, very close to the ski lifts but also in a nice peaceful and sunny spot with great views? Then look no further - staying is believing at Les Trois Mazots!
Chalet Roc
Detached, modern chalet in central Morzine with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, outdoor (under cover) hot tub, full digital entertainment (Netflix, Spotify, PlayStation, Alexa, UK Freesat and French TV) and modern log burning fireplace. Only a short (400m) walk from the restaurants and bars in town, and both cable cars. Mention Morzine Source for a discount.
chaletroc.com
reservations@chaletroc.com
+33 (0) 7 57 67 66 94
Skiology
Choose us for location - Town centre catered chalets 200m from the lifts/pistes, Prodain chalets 500m from the lifts/pistes. Stay with us for our menu. Come back to us for our service and our environmental commitment.
lestroismazots.com
christie.obrien147@gmail.com
+33 (0) 7 71 15 67 32
Morzine Retreats
Chalet Le Cabri with stunning views across Morzine, 5 beautiful en-suites, sleeping up to 12 people. Relax in the jacuzzi after a great day skiing, easy access to the slopes and town. We offer flexible catering in winter. Established company with 20 years in Morzine. Situated in a quiet area yet close to all amenities. Owner operated.
morzine-retreats.com
+33 (0) 6 30 79 55 15 info@morzine-retreats.com
Located within walking distance of the Prodains lift station and nestled within the forest, our family owned and operated hotel offers spacious and flexible accommodation throughout the summer and winter season. Our cosy bar and restaurant are perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. You’ll find a warm, friendly welcome at Les Lans this winter. Head to our website to book online with ease.
Simply Morzine
Shortlisted as ‘Best Chalet Company’ by the Telegraph. Simply Morzine boast some of central Morzine's best located & on-piste luxury catered chalets & hotel plus self-catered luxury chalets & self-catered on-piste apartments. All chalets & hotel include hot tub, pool or sauna.
simply-morzine.co.uk
info@simply-morzine.co.uk
+44 (0) 1664 568902
skiology.co.uk
+44 (0) 207 183 0688 stay@skiology.co.uk
leslans.com
+33 (0) 4 50 79 00 90 info@leslans.com
Panther Snow Co
We have two luxury self-catered properties available for rent winter and summer in the Portes du Soleil. These consist of one luxury chalet in the charming hamlet of Essert Romand, Chalet Aix (sleeps 8) and one high-end new apartment in Morzine town itself, Marmottiere (sleeps 8+2). Please see our website or call Richard for further details.
panthersnowco.com
+44 (0) 7836 611 076 info@panthersnowco.com
GourmetSki - Chalet du Chêne
Beautiful oak framed chalet sleeping up to 13 in 5 en-suite bedrooms. Located in a peaceful and accessible sunny part of Morzine, close to free ski bus service. Owner run since 2007, available catered or self-catered, year round. Features gourmet cuisine, hot-tub, games room, honesty bar, slope run service, secure gardens and stunning views.
gourmetski.com
+33 (0) 6 74 03 28 91 gourmetski@gmail.com
Les Lans
Stay Hideout
Modern, functional en-suite rooms, in a central Morzine location, above one of the finest restaurants in the village. Choose from twin, double and triple rooms and if you are on a budget, we also have mixed, shared 6 or 4 bed dorms. All rooms feature comfortable beds with linen and towels included, en-suite bathrooms and a continental breakfast.
stayhideout.com
+33 (0) 7 68 63 48 21
info@stayhideout.com
Elevation Alps
Our large range of luxury chalets and apartments are very close to the village and include ski in/ski out, hot tubs and saunas. You can add any of our services to personalise your stay. How about a private chef or extra housekeeping? We can deliver groceries, wine or freshly prepared meals. Whatever you need our team will be able to organise it for you.
elevationalps.com
+33 (0) 9 67 67 08 38
info@elevationalps.com
Alptitude
A great portfolio of self-catering chalets and apartments sleeping from 4 - 13 guests. A great choice of central village locations, plus a selection of more peaceful locations away from the hustle and bustle. From comfortable to more luxurious and all at great value. We provide a unique and personal service which is second to none and perfectly efficient from enquiry to departure. All Alptitude clients also benefit from discounted lift passes, airport transfers and ski hire. alptitude.com
+44 (0) 7891 021 292 info@alptitude.com
Treeline Chalets
Award winning chalet company with a range of catered, flexi-catered and self-catered properties. From 2 bedroom apartments to luxury 6 bedroom boutique chalets with swimming pools, we have a large portfolio of unique stays to suit all group sizes and budgets. With a friendly team full of local knowledge, we are here to help from the moment you enquire.
treelinechalets.com
+44 (0) 1483 220 505 info@treelinechalets.com
Chalet Pleney
A ski-in, ski-out chalet right on the Pleney piste and also just 4 minutes walk to centre of town. The 9 en-suite bedrooms can sleep up to 25 people. The spacious open-plan lounge and dining area has a log fire and large picture windows offering spectacular views and access to the large terrace and balconies, outdoor hot tub and sauna.
woodlandschalets.com
+33 (0) 7 68 66 04 64
info@woodlandschalets.com
45 Degrees North
45 Degrees North is a family-run business based in Morzine and we have been offering cycling and skiing/ snowboarding holidays here for 5 years. At our chalets, we aim to provide a warm, welcoming and relaxed environment for your holiday where it feels like a home away from home.
45degreesnorth.co.uk
+33 (0) 7 69 44 52 69 hello@45degreesnorth.co.uk
Farmhouse La Desmeuniere
A beautifully renovated 18th century farmhouse with traditional features and full of character. The chalet’s 8 en-suite bedrooms are split over 3 floors and can sleep up to 22 people. Features a log fire, balcony with views of Morzine, ski/boot room, sauna, sunken hot tub, free Wifi, large car park and garden.
woodlandschalets.com
+33 (0) 7 68 66 04 64
info@woodlandschalets.com
Ideally located in Montriond centre, near Morzine-Avoriaz, at the heart of Les Portes du Soleil resort, across Switzerland and France. Our chalet is well-equipped with a large accommodation capacity with its 6 en-suites bedrooms (sleeps up to 18) and its large and comfy living areas (living room, dining room, kitchen). The perfect place for mountain holidays with your friends, families or colleagues. Enjoy the breathtaking view in the outdoor jacuzzi and large very well equipped living areas. A dedicated place to live and share your love for outdoor activities.
Ride & Breakfast Chalet
Morgan Jupe
We aim to provide a flawless experience from your first enquiry to the end of your stay. Our portfolio includes four apartments sleeping 4-6 and one chalet sleeping 8-10, furnished to a high standard and well-equipped with everything you need for a self-catered holiday. Our superb locations put you within walking distance of the ski lifts and give you immediate access to the local buses. Sales Director Jess will provide support throughout the booking process, ensuring a hassle free experience. Flexible booking option available.
morganjupe.co.uk
+44 (0) 7739 692 908
jess@morganjupe.co.uk
Croc Blanc 4 Saisons Guest House
Your ultimate ski holiday on the doorstep of the Pleney, the sights and sounds of Morzine surround you. Olivier and Alexia welcome you to their chalet and propose you a flexible catering stay; choose from B&B or half board. Our chalet can accommodate 10 people in the 5 ensuite bedrooms with a private wellness area including wooden spa, sauna and relaxation area. Modern, stylish interiors, panoramic views and private garden. We welcome dogs too!
Exclusive new 2 bedroomed, 2 bathroom apartment centrally located in the alpine village of Montriond with easy public transport links to the lifts of Morzine and Ardent. It has its own private garage parking, secure bike storage and a balcony with stunning mountain views. Available for winter ski & summer biking / family holiday lets through Mountain Xtra.
mountainxtra.com
+44 (0) 1483 608 396
info@mountainxtra.com
Mountain Highs
Morzine self-catering specialists since 1995! We have a complete range of chalets and apartments to suit all budgets, winter and summer, from 4 to 15 people. Highquality service, detailed resort knowledge, attention to detail. We also offer a lift pass delivery service, airport transfers and help with arranging childcare and ski lessons.
mountainhighs.co.uk
+33 (0) 6 24 79 07 09 info@mountainhighs.co.uk
The Farmhouse Hotel
Built in 1771, The Farmhouse Hotel is the oldest building in Morzine, known to the locals as ‘Le Château’. One of the most desirable hideaways in the Alps sits in the heart of this beautiful alpine village just two minutes walk from the centre. Once you have discovered this gem you will return year after year.
thefarmhouse.fr
+33 (0) 6 83 86 55 49
info@thefarmhouse.fr
Hôtel & Spa Le Dahu ****
Nestled along the south side of the Morzine Valley, the Dahu offers guests a uniquely sunny location and a panorama that encompasses the emblematic mountains of the resort and its lovely mountain village. Its 37 rooms, its spa and indoor swimming pool, its panoramic restaurant and its lounges and bar offer you a haven of peace for your mountain holidays.
dahu.com
+33 (0) 4 50 75 92 92
info@dahu.com
Chalet Heavenly
A stay at Chalet Heavenly sees the Morzine luxury ski chalet experience taken to heavenly heights. We guarantee you exceptional service, beautiful food, gorgeous wine pairings and all the post-slope relaxation you could wish for. Guests can enjoy a long soak in the hot tub, soothe achy muscles in the steam room, and relax by the roaring centrepiece fire with a pre-dinner drink.
chaletheavenly.com
+44 (0) 7785 326 706 info@chaletheavenly.com
Mountain Heaven Ltd
Chalet Chamois D'Or is located in a truly prime location just seconds away from the Nyon cable car and ski slopes. This detached chalet offers stunning mountain views from each of its 7 bedrooms along with its cosy lounge with open fireplace, making it a joy to stay in and hugely popular. For your added comfort there’s an outdoor hot tub on the sun terrace allowing you to capture the beautiful panoramic views of the mountains.
mountainheaven.co.uk
0151 625 1921
info@mountainheaven.co.uk
AliKats Mountain Holidays
Beautiful chalets, exquisite food and extraordinary mountain retreats, all designed with the lowest possible environmental impact. You can choose from 4 catered chalets or 8 self-catered chalets all beautifully furnished with amazing views!
Mountain Xtra
Brand new to Mountain Xtra for Winter 22/23. An exceptional luxury apartment created in a unique renovation in the heart of the old town area of Morzine. Sleeping 6 (+2) people in 3 spacious bedrooms, with 3 bathrooms, a stunning open plan living area and a private hot tub and terrace.
More Mountain Morzine
Luxury apartments and chalets in central Morzine. Amazing locations, hot tubs and happy staff. Concierge services and flexible catering available.
alikats.eu
+33 (0) 7 83 49 67 03 bookings@alikats.eu
mountainxtra.com
+44 (0)1483 608396 info@mountainxtra.com
Chalets1066
You can choose from 45 chalets and apartments, Luxury to economy, 2 to 9 bedrooms with Chalets1066. Being dedicated to Les Gets for over 14 years, Chalets1066 have deep knowledge of the area, strong local partnerships and an intimate understanding of each property. Chalets1066 will help you create the perfect holiday in Les Gets.
chalets1066.com
+44 (0) 207 183 5082 info@chalets1066.com
the HOFNAR experience
We run the best trips for those travelling 'solo' - fantastic accommodation, great value-for-money, fun, laid-back vibes, it's like being on holiday with a group of mates you just haven't met yet. We have two chalets in Morzine; Chalet Skade for those in their twenties / thirties & Chalet Hubert which has no age limits, except no kids!
hofnar.com
+44 (0) 203 286 4469 hello@hofnar.com
Northstar Chalets
Beautiful chalets, delicious food and a warm welcome. Catered and self-catered properties all located in the heart of Morzine - close to the lifts and village centre. Our friendly, experienced staff will make sure your holiday is one to remember. We look forward to welcoming you to Morzine! Enquire now for your next summer or winter holiday in the Alps.
Originally an 1805 traditional farmhouse, La Fourmiliere has been re-imagined into a stunning English country house in the midst of the mountains, complete with the biggest fireplace in Morzine! Cosseted by luxurious comfort, delicious food, fabulous wines, a great bar and a vintage Land Rover to ferry you to the slopes, our mission is to make your winter holiday simply the best!
chaletfourmiliere.com
+33 (0) 7 71 28 71 11 hello@chaletfourmiliere.com
Hotel du Lac
Located on the tranquil shores of Lac de Montriond you’ll find our cosy, fun-filled hotel featuring 20 en-suite bedrooms, a beautiful bar and a restaurant with views across the lake. Stay mid-way between
and Avoriaz for easy access to the pistes of the Portes du
day before retreating to our
Avoriaz Holidays and Avoriaz Premium offer all you need to plan a perfect holiday in the Portes du Soleil’s highest ski resort. All properties are ski-in, ski-out, bed linen is included (breakfast delivery included with Avoriaz Premium), and we arrange discounts on ski passes and equipment rental on your behalf. Here's a selection of our properties:
Chalets des Hauts Forts
Located in the oldest neighbourhood of Avoriaz, facing the Dromonts Hotel, discover these 2 incredible chalets. Modern, spacious and designed with high quality materials, the chalets have a capacity of 11 guests.Built in a traditional 'alpine' style but with all the perks of a new build, they will make you feel settled in and relaxed from the moment you walk in. Rental from 7722€ per week.
An exceptional modern alpine living space set in a prime central location. Designed in Jean Michel Villot's iconic architectural style, upon which Avoriaz is typically built. Chalet Aspen is comprised of 5 luxury-grade triplex apartments each able to accommodate 10 to 14 people, with quality interior design and decor and 400 m2 of shared space dedicated to spa, heated pool and ski room. There is also a fitness room and a massage room. Rental from 6105€ per week.
Douchka Apartment
Located in Falaise district, this modernised 3-room apartment with a surface of 51.21m2 is ideally placed with quick access to the slopes and the village. Ideal for 5-7 people, there is 1 double bedroom, a bunk room and sofa-beds in the living room. It offers a fully-quipped open kitchen, a large living/dining space with high ceilings and a south facing balcony with magnificent views of the mountains and valley. Available to rent from 2030€ per week.
Residence Kouria
This beautiful contemporary apartment sleeps 10 people in 5 bedrooms. It has a bright and spacious living room with a large fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. Other features include heated boot warmers, laundry room, private sauna, access to an indoor swimming pool, hammam and south facing balconies with magnificent views. Rental from 5555€ per week.
Amazing 340 m2 chalet accommodating 16 people on 3 floors located in the Ruches area of the resort. With an extension built in 2017, this large chalet has high-end furniture; home cinema, sauna, two living rooms, fire place and 8 bedrooms. Thanks to its central location and comfort, the chalet is ideal for a perfect stay. Available to rent from 8910€ per week
Chalet Aspen
Chalet Alaya
resort
events
OUR PICK OF THE BEST BIG EVENTS THIS WINTER TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY.
Friday 9 - Sunday 11 Dec 2022
Avoriaz knows how to launch the winter season in style and Rock On Snow is your perfect opportunity to test out new season skis and snowboards. Spanning three days, with accompanying live music concerts and a stack of other fun, there’s a village of over 70 winter sports brands for you to discover. Free equipment testing is available when you leave your ID with the brand, you might even bump into a pro skier or snowboarder while you’re there.
Discover more: rockonsnow.com
Saturday 10 - Sunday 11 Dec 2022
The only Spartan of its kind in France and returning to Morzine for a second winter, this early-season event is not for the faint of heart. There’s two race options - a 10k or a half marathon - both of which span the snowy trails, pistes and forests of the surrounding mountains. As always in the mountains, you should expect the unexpected! Unlike other Spartan races, there are no obstacles along the route, the twists and turns of nature are challenge enough.
One of the longest-running and most enchanting festive events in our valley, join Pere Noël and his little helpers at their home, deep in the forest above Les Gets. They’re busy preparing gifts to share across the world on Christmas Eve and little ones will love the storytelling tour in the workshop. Visits take place between 9am and 7pm until Christmas Eve, when the final visit is at 2.45pm (Pere Noël has a busy night ahead…). The elves ask that you book your tickets in advance online, meet just below the school at Lac des Écoles 10 minutes before your allocated time. Don’t forget to wrap up warm! Adults €7, children aged 3-8 €5, children under 3 years visit for free.
Discover more: lesgets.com
Rock On Snow
Father Christmas Lives in Les Gets
Dec 2022
Spartan Winter Trail
Morzine’s Enchanted Village
Saturday 17 Dec 2022 - 1st Jan2023
Lighting up the village and sprinkling a magical dust over the festive proceedings, this fun, family-orientated event is the perfect addition to your Christmas holiday. In the square opposite the Office de Tourisme you’ll discover an enchanted village, complete with parades, brass bands, fireworks and perhaps - if you’ve been good of course - the arrival of Pere Noël too. It’s free to join in the festivities, which really come to life after darkness falls.
Discover more: morzine-avoriaz.com
Christmas in Avoriaz
Saturday 24 - Sunday 25 Dec 2022
The Portes du Soleil’s highest ski resort is an extra special place to spend Christmas. Proceedings begin on the morning of Christmas Eve with fun activities and performances to keep the little ones entertained. Pere Noël will pop in with sweet treats and gifts en-route down the valley to Morzine, then expect snowman workshops, a candy bar and even a fireworks display as we head towards Christmas Day.
Discover more: avoriaz.com
Saturday 14 - Saturday 21 Jan 2023
Contact: Les Gets Réservation reservation@lesgets.com Tel : +33 (0)4 50 75 80 51 Montreux Comedy Goes Skiing
Brand new for this winter season, the famous Montreaux Comedy Festival takes up residency in Les Gets for a full week of lols. All stand up shows take place at the Salle de la Colombière in the village centre with the evenings of 17th and 18th January dedicated to top French comedians and 19th and 20th to British talent. On the line up you’ll find Tom Houghton, Stephen Bailey, Maisie Adam, Troy Hawke, Helen Bauer and more. Each show will last between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours.
Discover more: lesgets.com
Saturday 28 - Sunday 29 Jan 2023
The Burton Mystery Series returns to its spiritual home in the legendary Stash for an amateur competition that’s equally as entertaining to watch. Fun and friendly, spaces are open to riders of all ages and abilities and there’s €3000 of prize money up for grabs. As you’d expect from any event in the Stash, there’ll be a free BBQ (Shreddie loves a burger, we heard), free gifts and maybe the odd famous face too. The event takes place between 11am and 5pm each day, registration is free, you just need a lift pass to compete.
Discover more: avoriaz.com
Carnival Parade
Every Wednesday in Feb 2023
The February school holidays mean fun times guaranteed in Avoriaz. The village comes alive, inspiring children and entertaining parents. Each Wednesday you’ll enjoy a carnival parade featuring giant inflatable animals, while floats tour the village and little ones are invited to dress up to join the show. You can also expect gourmet workshops, sledging races, an introduction to electric snowmobiling, treasure hunts and many more surprises. Head to the Office de Tourisme in Avoriaz to pick up your full schedule of February holiday events. Most events take place between 6.30pm and 7.30pm and everything is free to enjoy.
Every Monday from 6 - 27 Feb 2023
Assemble on the front de neige in Les Gets after dark to watch this spectacular sound and light show. Different ski style will be on display as they descend the Chavannes, slope services will demonstrate how they groom the pistes and you’ll love the torchlit descent. A spectacular fireworks display closes the performance each evening. It’s free to join this event, check start times at the Office de Tourisme each week.
Saturday 18 March - Friday 24 March 2023
A highlight of the season for the Morzine Source Magazine team, this event will likely be sold out by the time you get your hands on this magazine, but that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on the fun. Snowboxx is a heady mix of bottomless brunches, raucous apres parties and headline concerts which take place on a huge outdoor stage on the Avoriaz plateau. As darkness falls you’ll welcome the likes of Becky Hill, Wilkinson and did somebody say GOK WAN? Yes they did. Festival-only wristbands will be available closer to the festival dates, plus we’ll have a little batch to give away on our Facebook page too.
Discover more: snowboxx.com
Sunday 12 - Saturday 18 March 2023
Spanning the length and breadth of the Portes du Soleil, at Rock the Pistes you’ll discover an eclectic line-up of global musical acts performing on piste-side stages at 1.30pm each afternoon. This is a unique and free event, all you need is your lift pass to access each of the concerts. In addition to the afternoon performances, a number of smaller live music performances take part in resorts each evening.
Discover more: rockthepistes.com
Burton Mystery Series
Red Ski Show
Snowboxx
Rock the Pistes Festival
Safe Skiing is Your Responsibility
Here at the Piste X Code we have a couple of objectives, but the most important one is to help you stay safe on the slopes. In case you’re unfamiliar with our campaign, we launched it in a hurry during February 2022. So alarmed were we by the dangerous behaviour we saw in our local mountains, so angered were we by the tragic death of a five year old girl in a ski resort just down the road, we had to do something. These safety messages are a reminder and we believe they are more relevant than ever. We really hope you’ll observe them during your holidays in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz.
You can learn more about the Piste X Code and how you can support our mission to end dangerous behaviour on the slopes at www.pistexcode.org.
TREAT YOURSELF TO A RELAXING MOMENT OFFREZ-VOUS UN MOMENT DE DOUCEUR
Résidence Kinabalu, 2441 route des Grandes Alpes, 74260 Les Gets — +33 (0)9 75 12 54 96 @spabyalpineresidences — spakinabalu@alpine-residences.fr
This winter, perhaps more than any other, it’s essential that we pack our sustainability principles alongside our ski socks for our annual jaunt to the snow; leaving them at home is no longer an option. By the very nature of their operation, ski resorts are incredibly energy intensive places, yet there’s so much you can do to lower your impact on the natural resources of our valley during your holiday.
Fortunately, here in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz, we have the experts at Montagne Verte to guide us. Montagne Verte are a non-profit association funded by the local community with a mission to develop sustainable solutions for our resorts and villages. We asked them for practical ways that you can help to reduce the environmental impact of your stay in our valley this winter.
1. CHANGE HOW YOU TRAVEL
Between 55% and 75% of the carbon emissions associated with a ski holiday come from travelling to the mountains by plane. Taking the train is the biggest single impact holiday makers can have on the environmental impact of their trip and you’ll discover some really useful resources to compare travel methods on the Montagne Verte website.
To tackle this hugely important opportunity, we launched our AlpinExpress project to incentivise train travel. Skiers using the fast and easy train route to the mountains benefit from a host of money saving discounts from local businesses, which will hopefully offset any increased travel costs associated with taking shaping the plane for the train. Discover more about this on Page 108.
2. CHANGE HOW YOU SHOP
Do you really need that new kit? Probably not. Buying new ski kit each year is a huge part of the problem. By its very nature, ski outerwear is designed to be tough and durable and therefore perfectly repairable and easy to re-waterproof.
Your other option is to rent your ski clothing, which is especially handy for families with small children. Ecoski have a large selection of pre-owned kit available to buy online in additional to a rental service and they also provide a repair service too. Crevasse Clothing also provide an excellent rental service, delevering your pre-booked equipment to your holiday accommodation in time for your arrival.
For all those last minute extras and lost items during your holiday, the Montagne Verte shop on the rue du Bourg in Morzine is an excellent place to stock-up on second hand ski clothing and accessories.
If, at the end of the day, you really do need to buy new ski kit, we’ve assembled a guide to the best sustainable brands and you’ll find it on our website.
EASY BEING
green
3. CHANGE HOW YOU STAY
Would you leave your heating on at home while you’re out for the day, returning to open all the windows because every room feels like a sauna? Unlikely! Ask your chalet host or accommodation manager to demonstrate how the heating system works during check in. Additionally, did you know that reducing the temperature of your heating by just 1 degree will reduce the energy consumption by 7%?
Hot tubs are a tricky issue, we know so many of you love them during your winter holiday. Full disclosure… heating water to 37.5 degrees outdoors during the winter season is a hugely energy intensive operation. Ask your accommodation operator to reduce the temperature to 25 degrees for the week (rather than turn it off entirely) and opt out of using it altogether; you never know, they might even give you a discount!
Finally, please turn off the lights and close the windows when you head out for the day.
4. CHANGE HOW YOU GET RID OF YOUR RUBBISH
Anything that isn’t placed in one of the plentiful recycling bins in our resorts and villages ends up in the incinerator down the road in Thonon les Bains. When the temperature drops during the winter season, they add petrol - yes petrol - to the incinerator to help burn the waste. Recycling as much as you possibly can will have a big impact on the energy required to deal with your holiday waste.
5. A FEW MORE IDEAS…
Bring reusable bags with you from home. Then, when you pop to the shops, you won’t need to buy a new set of bags, just for your holiday!
Buying from local shops and visiting the weekly fresh produce market in each resort is a great way to conserve the food miles associated with holiday resorts.
Download a copy of the local bus timetable, or pick up a copy in resort and use the public transport system as much as possible.
It sounds obvious, but we shouldn’t be leaving any litter on the mountain. Respecting the biodiversity of the ski area and the fragility of our playground will preserve the nature we all love for future generations.
Learn more about the work of Montagne Verte and make a donation to help their important work by visiting montagnevertemorzine.com
“I have to let the skiing do the talking from now on”
Great British Ski
I interviewed Dave ‘The Rocket’ Ryding for this very magazine last winter. He was funny, humble, determined. Just a few months later, watching him descend the Hahnenkamm at the Kitzbuhel World Cup on Saturday 22 January and winning Great Britain’s first ever World Cup, was an unforgettable moment. British mainstream media went wild for Dave in the days and weeks that followed; “I’m 35 now, but I never stopped believing, I never stopped trying,” Dave told Eurosport. Watching a British skier win the top prize at the biggest slalom event on the men’s circuit felt like a dream. It would absolutely inspire generations of future ski racers, not to mention those of us who like to slalom down Pleney Piste B at the end of the day.
Well, apparently not, said UK Sport. “Our investment going forward for snowsports is now more targeted, with a focus on the freestyle ski and snowboard disciplines,” they said in a statement in September 2022. UK Sport is the government agency responsible for investing in Olympic and Paralympic sport in the UK and they’ve slashed the funding available to Team GB winter sports athletes from £14 million to £11.9 million in the run up
to the Milan - Cortina winter games in 2026. They declared the disciplines of alpine skiing, cross-country skiing and para-nordic skiing as ‘not investible’ at a time when Team GB has its strongest ever alpine race team, with six athletes in the top 30.
The sport’s governing body GB Snowsports offered a fast and firm response that pretty much summed up the disbelief of the winter
sports community. “We fundamentally disagree with the decision not to invest further into these disciplines,” they said. “Particularly at a time when athletes in all three areas have been delivering some of Britains greatest ever results on the snow,” they continued. As you might expect, a crowdfunding campaign was launched in an effort to raise £500,000 to plug the gap before the funding period ended on 20th September 2022.
FUNDING SAGA
DAVE RYDING ON THE
Of course, Dave Ryding isn’t the only talented skier making waves on the global alpine skiing circuit. Billy Major competed at the Beijing 2022 winter games and scored his first World Cup points at the historic Schladming night slalom, finishing 18th. Charlie Guest recorded the best result for a British female skier in slalom since 1989 during the 2022 season, finishing 26th in the World Cup Slalom standings. Charlie Raposo made history for the British team by scoring World Cup points in the men’s giant slalom - the first British skier to do so in 54 years, while Laurie Taylor finished 25th at the Madonna di Campiglio night slalom World Cup. It’s widely agreed that these young athletes, at the beginning of their careers, have the potential for greatness, just like Dave.
“Fortunately, or unfortunately, this isn’t the first time I’ve come up against funding issues in my career,” Dave told me. “Back in 2010, one month before the Olympics in Vancouver, the previous federation went into administration. It’s a long story, but over the past five seasons I’ve been able to enjoy a stable funding program. One where I could say I was no longer at a disadvantage when racing against my European rivals. In fact, sometimes I think I had it better than my ravels,” Dave concludes.
Now, you might be thinking that this funding cut comes at the end of Dave’s career. How many successful seasons could he possibly have left? Ski commentators have always agreed that The Rocket gets faster with age and when we discussed retirement last year he told me “If my body’s good and my mental drive is still here, along with the results, then I’ll carry on.” And having brought home Great Britain’s first World Cup win last winter, never in a million years did he expect to be in this situation. “Personally it brings a lot of instability to my life and my training program,” Dave admits. “This isn’t what you need coming into a race season where pressures and stress levels are high enough, never mind this.”
With the crowdfunding campaign failing to reach its target by 1st October, and with no u-turn from UK Sport, Dave and his fellow team members were staring down the barrel of having no program to fund their pre-season training or their competitive skiing on during Winter 23. Their seasons simply ceased to exist and that sent shockwaves through the world of ski racing. So will Dave compete this season? “As of now, I will be able to race the full World Cup calendar and I am in very good physical shape to do that,” Dave tells me, mid-October. Relying on commercial sponsorship and support from brands that he’s represented throughout his career, Dave continues “I have to let the skiing do the talking from now on, as I always do and try to get some funding back along with my team mates.”
It’s impossible to predict why this announcement on funding from UK Sport came so late in the day for these athletes. I wonder, had the announcement come earlier, might an alternative funding route have been found? “Absolutely, 100% it would have beenfound,” Dave believes. “I mean how can they think it’s logical to wait until September to decide on funding? It shows there’s still a lack of knowledge towards winter sports in the UK. But at the same time, we shouldn’t just rely on one funding stream, and off the back of last winter’s results, this should have been in place anyway,” Dave explains.
In my house, we love watching British racers compete each week on Ski Sunday. I wonder how much this coverage - showcasing the cream of the crop from around the world - has inspired a younger generation. How will this funding saga affect the future of British ski racers? “I hope it all gets sorted in time and we can continue to inspire the next generation to go bigger and better than I have myself,” Dave answers. “I will not back down from trying to win again on the World Cup,” he continues. “I look at how we can maximise the performance from the opportunities we have. I will be ready to race come December, and I’ll do my best, as I always do.”
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“Smile, tell the truth and have a good time doing it”
THE Glen Plake
INTERVIEW
by michael Henderson
Some call him the “Pied Piper of skiing,” others “the mohawk'd hot dogger with an unhealthy addiction to moguls.” Whichever moniker you prefer, there’s no denying that Glen Plake is one of the most recognisable skiers in the world. In a career that began more than 25 years ago, Glen has single-handedly invented his own ski discipline and it’s widely agreed that he opened the door to many of the winter action sports that we know and love today. Glen is at home in northern Nevada, patiently waiting for winter to arrive when we catch up for this interview.
Glen, you’ve been referred to as the pioneer of extreme skiing in America and the godfather of freestyle skiing globally, but how would you define yourself?
“I think I’m just a link in the chain, I don’t think I really started anything and I don’t think I ended anything. I’m maybe more of a master link. I grew as a skier during the freestyle movement and the pioneering days of the sport. Then I got to watch it go through growth and changes and maybe a dark period. I also got to be part of the explosion of snowboarding and saw he effect that it had on skiing. The chain is now being added on beyond me, with the invent of free skiing competitions, Olympic freestyle events and the rediscovery of ski touring. These are all different facets that the sport had going on when I was a young skier, now it’s nice to see it coming full form again. I don’t believe i’m a pioneer, I think I’m a reminder - I woke some people up.”
Glen woke people up through the medium of film, appearing in no fewer than 13 acclaimed movies that began in 1986 with Maltese Flamingo, directed by Greg Stump. He’s appeared in a number of Warren Miller titles including 2005’s Higher Ground and his 2010 release, Cheap Ski Movie, captured the outrageous mischief of this legendary character.
“Building these fancy ski resorts, wearing their prim and proper turtle necks, skiing was going down this really weird road. In light of all that,there was the hot dogging movements of the 70s, the crazy downhill racing of the 60s. Our films, the things I did and continue to do, the philosophies, have woken people up to a type and style of skiing. Here’s the rough and tumble of skiing, that’s been identified as something unique. I think I was a voice that makd everyone remember that this is still a crazy ass sport in the middle of winter with big things on your legs and no brakes.”
How has skiing changed over the course of your career?
“People’s ability to do what was once extraordinary, that’s been a huge change. Advancements in equipment made accessing these high mountain areas common place for the general public; it wasn’t always like that. Whether that’s for the better or for the worse, that’s another discussion. Things my peers and I had the privilege of doing are now done quite often; the allure of steeper slopes, mixed terrain, these are things people can do easily now. Once upon a time, a power day wasn’t so interesting to most people because they couldn’t ski power and there was just a select group of us who could go up and really enjoy it. Even just skiing groomed slopes with relatively good technique wasn’t something that people had access too. From a personal perspective, having all these people now going out in all these skiing conditions has certainly changed things. To be honest, I don’t even waste my time on powder days. Moguls, to me, are still the purest form of skiing!”
Which leads us nicely to my next question. What does your perfect ski day look like?
“I love a ski touring day when you nail it and you get to that destination and there’s a powder field as far as the eye can see, that’s a wonderful day. One of those ‘iffy’ days when we say ‘should we really be going up the L’Aiguille du Midi?’ and it ends up being amazing. But the discipline and the physical satisfaction of skiing bumps is something that I personally really enjoy. That’s one thing that equipment has yet to change - it’s the final frontier - I get to ski the way I want, I get to go there and you don’t - that’s the goal of skiing for me. Those secret spots, your lines, you get ownership of these places.” >>
Early in Glen’s career he turned down a place on the US ski team and got into trouble with the law. Despite this, he came to the attention of major ski brands and TV channels, eventually quitting the United States for Chamonix in 1987.
What might life had been like, had you joined the US ski team? Would you have liked to have ‘Olympian’ on your CV?
“My years of competition were fun, I did it because it was expected of us and there was no other road to go down, basically. You’d go to a competition and get what you get, then you’d go free skiing after and be like - there’s no way the guy who won the competition was skiing as well as me after the event in the mountains. You’re competing within the confinements of the rules and I completely respect any competition. I love watching them and seeing people excel within those parameters, whether they’re free skiing, at a World Cup, a freestyle event, ski jumping or whatever. I knew early on that I wanted to be a skier, but I also knew that I wasn’t necessarily going to be what the world thought of as a ‘skier’. There was this other group of skiers that most people didn’t know about; skiers from ski films and from the hot dogging era, and it was those skiers that I pictured myself being, rather than your traditional ski instructor or a competitive skier, which were basically the only two jobs in the industry at the time. I got into some trouble when I was younger, and that was a question that the judge asked. Are you on the Olympic team? Are you on the US ski team? Because those were things that society had associated with success, and that was a gauge of my journey towards being a ‘skier’. Yeah, it would have been cool to be an Olympian, but whatever. I freak out every time I’m close to a gold medal and they are without doubt inanimate, surreal objects, there’s no doubt about it.”
Chamonix in 1986 was home to a community of extreme mountain-goers and it’s easy to imagine Glen fitting in. He was called to join The Blizzard of Aahhh’s, Greg Stump’s latest movie, driving overnight to LA to collect his first ever passport.
How did you adapt to the cultural differences between South Lake, Tahoe and Chamonix?
“When I first went to Chamonix, I didn’t even know where I was going, to be honest. I knew that I’d probably get to Europe at some point in my career, I wanted to see what was going on over there. It took me several weeks to remember the name of the place. We were there for three or four weeks, everyone went home and I did not. I stayed for an extra two years.
Skiing in Europe is cultural, it’s societal, it’s really not like that in the US. Sure, people go skiing on holidays and sure there’s some communities that skiing is a part of, but in general, society doesn’t really consider skiing as a true sport in the US. America is a big fan of team sports, but in Europe it’s the opposite. Skiing is a huge part of society, when the World Cup is on TV, nations stop to watch the races. So that part was very very different. That said, the professional opportunities in and around skiing in Europe are more prevalent; I’m talking about working in the mountain communities. Being a ski instructor or a mountain guide in Europe is a viable profession, it’s not so much like that in America.
Another big difference I observed was the approach to the mountains; this is a big thing for me in Europe versus America. I like to say that when I live in the US, my life is below 1500m and when I’m in Europe my life is above 1500m, which is why I’m here in Nevada in the summer time a lot. I
“THIS IS STILL A CRAZY ASS SPORT IN THE MIDDLE OF WINTER WITH BIG THINGS ON YOUR LEGS AND NO BRAKES.”
can jump on my dirt bike and go ride anytime I want from my house, out into the desert and we can put a boat in the water and enjoy that at complete liberty. But I think we protect our mountains too much in the United States; when I get above 1500m it’s all national park, national forest, don’t even look up there, stay out of the mountains. And we’ve got these funny ski resorts that resemble amusement parks. In Europe on the other hand, you can’t put your boat in the water, you can’t ride your dirt bike, but let’s build 300 lifts that get you up to those mountains, let’s build restaurants, let’s build towns, get some refuges up there so when you get your ass kicked high in the alpine, you’ve got at least a place to sleep. So that aspect of it is completely different. In Europe I like the approach of ‘lets get people up into the mountains and build an infrastructure for them’. In the United States we have some great ski areas and Mammouth Mountain is my base, but it’s a bit of an outcast, being over 100 miles from the next resort. In the US we have ski areas, while in Europe you have ski regions.”
You became a qualified ski instructor. How did the rebel in you decide to conform?
“The more I spent time with my peers and working in professional situations, especially in Europe, it all of a sudden came to a head that I had no formal certifications for skiing. Let’s say we’re going ski touring on a ski demo day for Elan skis, we’re going to make laughs, and we break the group up with a plan to re-group at lunch. In Europe, I had to say ‘I can’t!’ Because I don’t have any certifications, I’m not a ski instructor, I’m not a mountain guide and therefore, legally, for all of our sakes, I can’t do that. So I said wait a second, this is bothering me. Man, you’re not anything! At the same time I was asked to be part of the national ‘learn a snow sport’ campaign, encouraging people to enjoy the mountains in the US. Low and behold, I ended up on morning national television teaching a lady to ski, but it really bothered me because at the end of the day, I have no idea how to teach that lady how to ski. So I reached out to the PSIA (the Professional Ski Instructors of America) and explained my situation, it bothers me, what have I gotta do to move forward. They didn’t give me an honorary certification and I’m pleased about that. They called me back, said we’ve discussed your scenario and we think the best situation is for you to take a Level 1 course, so I did. I read the books, I went to Breckenridge, Colorado and I took a lesson with 250 new ski instructors. I got to see the framework of the organisation, the very basic level, the nuts and bolts and I found them very very interesting. Level 2 was very difficult because it was all learned information, unknown information. Level 3 to be honest wasn’t that difficult, so that sent me down my path and I became fully certified, which was nice.”
Fast forward to 2012 and you were involved in an avalanche that took the lives of nine, including two of your closest friends. How did you get back on the snow after that?
“I got really lucky, through a lot of accidental events that were surrounding that avalanche itself. Taking me back to that morning on Manaslu, Nepal is very difficult, all of a sudden the memories flash, especially this year. Usually we say nothing about it, as the anniversary approaches my wife and I will look at the date. This year, with the conditions that were on the mountain, and ultimately another accident and more lives lost, all of a sudden my phone starts blowing up and it all comes back.
We had an amazing climb director on that expedition, his name was Henry Todd. A serac fall created a wind blast that caused an avalanche. I wasn’t hit by snow but nine >>
of our group were. I was trying to find Rémy, I was trying to find Greg, I was trying to find everyone, going through the motions, I was OK. The rescue helicopters arrived, our altitude porters arrived, but Henryand he’s an old, hard ass, British climber with a tonne of Himalayan experience - insisted that I walked off the mountain; “you need to take care of yourself Glen,” was his explanation and I understood that he was trying to put the grit back into me, to help me come to terms with this thing. As I descended past the wreckage zone I found one of our satellite phones, it had a signal so I used it to call my wife Kimberly. I never call my wife when I’m on an expedition; it takes away from my experience, away from the trip, when I’m trying to explore and check out of the world. So she was surprised to hear from me. “Rémy and Greg are gone,” I told her. “I’m alive and I’m coming home.”
It took me 18 hours to reach base camp. I stayed there for an additional two or three days as I unfortunately had some bad things to do. Dealing with government agencies, going through Rémy and Greg’s tents to organise the things that would go home with us. But it was a fu**ing mess man. I called up Greg’s parents and told them their son had passed away. Two days later the council call them to say they’ve had reports of Greg walking into basecamp too, he’s alive and he’ll call them soon. Glen was alive, but Greg wasn’t. Greg’s father spent five years looking for the remains of his son on Manaslu. Imagine what they’ve been through. But when it was all said and done we left base camp. I left on my own terms. I ran into some of the other victims from the accident a while later and they were still shellshocked; I went to a lot of funerals that year, but I was OK because I’d walked off the mountain.”
In the years that followed, and in memory of Rémy Lêcluse and Greg Costa, Glen established the RG2 Foundation with the objective of training and educating mountain guides in developing countries, giving them ski skills and equipment to advance their work and keep them safe.
What’s happening with the RG2 Foundation right now Glen?
“Rémy was a qualified mountain guide and Greg an experienced ski instructor. The three of us loved travel. From shady neighbourhoods in Kathmandu to visit a hair salon, where Greg had previously left his climbing gear, to crazy restaurants that you’d never usually set foot in unless you were with Rémy, we all travelled well and we enjoyed it. So I thought, maybe because we’re mountain lovers, skiers, climbers, there’s something I can do here in these underdeveloped countries. We always hired local guides, we always went out of our way to include some sort of local knowledge into the puzzle and these guys had never had any formal training. In Peru our guide brought along a pair of World War 2 crampons. What could I do that would represent the three of us? So, in their memory, the RG2 Foundation teaches skiing and other potentially life-saving skills to aspirant mountain guides in developing countries. That’s our definition. I want to teach ski skills - not skiing.
I go there, I spend some days getting acclimatised - we’re usually above 6000m - and I spend a whole day teaching these guides about kit. How it works, how to wear ski touring boots. Of course, they can’t ski so then, after a few days touring up hill, I’ll teach them to snow plough down. My goal is to certify one student with a Level 1 qualification so they can continue to teach others. And we leave them all the kit, plus an extra set so they can ski with their friends. I’m not trying to make them into skiers, but in a rescue situation then these skills could be essential.”
Glen has more stories than I have questions at this point and I truly feel like we could talk on for hours. It’s fascinating to discover that, for all the hell-raising, hair colouring and horsing around, Glen Plake could be skiings finest ever ambassador - he cares deeply for a sport and a lifestyle that we all share.
What’s the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you Glen?
“Smile, tell the truth and have a good time doing it. That’s the easiest thing to do.”
“OUR FILMS, THE THINGS I DID AND CONTINUE TO DO, THE PHILOSOPHIES, HAVE WOKEN PEOPLE UP TO A TYPE AND STYLE OF SKIING.”
behind scenes
THE
The objective was to give visitors to the Portes du Soleil access to local specialities, premium products and quality wines, all in one place. At Le R you’re welcome to stay and enjoy the cosy interiors while sipping wines at the tasting bar. Alternatively you can order from the catering menu to enjoy in the comfort of your own accommodation after a long day on the slopes. Le R is unique thanks to the range of products available, including a dailychanging menu that you can enjoy on the spot or to take away. Imagine Savoyarde favourites such as creamy fondues, raclettes and pierrades, complete with the accompanying equipment you need to enjoy them at home. “Our products are carefully selected for their quality and unique taste,” Joy Kindt-Larsen of owners Group Arneodo explains. “We source most of our products locally and regionally, but we don’t close the door to products and producers from other regions,” Joy continues.
The shop at Le R is a wonder in itself. Exceptional cheeses from across France sit alongside some of the best charcuterie, matured quality meats and incredible homemade pastries; they’d be perfect stowed in your bag and carried home for an extra special afternoon tea. Elsewhere there’s infused oils, rare spirits, local honey, a collection of exclusive truffle products and gourmet gift boxes that make the perfect holiday souvenir.
In case you missed it last winter,
Le R is a brand new delicatessen, fine wine cellar and take-away housed in beautifully chic surroundings in the centre of Avoriaz. Yet there’s something about this description that doesn’t quite do Le R justice. Let’s go behind the scenes to discover how this stunning venue came to life.
Fine wine aficionados, you will not be disappointed. Le R is home to the only wine cellar in Avoriaz, stocked with more than 100 different wines and it’s the perfect place to find premium bottles from some of the most prestigious domains in the world. “Our team puts a lot of effort into finding new bottles and suppliers to make sure that our cave is always offering a large variety of genuine, quality wines to suit all preferences and budgets,” Joy explains. “With a special focus on our region and the Alps, we take pleasure in meeting each supplier personally,” she continues.
For those days when the weather is less than perfect and you want to retreat to a cosy spot with a unique, contemporary atmosphere, the tasting bar and lounge at Le R is the perfect stop. You’ll spot the iconic yellow Chesterfield sofa tucked amongst hanging swing chairs or take a seat by the window to watch the skiers whizz by outside. Of course the chic theme here is no accident. “We teamed up with a group of visual designers who have been creating some of the most premium chalets,” Joy told us. “The vibe is contemporary and stylish, with subtle details including old skis, unique artwork by local artists and up-cycled furniture pieces by local craftsmen for sustainable decoration.” Enjoying a glass of delicious wine and a plate of fine charcuterie in these splendid surroundings makes for the perfect apres ski experience.
This winter Le R will reintroduce their click and collect service, making their full range available to skiers across the Portes du Soleil. Simply order your fine wines, delicious dinner and other treats online before collecting them from Le R and skiing back to your resort. You’ll also discover special tasting events to showcase regional wines in addition to a new range of tailor-made gift bags to take home.
The Boss
THE STÉPHANE GROS INTERVIEW
By amie henderson
Much has been written about the history of our local hockey team, which formed in 1963. Success has been variable over the decades and they last played in France’s premier ‘Magnus’ league in 2015. Merging with Chamonix hockey club to form the Pionniers de Chamonix-Morzine in 2016 proved ill-fated and for a combination of reasons, the club tumbled from the upper echelons of professional French ice hockey.
Until now. At the end of the 21/22 ice hockey season, manager Stéphane Gros lead his team to league victory in the national Division 2 during an unforgettable night at Morzine’s Skoda Arena. Securing promotion to Division 1 was just the next part of the journey for a manager who once wore the colours of our local team. We wonder what he’s got planned for the 22/23 ice hockey season…
Stéphane, after completing your climb to D1, did you have the opportunity to take a break?
“Having finished the season quite late, we had to immediately rebuild the team for this year and prepare the club to move to the next level. Then I took a well-deserved vacation after a long and stressful season!”
What preparations did you make during the summer months? And do we have any new players to watch this season?
“Despite our victories in D2 last season, our analysis showed our team would have had an average level of performance in D1. The objective was therefore to re-engage a large part of the whole team, those who know each other and above all get along very well. This will be the major asset of our success for this first season: group cohesion.
It was of course necessary to reinforce this team with new characters; new players who could, very quickly, integrate into our group. So, I recruited two new Canadian forwards, Brett Redford and Nolan Ross (brother of Davis Ross, an established defender in our team), who know each other well, having played together at university. Then joined a new leading defender, Reid Yochim, also Canadian, who finished last season in the Norwegian elite league, at the same level (or perhaps even higher!) as the Magnus league. It was also necessary to recruit new JFLs (younger, locally trained or home grown players) who have performance experience in Division 1. With Jeoffrey Couvat from Cholet, a finalist in the last championship, Alexis Hermant, a young player trained in Mulhouse and who participated in the Magnus play down and finally Paul Cerda with four seasons in the NCAA and a last one in Slovakia, I think
I have created a competitive team.
When we resumed the new season in September, we had bad news with the injury of Tomas Marcinek, who will be out until the end of December. It was therefore important to find a replacement. We had a good opportunity with Czech striker Tomas Kubalik, who was free from any contract. Tomas will be a player to follow this season as he has a lot of experience, especially in the USA at the highest level in the NHL but also in the biggest European leagues.”
What is your goal for this new season?
“Like any new season, we’ll start it with a lot of determination and ambition. We know it will be complicated, but we have what it takes to succeed, whether it's sporting or structural.In the short term, we will have to
learn to compete at this new level. In the medium term, it will be necessary to settle in with the top performing teams of this division.”
Do you feel the expectation of the rest of the village on your shoulders?
There is not necessarily a great pressure from the village on our shoulders, but indeed a great expectation. Hockey Club Morzine-Avoriaz, having performed for many years at the highest level, has followers and fans that are impatient to see high quality matches once again at the Skoda Arena. We must not disappoint them; we’ll fight at each game in order to honour all the Morzinois who support us so much.”
How do you motivate the team before each game?
“Before each game, there is a lot of work so that the players are in the best condition. I always do an analysis of the opponent and I present it to them in the form of a video, so that they know their strengths and weaknesses well. Then it's a question of emotion, especially when we play in front of our home crowd. So I try to transcend them and give them all the confidence they need to be successful.”
Even for visitors with no knowledge of ice hockey, a visit to the Skoda Arena is a fun experience. Why do you think this is?
“I think that for people who don't know ice hockey, coming to the Skoda Arena is a great experience for our tourists. They will discover a fast and spectacular sport. Whenever we meet people who come for the first time, they are impressed by this sport but also by the show around the ice. During their vacation, it is undoubtedly an evening not to be missed.”
How can the village best support the team this winter?
“The community in our village is already doing a lot for us. Whether in terms of partnership or support us on game nights. We hope to have lots of people following us throughout the season. Last season was exceptional in terms of results but it will surely be different this year and the supporters will have to support us even in difficult times. But I don't doubt that for a second.”
MORZINE - TANINGES
Financial Planning and Insurance
train V plane
The team at Montagne Verte are on a mission to implement sustainable solutions that protect our alpine environment and that involves reducing the volume of carbon produced during your journey to our resorts. New studies have estimated that up to 75% of the total carbon produced by your ski holiday can be attributed to your travel if you choose to fly to the mountains; that carbon can be reduced significantly if you switch to the train. Say hello to the AlpinExpress Pass by Montagne Verte. When you opt to make the majority of your journey to the mountains by train (as opposed to taking the tube to the airport), you’re entitled to an extensive list of genuinely useful and exclusive discounts in local outlets. The idea here is to offset the potential increased costs of your train journey with a package of savings that make your holiday cheaper.
Accommodation
A long list of local accommodation providers, from luxury 4* hotels and catered chalets to self catered apartments and everything in between, now offer discounts ranging from 5% to 10% on your total accommodation when you make the majority of your journey by train. That’s a serious saving on what’s likely the most expensive element of your holiday.
Transfers
So, you took the time to travel as close as possible to Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz by train, now it’s time to get up the mountain. Getaway Vans, Powder Cab and Skiidy Gonzales all offer discounts of between 5% and 10% when they collect you from a local train station.
Lift Passes
Breaking news! The ski lift operators of both Morzine and Les Gets have just joined the AlpinExpress initative, offering discounts on Morzine Les Gets lift passes during the Winter 23 season.
Ski & Snowboard Lessons
You’ll likely appreciate the beauty of our snow-capped mountains and the natural wilderness as you hurtle around the mountain with your instructor. That deserves a discount too! A range of local ski and snowboard schools, in addition to hiking and snowshoe guides, now offer discounts of between 5% and 10% when you take the train.
Equipment Rental
Also a major chunk of your ski holiday budget, ski and snowboard hire just got between 5% and 10% cheaper when you rent from a list of local businesses who support the AlpinExpress initiative.
Bars & Restaurants
Eating out is also a huge part of your winter holiday, thankfully Montagne Verte have enlisted the support of a long and varied list of local establishments, all of whom will add a nice discount to your bill. From takeaway restaurants to in-chalet caterers, restaurants and coffee shops, you’ll enjoy free dishes or discounts between 5% and 10%.
Elsewhere…
From massages to hair cuts, yoga lessons to pilates, all with a 10% discount, the AlpinExpress pass also comes in useful during your time off the mountain.
How do I get my AlpinExpress pass?
Montagne Verte have made this part very simple, as you might expect. Email bonjour@montagnevertemorzine.com with your travel details, including proof of purchase from your rail provider, the names of the travellers in your group and your holiday date. They’ll then send you a personalised QR code, unblocking a whole load of discounts for you to enjoy during your holiday. You’ll find the full list on the websitemontagnevertemorzine.com.
THE WINTER 2023
property market
By gareth jefferies Marketing Director at alpine-property.com
by gareth jefferies marketing director at alpine-property.com
As has been the case in my last few assessments of the property market in the Alps, I’ve had to leave it right up until the magazine’s deadline to finish this writeup. Ever since Covid, the state of the market in the Alps has felt like a high speed train.
Last summer was no different. As before, it really has been a sellers’ market. It has become the norm to have agreed sales within days of a new property being listed. 20 or 30 people inquiring about the same thing in the hours after a property goes online. The same buying pressures have existed since we started to come out of Covid in the summer of 2020. This is the same for both French and UK based buyers. Our customers are looking for a place to escape to, they are looking to protect their savings from inflation, and for some they are moving their money from sterling into the Eurozone. These pressures come up against a historically low number of properties for sale. The recipe is always the same, the end result is an increase in property prices.
Before I go on, I’d just like to make a point. Many people assume that a healthy property market is one in which prices increase, and this is something that will make an estate agent happy. That’s not necessarily the case. Ideally there would be
an even balance between buyers and sellers, and a good range of properties available for sale. Price increases would track inflation, sellers could sell in a timely manner (in around three months) and buyers would not feel under pressure to make a decision. Unfortunately life is rarely that simple!
Currently we have a number of competing issues that are starting to slow the market down. But maybe not as much as we first imagined. The first two affect mostly UK based buyers.
The first is mortgages. Mortgages are obviously a key component of any property market. The “kamikaze” UK budget from mid-October came at a bad time for the financial markets. The money supply was already being squeezed, not just in the UK, but all over the world. This makes it harder for banks to get hold of money to lend to property buyers. In France, there are regulations that govern mortgage lending,
and the consequence of this is that French mortgages available for foreign residents have pretty much disappeared. This scuppered a number of sales. However, there were still sufficient buyers looking who didn’t need mortgages, so we were able to rescue most of these deals. Currently the mortgage situation is not improving very quickly.
“Inflation is with us on both sides of the channel. This does drive people to invest in property, it’s a safer bet than keeping money as cash or as stocks and shares”
The second issue is a bad Sterling to Euro exchange rate. It dipped badly during the turmoil caused by the current UK government. However on average, it has remained fairly stable over the last few years. I won’t speculate on the outlook.
The third ill wind blows both ways, but mainly the wrong way. Inflation is with us on both sides of the channel. This does drive people to invest in property, it’s a safer bet than keeping money as cash or as stocks and shares. The downside is it makes us all poorer, which makes people more cautious with their money and their life decisions. This is certainly a brake.
I don’t like to talk about the future of the market. My predictions are about as useful as the predictions for how much snow we’ll get for the upcoming season. If the papers predict a bumper season, you’d do just as well betting against them as agreeing with them. At Alpine Property we like to look at the number of new customers getting in contact on a monthly basis. Historically that has been our best bellwether for our future. Currently our new enquiries are down on 2021 and 2020, but up on all years prior to that. The post Covid years have felt very weird, so maybe we are just settling back to a new normal?
More Info:
news
Mountain Base | Knight Frank arrives on the Rue du Bourg
In partnership with well-established local estate agency Morzine Prestige, Chamonix-based Mountain Base will become a new name on Morzine’s main shopping street this winter. Affiliated with the global real estate consultants Knight Frank, it’s hoped this new collaboration will continue to showcase Morzine’s profile as a first class destination for property investment. Ingrid Maes established her agency on the Rue du Bourg 13 years ago and told us “Although little will change in terms of the day to day operation of our estate agency, we’ll benefit from the wider experience of Mountain Base and the extensive Knight Frank network.” Andy Symington, Director of Mountain Base continues, “We’re delighted to be expanding into the Portes du Soleil, a key area for the network in the Alps to link up with our Knight Frank associates in Geneva. We are very much look forward to developing the business with Ingrid and her team”. Discover more at portesdusoleil-property.com.
The Berchen Referral Programme
Like freebies? Berchen, maker of superlative bespoke kitchens and based in Morzine, have launched a referral programme. For every successful referral, you’ll be rewarded with a €150 gift voucher to spend in a wide range of carefully-selected local establishments. Good for you, good for Berchen, good for local business. To find out more visit berchen.co/refer-a-friend and while you’re there you can view the exciting range of Berchen kitchens, all of which are thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted with the welfare of our planet in mind.
Shop
Inside their boutique in the centre of Morzine, local interior design agency Champ Perdu offer shoppers the opportunity to buy elements from their ‘Art of Living’ range. Including furniture, decorative objects, lighting and more, the boutique will surely inspire you to take a piece of the mountains home with you. You’ll find the shop at 12, route de la Plagne in Morzine, just opposite the Office de Tourisme or head to champ-perdu.com
Fourteen Years of Growth
Les Gets’s largest independent chalet and apartment operator Chalets 1066 have expanded every year since their inception in 2008. Focusing entirely on property rental and management services in Les Gets, they are consistently adding new properties to their portfolio. If you’re considering buying an investment property in Les Gets, or if you’d like to generate revenue from an existing property, Chalets 1066 can offer you a tailored sales and marketing campaign in addition to revenue forecasts, property maintenance and more. Head to chalets1066.com for owner testimonials and further information.
Local plumbers Pierre-Yves Muffat added the exclusive Victoria + Albert sanitary ware to their collection this year, making it easier than ever before to access their much-sought-after volcanic limestone baths and basins. Their QUARYCAST material is made from finely ground volcanic limestone, which is strong, durable, easy to clean and warm to the touch. You can view elements from the Victoria + Albert range at the Pierre-Yves Muffat showroom in Les Gets and for more details on their range of plumbing services, visit muffat-pierreyves.com
Bath Time
Until You Drop
Supporting Local Clubs
Underlining their commitment to supporting the local community, Morzine Immobilier have invested in sponsoring a number of local groups and associations across our valley in recent years. Sporting Club Morzine Vallée d’Aulps - our local football team with age groups spanning four years old to adult classifications - benefit from extensive financial support, while the annual Morzine Montriond Triathlon also receives support from the estate agent. Children at the golf club in Les Gets also enjoy financial backing, resulting in lessons and memberships during the summer season. “Helping our local community is very important to us at Morzine Immobilier,” said Paul Watts. “We hope these clubs can continue their excellent work in the years to come.” For more information on the work of Morzine Immobilier, head to morzine-immo.com
Open Houses
Local estate agents My Home in the Alps have launched a new series of open house events at properties for sale in our local area. Designed to make property viewings easier for both buyers and sellers, such events give you the chance to view your potential new home in the mountains with more flexibility. Sellers enjoy the new service as its less restrictive and gives the opportunity to showcase their home to several potential buyers in just one morning or afternoon. For more information and a full range of property for sale by My Home in the Alps, head to myhomeinthealps.com
property
Chalet la Bohème, Les Gets
An exceptional, new build chalet by a renowned local developer, right in the centre of Les Gets with open views over the town and of the ski pistes. To be built over 4 floors, the chalet will have an impressive, double height living area of more than 100m² opening onto a 92m² terrace, as well as a 43m² master suite with balcony occupying the entire top floor. For buyers wishing to offer the chalet for rent, there is the opportunity to reclaim 20% VAT from the purchase, reducing the price by €916,667.
Chalet Combe à Zore has an enviable location, situated within easy walking distance of all Morzine has to offer. The shops, bars and restaurants of the town are all within easy striking distance and both the Pleney and Super Morzine lifts are only around 5 minutes’ walk away. It has 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a garden and off-street parking for at least 2 vehicles, as well as a single garage, ideal for storing skis, boots and bicycles.
If you’re a regular reader of this feature, you’ll remember that local property was hotter than ever before during summer 2022, with homes going under offer before they even made it onto agency websites. That trend continues this winter, with demand continuing to outstrip supply across Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz and the surrounding villages. For those of you still dreaming of your own little corner of the Alps, here’s a varied selection of hot property on the market right now.
€5,500,000
€995,000
From €945,000
Kangto benefits from an ideal location, just a few steps from the lively village centre where you’ll enjoy the numerous shops and activities of Les Gets and just 150m from the Mont Chéry ski lifts. Inspired by an intimate mountain chalet, discover your future home sweet home, all dressed in typical stone and warm wood. Properties range in size from 2 bedrooms + cabin to 4 bedrooms + cabin, Kangto is composed of 10 exceptional lodges which also benefit from 4* hotel services. This is the ideal place to get together and create unforgettable memories in the mountains.
This stylish and spacious apartment is in a small development, just a short walk from the village centre. It has a lockable garage and an undercover parking space and is also close to the free shuttle bus routes, so access to the village and the mountains is a breeze. This apartment is on the ground floor and has a small private garden with balcony and a hot tub. It has 3 bedrooms, including a master bedroom with an en-suite shower room, a large family bathroom and a lovely living room with lots of light and a stylish fitted kitchen.
Situated within a traditional renovated Savoyarde farmhouse, this spacious 3-bed apartment features an open-plan living space with dining and kitchen area, 1 bedroom and bathroom on the first level, in addition to a balcony with lovely, unobstructed views of the Morzine valley. On the top floor there’s a further 2 attic bedrooms with extra storage space, a second bathroom and outside you’ll find parking and a further storage cellar. We love the exposed beams, the large windows and the exceptional views at this well-located property.
MORE INFO:
Aurélie Bonnet - Agence My Home in the Alps +33 (0) 6 79 71 49 08 | info@mhita.com myhomeinthealps.com
€750,000
€475,000
Each month our property listings receive over 1 million pageviews from over 100,000 individuals looking for their ideal Alpine home.
With our friendly team of 20 locally based, bilingual staf f, we will work with you to price, promote and sell your property. Experts in their regions, they know the area, the buyers and the local contacts you will need to make a successful sale
Apartment Douchka
Beautifully refurbished with bright, modern interiors and large windows, this Avoriaz apartment in the Falaise quarter has 1 double bedroom with en-suite shower, a further bunk room and a second bathroom. The total surface area is 51.21m² so the apartment can easily accommodate extra guests in the lounge area. The balcony is south-facing, there’s a high-quality fitted kitchen with a dining area and two private ski lockers within this ski-in, ski-out residence.
MORE INFO: Marion Woehl - Avoriaz Holidays +33 (0) 4 50 74 21 63 | transaction@avoriaz-holidays.com avoriaz-holidays.co.uk/en/sale
Authentic Mountain Chalet
Love at first site for this mountain chalet, nestled in a unique situation. Positioned in the well known hamlet of Lindarets, this authentic chalet benefits from an exceptional location, just two steps from the Lindarets chairlift. In winter step out, put on your skis and take on the snow capped mountains. In the summer you can enjoy the wonderful walks. The set up of the chalet combines the charm of years gone by with the comfort of today. Renovated with taste, this home is a real haven of peace, warmth and comfort, with 3 vast bedrooms as well as a mezzanine level converted into a sleeping area.
MORE INFO: Sylvie Payen - Century 21 +33 (0) 4 50 04 94 76 | sylvie.payen@century21.fr callhome-morzine.com
Chalet Flocon
An exceptional 5 bedroom chalet of 250m² over 3 floors, built in 2011 by a respected local developer, situated on a quiet sunny plot of 1161m² with beautiful views, located in the charming village of Essert Romand with a bus stop 5 minutes walk away, 5 minutes drive from the centre of Morzine and its ski slopes. High quality finish throughout including superb open plan living, dining and kitchen area with wood burner, cinema room (or 6th bedroom), terrace with jacuzzi, balconies, wine cave, secure bike store, 2 outdoor parking spaces.
MORE INFO: Mountain Base | Knight Frank +33 (0) 4 80 96 50 03 | sales@mountain-base.com mountain-base.com
Chalet Romand
Chalet Romand is a substantial detached chalet on a constructible flat plot, close to the centre of Essert Romand and under 5 minutes’ drive from Morzine. Split into 3 apartments that offer comfortable and stylish accommodation along with excellent rental potential for any future owner. The chalet sits on a large plot of 1671m2 flat, constructible land. It is perfect as a large, safe garden for children, but also ideal as an investment opportunity for the construction of an additional detached chalet. With the established rental history of the existing apartments, the entire property stacks up superbly from an investment point of view.
A stunning chalet in a great location. The chalet benefits from amazing panoramic views with agricultural land in front. Located just off Route de Nants, just a short distance from the centre of Morzine. This area is on the free bus route to provide quick and easy access to the centre. It is also possible to ski back to the chalet from the Retour des Nants ski piste. The chalet offers spacious accommodation over 3 floors with 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms and a garden area in which to relax and enjoy the views and sunshine.
Located on a high floor of the Sassanka residence in the Ardoisieres quarter of Avoriaz, overlooking the pistes and peaks, this beautifully designed studio apartment has been finished to a very high standard, with a stunning bathroom and kitchen. There’s plenty of storage, plus a laundry room, a fully-equipped kitchen and dining space plus a living room which leads to a south-west facing balcony.
MORE INFO: Marion Woehl - Avoriaz Holidays +33 (0) 4 50 74 21 63 | transaction@avoriaz-holidays.com avoriaz-holidays.co.uk/en/sale
€1,700,000 €366,000
Morzine - St Jean d’Aulps – Vallée d’Aulps Cath Allen – 0033 (0)767867928
Les Gets
Nina McArthur – 0033 (0)607451510
UK - 0044(0)1225 442128
With over twenty years’ experience working with international and French buyers we are your perfect partners
"We have just sold our house through France Property Angels and we are very satisfied. They know a lot of people who are looking for a house in the area and they sold our house within two weeks. That must be called a great success !! We got the price we wanted and they were super-efficient and always gave us follow up. They were very professional, trustworthy and friendly. Top service !!."
Asbjorn B
Kinabalu
Your final opportunity to own a property in this luxurious residence. Located in the heart of the ski resort of Les Gets, Kinabalu offers direct access to the village centre, the ski slopes and local amenities. The remaining apartment has 2 bedrooms + 1 cabin and measures 93.5m2. It benefits from exclusive access to a fitness room, concierge service, bar and restaurant, as well as a private wellness area with spa and swimming pool. Due to its perfect location and the popularity of the resort, this residence can guarantee an excellent return on investment thanks to the expertise of our partner in holiday rentals, Alpine Residences.
Sitting high above the Les Gets valley, this impressive chalet is quite the find! It has a lovely garden with mature plants, amazing views and offers impressively easy access to the village and slopes by car or free shuttle bus. It has a lovely contemporary alpine feel throughout with lots of wood, clean white walls and many windows. The property is currently set up as a 3 bedroomed, 2 bathroomed owners' apartment with a garage and striking 4 bedroom (all ensuite) rental chalet above. Lots of potential for use either as a private property or an income generating one.
MORE INFO: Nina McArthur - France Property Angels +33 (0) 6 07 45 15 10 | nina@francepropertyangels.com francepropertyangels.com
Stunning New Chalet
This brand new, contemporary chalet on the outskirts of Morzine is ready to move in to. 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms are arranged over 3 levels, with an additional double garage, storage space and laundry room. The open plan living space is bright with access to a wraparound balcony and the work has been finished to an high standard. We love the exposed beams in the upper floor bedrooms and the fact that this chalet has been fitted with a heat pump and underfloor heating, making it exceptionally efficient to live in.
MORE INFO:
Lucy Pilcher - Agence My Home in the Alps +33 (0) 6 95 73 17 79 | lucy@mhita.com myhomeinthealps.com
Fantastic Farmhouse to Renovate
Traditional farmhouse to renovate, located in the pretty village of Seytroux, between the lake and the mountains; 10-minute drive from the Roc d’Enfer ski area, 15 minutes from the Portes du Soleil and less than 30 minutes from Lake Geneva. You will be immediately charmed by its authenticity, its quiet location and the views of the surrounding mountains. This farmhouse has an extraordinary layout potential of about 387m² in total. As you enter the barn, let your mind wander and imagine the exceptional living room that could take shape: beams, wood, stone, parquet flooring, fireplace or wood-burning stove, large windows opening onto a splendid view.
MORE INFO: Sylvie Payen - Century 21 +33 (0) 4 50 04 94 76 | sylvie.payen@century21.fr callhome-morzine.com
€1,259,000
€998,000 €1,850,000
€520,000
€1,700,000
Les Encoches Chalet
Situated in the most sought-after area of Morzine with panoramic views of the centre and mountains. A superbly designed chalet with a southwest exposition benefitting from all-day sunshine throughout the year.Set over 3 levels and comprises: 5 en-suite bedrooms, sauna, ski/ boot room, utility room, double garage and a large terrace. This chalet's main floor features an exposed beam living area and includes a living/ dining/kitchen area. The huge windows provide an excellent view of Pleney's main home run and the mountains beyond. This property exudes an elegant and inviting style.
Le Laité is a calm, tranquil hamlet of Les Gets, offering magnificent views over the rooftops of the village and the surrounding mountains. Here sits an exceptional chalet built on a plot of 1111m2 and extensively renovated in 2015 using the highest quality materials. Inside there’s 5 bedrooms, a large living room, dining room and a beautiful kitchen with access to 2 terraces. Elsewere within this 3 story property you’ll discover a ski room, outdoor hot tub and a garage. The property comes complete with several parking spaces in addition to 2 spaces located in the centre of Les Gets village.
Under construction to an exceptionally high standard by a local, renowned builder, this 4-bed chalet spans 209m2 and occupies a plot totalling 2686m2. Views are of the surrounding mountains, but the plot is nestled within nature. The internal space will be arranged with a large living room, kitchen and dining space, all of which access a south-facing terrace. Other facilities include a ski room, a wellness space, a garage and several parking spaces. Images are non-contractual.
Occupying an idyllic spot with panoramic views and easy access to Morzine and the local ski lifts of Mont Chery, this stunning chalet was completed in 2021 to an exceptionally high standard. The large windows flood the space with light and you’ll discover 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 171m2 of living space. A large, southfacing balcony runs the length of the chalet and there’s a garage with an EV charging point. The arrangement of the accommodation would make it easy to convert the lower floor to a self-contained apartment as it already has a kitchen and bathroom.
MORE INFO: Lucy Pilcher - Agence My Home in the Alps +33 (0) 6 95 73 17 79 | lucy@mhita.com myhomeinthealps.com
Cute Morzine ChaleT
Here’s an excellent opportunity to buy a smaller chalet in a muchsought-after location overlooking the Pleney slopes in Morzine. With a surface area of 70m2, there’s 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a very sunny south-east orientation which is best enjoyed from the large balcony. On the ground floor there’s a hallway, open living space and kitchen, plus a bunk bedroom, shower room and toilet. The top floor includes 2 further bedrooms and a bathroom. Recent renovations make this chalet ready to move into.
MORE INFO: Sylvie Payen - Century 21 +33 (0) 4 50 04 94 76 | sylvie.payen@century21.fr callhome-morzine.com
Apartment Le Major
This ground floor apartment is the perfect low-maintenance pied-à-terre for anyone looking for a crash pad in the mountains. It’s situated right beside the ski bus stop and within easy walking distance of Morzine centre. Recently refurbished, there’s an open-plan living area and kitchen. There’s 1 double bedroom and 1 bathroom, the apartment is sold fully furnished and equipped, there’s a quality sofa bed in the lounge, you just need to turn up, suitcase in hand and settle in. The covered parking is an absolute asset too!
At Morzine Immobilier we want to give back to the community by supporting the growth of sporting events and clubs in our beautiful valley
We are now the main sponsor of the local football club in order to help continue their excellent work with all of the teams.
We also sponsor the Junior section of Les Gets golf club who provide lessons and membership during the summer. Finally, we were the original sponsor of the Morzine/Montriond triathlon now in its 5th year which is a fast growing event for our area.
Champ Perdu is the unique encounter of timeless furniture, contemporary objects and exceptional ideas.
Based on the art of living, Champ Perdu offers you a unique furnishing concept with trusted brands and cutting-edge collections. Our excellent service is essential both for our private clients and for our partners, professionals, interior designers and real estate developers.
Do you need personalised support?
The team at Champs Perdu offer you a service that is attentive to detail in areas as varied as the layout of your chalet, apartment, or your businesses. With our know-how, Champ Perdu is able to take charge of your projects, by offering you an à la carte service, to best meet your needs and your budget.
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This is a celebratory issue of Morzine Source Magazine as we are commemorating 10 years and 20 amazing issues. At shep&kyles design we are also celebrating - it is our 20th anniversary this winter! I am therefore taking this opportunity to look back on our projects and have chosen five of our most iconic products; the ones that we love to specify in our chalet designs.
We are incredibly lucky to have been able to collaborate regularly over the past 20 years with the insanely talented Esti Barnes of Top Floor rugs. Her bespoke, handmade rugs in wool and silk are often found in luxury homes, hotels and yachts worldwide, and combine pattern, colour and texture. All rugs are fully customisable and made to orderwe simply love them!
On many of our projects we design at least one bedroom with a sumptuous feature bathtub within the room. These baths can come in a number of different styles, but for classic styling, elegance and finish we love The Bateau design from Catchpole and Rye. These can be specified in a number of different finishes and combinations, including nickel, copper, verdigris, brass, enamel or even a custom paint colour. Each bath is beautifully designed and exquisitely manufactured to order using traditional techniques.
We love to introduce a swing in our chalets - in fact clients often request a “shepandkyles swing” when we start collaborating! They can come in different shapes and designs, but the Amble from Tom Raffield is one of our favourites. Made from steam bent ash, it has beautiful curves that you can dress up with sheepskins or faux-fur rugs. They become a piece of art as well as a functional seat.
Top Floor rugs topfloorrugs.com
Tom Raffield Hanging Seat tomraffield.com
kyles garrett interior architect shepandkyles.com
Catchpole and Rye Bath catchpoleandrye.com
This is a gorgeous wall mirror - classy, stylish and generously proportioned: it is 92cm wide and 172cm tall! We love to use these in entrance halls, corridors and even boot rooms where they look fabulous and reflect light around the room. Available in antique silver or bronze, they add a touch of opulence to a chalet.
Timorous Beasties are a Glasgow-based, award-winning company specialising in colour and pattern. Their bold use of imagery and splashes of bright colour make them a wonderful choice for adding vibrancy to any chalet interior. We frequently use their cushions and wallpapers on our projects, but also adore specifying their fabrics for custom upholstered chairs and ottomans.
Bocci are an innovative design and manufacturing company based in Vancouver and Berlin and we frequently work with them for bespoke chandeliers in our chalet projects. The 14 series features articulated cast glass spheres on cables and can come in either linear or random configurations. We use them in double height atriums and dining rooms, or in stairwells - the 14 series chandelier in Chalet Sapphire has a drop of over 12 metres! They provide a stunning focal point for any chalet interior and the various available options mean that they are extremely versatile.
Full disclosure, this property holds a special place in my memory. It first caught my eye on Instagram a couple of years ago; the clean lines, the contemporary finishes, the flowing light; it was so different, yet rested perfectly in its place. By coincidence, it was designed by the same local architects that my husband and I later hired to design our own home. The chalet feels very different to the properties we’ll usually showcase here in our Through the Keyhole feature. Sure, it’s still very aspirational, but it’s also a property that you could really imagine yourself living in. Let’s go
This project was born from the need of a young couple from Les Gets to design a family home in the town where they grew up. Their expectation was for a mostly single-storey dwelling, with maximum connections to the outside and the desire to take advantage of outdoor spaces throughout the year. Of course, their needs also included all the necessary elements for a pleasant family life. But beyond a simple house, Adeline and Thomas asked us for a contemporary setting to compliment a modern way of life, in harmony with the surrounding nature. From our meetings emerged a desire for a sober and refined atmosphere with an essential place given to light in a warm and dynamic setting.
The site is located in a privileged, natural setting, halfway between Les Gets and Morzine. However, it is part of a hamlet with a small, existing neighbourhood so our challenge was to create a home that offers the experience of life in the heart of nature, while fitting harmoniously and respectfully into the hamlet and preserving the sunshine and views of the other homes.
After a careful study, we designed an L-shaped home that matched the client’s requirements for a lower-height dwelling. The master suite is both separated from the main volume of the house, yet connected to the garden, forming a secondary wing. The shape creates an outdoor living space that is perfectly exposed to the sun, while also protected from drafts and any overlooking buildings. The project also plays with the slope of the land and its location between two roads, by positioning itself in such a way as to create direct access to the main entrance for everyday use and allowing a semi-buried secondary path to access the garage hidden under the house without impacting the huge garden.
Balancing the traditions of Savoyarde architecture and the contemporary aspirations of our clients is always interesting. On one hand we have old, existing constructions; fixed models which can be renovated or reproduced in line with the demands of tourist architecture. If you’ve selected the Haute Savoie for your holiday, you expect your accommodation to feel like the Haute Savoie. On the other hand, we can combine the essence of tradition with >> continuity, reinterpreting the identity of local
buildings and it’s in this direction that my agency works. We seek an alchemy between old and new, between traditional culture and a contemporary way of life. Many of our clients come to us because they appreciate this creative approach. Our collaboration with them goes through a lot of explanation on the true traditional architectural identity and the ways of registering their project in a modern continuity of this local culture.
There are some strong examples of this creative approach on this project. The use of local materials in their raw form combines the heritage of our location with a contemporary aesthetic. Elegance is drawn from the simplicity of materials and any elements that were not structurally necessary were banished. The absence of flashy, decorative elements and a respect for the site results in a thoughtful integration. The variation of interior volumes and a constant dialogue between the interior and the exterior translates well to the needs of Adeline and Thomas’ project. We agree that it is a fine example of our expression of mountain architecture in harmony with its place.
I’m often asked to identify my favourite elements of each project, but an architectural project can only be assessed as a whole. The functional aspects of a building must never take a back seat to purely aesthetic motivations. In my view, architecture is experienced; it’s a sensation, we feel it. As an architect, I have a strong affliction with the chalet because it leaves no-one indifferent. Also, the happiness and fulfilment that Adeline and Thomas have, living in this home, is a great reward.
Nevertheless, some of the strongest elements of this property, such as the glass staircase and its raised roof, its dialogue with the cantilever that creates an entrance porch and the double height on the living room allowing to link in the volume on both floors of the house, these are elements that I consider to bring the project to life. The catamaran net introduces a playful experiment with a new use of interior space and the presence of a flat living roof to mark the differentiation of spaces between the private master suite and the living spaces of the rest of the house. The huge corner sliding window also makes the large, covered, outdoor terrace part of the home.
In my view, alpine architecture is changing. It continues to exist, but it is becoming difficult to recognise. An increasing number of people are moving to our valley, now new constructions are often based on an ex-nihilo model (from, or out of nothing). Simplified buildings are being designed as they’re easier to understand by the general public, then filled with pompous decor. You’ll find this approach in every valley, from the north to the south of the Alps. Today's alpine architecture must fit into spaces where past achievements preexist. It’s important that architects have a knowledge of our real architectural history, and in particular that of the middle of the 20th century, with the revolution of the ski industry, which transformed the appearance of mountain villages and gave birth to the limitless creativity of an era that had faith in the future. For me, that it is part of both real continuity and a search for continuous evolution. Alpine architecture must be modern to allow our mountain territories to continue to be a living environment. I feel we should avoid a “museumization” of our mountains.” >>
Fanny,
Inside
our home,
by Adeline & Thomas Mugnier
“We asked Guillaume and Estelle for a bright, practical house to suit everyday life. A simple, warm, modern home. We began construction with the basement just before winter 2018, before letting the season pass. We resumed as soon as the snow melted and moved in just in time for Christmas in 2019. My favourite moment, or space in our home is the large kitchen, which is open to the living room; there’s lots of space for guests. We also love the catamaran net upstairs for the children. The advantage here is that as soon as we are all home, the children will play, leaving us quietly downstairs to chat.
We’d always planned for this to be our forever home and we’re always very happy inside. The location is calm, a real haven of peace. I’m not sure we’ll ever build another house or leave this home!
Our only advice for anyone considering building a home in the mountains would be to assemble the right people in order to get the house you actually want. Our architects Guillaume and Estelle of Deffert Baud asked us a lot about our habits, our lifestyle and our eventual home answers this perfectly. There’s simply nothing we’d add or change! Our construction company Prawood in Taninges did a very good job, they were meticulous and progressional, as were our plumbers, electricians, plasterers and everyone else involved. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all.
WITH
Obsessed Interiors
Is Instagram (and / or Pinterest) responsible for our rapidly expanding interest in other people’s homes? I’d suggest that it is. When I launched the @morzinehomes Instagram channel 18 months ago, I began sharing updates on my own (neverending) farmhouse renovation. The account grew quickly, I’d spend hours answering your questions on life in the mountains, schools, getting a mortgage, the buying process and some more obscure questions too. I hadn’t quite realised how many people dreamt of a life in Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz.
With my own project stalled (where’s a roofer when you need one?) I began sharing other people’s local homes, creeping inside brand new penthouse apartments, dilapidated barns, cleverly arranged studios. I’m fascinated by the work of the many excellent interior designers, interior architects and architects in our valley and I think you will be too. I’ve asked some of them to share a recent local project and I’m sure they’ll inspire you.
At Philippe and Valérie’s chalet, the design team from Morzine-based Champ Perdu were tasked with collaborating with the architect on a complete renovation. The goal was a contemporary family chalet that could be enjoyed by multiple generations, but in keeping with the local heritage. “The selection of furniture was key on this project,” interior designer Sabine Losfeld explains. “There was a desire to have a unity, a connection and harmony throughout the chalet, one that flows through the different spaces and connects them,” Sabine continues. The simple aesthetics give it a cabin-like feel, enhanced by luxurious yet subtle furnishings and the incredible natural light. Follow @champperdu on Instagram for more inspiration.
At a duplex apartment renovation in Morzine, local interior designer Claire Collins was tasked with creating a warmer, modern atmosphere by her client, in addition to transforming a third bedroom into a bunk room and creating a children’s TV area on a mezzanine level. “The original apartment was decorated very traditionally,” Claire explains. “The living room ceiling is a magnificent six metres high, with glorious views up to Avoriaz,” Claire continues. “We smoothed the walls, installed new flooring, added a warm wood cladding on feature walls and removed a wall to open up the living space.” Replacing the dated >>
By amie henderson
champ perdu
fireplace has made a significant difference to the living space and Claire introduced a restful green colour to the hallway and bedrooms that is in tune with the surrounding mountains. “I specified the panoramic, snowy tree line wallpaper titled ‘Les Cimes’ from Isidore Leroy for the living space, in addition to a mix of textiles and contemporary furniture. Once we’ve added some new curtains, this will soften the windows and improve acoustics.” Discover more of Claire’s work on her Instagram channel - @clairecollins.interiors
Laughland Jones are a UK-based interior design agency, working internationally and with projects in our valley. “The client told me -don’t be late, don’t go over budget and make it beautiful or I’ll have you out in prison - and he’s a High Court judge!” Andrew Laughland told me as we unpicked their most recent private project in Morzine. “Well, I wasn’t put in prison and the judge has asked me to design his chambers, so there’s a huge sigh of relief there!” Andrew continues. The brief here was chic, but not showy, fabrics are understated but luxurious and there a clear sense of comfort and calm throughout the space. Follow Laughland Jones on Instagram for more inspiration - @laughlandjones
At Zems Lodge, the brief was to create an innovative and glamorous chalet which
respected the alpine environment but also its cosmopolitan, stylish owners. Built from the ground up, shep&kyles design worked with local architect Hervé Marullaz to optimise the site’s contours. The end result is a wonderfully complex curved building that spans five split levels. “Blending the interiors and furnishings into curved, flowing spaces while embracing the client’s vision of merging an alpine interior with a contemporary, sumptuous twist,” Kyles explains, “this was an amazing spacial challenge for us.” The beautiful, open-plan design features shep&kyles signature bespoke old-wood detailing, yet the greys and blues teamed with gold and teal highlights add a fresh, modern feel. Zems Lodge has since featured in several prestigious design magazines and is currently shortlisted in the ‘France’s Best Ski Chalet’ category of the World Ski Awards. Follow @shepandkyles on Instagram for more projects like this.
You might imagine that taking responsibility for the interiors at an extra special farmhouse renovation within a prestigious local development might be quite a challenge, and it’s one that the team from RS Interior Designs took on willingly. The client specified a clean and uncluttered design that was also warm and homely for their new La Ferme de l’Église project. “They loved our use of bold colour, avoiding anything too bright or anything beige,” Lisa Dodd explains. “And they were inspired by a Scandi style with a nod to their middleeastern heritage.” Now, stags heads and sheep skins have their place in the everchanging world of alpine interior design,
Image used with kind
from
The Boutique
Chalet
Company
shep&kyles
but not on this project. “We’ve kept the property clean, fresh and modern,” Lisa continues. “You’ll spot the middle-eastern textile designs, which we love.” You can follow more RS Interior Designs projects on Instagram @rsinteriordesigns
Adding a further layer of luxury to the local interiorscape are the award-winning designers Bunny Turner and Emma Pocock of London and Geneva based Turner Pocock. “We are guided by our clients needs, desires and dreams,” they told me. “On a recent local project, we had the opportunity to work with local artisans to source local materials, fusing the practical and the fabulous.” Joyful design runs through the well-established Turner Pocock style and the meticulous attention to detail on display in all of their projects is astounding. “A chalet should be the perfect refuge from the cold, whilst also providing a heavenly viewing platform and a light-filled haven for blue sky days and lush mountain summers,” Emma Pocock believes. View more of their work - both in the mountains and elsewhere - on their Instagram - @turnerpocock
If you’re planning your own project in the mountains, you’re sure to find an interior designer working locally to suit your tastes, objectives and budget. Don’t forget to tag us @morzinehomes so we can follow your progress!.
browse by colour
fine art for your walls
Photographic Art from the French Alps
commission your favourite view
turner pocock
You could be anywhere…
Small chalets, big chalets, new apartments, old apartments, chic, contemporary hotel bedrooms, authentic, Savoyarde hotel bedrooms; alpine holiday accommodation comes in many different shapes and sizes, yet all of these options have one thing in common. There’s very little to differentiate a Morzine chalet bedroom from a Meribel chalet bedroom, a Les Gets hotel bedroom from a Tignes hotel bedroom, an Avoriaz studio from a Megève studio. Until now.
“During my work as a property photographer, either for local estate agents or for chalet companies, I’ll visit some seriously stunning buildings,” Jacquie Cutler of Finesse Art explains.
“But amongst the beautiful kitchens, the cosy sofas, the cinema rooms and inhouse spas, I’m often struck by the empty walls,” Jacquie continues. “Property developers, second home owners, even local residents undertaking renovations, they spend a lot of time - and likely a lot of money - meticulously planning their interiors, yet rarely do I see artwork that ties them to their location,” says Jacquie. “That’s why I launched Finesse Art.”
“My clients buy in Morzine, Les Gets or in one of the beautiful surrounding villages because they fall in love with this valley,” explains Kyles Garrett of shep&kyles design. “They feel a close bond to this place and having lived and worked here for over 20 years, I understand why,” Kyles continues. “Our signature ‘Savoie Chic’ style involves bringing the outdoors - our stunning Alpine environment - inside,
grounding a property in its location using natural elements and of course, feature artwork.”
Jacquie and Kyles have recently collaborated on an interiors project, the objective being to introduce art photography as an important component of the overall interior design direction.
“Chalets can be a blank canvas,” says Jacquie. “And that’s just how I like it!” “New owners might specify a relaxing, reflective atmosphere for their bedrooms for example,” says Jacquie. “My website breaks down my extensive collection of local photography into categories, from Creative to Mindful and Soulful to Timeless, making it easy for them to consider and select a theme for a space.” Jacquie’s Peaceful collection includes many of the most stunning and recognisable local views, such as snowladen trees high above the twinkling lights of Avoriaz and a collection of stationary chairlifts, patiently waiting for dawn to arrive. Such images compliment the sumptuous, cosy interior design
for which Kyles is renowned. “Bedrooms should be calming, natural and luxurious spaces,” believes Kyles. “Artwork plays an important role in bringing a room together.”
Skep&kyles are famous for designing breathtaking entrance halls; these rooms are real show-stoppers and deserve artwork to suit. On a recent project, Jacquie placed a large aluminium dibond image, split in two to induce a dramatic feel and framed to make an impact. “Of course selecting, ordering and taking delivery of all of these images is a large part of an art / interior design collaboration,” Jacquie explains. “But working together to ensure images are positioned in the perfect spot on each wall was an important part of the process too.”
If you’re reading this and you’re inspired to upgrade your own interiors with views from your favourite mountains, Jacquie and Kyles have some tips for you. “Consider a view that really resonates with you,” suggests Jacquie. “A view - or even a feeling - that means something, based on your time spent in our valley. There should be a strong connection if you hope to look at it every day on your wall at home.” Says Kyles, “The perfect interior design is the one that suits your tastes. Try to avoid trendy styles and fashionable colours that will come and go. Dig deep to discover which interior styles best suit your personality. This is when interiors become exciting and long-lasting.”
finesse art
You can discover a large gallery of Jacquie’s art photography at finesse-art.com,
shep&kyles
The shep&kyles website features a number of local property projects to inspire you. Head to shepandkyles.com or visit their page on Instagram - @shepandkyles.
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- travel -
Fubuki Niseko 2.0 Boots
€120.00 fubukiboots.com
Designed and tested by the legendary Jeremy Jones exclusively for Etnies, the Jones MTW is a proper winter shoe that will see you through from first snowfall to those early days of spring. There’s a thermal heat retention aluminium strobe board, water resistant uppers and a gusseted tongue to stop the snow getting in. The BLOOM Foam midsole is the world’s first plant-based foam, the shoe is entirely vegan and there’s even RP Roberts artwork on the insole to make you smile as you put them on.
Conceived and designed in Japan where there are over 100 different words for snow (Fubuki means ‘snowstorm’ in Japanese) and brought to Europe by a pair of Swedes, the Niseko 2.0 boot ticks every single one of your winter shoe requirements. They’re as lightweight as wellies, they’re as resistant as some of the best (and most expensive) snow boots on the market and they’re as comfortable as your slippers. There’s ten different colour ways, featuring everything from matt black to bright pink, they’re cold resistant up to -30°C and they’re 100% wind and waterproof too. There’s a reinforced ankle, cushioned midsole and a shock-absorbing heel, plus there’s a shorter ‘low’ version of the Niseko which is perfect for spring and autumn days.
Because not all sunglasses are created equal, may we present Face Plant, a brand dedicated to using only plant-based materials in their manufacturing. Each pair of sunnies is made from five recycled plastic bottles, keeping them out of landfill and the ocean. The end result is an extremely tough and resilient plastic, perfect for those who like to sit on their sunglasses as they get in the car. Just me? I doubt it. The lenses are also biodegradable (there’s no trace of them after 60 months in the ground, in case you’re wondering) and scratch resistant too. But here’s the best bit. The lenses are also replaceable, which is particularly handy for those of us who like to sling our sunnies in our handbags, next to our keys. Just me? Surely not. There’s a lifetime guarantee too.
Michael Henderson morzine source magazine creative director
Etnies Jones MTW €129.95
Faceplant Crash Override Sunglasses
Skullcandy Dime 2 Earbuds €39.95 skullcandy.eu
It’s all going on in the wireless headphone market right now and if you’re looking for a more costeffective alternative to those third generation Apple AirPods at the princely sum of €209, check out the Skullcandy Dime. This upgraded version now includes built-in Tile finding technology, perfect for those awkward moments when one appears to be missing from the handy storage box. They have 12 hours of battery life, microphone, call and volume functions and a secure, noise-isolating fit. The sweat and water resistance should come in handy for those of you who like a nice long run and there’s a one year warranty too.
Db Djärv Light Snowroller RRP €229.99 eu.dbjourney.com
If the original DB snowroller is a staple part of your travel kit, check out the ‘light’ version, designed to be more compressible, taking up less space both when stored and when in use. The grab-anywhere drag handles make it easy to use while you’re on the move and you can stow up to two pairs of regular skis or four pairs of cross country skis in its 220 cm length. The integrated boot changing mat is the kind of extra you’d expect from a brand like Db while the 90mm off-road wheels make the Geneva Airport transfer van sprint a breeze.
Winter Sports Insurance
travel insurance
by MPI Brokers
It’s true that the issue of travel insurancealongside seasonal worker insurance - has been a thorny subject in recent years. Here at MPI Brokers, insurance is all we do, be it coverage for winter activities, summer trips or holidays in the mountains or elsewhere. We’ve been insuring skiers and travellers for more than half a century and as keen skiers ourselves, we cover both on and off piste activities, with or without a guide.
During the COVID winters, many lucky skiers and snowboarders happened to stay in the Alps, discovering the joys of ski touring and split boarding, both of which usually take place off piste. Both alternative mountain pursuits are covered as standard by MPI Brokers, with no additional premium required. Furthermore, if you’re staying for part or a full season in the mountains, doing your UK office work from the Alps, a normal ‘holiday’ travel insurance won’t work because you’re not on holiday. In this case, you can choose MPI’s long stay or seasonaires package for your coverage.
Did you know that many UK insurance policies will not insure you once you’ve left the UK? For example, you land at Geneva Airport, full of excitement and ready to hit the slopes, before realising that you’ve forgotten to renew your holiday insurance. You’ll struggle to find a UK insurance company to provide coverage once you’re aboard, but at MPI Brokers we’re pioneers of insurance on arrival. We’ve even insured a skier at the top of a mountain, minutes before he descended into the powder.
Some news for those British workers lucky enough to obtain the relevant permits and visas to work in France this winter. There’s been a suggestion from the French government* that your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC / GHIC) will be null and void if you’re employed under a French contract and until you’ve received your French Carte Vitale. That potentially leaves the first three months of your employment without any emergency medical insurance, which is clearly concerning. Although the situation remains unclear at the moment, we advise that you don’t assume your EHIC will be accepted if you’re injured while skiing. We have specific seasonaire coverage for this scenario and we also advise that you seek cover for repatriation in any event. Our seasonaire insurance also covers the costs of returning to the UK for a family funeral, and your return to resort, along with many other elements.
At MPI Brokers we’re the experts in ski insurance, whether you’re heading to the mountains on holiday, or to work for an entire season. All of our insurance options are clearly presented on our website, which you’ll find at mpibrokers.com.
*Information provided by SBiT (Seasonal Businesses in Travel)
rest
By Carrie Greer of Little Wild
It’s the first Saturday of the Autumn half term holidays. The Toussaint break here in France is actually quite a big deal of a holiday to have its own nickname, but something I never thought about before the enfant entered our lives.
Why would I even think about it? Typically in your 30’s and child free, you’ve left study far behind and the year isn’t broken up into anything other than perhaps Christmas and the four weeks of annual leave you’re entitled to as your break from the daily grind. Now however, we live by the school calendar and have been learning the value of the rest time associated with it.
So on this Saturday morning, perhaps unbelievably with an early rising six year old in the house, I’m stood quietly on the balcony in my PJs with a coffee, while the dogs have a wee in the garden. It’s just starting to get light and I’ve got the whole of Morzine spread out before me; with that magical mix of mist and wood-fired chimney smoke rising from the village below, up towards my view of the slopes of Pleney. It’s quiet. The town and the enthusiastic six year old haven’t woken up yet. These moments in life are few and far between; I know the value of them now more than I ever did before. Watching the sky lighten to see the colours of the trees. Breathing in that damp, smoky smell - it rained last night and I can really notice the earthiness mixed with the wood-fire smoke. Really tasting my coffee. It’s the weekend so there’s time for a ‘real’ coffee, not just the wham bam instant of a work and school day morning rush.
Autumn in the mountains is unbelievably beautiful and seemingly even more so this year. A few clients in my treatment room told me that they can’t remember the colours being quite so vibrant last year, that the colours of the leaves against the blue of the sky on that perfect October day were somehow less striking 12 months ago. Is that really true? Is it more
Autumn is a time to slow everything down, it’s the big breath out for the trees, the end of one cycle before the great rest of winter
beautiful this year than last year? Have the trees changed how they flow from one season to the other? Or have we started to change how we look at things?
In my job as a holistic therapist I get a good insight into how our community really feels on a day to day basis. They tell me things that they might not say out loud to anyone else, or body and breath tell me things even if they’re not ready to get the words out. I also understand the incredible value of that connection to nature and the living world around us. Here in our mountains that connection is super obvious, it’s right there, every time you look out the window. Look up now and there’s probably a mountain staring right at you, but how often do we connect those changes in the world around us to our own lives?
Watching the trees change from the vibrant green of summer to the magnificent oranges, golds and browns of autumn is a visual treat to be sure, but it’s also an important reminder to us of the beauty and importance of change for us humans. Summer is a time of verdant production, nature working hard to ensure her success in the months to come, the fruitful growth and continuation of the cycle, but autumn? Autumn is a time to slow everything
down, it’s the big breath out for the trees, the end of one cycle before the great rest of winter, in preparation for the fecundity of spring. Winter is the season of rest for nature. The trees and plants are dormant, cosy and wrapped up beneath their snowy blanket, quiet, resting, conserving their energy and waiting until it’s time to be productive again.
Back in time, when our main concerns were feeding ourselves and staying warm and sheltered, the human race lived like this too, learning from the changes in the world around us, eating what nature provided, resting and conserving our own energies for when we needed them. So what of us now? How does the word ‘rest’ make you feel? Are you reading this here in Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz, on one of your weeks of entitled annual leave? Do you feel rested? Is this holiday a chance for you to reset your energies and go back into life renewed and refreshed for the challenges of your daily grind? Or are you keen to ski faster and harder, cover more miles and knock up your fastest time down Chamossière?
In our fast paced world, with all the demands upon us for success and production, rest is often seen as a bit shameful, something we feel guilty about. Taking a sick day because you’re just so physically and mentally exhausted that you can’t do anything other than lie on the sofa, then heading back to work, still not quite on top form and keeping on going until you burn out. Various different research polls state that anywhere from 46% to a whopping 88% of UK employees have experienced “at least some level of burnout over the last two years, with one third claiming to suffer from physical and mental exhaustion frequently due to pressures within the workplace.”
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Delicious, hearty, home-cooked meals, freshly prepared daily and delivered to your accommodation whilst you are out skiing ready to be re-heated and devoured.
I see this every week. Even here in our mountain idyll, it’s hard to shake the constraints and conditioning that we’ve been brought up with. Born in the late 70’s and early 80’s, our whole upbringing was ‘work hard to achieve and succeed’. It was never ‘get a good nights sleep and enjoy your life’, so yes, we’ve felt it too. Part of our push to move to Morzine was to teach ourselves that we could live life differently and that it would be ok. The funny thing is that living here we absolutely work as hard as we did in the UK, maybe sometimes even harder, depending on the time of year, but, we are all learning the value of rest. Seasonal living is strange and takes some getting used to.
Our Valley knows what it’s doing. Winter and summer, she’s on form, you’re all here, the slopes, shops and restaurants are bustling, the town is alive, even on an early Saturday morning from my balcony. Once the lifts close in spring and autumn, the change is even more profound than the leaves on the trees. Quiet, calm, the deep breath out for the town. Everyone takes their holidays, shops and restaurants have massively reduced hours, everyone rests, renews and regains their energies for the next season. That’s how it’s done. It feels weird at first, to not be constantly pushing, pushing all the time; to go for a walk with friends on a Thursday at 2.30pm. But the town’s life is driven by the change of nature around us, the mountains themselves decide how fast paced our lives should be and it’s beautiful to surrender to that. Even having year-round jobs like we do, we accept and value the lessons that nature teaches us, knowing when to grow and knowing when to slow.
I think the reason the trees seem more beautiful this year is because we’re all looking at our lives differently. We’re all starting to slow down and focus on the beauty that’s in front of us, whereas maybe we were a bit too busy, too rushed to notice it before. If the past few years have taught us anything it’s how important the living of our lives is. Is that grind? Is that production and success? Or is it the time we spend with our loved ones? Is it how we feel inside ourselves? Being content and peaceful, when some of the most important moments to us are those quiet ones, with the good coffee, in the cosy pyjamas, with the best views.
Take a moment during your holiday to experience the calming, restful and soothing treatments of Carrie and Laurie at Little Wild. Head to littlewildspace.com for the full treatment menu, which features massages, skincare, reflexology, crystal therapy and reiki to really help you make the most of your break.
Billion Dollar
MORNING ROUTINE
By Lindsey Kelham and Anna Loots,
Currently the hype trending on Tiktok, #billiondollarmorningroutine brings a smile to every high performing individual who is still checking their social medial feeds and hasn’t managed to press the GO button on their desires for off-grid living or a van life gap year.
As performance experts and human behavioural specialists, we love a morning routine, especially if it is created by you, personalised for your needs and desires and actually focusses on your bio-individuality.
However if you are a parent, athlete, teenager, employee or any other special breed of human who is not a fully functioning, healthy billionaire, you may want to have a rethink. There are better ways to start your day than recalling your dreams when you have sleep anxiety, trauma or a waking infant. Instead try a joy practice, where you think of one thing about your day that will bring you joy, be it the tiniest thing. A hot drink, the first glimpse of nature from your window or a just the often forgotten western world privilege of taking a hot shower, are great examples.
We do think that making your bed every day is essential, because it signals to your mind and body that you are stepping out of your sleeping world and into your waking world. It also marks an achievement, so even if the rest of the day feels unsuccessful, you still know you achieved one thing, you made the bed and the reward is a made bed waiting to receive you at the end of the day.
Drinking water and breathing is another yes! But choose the amount of water that is right for you. We don’t all need to be chugging back three litres if you are also drinking pints of herbal tea and the weather is cold. The same
applies to breathing. Wim Hof-style energising breath holds might be a huge trigger for anxiety and panic attacks for some people. Choose what is right for you. A gentle wave breath through the nose, by inflating the stomach on the inhale and then allowing the inhale to rise to the chest, before exhaling by gently contracting the stomach muscles will calm the nervous system and signal to your body that you are safe and able to rest your system and digest properly.
Exercise is of course important but again choose wisely. Smashing out a daily 10k run when you are suffering burn out increases your cortisol levels, breaks down your muscles and burns up any energy you did have for the day (in fact, we suggest no running, and certainly no CrossFit during burnout recovery). Instead choose 10 minutes of gentle yoga or a 20 minute walk whilst observing nature. We see amazing results with clients who train smarter not harder, exercising when their nervous system is parasympathetic mode (rest and digest) and really working on raising their heart rate variability to maximise the results of fitness, strength and speed instead of training harder and creating more stress response in the body.
Founders of Conscious Epigenetics
Cold showers are also a great tool to encourage the nervous system to rapidly kick into fight or flight (sympathetic) mode as the cold hits, and then shift gear quickly back into rest and digest (parasympathetic) when your mind and body realises the cold water won’t kill you. It’s the switching between the two modes in the nervous system that makes us more adaptable and resilient to stress. However if you are suffering from a heart condition or other medical complications cold water might not be the best tool for you, always check with your doctor.
Journalling is a wonderful personal development tool if you enjoy it, but forcing words out of your brain and onto paper if you don’t love writing, or have any kind of challenges like dyslexia, might not make this a pleasurable experience. Instead doodle on a post-it note, draw a little picture on the back of a sales receipt or even put a few dots on the kitchen counter with soap suds. Anything that makes you feel creative and signals the positive completion of the sentence “I am…”
You may love a to-do-list, or you may hate them, but don’t participate in a practice that adds to your stress levels. A to-feel-list is a performance hack known by every successful person in business, arts and sports. Imagining how you want to feel today paints a positive picture of your desires and goals. By articulating those feelings you can energetically move towards them, rather than getting side tracked by the negative.
Finally, reading is a wonderful way to develop yourself, enhance creativity and encourage relaxation and an active imagination. If you are not an avid reader, find a podcast or audio book you love. The most important thing is to switch off some of your thoughts, open your ears and mind and receive some new words that inspire you.
Conscious Epigenetics works with successful people to help them reach the next level; ultra success. We provide consciousness consultancy, tools and resources for anyone interested in optimal performance and optimal wellbeing to help them make sure their body, mind and life is primed for epigenetic success. Using epigenetic factors, we assess, explore and align internal and external environmental factors that maximise successful performance and wellbeing.
The field of epigenetics is a rapidly expanding research area which evidences the impact that our external environment (chemical exposure, sleep, diet, exercise) plus the internal environment (stress, emotions, behaviour) have on our bodies, our minds and our lives.
This winter we are delighted to bring epigenetic breath work to Morzine and the surrounding areas. This practice works at a physical and emotional level through breath awareness to optimise the nervous system and activate the body’s responses at a cellular level. Through altered brain waves, visualisation and physical activation clients begin their journey to optimal performance, minimising the effects of stress, negative emotions and cellular tension in their lives.
Take a moment...
For centuries the French Alps have been home to some of the most progressive and well-renowned spas and thermal baths in the world. Originally touted as a high-altitude destination to remedy a range of ailments, modern day spa facilities now offer an indulgent alternative to time spent on the pistes. As Margo Touchebœuf, manager of the Spa Kinabalu in Les Gets explains, a break at a spa allows you to take a moment of relaxation, just for yourself.
“Despite their name, ‘winter holidays’ are often a source of fatigue and stress! The organisation of days on the mountain, especially if you’re travelling as a family, can be intense. In these situations, I always recommend a Rotura volcano treatment, which lasts 90 minutes and wards off stress and tiredness. A self-heating wrap remineralises the body, you’ll feel restored and energised when I’ve finished.
We use the Gemology brand here at Spa Kinabalu, which I selected because they’re a pioneer in mineral spa products. This French brand uses trace elements extracted from precious and semi-precious stones, the end result is a unique texture that can be used every day if you wish. Combined with hot stones during a massage or facial, the results are almost magical!
During the course of this winter, we’ll plan exclusive packages for special dates such as Valentine’s Day. You can expect to be pampered and cared for within the spa, which also features a
swimming pool, a jacuzzi, hammam and sauna. Such facilities are free to use for those who book an hour treatment with one of our therapists, providing the perfect apres-ski after a day in the mountains.
Spa Kinabalu is open throughout the winter season between 10am and 7.30pm Sunday to Friday and between 4pm and 8pm on Saturdays. You’ll find us within the warm and welcoming Kinabalu residence in the centre of Les Gets.
If you have any questions you can email me in French or English or call us. We look forward to sharing a moment of wellness with you.”
Open to hotel guests and non-residents, massage rituals and exclusive treatments are on the menu using the organic Avril Spa brand, guaranteeing a brush with nature. You’ll also find a swimming pool, sauna and hammam as well as a whirlpool with stunning views over the entire Morzine valley. Open 10am - 4pm, advance booking is necessary, robes and slippers are provided.
In her mountain-side treatment room, Carrie administers holistic massage skincare and energy therapies that will bring real joy, balance and magic to your ski holiday. You’ll feel the tension leave your body and leave you with a calm, rested soul. Little Wild experiences are perfectly tailored to you, there’s even a Divine Mama Massage that combines massage and reflexology for expecting and new mums. Head to lthe website to view the full treatment menu and book your Little Wild experiences online.
info & bookings
littlewildspace.com
The Spa at Mil8 - Avoriaz
Available exclusively to hotel residents and spanning several levels of this iconic hotel, the wellness area at Mil8 overlooks the resort’s snow-capped peaks. There’s an outdoor infinity pool that will leave you breathless, a sauna, cardio room and massage and relaxation area. All spaces are glass-fronted, putting you in the centre of nature. Treatments include indulgent massages and revitalising facials with products from local brand Snö.
info & bookings
hotelmil8.com
The Eyebrow Bar by Laura - Morzine
Laura specialises in the latest brow, lash and facial treatments, all of which are professionally administered in her cosy treatment room in Essert Romand or via her mobile service. On the menu you’ll find lash botox, derma-planing, henna brows, brow lamination and lash extensions, plus LED light therapy mask treatments. Take the afternoon off skiing and pamper your face! Book online at facebook.com/ theeyebrowbarbylaura.
info & bookings
browbarlaura@gmail.com // +33 (0) 6 48 60 05 42
The Spa at Neige et Roc - Les Prodains
Open to hotel guests and non-residents and set in a tranquil spot, mid-way between Morzine and Avoriaz, inside you’ll find a Swedish bath heated to 40° as well as a sauna and relaxation space. You’ll love the cosy treatment cabins where both facial and body therapies are on the menu, the hot futons are the perfect place to spend a moment. All treatments and wellness packages are performed using a bio French brand and are based on the evolving seasons. The spa is open seven days a week, it’s easily accessible using the free ski bus and you can book via the hotel website.
info & bookings
neige-roc.com // +33 (0) 4 50 79 03 21
Séréni-Cimes Spa - Les Gets
This award-winning spa in the centre of the village offers a multi-sensory experience with a never-ending list of facilities and treatments. You’ll find a steam room, foot bath, meditation sauna and seven individual treatment rooms, plus a herbal infusion room with its own open fireplace. Treatments are available Monday to Saturday by appointment only with slippers and robes provided. There’s also an infinity pool, jacuzzi, sauna and hammam for hotel guests to enjoy. View the treatment menu and book online at spa@hotel-marmotte.com or call +33 (0) 4 50 75 80 33.
info & bookings
spa@hotel-marmotte.com // +33 (0) 4 50 75 80 33
- souvenirs -
Les Gets’ most famous apres-ski venue has launched its very own range of merchandise and we think these t-shirts, jumpers and caps make the perfect holiday souvenir. The unisex sweatshirts and t-shirts come in two different styles, a range of different colours and a large section of sizes while the caps come in either trucker or snapback variations. Le’Apres Ski Bar have even created a dedicated website for their merch so you can order online and collect your goodies before you fly home.
Ask and you shall receive dear reader! We’ve made no secret of the fact that we’re entirely in love with artist Jono Wood’s creation for our front cover this winter and it sounds like you all love it too. Your requests for prints were pretty instant when we first published our new cover back in November, so we’ve collaborated once again to bring you three posters - one for each resort - to hang on your walls at home. Buy them individually or as a set of three in the Source web shop, where you can choose home delivery or in-resort collection.
Did you know that there’s a long list of Morzine Source Magazine super readers, who’ve elected to have their magazines dispatched directly to their post box twice a year? That’s right, as soon as our magazines come out of the big printer, there’re packed up and posted to you, giving you the inside scoop on what’s new and exciting in your favourite ski resorts each season. There’s a little charge of just €15 to cover the postage and packaging on two issues and you can add your name to the list in the Source Shop.
amie henderson
morzine source magazine editor
L’Apres Ski Bar Merch prices from €25.00 apreski.shop
Morzine Source Magazine x Jono Wood Posters price to be confirmed
Inspired by constant requests from her followers on Instagram, local photographer Jacquie Cutler launched Finesse Art, a website featuring her enormous catalogue of images. Browse through the different categories and spot some of your favourite views across our valley and beyond. All images are available to order in a range of different sizes and finishes and Jacquie even provides a constancy service for those looking to match her images with their interiors. Finesse Art Photography makes the perfect gift for the Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz lover in your life.
Since 2008 Anouk and Nathalie have been intricately and passionately producing beautiful pottery in their atelier high above the rooftops of Les Gets. The shapes are unique and contemporary, the designs bold and whimsical. Their range includes dinner plates, mugs and bowls, vases, pots and other ceramics, which are almost too beautiful to use. A visit to the workshop to select your purchases is all part of the experience and they’ll enhance your holiday memories long after you’ve returned home.
Étape du Tour
What do busses and Le Tour de France have in common? You wait an age, then two arrive at once. Hosting a rest day and a stage depart during the 2022 tour was a huge deal for our little alpine town, yet hosting a stage arrival this summer, followed by a stage depart in Les Gets the next day, confirms our valley’s place at the top of global road cycling. But for fans of the sport, that’s not even the cherry on the (well-earned) cake. The 2023 Étape du Tour de France will also journey from Annemasse to Morzine on Sunday 9th July. THE
Few were more excited to hear this announcement than the team at Buzz Performance, who immediately cleared their diaries for the next day to ride the route. For those of you lucky enough to secure a place for 2023, here are their route notes.
The Étape du Tour is a hardcore race for amateur cyclists, organised by the official Tour de France and giving those lucky enough to sign up in time the chance to experience a full stage of Le Tour. 15,000 entries are available and they sell out in a matter of hours. During the Étape the roads of the route will be closed, fulfilling the ambitions of those who’ve dreamt of taking part.
“The route of the 2023 Étape du Tour includes two of our favourite climbs; the Col de la Ramaz and the Col de Joux Plane, which are well known for being challenging in their own right. Before these two beasts however, one must also conquer the Col de Saxel, Col de Cou, Col de Feu and Col de Jambaz. This course is amazing. The scenery is breathtaking. The roads are varied, and each kilometer of the 152km course will be one to remember. But there’s no mistaking, this will be a challenge and you’ll need to be well prepared. Be fit, be strong, be determined and be ready to suffer.
The route starts from Annemase and it's mostly flat for around 5km before the steady climb to the Col de Saxel begins. The Saxel is manageable and scenic and acts as a great warm up for what’s ahead, but it is important to remember that at this point, most riders will have been in the saddle for around an hour and if your fuelling hasn’t already started, then you are already adding to the enormous challenge that this day presents.
After a fast descent from the Saxel with views of Lac Leman, it’s not too long before you start the day's first big challenge. The Col de Cou is a popular ride in the Vallee Verte and well known to many as a gentle alternative to some of the steeper climbs around. Don’t be fooled. This route up the Cou is a much harder option than the other two more popular routes, with ramps of 11% and 12%. It has a higher average gradient than the Col de la Ramaz, which is a Cat 1 ranked climb.
After reaching the Cou you will have a small descent, followed by a left turn to head over another very small Col, the Col de Moises, just a little over 1km at 5% to climb. This part of the route is totally exposed with potential temperatures in the high 30’s. After the Col, take the opportunity to fuel, drink and take in the views, as the descent off the Moises is fast and technical and at this point in the day, it’s sure to be crowded.
Col de Feu is another climb not to be underestimated. It starts manageable for 1km and then ramps to above 10% for 1km before settling at around 8% until you reach the last 800 metres of the climb. Again this one can be extremely hot, so ensure that you drink, fuel and pace yourself. Also be wary on this decent; it's a short one, but very fast and there are some technical switchbacks and corners. >>
Founded in 1991 with one aim...
To offer a highly professional service and fun filled ski and snowboard lessons.
We offer the full range of ski lessons in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz. For a bespoke experience, tailored to your needs, book a private lesson with one of our exceptional ski instructors. Alternatively, our ski school group lessons have a maximum of just 6 participants and are highly rated for children or adults.
Our friendly instructor team is managed by Rachael, a Morzine local who is always on hand to ensure you have a fantastic experience with us.
From Lullin to the bottom of the Ramaz will bring you to around the halfway point of the day and pacing is very important through this section. The Jambaz is manageable, mostly 3% to 4% and is followed by a long descent into Saint Jeorie and a small incline up to Mieussy. On paper this section looks easy and fast (30km, approx, 400 metres of accent), but keep reminding yourself of what is coming.
The Col de la Ramaz is a climb that has bitten many professional cyclists; it has been classified as Cat 1. but in the past, it has received HC classification and rightly so. Its numbers are deceiving, and many are unprepared for the dreaded steep 2km section above 10% in the middle of the climb, which finishes with the famous tunnel. The Ramaz is exposed on a hot day, not to mention the reflection of the sun off the cliff face just as the climb kicks at the 8km mark. Again, prepare yourself to concentrate, this descent is fast, not too technical but some switchbacks that demand respect. Ensure that you study the route as a sharp turn to the left will come less than 1 km after perhaps the fastest section of the entire route, through the new tunnel which was put in place due to a rock fall prior to the 2016 Étape du Tour.
After the long descent off the Ramaz, you will enjoy a flat 10km along the valley floor from Taninges to Samoëns, we would recommend you find a conservative rider or pack to sit behind and draft all the way to Samoëns, preparing yourself for the final challenge of the day. The Joux Plane is your third deceivingly hard climb of the day. The first kilometre will demand your respect, but don’t let the following 5km lull you into a false sense of security. With 6km to go, the real challenge begins; just another 6km at around 8%, give or take 1% or 2 %, but no real chances to rest. This is going to hurt and will be 6kms you’ll never forget. A clear day the top of the Joux Plane is arguably the best view in cycling, now there’s just a fast and beautiful descent to the finish. Don’t forget the little sting of around 400 metres on the way down, or the tight left turn at the bottom of the descent.
Now you can rejoice in a major accomplishment - you’ve survived the 2023 Étape de Tour du France. Of course there will be some that start yet do not finish. If you are entering, commit yourself to training, do what you can to ensure you’re the best you can be.”
Buzz Performance will be hosting a number of training sessions to help you prepare for the Étape de Tour during 2023.
SIX ÉTAPE DE TOUR TRAINING TIPS
1. Practice your descending.
If you are confident, it will be a chance to recover during your ride, if you lack confidence, it will be a stressful, a waste of energy, dangerous and will cost you a lot of free time. You don’t need to be Vincenzo Niballi or Tom Pidcock, but a little practice can go a long way.
2. Concentrate on every decent.
You might be a great bike handler, but a lapse in concentration from you or a fellow competitor can end your day very easily. As you become increasingly fatigued, the chances of a mistake increase.
3. Have a fuelling plan and stick to it.
Drinking Coke when you get tired and eating a few Cliff bars from your pocket is not a fuelling plan. If you are not sure what this means, then ask an expert.
4. Be realistic.
For some, the Étape du Tour is a race, they’ll push themselves to the limit. But for most, this is a challenge. Finishing the event should be your number one goal. Looking back at your great split on the Col de Feu from the back of an ambulance is far less rewarding than sipping a beer in Morzine with your fellow finishers.
5. Get and follow a training plan.
We recommend a 20 week plan, depending on your level of experience and your goals for the event. Not only will a training plan prepare you for the event physically, but a good coach will also help to build your confidence, knowledge and skills, which will stay with you longer than just the day of the event.
6. Know the route.
If you can, practice the climbs, if not, find some as close as possible. Practice some longer rides leading up the event. If your longest ride is 3three hours, nine hours on the bike is going to sting. Completing at least a few five hour rides is a good way to prepare yourself.
THE MORZINE SOURCE MAGAZINE
Restaurant & Bar Guide
WINTER 2023
Dahu Hotel & Restaurant
There’s something a bit special about dining in a hotel restaurant and at Le Dahu, the lights of Morzine twinkle below you. The menu embraces fresh, local and seasonal ingredients to offer you a true taste of the mountains. There’s a cosy bar for pre and post-dinner drinks and a beautiful dining room from which you can enjoy the stunning views across the whole valley.
advance reservations essential
+33 (0) 4 50 75 92 92
Winenot?
With over 400 wines, 60 spirits and 20 different beers in stock, WINENOT? in the centre of Morzine brings the apres party right into your chalet or apartment. You’ll find the shop is open every day during the winter season, there’s even a tasting table and an expert team to help you discover your favourite holiday tipple. Order online for delivery directly to your accommodation; what an incredible idea!
Discover more winenot-morzine.co
L’Improviste
In many ways a pizza makes the perfect apres-ski meal and at L’Improviste in the centre of Morzine you’ll find a long list of both classic pizzas and unexpected toppings to eat in or take away. You’re now welcome to enjoy the really cosy yet contemporary restaurant for a very casual dinner. If you’re felling adventurous, try the Sicilienne, you won’t regret it!
reservations and takeaway
+33 (0)
Kernow Cuisine
New for this winter season and located on the outskirts of Les Gets (on the road to Morzine), this beautiful Gulfstream takeaway van specialises in authentic fish and chips - the best you’ll taste outside of Cornwall we think. Other menu items include Pukka Pies, burgers and they even serve scraps too! Check out the specials and opening hours by searching Kernow Cuisine on Facebook.
facebook Kernowcuisine
Le Local
A fantastic community pub and restaurant in Morzine with a menu that’s constantly changing. Expect holiday classics as well as Sunday roasts, fish and chip suppers and the odd spicy curry thrown in for good measure. There’s also lighter bites, cocktails and a kids menu too.
reserve your table
+33 (0) 4
Bon Appetite Alpes
For those nights when you want to simply snuggle up on the sofa and enjoy a simple, home cooked dinner, minus the actual cooking. Bon Appetite deliver delicious frozen dinners directly to your accommodation. Simply pre-order on their website and they’ll arrive the following day, ready for you to cook. Think warming cottage pies, really excellent curries and even deserts too.
Pre-order now bonappetitalpes.com
Le Lounge Roc & Le Strike Roc
Two separate venues in one location. Lounge Roc is a chic, luxurious cocktail and wine bar with an adjoining restaurant and it makes the perfect location for a night out. The fun continues next door at Strike Roc, Avoriaz’s bowling alley which also includes arcade games, a pool table, baby-foot and more.
discover more roc-avoriaz.com
Crepu
This lively bar in the centre of Morzine is perfect for pre-dinner drinks and you’ll discover a huge range of spirits behind the bar. Le Crepu is lively from late afternoon until late in the evening, so there’s always a great atmosphere, especially during apres hours. It’s also just minutes from some of Morzine’s best restaurants too.
discover more on instagram @le.crepu
La Bokka
A chic cocktail bar, a large, funky restaurant and late night entertainment venue combined under one well-located roof in the centre of Les Gets. Opened last winter to rave reviews, the menu combines fresh, authentic Italian ingredients. Expect live bands and DJs to keep the party going long after dinner has finished with a very fine wine list to accompany.
reserve in advance
+33 (0) 4 80 16 12 60 bokka-lesgets.com
La Croix Blanche
Reopened last winter following an extensive refurbishment, this ski-in, ski-out restaurant at the Chavannes mid-station in Les Gets has an expansive terrace and a menu featuring all your favourite mountain dishes, plus some exciting extras. This is a real foodie lunch and the restaurant can also be accessed easily on foot via the Chavannes cable car.
reserve your table
+33 (0) 6 75 11 31 58
Cavern Bar
Morzine’s Cavern Bar is the home of your holiday party and you’ll find a unique, memorable atmosphere until the early hours. The Cavern is the place to go to hear incredible live music, with a selection of superb touring bands taking to the stage. Follow TheCavernBarMorzine on Facebook for gig announcements and updates.
facebook TheCavernBarMorzine
Hideout
One of the busiest restaurants in Morzine, which makes advance booking essential, the menu at Hideout is packed with panasian dishes and takes inspiration all the way from Vietnam to Osaka. There’s also a list of weekly specials, in case you manage to make your way through the whole menu.
Reserve your table
+33 (0) 7 49 28 27 56 eat@stayhideout.com
Hotel du Lac
A rite of passage during every holiday in our valley, Hotel du Lac is the perfect setting on the shores of Lac de Montriond. Settle into the hotel’s cosy restaurant to enjoy a menu that carefully considers fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Keep an eye on the hotel’s Facebook page for menu updates, live music events and speciality cocktails.
facebook lac.de.montriond
+33 (0) 6 03 56 85 05
Ski
As the name suggests, this huge bar located on the front de neige in the centre of Les Gets is the home of apres ski in the village. Expect live music and a fun, lively atmosphere from early afternoon. Check out the menu while you’re there, as the hotel’s restaurant is an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner, serving up mountain classics, an exceptional children’s menu and healthy options too. Check facebook for updates.
facebook LApreskiLesGets
Located within the Hive gym in Morzine and serving up healthy, fresh meals and smoothies, some slightly naughty cakes and a very tasty coffee. It’s location makes it handy for those post-workout snacks while the cafe itself is a great place to hang out with your laptop for a couple of hours. Try the Hoisin Duck wrap, you won’t be disappointed! Check facebook for menu details. facebook
Wild Beets Kitchen Morzine
Le Colibri
With a menu to suit all appetites and including great children’s options, Le Colibri comes complete with an indoor children’s play area, cosy seating and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for little ones. Whether you’re looking for a place to settle for the afternoon and drink hot chocolate while the snow falls outside or an early evening supper, Le Colibri is the perfect spot in the centre of Morzine.
Reserve your table in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 06 18 53
Restaurant La Grange
One of the busiest restaurants in Morzine, La Grange has an excellent reputation for classic Savoyarde dishes and it’s our favourite place to go for a fondue. This is a cosy, traditional restaurant and over the years owners Alex and Fred have gathered a loyal following of holiday makers who return year after year. Of course that means you’ll need to book in advance.
book in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 75 96 40
Refuge L’Abricotine
There’s no shame in admitting that you like to consume cheese for breakfast, lunch and dinner during your ski holiday. We’d argue that it makes you ski faster. Stock up with Benjamin and his team at Refuge L’Abricotine, where specialities include tartiflette, berthoud (Abondance cheese, boiled potatoes and smoked ham) and the Gratinée de l’Abricotine featuring potatoes, lardons, cream and more Abondance cheese. L’Abricotine is located at the base of the Brochaux and Mossettes chairs above les Lindarets.
book in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 754 17 43
Located within the Annapurna residence in Les Gets, Vina is a chic, contemporary restaurant where the menu has been carefully constructed by Michelin-trained chef Anthony Trezy. It features the finest local ingredients, the service is slick and the atmosphere refined. It’s always a good idea to book your table in advance.
book in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 86 31 12
L’Apres
Wild Beets Kitchen
Vina Annapurna
Changabang
Good times guaranteed inside this fast food eatery in Avoriaz, which sits directly opposite the Prodains Express top station. Perfect for those days when the sun is shining and you’ve no time to waste at a restaurant table, Changabang is also a really popular end of day beer stop before taking the home run back to the bus stop. Follow on Instagram for updates throughout the season.
instagram
@le.changabang
Le Chaudron
Located at the heart of the famous goat village and offering the warmest welcome, Le Chaudron is a ‘must do’ lunch spot in the mountains. The menu is vast and delicious, offering everything from local and regional specialities to fresh salads and more, plus there’s a great children’s menu too. Dine on the sunny terrace and watch the skiers go by or take refuge inside the cosy restaurant if the weather is less than perfect.
book in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 74 05 35
Au P’tit Casse Croute
If you’re gathering up a picnic to enjoy on the mountain or in the cable car, head directly to Au P’tit Casse Croute in the centre of Morzine. Choose a sandwich or piadina (folded Italian flatbread) stuffed with delicious, fresh ingredients, plus salads, sweet drinks, tea coffee and more. Outside, you’ll find a very cool outdoor fondue table, making for a unique apres-ski experience!
Reservation or pre-order picnic
+33 (0) 4 50 75 94 24
O’Chalet
Widely regarded as the best burger bar in Morzine, the menu is available to eat in or to take away. The selection is huge and its great for families too. Here’s a top tip for vegetarians; every burger on the menu is available as a veggie alternative! Savoury and sweet crepes are also available, as are bagels, which make a really great breakfast on the run. You’ll find O Chalet on the Route de la Combe a Zore in the centre of Morzine.
order in advance
+33 (0) 4 50 79 17 18
Open from 9am until 1am every day
Savoyarde Specialties and Take-Away Pizza
Tibetan Cafe
This is the late night watering hole your holiday needs! Open until 2am every night and with live music or a live DJ every evening, the Tibetan in Morzine is a lively bar with an enormous range of speciality gins. It’s also a great place to watch live sport with several HD TVs around the bar for your viewing pleasure. Stay up to date with gigs and sports coverage on their Facebook page.
facebook
TibetanCafeMorzine
Hotel Mil8
Famous for contemporary cuisine and exceptional service, the restaurant sits within this exceptional four-star hotel in Avoriaz. As you’d expect, the vibe is tres chic and the bar is a very cool place to hang out for apres. Open for lunch and dinner, there’s an intimate, cosy vibe that feels very different to everywhere else in the resort. View the full menu and request at table on their website.
request a table hotelmil8.com
Bar Le National
Located slightly down the valley in St Jean d’Aulps, Bar Le National is always a great night out with a proper pub feel. It’s busy from apres until late each day throughout the winter season while the kitchen serves up incredible pizzas, sushi and many other treats. Plan your night right and you might even end up winning a pub quiz! Keep an eye on what’s going on via Facebook.
facebook barlenational
Fat Tom’s Deli
New to the village of Le Biot and delivering across our valley, Fat Tom’s Deli & Delivery will be serving up fresh, delicious meals, delivered to your door. They can be reheated at your convenience, making them perfect following a day on the slopes. Expect seasonal ingredients, regional cheeses, cooked and cured meats with loads of added flavour.
more info fattomsdeli.com
Le R
Ski-in, ski-out of this very stylish deli in Avoriaz, where there’s a focus on local products, high quality wines and cosy areas for you to stay and enjoy a moment as the snow falls outside. You can also pre-order meals to enjoy at home, while a visit to the wine cave is unmissable! You’ll find Le R at 85 Place des Dromonts in Avoriaz, head to the website to view the menu.
menu traiteur-avoriaz.com
le rocher
A warm welcome awaits you in this popular Montriond restaurant, where the menu includes delicious pizzas, Savoyarde favourites and an extra special specials board. Located in the beautiful village square opposite the church, pizzas are also available to take away. Book your table to avoid disappointment as Le Rocher is usually fully booked during the winter season.
for table reservations
+33 (0) 4 50 75 78 47
Just off the slopes in Les Gets and within the Hotel La Marmotte, you’ll discover this great restaurant where service is friendly and speedy and the menu expansive to suit all tastes. There’s a great value, daily changing menu and plat du jour featuring seasonal, local increments and often with a twist. It’s entirely fine to visit La Biskatcha in your ski kit, also!
Reserve your table
+33 (0) 4 50 84 55 35
Morzine Meal Delivery
The flexibility to enjoy your favourite holiday dishes such as fondue, pierrade, raclette and a load of other options in the comfort of your accommodation. Order home-cooked meals plus breakfast options, hampers and even afternoon tea to be delivered to your chalet or apartment while you’re out skiing. Ad-hoc or weekly packages available, giving you a hassle-free holiday!
for more info
alpine-adventure.co.uk
meals@alpine-adventure.co.uk
La Biskatcha
Ultimate Summer
HOLIDAY YOUR
Each summer Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz host a number of unique an memorable events to enhance your summer holiday. Combine them with those beautiful mountain peaks, refreshing lakes and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and you’ve the makings of the perfect summer holiday destination. Here’s a few of our favourite activities, with some key events thrown in for good measure.
Trail Running
Running up and down hills is now a big deal across our three villages, with dedicated discovery trails for all ability levels and colour-coded markings to keep you on track. The best thing about running in the mountains is the views. You’ll twist and turn through beautiful forests, emerging at the top to discover an overwhelming sense of achievement. Just the thrill of the descent remains. Some of the dedicated routes even begin with a chairlift ride, making those trails accessible to almost anyone. Collect a trail map from your local Office de Tourisme, press start on your Strava and run to the hills.
Alta Lumina
One of the most imaginative and memorable activities to be introduced to our valley in many years, Alta Lumina is an immersive sound and vision experience during an enchanted night walk through the forest. Located above Lac des Ecoles in Les Gets, the magic begins as the sun sets. You’ll follow the story of a music maker, who’s hot air balloon crashed into the forest during a wild storm. Holograms, powerful music and interactive elements bring the show to life as you walk the route at your own pace. Alta Lumina is open each evening, book your tickets online in advance at altalumina.com.
Lake Days
Replace your beach days with lake days this summer. Lac de Montriond has a surface area of 32ha and is one of the largest lakes in our area. There you’ll find a dedicated paddling lake, which is perfect for families with children of all ages. The larger lake is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day and other actives around the shore include mini golf, pony rides, canoe and SUP hire plus the friendly Hotel du Lac for all of your lunch, ice cream and beverage requirements. Meanwhile, over in Les Gets, Lac des Ecoles is located just above the village, it features a pebble beach and the incredible Witbit park, an inflatable activity zone on the lake.
White Water Fun
The River Dranse runs through Morzine, widening further down the valley to become a home for water sports. Frogs Rafting and 7Aventures are local companies hosting expert white water rafting sessions on the Dranse throughout the summer season. Select a calm, tranquil rafting experience that takes in the beautiful of the river, with a guide to highlight wildlife or rock formations along the way. Alternatively, choose to charge down the rapids, whopping and splashing along the way, for the ultimate adventure ride.
Having hosted multiple UCI MTB World Cups in recent years, in addition to the 2022 World Championships, Les Gets bike park is arguably the most famous in the world right now. So much has been invested in the trails over the last five years and you’ll find the village packed with mountain bikers all summer long. Les Gets is also one of the first resorts in the Portes du Soleil to open its summer lift network each season, with weekend access to the trails from late-May each year. Over in Morzine, the Pleney is home to some seriously good riding and the Super Morzine lift connects to the trails of Avoriaz and the wider Portes du Soleil. There really is something for everyone.
Downhill Mountain Biking
Pass’Portes du Soleil
This annual mountain bike event will take place on 23rd, 24th and 25th June 2023 and registration will open on 1st February 2023. Spanning an 80km route across the Portes du Soleil and crossing between France and Switzerland, you’ll use 13 lifts to pass through eight resorts over the course of the day. This year Morzine hosts the accompanying MTB show, guaranteeing a lively atmosphere all weekend. If you’re keen to take part, you should know that spaces sell out quickly when registration commences, especially if you wish to start the route in Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz. Head to en.passportesdusoleil.com for more details.
The étape du Tour
Not for the faint-hearted, the Étape du Tour is an annual preview of one stage of Le Tour de France; in 2023 that happens to be the Annemasse to Morzine stage. The ASO (the official organisers of Le Tour) made 15,000 places available at this amateur event which takes place on Sunday 9th July and they sold out within hours. Roads will be closed and cyclists will get to enjoy the full Tour de France experience, if just for one day. You’ll find a full preview of the route, and an interesting insight into what it takes to complete the Etape du Tour on page 150 of this magazine.
The 110th Tour de France
Hosting a stage of the most-watched annual sports contest in the world is something spectacular for Morzine. To do it twice in two years is something else entirely. The greatest road cyclists in the world will arrive in Morzine on Saturday 15th July 2023 having cycled 152km from Annemasse to complete stage 14 of Le Tour. The descent from the Col de Joux Plane, into the centre of the village, will be nothing short of thrilling. The very next day, stage 15 begins in Les Gets and we’ll watch the riders depart for Saint-Gervais, taking a challenging 180km route along the way. Even if you’re not a road cyclist, the accompanying atmosphere and fanfare that comes with this event - both its arrival and its departure - is incredible. You’ll see our villages decked in red spots (to denote the much-coveted King of the Mountain jersey) and there’ll be team cars and buses at every turn. It’s incredibly exciting to see both Morzine and Les Gets sharing the glory if this global event.
SUMMER 23 OPENING DAteS
LES GETS
The bike park reopens on Friday 26 May 2023 for the weekend, and then for the following three weekends, Friday to Sunday. Continuous opening of Les Gets bike park begins on Friday 23rd June. Closing date TBC.
AVORIAZ
Avoriaz bike park reopens on Friday 16th June 2023 with continuous opening until Sunday 10th September 2023.
MORZINE
TBC, keep an eye on our socials and website for opening dates
WWW.MY B I K EHO LI DAY.C O.U K CAT ER ED b i k e HO LI DAYS
THIS SUMMER COME TO THE ALPS TO CHALLENGE YOURSELF AND EXPERIENCE DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKING AT ITS VERY BEST CATERED CHALET HOLIDAYS IN LES GETS FROM JUST £380 PER PERSON FOR 7 NIGHTS
