Issue 16 - Winter 2020/21 - Morzine Source Magazine

issue 16 | winter 21

ISSUE 16 - WINTER 21

FREE // GRATUIT read me & take me home

Your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

INTERVIEW

FEATURE

Katie Ormerod

Ski Lift Graveyard Where do they go?

A Place in the Snow

It’s been the strangest of years for professional snowboarders

All you’ve ever wanted to know about Taninges Télécabines

The TV presenter on the future of the international property market

Famous for her Firsts

INTERVIEW

PLUS

Jonnie Irwin

News, Environment, Property, Hockey, Gear Guides and more…

KEEP CALM AND KEEP DREAMING

IMAGINE YOUR POST SKIING DIP HERE...

IMAGINE YOURSELF RELAXING HERE...

IMAGINE YOUR HOME OFFICE WITH THIS VIEW...

These are all from one of our vendors’ properties. Don’t stop dreaming.

Visit www.geranium74.com to enjoy more dreams. info@geranium74.com | 00 33 (0)4 50 38 86 30 Geranium Immobilier EURL, 1797 route des Grandes Alpes, Saint Jean d’Aulps, 74430, France 2

au capital de € 5.000, Immatriculée au RCS de Thonon-les-Bains N° 515 135 341, TVA intracom FR 95515135341, Garantie financière € 120 000. resort informationEURL//

Carte Professionnelle Transactions sur immeubles et fonds de commerces Numéro: CPI 7401 2018 000 029 806 délivrer par la CCI de la Haute Savoie, le 02/05/2018.

© oreli b

Assurance et Banque

Financial Planning and Insurance

But not as you know it Your local AXA agents Marc Invernizzi and Nicolas Laurent invite you for a full 360˚ financial review, without obligation.

Whether you’re considering a move to our valley, or you’re already here, it pays to be prepared; both for the now, and the future.

We are experts in: • Social protection and healthcare coverage for you and your family • Helping you reach your financial retirement goals • Mortgage, business, home and car insurance policies • Tax efficient investments and financial planning Here at AXA Morzine we pride ourselves in counselling our clients - both new and old - to reassure you during these uncertain times.

Call or email us to arrange an appointment

04 50 79 15 34 Marc Invernizzi – Nicolas Laurent

835 route des Bois Venants, 74110, Morzine agence.invernizzietlaurent@axa.fr Agents Généraux associés exclusif AXA N° ORIAS 20003458 / 20003460 www.orias.fr ACPR – Autorité de contrôle prudentiel et de résolution : 61 Rue Taitbout – 75009 PARIS Le détail des procédures de recours et de réclamation et les coordonnées du service dédié sont disponibles sur les sites www.axa.fr. En cas de non résolution d’un différend à l’issue du processus de réclamation, vous pouvez avoir recours au Médiateur, en vous adressant à l’association : La Médiation de l'Assurance, TSA 50110, 75441 PARIS CEDEX 9

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your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

contents New Places to Stay....................................................................8 Resort Essentials................................................................... 10 The Katie Ormerod Interview.............................................18 Trending - Ski........................................................................26 The Facts About Climate Change......................................30 The Woodman.........................................................................34 Trending - Kids......................................................................38 Making Dreams - Alta Lumina......................................... 40 Piste & Quiet...........................................................................44 Keeping You Safe on the Slopes.........................................48

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History & Heritage............................................................... 50 Launching La Bokka.............................................................54 Out of Sight.............................................................................58 Trending - Snowboard........................................................60 The Lockdown Diary of Mia Brookes.............................. 66 Belle et Brave..........................................................................70 Trending - Travel.................................................................. 74

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The Source Accommodation Directory........................... 77 Hot Property...........................................................................82 Trending - Interiors.............................................................88 The Jonnie Irwin Interview.................................................94 Through The Keyhole...........................................................98 The State of the Market......................................................102 The Test of Time................................................................. 104 Meet My Team....................................................................... 110 The Loop.................................................................................116 Trending - Trail Running..................................................118 The Hive.................................................................................120 This Is My Thing..................................................................122 Accepting the Unexpected.................................................124 Emily’s Book Review...........................................................128 The Science of Hugs............................................................130 Trending - Local Gifts........................................................132 The Track Ahead..................................................................134 Front de Neige......................................................................138

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Ten Green Bottles............................................................... 140 Ski Lift Graveyard................................................................144 Summer in the Mountains................................................150 //

contents

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welcome It’s the evening of Friday 15 March 2020 and I’m

annual winter holiday, filled with excitement and

constantly refreshing my browser, awaiting the

able to give the virus the swerve, if only for a week.

inevitable update. Across our valley other small business owners are doing the same. A premature

As I write this intro, at the very final moment before

end to the Winter 2020 season is disastrous

we go to print, I’ve no idea what this ski season will

on many levels, to say we were disturbed and

look like for any of us. I’m confident and resolutely

anxious when the news finally arrived would be an

positive, yet everything is still to be confirmed. I do

understatement.

know that everyone involved in the organisation of our villages, ski lifts and local businesses are

I never imagined we’d still be in this uncertain

committed to making Winter 2021 work in every way

and precarious situation as we roll into Winter

possible. We’re in the most capable hands and it’s

2021. Some fantastic businesses in our industry,

so inspiring to watch new shops, restaurants and

reared over many years by hardworking owners,

chalets open in the face of COVID-19. The volume

have failed because of COVID-19. Was I alone in

of development this year has been staggering and

imagining that this chaos would be over by now?

there’s a genuine feeling of hope now – there’s light at the end of the tunnel. The new normal will be a

Once again you’ll find reference to the global

much better normal here in Morzine, Les Gets and

pandemic throughout many of the articles that

Avoriaz and you’re expected to join us, of course.

follow, and I’m truly sorry for that. Whilst COVID-19 is unavoidable, I’d hoped to offer you a respite from this annus horribilis. I’d hoped you’d arrive for your

Go forth, enjoy, wash your hands.

Amie - amie@morzinesourcemagazine.com /MorzineSourceMagazine

/MorzineSourceMagazine

brought to you by…

Often under difficult circumstances, our team of excellent contributors have really pulled it out the bag this winter. We’re immensely grateful to you all!

Nicky Iseard | Tim Scott | Michael Henderson | Tammy Esten | Samuel Nelson | Aisling Donnellan | Kyles Garrett Alan Watson | Gareth Jefferies | Benjamin Eyre | Edwina Sutton | Natalie Elvy | Emily Williams | Carrie Greer | Daniel Elkan Cover image - Lac de Montriond by Thomas Gallopin - tgphotographie.com @tg_photographie_

a note on our paper…

We love our paper, we’re proud that it’s sustainably sourced and recyclable. We’ve therefore decided not to coat it in anti-bac chemicals or to stuff this magazine into a plastic bag.

CBP001747

Copyright Origami Media Ltd 2020. Morzine Source Magazine is published in the UK and remains the property of Origami Media Ltd. All material in this magazine is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved by Origami Media Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers. Dates, information and prices are believed to be correct at the time of going to print but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for omissions or errors. Any correspondence and advertising enquiries should be directed to: info@origami-media.com or visit www.origami-media.com. Design and reprographics by Origami Media Ltd. Printed in the UK by Swallowtail Print Ltd. With thanks to the Office de Tourisme in Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz, Vallee d’Aulps and Les Portes du Soleil.

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welcome

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your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

So good, you might forget to go out skiing…

Come and stay in our beautifully curated spaces, surrounded by Morzine’s stunning scenery with award-winning food in both our catered and self-catered chalets. A truly unforgettable Alpine experience. email: bookings@alikats.eu phone: +44 (0)20 3514 6012 / +33 (0)7834 96703 Bill Ski half page SOURCE advert.pdf

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23/11/2020

Source Magazine’s Favourite Customer Service in 2019

Telegraph’s top 5 ski holidays 2018-19 for food lovers

Top ranked on Trip Advisor

alikats.eu 08:49

i’m the king of the skiers, the mountain v.i.p, you’ve reached the top and had to stop and that’s what’s bothering me !

Independent Ski School The highest quality ski and snowboard lessons in Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz, taught in English

Customised lessons to suit your ability and experience Group Lessons Private Lessons Kids Lessons Guiding Powder

bonjour@billski.co.uk | +44 (0)7793 200 296

www.billski.co.uk

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resort information

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stay NEW PLACES TO

DURING WINTER 2021

It’s fair to say that COVID-19 did not stop play when it came to the development of new holiday accommodation in our valley over the last 12 months. Beautiful new standalone chalets were constructed, luxurious new apartments developed and the heritage and history of some of our oldest buildings have been restored. Here are six of our favourites.

Located just 10 minutes from the lifts and slopes of Pleney, this stunning new chalet launches this winter. With a hot tub overlooking the village and four en-suite bedrooms sleeping up to 10 guests, La Martmottiere includes beautiful contemporary interiors. There’s an all-singing, all-dancing kitchen, Molton Brown toiletries, underground parking for two vehicles plus that all-important boot warmer and kit room in addition to a large decked balcony area and a BBQ for those springtime après ski BBQs.

La Martmottiere, Morzine

Find out more: panthersnowco.com

Chalet Aspen, Avoriaz

Rarely does a new property of this quality pop up in Avoriaz. In what will be the finest, most luxurious new residence in a long time, Avoriaz Holidays have created Chalet Aspen on a central village spot, directly opposite the Village des Enfants. Comprised of five individual apartments, rooms are spacious and bright whilst the interior design is elemental and chic. There’s even a residents-only swimming pool, gym and wellness space in the basement.

Find out more: avoriaz-holidays.com 8

new places to stay

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your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Chéry Dôme It’s no secret that Mont Chéry offers up some of the very best views in the Portes du Soleil and now you can stay up the mountain over night! Open all year round so you can enjoy the changing seasons, the Chéry Dôme is a geodesic retreat run by ski instructors Amelie and Valentine. They’re passionate about sharing the nature of our mountains with all, so there’s an outdoor hot tub and beautiful, spacious interiors to help you enjoy a night under the stars.

Find out more: cherydome.com

Chalets Hauts Forts

An exclusive development on the pistes of Avoriaz and with stunning ‘alpine chic’ interiors, we can’t wait to take a tour of these exceptional new chalets in the Dromonts district of Avoriaz. Living areas are spacious and angled to take advantage of maximum sunshine, whilst the large terraces take in the amazing views. These new residences are also above the super-chic and newly refurbished Le Roc cocktail lounge and bowling venue, which is also home to a exciting new restaurant this winter too.

Find out more: avoriaz-holidays.co.uk

An exclusive new residence by prestigious developer Alpine Lodges, you’ll find Kinabalu in the centre of the village, just 100 metres from the Monty Chery lift station. Inside are a collection of rental apartments and penthouses that promise to wow with their interior designs, space and family-friendly layout. Your stay at Kinabalu is planned by the Alpine Residences team and you’ll also enjoy access to the brand new, Italian-themed Bokka restaurant (more on page 54). Kinabalu also has a private wellness area including an indoor pool, spa, massage and fitness space, plus Annaski, a private ski room.

Kinabalu, Les Gets

Find out more: alpine-residences.fr

Les Mazots des Fées

You’ll spot these little wooden mazots in gardens across the Alps and here’s your chance to stay in one. Malorie and Fabien have a passion for restoring these Savoyarde gems in the garden of their home on the outskirts of Morzine.

This stunning example retains its heritage and character while offering contemporary interiors and facilities for a really unique holiday. It’s deceptively roomy and makes the perfect family accommodation. Work is already underway to carefully restore three further mazots in their garden for the Winter 22 season in addition to a shared dining room in which Malorie will host themed evenings.

Find out more: mazots-morzine.com //

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essentials winter

We’re always spoilt for choice when it comes to rounding up the new and exciting developments in your favourite ski resorts each winter. Even in the face of COVID-19 challenges, the small businesses of our valley continue to innovate and expand so it’s our pleasure to share these updates with you.

Le Colibri – From the Ashes

Dinner Above Morzine

We’ve made no secret of the fact that Le Colibri in Morzine is one of our all-time favourite family friendly bistrots. Manon and Pauline welcome each and every diner with a warm smile and an outstanding menu. We won’t revisit how heartbreaking it was to watch the restaurant in flames in August 2019, just 18 months after opening (a horrible accident, thankfully no one was hurt in case you don’t know the back story…). Instead we’ll say a massive félicitations to the team for bringing Le Colibri back from the ashes. We’ll be front of the queue on re-opening day. Check out the menu, opening times and more at: lecolibri-morzine.com

The charming restaurant inside the Dahu hotel invites you for a bistronomic, socially distanced dining experience this winter.

Perched on a spot that overlooks the twinkling lights of the village, the menu includes contemporary delights with a focus on locally sourced and sustainable produce.

The service is refined and there’s always something extra special about dining in a hotel restaurant! You’ll need to book in advance by calling +33 (0) 4 50 75 92 92.

Hotel Montriond, Le Lac As you pass Lac de Montriond this winter you’ll no doubt spot a huge renovation project on the site of the old Hôtel les Sapins. Under new ownership, the property is being redeveloped into a 3* 20-bed hotel sleeping up to 50 people and featuring an expansive bridal suite.

There’ll be a fantastic outdoor terrace, plus a restaurant and cocktail bar too. Combined with its stunning location adjacent to the Domaine du Baron and the lake itself, and you’ve got yourself one heck of a wedding venue.

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your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

NOW WITH FLEXIBLE BOOKING TERMS!!!

The Mountains on your Walls Local photographer Jacquie Cutler launches an entirely new art project this winter. Finesse brings Jacquie’s stunning mountain images to the walls of your home. She’s been capturing our local mountain-scapes for many years and now you can order them from her dedicated Finesse website, printed on a variety of materials including canvas, aluminum and even acrylic glass for delivery worldwide. These make the perfect souvenirs of our mountains and Jacquie is available for commissions and colour consultations too! Head to finesse-art.com for more details.

SELF CATERED CHALETS & APARTMENTS

book direct at: mountainxtra.com SUMMER & WINTER | MORZINE & LES GETS

A COVID-19 Safety Accreditation In 2020 COVID-19 touched the lives of everyone and the resort of Avoriaz 1800 was quick off the mark to make the village as safe as possible. It was the first ski station in France to receive the independent COVID-safe accreditation from independent assessment agency Bureau Veritas. In everyday terms, this means that across the resort, from the ski lifts to the welcome centre, from events to the Office de Tourisme, you can expect the highest standards of cleanliness, the adoption of well-managed social distancing principles and information on how to ski safely this winter. Avoriaz, Source salutes you.

For information about Property Management Services contact: info@mountainxtra.com

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Get Lost at Alta Lumina We were some of the very first visitors through the gates at Alta Lumina, an enchanting evening walk and immersive light show, when it opened in Les Gets during Summer 20. It was just dark enough to experience the full show at 10pm, and we left feeling that it would be even more wonderful during the winter months. Alta Lumina Les Gets is the very first of its kind in Europe, and as you’ll discover on page 40, it exists thanks to the determination of the resorts management and Moment Factory, the Canadian production company responsible for the experience. The park is also part of the resort’s drive into four seasons tourism, we love that it’s open all year round for visitors and locals of all ages to enjoy. Discover more and reserve your tickets in advance (highly recommended!) at altalumina.com

The Women’s Mountain Club Arrives in the Portes du Soleil Having established themselves in the high-altitude playground of Chamonix over several seasons, the Women’s Mountain Club arrives in Morzine and our surrounding resorts this winter. Offering technical ski sessions in a friendly, encouraging environment, in addition to the Chamonix based mountain skills sessions with qualified guides, The Women’s Mountain Club is a community who meet regularly through the winter.

“It’s about empowering female skiers to explore the vast terrain of the Portes du Soleil and giving them the confidence to let rip,” Morzine partner and local instructor Ali Gibb explains. “The really exciting news is that we’ve been awarded a grant from The North Face COVID Explorer Fund contributing to the cost of this winter’s sessions making them really accessible for everyone,” Ali continues. Thanks to support from Volkl, Marker and Dalbello, they’ll be running ski test and demo sessions too. “We’re hoping there’ll be a cross-over between our Chamonix sessions and our Portes du Soleil-based meet-ups too, giving ladies the chance to use their free season pass vouchers in other resorts, go exploring and meet like minded ski buddies.” Ali explains.

Find out more and sign up at womensmountainclub.com

Dining In Self-catered guests in Avoriaz are in for a treat this winter. The acclaimed kitchen team at Le Roc (your local bowling, restaurant and cocktail bar) now offer a takeaway service so you can enjoy their delicious food in the comfort of your own holiday accommodation.

Simply order directly from the bar or call +33 (0) 4 50 74 06 77 and your well-earned dinner will be waiting for you after a hard day on the slopes. Discover more at roc-avoriaz.com

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For the love of sandwiches On the site of the old Odlo shop at the top of the rue du Bourg, Pauline Roguet launches a brand new gourmet sandwich shop this winter.

Serving freshly ground coffee, looseleaf tea and homemade cakes in addition to breakfast bowls of museli, yoghurt and fruits, the treats on offer at Au P’tit Casse Croûte adapt to your hunger levels throughout the day. At lunchtime there’ll be a large selection of homemade sandwiches including traditional favourites and Piadina (Italian flatbreads), luxury treats, child-friendly options and vegetarian options too. With 10 seats inside the café and a focus on take-away options, packaging has been designed so you can enjoy your food on the street, on the ski lift or at work. Pauline has sourced all of her ingredients locally, working with butchers, dairy farms and bakers to deliver a truly authentic Morzine lunch to go. Keep up to date by searching for Au Ptit Casse Croûte on Facebook.

A Photo Safari If it’s your mission to document the very best views on your phone during your ski holiday, you’ll love this new Instagram route across the Avoriaz piste map. Download the route from the Avoriaz Up&Down app then ski or walk your way to each of the markers, located at exceptional viewpoints. Each viewing point is easily identified and we’ll be looking out for your pictures this winter!

HOFNAR ssource winter 20 advert.pdf 1 18/11/2019 your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

15:11

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone Once you travel solo for the first time, you might never travel any other way again. Judging by the increasing numbers of lone travellers, lots of people feel the same way - it’s the hottest trend in travel.

Developing Our Front de Neige In many French ski resorts, the Front de Neige (the snow front, where the mountains meet the village) is a big deal. It’s the site of entertainment, après parties, sledging, live music and much more; it showcases everything that’s amazing about a particular resort, bringing joy to holiday makers and families in particular. In an effort to bring this magic back to Morzine, a not-for-profit association has formed to sustain and reimagine our Front de Neige by enhancing snow coverage and introducing an entertainment programme. You’ll discover more about this project on page 138, but it the meantime, follow the group’s progress on their Facebook page: facebook.com/associationdufrontdeneigedemorzine

There are a whole host of reasons you might be travelling alone - your friends don’t share your passion, or they’re at a different life stage, or have lost their lust for adventure.

Or you just want to embrace the positives of solo travel you get to have the experiences you want, do things a little differently and meet new like-minded people.

With a huge growth in companies like the HOFNAR experience specialising in solo travel, that first independent trip is easier to take than ever. And our solo travellers are rarely alone for long - you get to join an instant crew, and many of our once-solo travellers come back the following year together, or go off on even bigger adventures.

Leap out of your comfort zone and go it alone - you never know where it might take you.

www.hofnar.com

WINTER CLOTHING RENTAL SERVICE Do you, your family or friends require quality, affordable clothing?

Try our ski and snowboard clothing rental service

ONLY £75 per week £500 worth of kit

© sam ingles / odt morzine

The Eagles Return Last winter we saw a world first on Nyon; ski falconry. Restaurant la Pointe de Nyon, at an altitude of 1413m, became home to several birds of pray including eagles, buzzards and owls. They spend their summers at the Aigles du Leman park further down the valley and they’ll make their return to Morzine this winter for a truly unique experience. Dine in the restaurant as they swoop above your head, or watch them in their huts during feeding time. By prior arrangement, you can even ski with the birds soaring above you on the pistes of Nyon. For more information and booking conditions head to lesaiglesduleman.com

Resort business or chalet owner?

Get in touch with us and find out how you can become a partner

michael@crevasseclothing.com | crevasseclothing.com //

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Art for Free

Treat Yourself at Les Sources du Chery

We discovered Art’n Chéry at the end of the Winter 20 season and since then this gallery has developed into a 100m2 space of culture and colour. Showcasing the work of local artists and including both painting and sculpture, the space also encourages new artists to step forward into the limelight. A series of exhibitions are planned for this winter season, entry is free of charge and you’ll find the gallery at 2249 Route des Grandes Alpes. It’s open every day except Tuesday between 2pm and 7pm.

As we reported last winter, Les Gets now has itself an all-singing, alldancing day spa and we’re slightly addicted. The space is beautifully managed by Emilie and her team, who offer the highest standards of beauty and relaxation treatments in several private rooms. Of course, it’s not a spa without a collection of steam baths, saunas, plunge pools and a sea salt cave. The large swimming pool and outdoor hot tub are particularly inviting following an afternoon on the slopes but what could make this space event better? New for this winter… childcare. There’s now an in-house crèche to take care of your little ones while you take care of yourself. Discover more and book your ultimate holiday pamper day at sourcesduchery.com

© Mel Carle for Les Gets Office de Tourisme

Chalet Dinners on your Terms The catered ski holiday has become such a firm favourite amongst mountain-goers over the years, for reasons that are usually obvious. A chef and a host on-hand to prepare your meals; discovering a freshly baked cake upon your return from the mountain; all that chalet wine.

Things might look a little different this year (thanks COVID), and in response, AliKats Mountain Holidays have launched a semi-catered package in all of their properties. Meals are freshly prepared in a central kitchen, limiting your contact with resort staff, before being delivered directly to your chalet fridge five times a week whilst you’re still on the mountain. Follow the easy reheating instructions and dine whenever suits you. Afternoon cakes, quality wine, champagne and canapés can also be included, giving you the fully catered ski chalet experience, whilst staying in your ski bubble. Discover more at alikats.eu/semicatered-whats-included

Just For Girls Solo travel company the HOFNAR experience have allocated one full week at Chalet Skade this winter season to the ladies. This dedicated female experience is for skiers of all ages and levels of ability and features extra special activities such as yoga sessions each morning and evening plus a whole host of spa and massage treatments too. The threecourse menu will have a healthy focus, there’ll be plenty of skiing to boot, and also the opportunity to try your hand at other mountain sports such as snowshoeing and ski joering. This exclusive trip tales place between 27 February and 6 March 2021, find out more at hofnar.com

Happy Birthday Mas de la Coutettaz It’s 250 years since slate miner Antoine Plagnat built a farmhouse for his family in the centre of Morzine and today it’s the oldest building in the village. Mas de la Coutettaz has had just three owners in 250 years and on page 104 we recount the fascinating history of this beautiful building, which these days is also known as The Farmhouse Hotel. There are plans for a celebration in 2021, stay tuned for updates. For now, discover more at thefarmhouse.co.uk

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MSC advert winter20.pdf 1 & 10/09/2020 your source ofsource information for Morzine, Les Gets Avoriaz

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Also on Nyon…

Accessing the pistes of Nyon just got a whole load easier. A covered escalator now connects the free car park at the base of the mountain with the lift station further up, making those clunky metal staircases a thing of the past!

As our Instagram followers already know, a brand new viewing platform was erected on Nyon during the summer months in preparation for this winter season. Set at an altitude of 2019 metres, you’ll step out onto a 10 metre walkway made of… glass. And once you’ve got your head around that, take in the 360° views from Lake Geneva to Mont Blanc. Access to the viewing platform is free; you just need your lift pass to ski from the Pointe de Nyon chairlift.

Our speciality is your perfect getaway!

Nyon fans will also remember that l’Aigle Rouge piste enjoyed a partial reconfiguration last winter. The remodeling has been finished for this season and now includes a slope that is three times wider than previously, while below on the Nyon plateau, you can have your own moment of flight in Eagle Park. There’s a new extra large boarder cross course to test and new modules to conquer in this eco snowpark.

Run with the Horses Last winter we introduced you to Phillipe, Shinouk and their team of beautiful horses on the Super Morzine. Phillipe was kind enough to take us on a gentle introduction to ski joering, which involves skiing behind a horse on dedicated slopes that vary in gradient. Ski joering is the perfect way to explore the mountains, away from the slopes. There’s also something entirely exhilarating about the power of these friendly beasts. We thoroughly recommend you give ski joering a go this winter!

Call +33 (0) 6 86 07 21 32 or head to facebook.com/avoriazskijoeering

www.morzineskichalets.com //

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Learn to Love the Outdoors

A New Bank Account for Non Residents

Vivien and Jason Day have a mission; they want everyone to learn to love the outdoors as much as they do. They offer tranquil, awe-inspiring snowshoe treks around Morzine and the surrounding valley each winter, either as half day or full day private trips. With walks for all abilities, there’s even an evening show shoe trip that takes in dinner at a traditional mountain alpage along the way. Transport is provided from wherever you’re staying in our valley and we promise you; this is the very best way to get off the beaten track and out into the wilderness this winter. Find out more and contact Vivien and Jason at daysawayadventures.com

In the not too distant past, it was a real headache to open a bank account in one country while living in another. Fortunately our local AXA agents Marx Invernizzi and Nicolas Laurent have launched a new option aimed specifically at second home owners or those with an economic interest in France. The AXA bank account is a simple online account including a free debit card, cheque book and access to AXA lending. All you’ll need to open a new account is your ID, proof of your property or economic interest and an email address. Set-up is virtual, so you can do it from the comfort of your own sofa, wherever that sofa is! Simply email agenceinvernizzietlaurent@axa.fr La Bokka The Finest Italian Cuisine As you’ll discover on page 54 of this very magazine, Les Gets gets itself a brand new restaurant this winter, courtesy of the team at Alpine Restaurants.

La Bokka is a truly authentic Italian restaurant located within the brand new Kinabalu residence in the centre of the village. It’s expansive and the team has designed a menu packed with some of your favourite authentic ingredients and dishes.

There’ll be live entertainment too, making La Bokka the perfect destination for a night out or a celebration dinner.

View the menu at: bokka-lesgets.com

Billski Poster.pdf

The Ultimate Skydive Imagine free-falling over the snowy peaks of Avoriaz or Morzine? New for this winter season, Evolution 2 have added sky diving to their huge list of high adrenalin activities available between the two resorts. You’ll jump from a helicopter in tandem while the whole thing is recorded for your viewing pleasure back at your chalet later. The minimum age is 15 years old, the maximum weight is 80kg and the price is €550 per person including the video. The Evolution 2 team will even pick you up from your chalet too! For more details head to evoltuion2.com/morzine.

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29/10/2020

14:04

you’re invited to join Our Gorilla Gang rs, a fun, progressive ski club aimed

Hosted by your local BILLSKI instructo

WE WANT YOUR

at local children

H AS WE DO!

NTAINS AS MUC CHILDREN TO LOVE THE MOU

EVERY SATURDAY AND WEDNESDAY for 3 hours during the Winter ‘21 season • A maximum of 8 children per group

• Includes mountain safety sessions

Join the Gorilla Gang Independent ski school Billski have launched a dedicated kids club this winter season with the aim of inspiring your children to love the mountains as much as you do. The Gorilla Gang is a fun, progressive ski club for local children who will meet each week in small groups. Sessions will include mountain safety awareness, beginner park skills and more with the aim of creating an enjoyable, encouraging environment for little ones on the mountain.

Prices start from €450 per child for the whole season, group will have a maximum of eight children and you can find out more by emailing bonjour@billski.co.uk

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

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French Courses Finance your Course using a training budget if you are employed on a French contract or have a French business

Weekly Group Lessons for Locals Winter & Summer Intensive Courses Private Lessons Tutoring & Exam Preparation

Formation Anglais Pour les particuliers et les professionnels Financez votre formation avec votre CPF (salariés) ou votre enveloppe de formation (gérants) Cours d'anglais pour enfants après l'école

Centre de Loisirs Anglais Pendant les Vacances d'été 'Cours ludiques et stimulants 9h-12h30 Profs anglophones, dynamiques & expérimentés Activités l'après-midi //

danny macaskill

17

info@alpinefrenchschool.com | Tel: 04 50 79 08 38 | www.alpinefrenchschool.com

“It’s just me, my snowboard and the mountain” INSIDE THE PERFECTLY BALANCED WORLD OF

Katie Ormerod Interview by Amie Henderson

18

interview with katie ormerod

// © henry knock // red bull content pool

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

//

interview with katie ormerod

19

Usually, when I begin to piece together an interview with an athlete for this magazine, I start by explaining to you, our readers, why said person is important.

Why they are relevant; why you need to know about them.

“Dream now, plan later”

We’ll look back at their first time on skis or a snowboard, we’ll look forward to consider their potential. But for Katie Ormerod, it’s all about the here and now.

“Lockdown was surprisingly OK,” Katie tells me when I ask for her take on the strangest times we’ve ever known. She’s at home in Brighouse, West Yorkshire when we speak. “I went into it with a positive mindset, my sponsors at Red Bull sent me a load of gym equipment and I converted my garage at home. It kept me busy, I ran each day and learned to skateboard. It gave my days a purpose,” explains Katie.

At just 23 years of age, Katie is most famous for her firsts. Aged 16, she was the first female snowboarder to land a cork 1080 (three rotations and two inverted flips). She was the youngest female snowboarder to land a double back flip. She’s the first British rider ever to win a snowboard World Cup and the first British female to win any kind of World Cup on snow.

That’s why she’s relevant, readers. You need to know about Katie Ormerod.

“This year, my season was supposed to start in August in New Zealand. Obviously that didn’t happen.” With the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics on the horizon, the next 12 months of Katie’s life have been carefully mapped out. So what’s next? “Potentially a comp in North America, or I’ll wait for Europe to reopen. I love competing and I’m eager to get going again.” >> 20

interview with katie ormerod

“I WATCHED THE REST OF THE GAMES FROM MY HOSPITAL BED. WATCHING MY FRIENDS COMPETE WAS AN EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE”

// © Miles Holden // Red Bull Content © oreli Pool b

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Alpine Welcome Boxes delivered directly to your guest accommodation

Beautifully presented welcome boxes packed with locally sourced essentials and luxury items for soon-to-be impressed guests

info@laboxalps.com | www.laboxalps.com |

//

laboxalps

interview with katie ormerod

21

Katie became the first British snowboarder to win a World Cup title in March 2020 after the International Ski Federation (FIS) cancelled the final event of the season over COVID-19 concerns. She’d been on the podium in all four of the season’s slopestyle events, making her the overall strongest rider of the season and the owner of a coveted Crystal Globe. But where is the globe? “It’s still in the box! Honestly!” Katie explains. “I do have a trophy cabinet, but I’m way too nervous to display it. It’s very precious. Maybe it needs its own cabinet?”

If you’re new to Katie’s story, you might imagine a career heavily pinned to success, hard work and determination. But it wasn’t always this easy for Katie. Just before the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, Ski Sunday presenter Graham Bell described Katie as “arguably Britain’s best medal chance for PyeongChang 2018.” She’d even placed third at the Big Air World Cup test event on the very same course in November 2016. To say hopes were high would be an understatement. Two days before the games started, she broke her wrist, but for an athlete used to the bumps and scrapes of professional competition, she went on to compete regardless. Then, during a training run, she broke her heel in two places. “It was an awful injury,” Katie tells me. “And not how I imagined my first Olympics would go,” she continues. Rushed to hospital in Seoul, it took doctors over an hour to remove her snowboard boot and several operations followed. “I watched the rest of the games from my hospital bed. Watching my friends compete was an emotional experience, especially seeing the horrific weather and dangerous conditions for the Slopestyle event,” Katie explains.

“I was gutted not to compete at the big air event but I did my best to support my Team GB mates from afar!”

“It was a hard time,” Katie says of her rehabilitation. In total, she was off snow for 12 months and away from competitions for 18 months. “The injury gave me a chance to work on my fitness and my mental strength to come back even harder. I spent 18 months visualising my runs and I began to appreciate snowboarding much more.” But there must be some unfinished business right? We’re only one year away from the next Olympics, after all. “I’m eager to do my runs in Beijing and have fun at the same time,” says Katie.

Perhaps more impressive than Katie’s balanced outlook is the fact that her talent was inspired by and honed on a dry slope at the tender age of five. She didn’t grow up on snow. “Halifax’s ski and snowboard centre is definitely different to real snow!” says a humble Katie. “It’s a carpet made of plastic bristles but I didn’t know any different!” Katie credits the consistency of the setup at Halifax – repeating the same jumps over and over again, alongside the fun, encouraging atmosphere, for her rapid skill development. >> 22

interview with katie ormerod

“IT WAS A HARD TIME, THE INJURY GAVE ME A CHANCE TO WORK ON MY FITNESS AND MENTAL STRENGT AND COME BACK EVEN HARDER”

// © Syo van Vliet // Red Bull Content Pool

Farmhouse.pdf 1 Morzine, 02/09/2020 15:16 your source of information for Les Gets & Avoriaz

The oldest building in Morzine built in 1771 is a charming hotel

• 18th Century Farmhouse • Delicious cuisine every evening • Perfect destination for winter & summer breaks 11 STUNNING BEDROOMS • DELIGHTFUL DINING ROOMS WINTER & SUMMER WEDDINGS

www.thefarmhouse.co.uk +33 (0) 4 50 79 08 26 info@thefarmhouse.co.uk

/TheFarmhouseMorzine

//

@TheFarmhouseMZ

interview with katie ormerod

23

“Halifax was the perfect base! It’s just a 10-minute drive from my house; it’s open after school, it’s open all year round.”

At the same time as she was taking her first tentative runs on a snowboard, Katie was already an accomplished gymnast, and it’s now that those aerials and inversions start to make sense. “I started gymnastics when I was four years old and I trained and competed until I was 16,” Katie explains.

“Gymnastics gives you excellent spacial awareness; the ability to know where you are in the air. This is essential for snowboarding,” Katie explains. “Gymnastics also gives you muscular strength and power and this contributes massively,” she continues. “A double back flip in gymnastics directly translates to a double back flip on a snowboard.” The landing is a little different though, hey?

We can all imagine the physical risks and mental pressures that come with a career as a professional snowboarder. I’m keen to know how Katie manages the stresses and strains – she seems so balanced! “I just remind myself why I’m here. ‘I love snowboarding,’ I tell myself. And I’m able to focus entirely on me. Me, my snowboard and the mountain.” I have to remind myself that this steady, stable, mature outlook is that of a 23 year old.

It wasn’t until 2011, when Katie was just 14, that slopestyle snowboarding became an Olympic event. “I looked up to the other riders, like Jenny Jones, they were such great role models for the sport,” Katie explains. “They showed me how much fun snowboarding could be and now I want to be a good role model too.” During lockdown Katie hosed a morning online stretch session on Instagram, encouraging her followers to enjoy an active lifestyle and have fun along the way. Again, to find a balance.

But who will Katie be a role model to?

I’m keen to know who she’s watching come through the Team GB park and pipe snowboard squad. “Mia. Mia Brookes,” she says in a heartbeat. Now, 13-year-old Mia needs no introduction on the pages of this magazine, but in case you missed our extensive Mia-fest feature last winter, you’ll find it on our website.

From dry slope beginnings to sustaining a potentially career-ending injury at the highest level, Katie remains calm yet motivated, fun yet mature beyond her years.

She’s perfectly balanced. Throw in a global pandemic, she won’t be shaken.

More Info: Follow Katie’s winter - @ormerodkatie

24

interview with katie ormerod

“I JUST REMIND MYSELF WHY I'M HERE, I LOVE SNOWBOARDING.”

// © Syo van Vliet // Red Bull Content © oreli Pool b

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Newly constructed by local craftsmen, we have created a subtle blend of the traditional and contemporary. Set over three spacious floors, all provide breathtaking views from the external balconies.

Nestled in the heart of idyllic Montriond, Chalet Heavenly provides a perfect base for your Alpine adventure in Europe’s largest ski area, the Portes du Soleil.

Our five en-suite bedrooms, furnished with kingsize beds and sumptuous bedding, occupy our lower floors giving direct access to our landscaped garden with a fire pit, the panoramically positioned hot tub and a cosy sauna.

All our luxurious facilities are complimented by our “Angel Service” which provides you with a professional Chef, host and private driver, who will enable you to enjoy any of the 650km of pistes at your leisure in one of our luxury vehicles.

Our upper floor has been reserved for leisure and dining with an expansive open space and a full length balcony where morning coffee or pre dinner drinks compliment the dramatic back drop of picturesque Morzine.

Please contact us at:

www.chaletheavenly.com to reserve your Winter or Summer break and we will ensure that it is...

Truly Heavenly

//

resort information

25

trending - ski -

As Editor of Fall-Line Skiing Magazine, no one knows their ski kit better than Nicky Iseard. Here’s her selection of the very best gear available this winter.

Nicky Iseard fall-line magazine editor

Giro Grid / Envi MIPS helmet RRP €250.00 www.giro.com

Ski tourers heading into the depths of the PDS backcountry this winter – this lid is for you. The new Grid MIPS for men, and women’s Envi MIPS, is a top-spec, super-protective helmet that is light. Mega light. When you wear a helmet this light you forget it is there. Giro has somehow achieved this featherweight without doing away with all the top features you’d normally expect from the brand. You’ve got MIPS technology for minimising concussion risk; a dial at the back so you can get a perfect fit in seconds – even with gloves on; a magnetic clasp; and a Polartec quick-drying liner. We also found the venting system, while effective at channeling air, is also quiet.

There is nothing worse than wind noise when ripping slopes on that well-earned descent.

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trending - ski

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K2 Disruption Mti / Mti Alliance skis RRP €800.00 / €680.00 www.k2snow.com

K2 has won accolades from testers the world over this year for its new piste-slicing Disruption series. Drawing on K2’s infamous freeski heritage, the range boasts some funky new tech for skiers looking to have fun playing with centrifugal forces in wild carves while also keeping composure at speed. The tech is called DMD (Dark Matter Dampening) – rubber and carbon dampening material is placed over the ski edge to soak up high-frequency vibrations. Less chatter in the tips means they track in the snow beautifully. It’s a broad collection of skis and stiffnesses, with waist widths from 72 up to 82mm. We’re most excited by the men’s 74mm Disruption Mti and women’s 72mm Disruption Mti Alliance. Both have titanal I-beams through the ski for stability and precision through the entire turn, so you can hold onto the most wild Ss like a boss but still ski variable or chunky snow while your mates on race-derived sticks are struggling.

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

alpine-property.com | + 33 (0)4 50 04 86 07

PICTURE YOUR PROPERTY HERE

UNDER THE NOSE OF

10,000

POTENTIAL BUYERS. EVERY DAY. 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 staff, 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.

// Winter 21 Source Advert 90.75 x 185.25.indd 1

trending - ski

27 02/09/2020 13:17

Bollé Nevada Neo goggles RRP €240.00 www.bolle.com

First things first, Bollé has nailed the shape of these Nevadas, and the colour combos. They are awesome-looking in the flesh.

For a brand that puts so much focus into the lens quality, it is amazing to see how Bolle’s styles have progressed over the years.

Speaking of the lens, the Nevada Neo is the brand’s first magnetic goggle. Bollé has taken this popular design and pushed it to the next level – these lenses have an extra little lock, called the EyeLatch, to ensure the lens stays in place even on the rowdiest of lines. As for your view, the Phantom lens is photochromic, self-regulating from Category 1 to Category 3, and there is a bonus Category 0 lens for those mega-socked-in days. Add FlowTech venting, anti-fog and anti-scratch lens treatments, and a comfy siliconised strap and you have one helluva badass goggle.

Upgrade to the semi-polarised Phantom+ lens for an extra €20.

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trending - ski

//

Source Peak Snowfor Sports.pdf your source of information Morzine, Les 1Gets20/10/2020 & Avoriaz

Nordica HF 110 / HF 85 W boots RRP €470.00 www.nordica.com

09:33

SPECIALIST INSTRUCTORS FOR ALL THINGS SNOWSPORTS

Rear-entry boots are back, baby! "But I never used them," I hear you say.

And to that I reply: "well, perhaps you haven't lived!" (By living I mean: being able to put your ski boots on with ease in the chalet, sub-zerodegrees car park, restaurant, wherever. Imagine!) Sceptical you may be, but comfort aside, this is a seriously well-equipped boot from Nordica.

Available in a men’s (HF 110) and women’s (HF 85 W) version, it has a good all-mountain flex rating for a wide range of abilities; it boast a top-level cork liner and mouldable inners; it has a GripWalk sole for negotiating frozen roads in town. Expert mountain crushers should look elsewhere, but everyone from plain comfort-seekers to strong intermediates looking for a performance-oriented recreational boot with zero faff should consider this boot as their next upgrade. Handsfree ski boots – count us in!

“Learn to ski with us and have the freedom to explore” Helly Hansen Lifa Merino Midweight Hoodie RRP €110.00 www.hellyhansen.com

Helly Hansen is best known for its mega-technical outerwear, but don't underestimate the brand’s ability to design baselayers and midlayers, too. In our experience Helly Hansen’s merino is some of the softest-woven merino we have tested – none of that scratchiness you get with some other brands. The merino in its new Lifa Midweight Hoodie – available in both men’s and women’s versions – gets a tick for sustainability, too; it is grown by ZQ-certified growers, which demand the best in animal welfare and environmental practice. Next to the cosy merino is a LIFA layer, which is something HH is super proud of, providing fantastic warmth-to-breathability-to-weight ratios. The hood adds to this top’s versatility – you’ll be thankful for it on those frigid mid-January days up on Fornet.

+44 (0) 1483 616 522 hello@peaksnowsports.com @peaksnowsports

www.peaksnowsports.com //

trending - ski

29

climate change THE FACTS ABOUT

AND THE FUTURE OF SNOW IN THE PORTES DU SOLEIL

By Tim Scott

Have you wondered what climate change actually signifies in our valley and what the news headlines, facts and figures might mean on the ground?

The purpose of this article is to draw our attention to what is happening around us and to inspire every reader to take action, whether you live here year-round or are visiting for a few days.

There are things we can all do which will make a difference.

2400m

LES HAUTES FORT

I’ve been living in the area for 30 years, teaching skiing for the last 25 years. I mostly work in Les Gets where I run LGS (Les Gets Snowsports). You may think I’m in a perfect position to review the last three decades and give a detailed account of how winter seasons have progressively become warmer with less and less snow cover. Well ‘yes’ and ‘no’.

My first winter in Les Gets in 1990 was one of the warmest. The slopes of Chavannes were completely green until February - was this due to weather patterns or climate change, or both? Since then we’ve had some epic winters and some not so epic winters.

I recently had a conversation with an elderly Morzinoise who described long, hard winters in the 60’s and 70’s, when January temperatures never rose above -20°C in Morzine and -30°C in Avoriaz. That’s almost unimaginable now!

MAX 100 DAYS WITH 30CM SNOW

2200m 2000m

NYON

1800m

AVORIAZ

LESS THAN 40 DAYS WITH 30CM SNOW

1600m CHAVANNES AND LINDERETS 1400m

GOAT VILLAGE

1200m

LES GETS AND CHATEL

1000m

MORZINE

FIG.1: An increase of 3º C by 2100 will make our NORTH FACING slopes look like this

30

the facts about climate change

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SNOWY PERIOD HALVED

NO SNOW

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Distinguishing between climate change and natural weather fluctuations is like skiing in a whiteout, but scientific data is a bit like the right goggle choice and makes everything clearer.

I’m no climate change expert by any means.

However, I am passionate about the incredible place I choose to live and feel that the responsibility to protect our snow for current and future generations lies with us all. Having spent years making “fuzzy observations’’ regarding snow conditions, recent climate change training has really opened my eyes.

I’ve been shocked by the rate of change projected by scientific reports, backed up by real data from across the Alps.

Adapting our mindsets and lifestyles needs to be a ‘must do’ rather than ‘an after-thought’.

What does it all mean?

The 2015 Paris Agreement (which Trump pulled the US out of) targets a 1.5°C global temperature change. Time is almost up, we are already nearly there and temperatures are quickly rising towards a 3°C increase by the end of the century.

If carbon emissions aren’t reduced now, we will see about a 70% reduction in annual snow cover by 2100. Fig.1 opposite shows what a 3°C increase signifies for our local slopes by the end of the century.

• No snow at all below 1200m (Morzine/Les Gets/Chatel) • The number of snow days at 1500m (Chavannes/ Lindarets/Pleney) will at least half.

• Below 1800m (Avoriaz), there'll be fewer than than 40 days per season with 30cm of snow or more • Between 1800m and 2400m (Hauts Forts), there'll be a maximum of 100 days per season with 30cm of snow or more.

• Below 1400m (Les Lindarets village), there'll be less than 40 days per season with 30cm of snow or more.

• Between 1400m and 2000m (Pointe de Nyon Chamossiere), there'll be a maximum of 100 days per season with 30cm of snow or more. >> //

the facts about climate change

31

FIG.2: Our winters are becoming

DECEMBER

shorter and may look like this.

2400m

JANUARY

LES HAUTES FORT

NYON

1800m

AVORIAZ

30CM OF NATURAL SNOW ONLY FOUND ABOVE 2400M

GOAT VILLAGE

1200m

LES GETS AND CHATEL

1000m

MORZINE

DECEMBER Hopefully the 1.5°C limit will be achieved in the next 30 years and beyond, but we will still see some significant changes to snow conditions by 2050: • Season length shortened by at least 100 days at 1500m • Season length shortened by 30% to 40% at 1500m See Fig.2 above

How can we help make a difference?

Armed with a little extra understanding, we can all adapt the way we think and take ownership for our actions.

Making pledges can help keep us (and our businesses) committed to our promises throughout the year. Check out Montagne Verte’s pledge page at: montagnevertemorzine.com/en/the-pledge

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

It’s not too late to make changes, but we need to act now if we’re to bring a 70% reduction down to a 30% reduction in snow cover by the end of the century!

For more inspiration and ideas: Greta Thunberg videos: theyearofgreta.com Montagne Verte: montagnevertemorzine.com POW (Protect our Winters): protectourwinters.uk IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change): ipcc.ch The Carbon Literacy Project: carbonliteracy.com CREA Mont Blanc: creamontblanc.org

The figures featured in this article are based on a 2017 report by Marty/Schlogl/Bavay/Lehning, from data collected in the Aare and Grisons areas of Switzerland.

At the scale of the European Alps, over the course of the 20th century, temperatures have risen by 2°C (3.6°F). This rise is greater than the French average of +1.4°C (2.5°F) and double the increase recorded in the northern hemisphere. The rate of this warming, observed since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, has increased since the 1980s to 0.5°C (0.9°F) per decade. In terms of temperature conditions, 0.5°C represents about a 100 m (328 ft) difference in elevation. That means that, in order for species be able to stay in the same temperature conditions, they would need to move 100 m upslope. CreaMontBlanc.org //

30CM OF NATURAL SNOW ONLY FOUND ABOVE 1800M

2020

CHAVANNES AND LINDERETS 1400m

the facts about climate change

APRIL

2050

1600m

32

MARCH

2100

2200m 2000m

FEBRUARY

30CM OF NATURAL SNOW ONLY FOUND ABOVE 1400M

MARCH

APRIL

Most of us have already adopted some changes to our daily routines which help reduce our carbon footprints and make us kinder to the environment in some way.

Recycling, upcycling, choosing products with less plastic or lower air miles, turning lights off and car sharing are fantastic and important contributions.

However, these examples are not enough and we can do much more to limit our impact on global warming.

In France, we are responsible for two main sources of CO2 emissions, namely transport and domestic heating. Our top priorities as individuals should therefore become: • Reducing expensive car usage with (more cost effective) cycling or public transport.

• Better insulating your home.

There are so many other ways we can make a difference but too many to list here. I’ve selected some of my favourites below, with the biggest hitters at the foot of the mountain.

LA BISKATCHA

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Mountain brasserie & grill Live concert every Saturday night

LA PISTE NOIRE

Bistronomic cuisine

3 charming restaurants in the heart of Les Gets.

Enjoy various cuisines in distinct atmospheres.

Fol low us on Facebook

LA PIVOTTE

Local & traditional cuisine

61 rue du ChĂŞne - 74260 LES GETS La Pivotte: +33(0)450845525 | restaurant-lapivotte.com La Biskatcha: +33(0)450845535 | restaurant-labiskatcha.com La Piste Noire: +33(0)50845520 | restaurant-lapistenoire.com

//

// resort rare information ould times

33

THE WOODMAN

Simon Leclerc 34

resort information

//

© Jeremy Bernard

MPIofBrokers SOURCE 01/10/2020 your source information forwinter21.pdf Morzine, Les Gets1& Avoriaz

09:54

“I’m often asked whether I’m an artist or a carpenter and this is a question I ask myself too. Let's say I'm a craftsman with artistic inspiration.”

Chalet Foret d’Argent

by M o u n t a i n H e a v e n

A truly stunning chalet, connected with nature in the wooded Morzine valley

My sources of inspiration are varied, ranging from architecture to design, botany and mechanical engineering. Each project is new and I am keen to provide original solutions, in accordance with the space and with a certain ethic for sustainable materials.

My company Cimes Creations was responsible for the tree houses in the Lil’Stash in Avoriaz.

This crazy idea was initiated by Jean Noel Calvet, he is responsible for the snow parks in Avoriaz.

We wanted to honor this beautiful forest of Proclou and offer a playful interaction >>

Available Now

for Winter & Summer Bookings mountainheaven.co.uk

//

the woodman - simon leclerc

35

between this environment and its users. The approach was to create a universe in wood that inspires the imagination - a unique experience to discover the forest environment For the design phase, I tried to find my childhood gaze to imagine a universe where everything is possible. To cross the forest from peak to peak then visit our friend Shreddie the yeti with skis on his feet, in his cabin perched 10 meters from the ground. We descend from the trees in a toboggan and why not go for a ride on the back of a giant banana? We hope to see the friends of Shreddie hiding in the woods.

“The approach was to create a universe in wood that inspires the imagination - a unique experience to discover the forest environment.”

Once the design of the tree houses was agreed, we called on Dreamwood Outdoor, a company that speclialises in walkways and platforms in the trees from La Clusaz, for the construction.

Anthonin and Gaétan I have known for a while now and we’ve had the chance to work together on other projects around the world. I am super satisfied to see what they did. They really took the project head on, in difficult climatic conditions and in record time. It was really a great collaboration.

You’ll also discover our work in the (bigger!)

Stash in Avoriaz, which of course is constantly evolving. The team of shapers have done a good job this autumn on the different wooden modules, they are preparing some nice surprises for you this winter, be sure.

I’m also often asked about my fascination for wood. Each material has its characteristics and applications, but it is true that wood contains many qualities on its own. It is a real pleasure to 36

the woodman - simon leclerc

//

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

sculpt, it appeals to all the senses, the scent of essences; the touch of the grain and the veins of this living material and it is full of history. Gradually, I am working more and more with steels and I am turning on stone, even though I still have a lot to learn.

You might be wondering if COVID-19 has affected my preparation for this winter season. COVID-19 you say? I've never seen one in the woods yet.

When I consider my ‘dream project’, I know I have a soft spot for monumental space design projects. These are works that have no room for error, the greater the risk factor, the more I like to find solutions to make my idea a reality. And then the research and design work is all the more important. Besides that, I am simmering some cool concepts for the Arare snowpark in the pan. But shhh, don't say anything!”

More Info: instagram: @cimescreations facebook: cimescreations website: cimes-creations.com

WE DON’T HAVE A CRYSTAL BALL, BUT WE KNOW HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE UNKNOWN “It’s not the B word we should be worried about, it’s the C word”. Our children will be paying for the Covid 19 European financial support packages for many years to come.

You may be surprised to hear that the French fiscal system is both generous and highly tax efficient when it comes to financial planning for ourselves and our families.

To discuss the possibilities contact: Alan Watson

With Care, You Prosper +33(0)6 21 57 41 19 | alan.watson@spectrum-ifa.com | www.spectrum-ifa.com The Spectrum IFA Group is a founder member of the Federation of European Independent Financial Advisers. www.feifa.eu • TSG Insurance Services S.A.R.L. • Siège Social: 34 Bd des Italiens, 75009 Paris • R.C.S. Paris B 447 609 108 (2003B04384) « Société de Courtage d’assurances » « Intermédiaire en opération de Banque et Services de Paiement » Numéro d’immatriculation 07 025 332 – www.orias.fr « Conseiller en investissements financiers », référencé sous le numéro E002440 par ANACOFI-CIF, association agréée par l’Autorité des Marchés Financiers »

//

the woodman - simon leclerc

37

trending - kids -

It’s no secret that happy children make for happy parents, especially when you’re on holiday. Here’s my selection of both practical and fun kit for your annual family ski trip, all tried and tested Chez Morzine Source Magazine!

Michael Henderson morzine source magazine creative director

Beats of Balance RRP €79.00 beastsofbalance.com

The mountains are home to magic and wonder, which makes Beasts of Balance the perfect game for a family ski holiday. You’ll stack magical artifacts in precarious towers to create digital worlds that burst into life on your phone or tablet. This game encourages both team work in ‘co-op’ mode and competitiveness in ‘battle’ mode, but watch out! The world explodes when the tower collapses! In addition to the standard game there are also several enhancement modules too.

Lego City Snow Groomer RRP €17.99 lego.com

One of the most enjoyed pieces of LEGO Chez Morzine Source Magazine (thanks Uncle Charlie), this hard working piste basher features an opening cab, a swiveling six stud rapid shooter snow canon, sturdy tracks and a large plough blade. It’s all you need to make a perfect job of pisteing the Pleney before bedtime. It comes with a team of two mini figures to get the job done quickly and includes a set of skis and poles too.

Scott Helmet & Goggles Combo RRP €79.97 scott-sports.com

Much like a pair of good gloves, a day on the mountain with small people will be drastically improved by a good goggle and helmet combo. But why buy a combo over individual pieces, you might ask? Firstly, it’s usually cheaper. But perhaps more importantly, when they’re designed to go together, they work better. This set features Scott’s Keeper 2 helmet with a polycarbonate shell, EPS foam and a very handy twist lock system to adjust the fit. The Witty goggles have an anti-fog coating and a contrast-enhancing lens.

38

trending - kids

//

Hestra Gauntlet CZone Jr Mitt RRP €55.00 hestragloves.com

As anyone who’s ever had to deal with a winging child with cold hands will testify, it’s worth investing €55 in good gloves, just for some peace and quiet. And Hestra are the Aston Martin of gloves. These mitts combine all the best features including a windproof, water-resistant and breathable outer material, added insulation and a brushed lining layer making them super-soft. There’s handcuffs to lock out the snow, a handy Velcro closer and five different colour ways too.

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

An authentic, family-run Savoyarde hotel in the perfect location

Mid-way between Morzine and Avoriaz 300m from the Prodains Express lift station At the foot of the Prodains cliffs and surrounded by fir trees Ski to the door Flexible bedrooms Restaurant serving delicious, traditional French food Airport transfers, equipment rental and ski school also available

Prices from €75 to €95 per person per night, half board Discover more Le Room.pdf

1

www.leslans.com 27/09/2019

13:04

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Picture Organic Snowy Pants & Jacket RRP €74.99 - Pants | €99.99 - Jacket picture-organic-clothing.com

Picture Organic are one of our favourite sustainable outerwear brands and their kids collection works brilliantly on every level. This Snowy pants and jacket combo features their Dryplay membrane, the fabric is both waterproof with a Teflon coating and breathable with superb insulation that scores 10/10 on the warmth index. The bib on the pants and the hood on the jacket are even lined with Sherpa lining! However, this is not full size kit scaled down to fit children. The Snowy range has a toddler-specific fit, which makes us love it even more.

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39

MAKING DREAMS

Interview by Amie Henderson

So spectacular is Alta Lumina in Les Gets, I was desperate to know where the concept, the story and the technology came from after I toured the site on its opening night in August 2020. Alta Lumina is just one multi-sensory experience by Canadian creative agency Moment Factory.

They’re responsible for innovative instillations in public spaces across the globe (Singapore’s Changi airport is just one example) and even Madonna’s MDNA Tour. Fortunately Alta Lumina’s Creative Director Jean-Baptiste Hardoin was available to answer my questions.

40

alta lumina

//

R&Sofquarter page for advert.pdf your source information Morzine, Les1Gets21/09/2020 & Avoriaz

11:04

How was Alta Lumina initiated? Did you approach the resort with the concept? Or did the resort approach you?

“Each project and collaboration is different, however in the case of Alta Lumina, the relationship began when SAGETS (Les Gets’ lift operating company) contacted us in winter 2019 after hearing about the Lumina Night Routes. Visiting the location and the region, our team was immediately inspired by the site and saw the potential to create a Lumina Night Course that would be operated almost year round.”

With over a decade of experience, R&S Chalet Collection offer the best in luxury chalet holidays in the French alpine resort of Morzine.

How long did the project take to plan? And could you give me an idea of the various stages involved?

“It will have taken approximately one year of work from conception to opening of Alta Lumina.

About 100 people, including all Moment Factory staff, external suppliers (eg video shooting), prop manufacturers, musical artists, etc. The different stages of a project include conception, design, production, installation, integration and then operation.”

We love the story of the hawker and his hot air balloon, it resonates beautifully with the mountains in all seasons. Where did the idea come from?

“For each Lumina Night Tour, the original story we create is inspired by place, culture and local nature.

We meet people from the place who know the history and the roots of the site and who will be as much inspiration for our creative team. SAGETS was one of those actors who helped us immerse ourselves in local history.”

“The Colporteur (hawker) is an inspiring character, unique and imaginary at the same time, a smuggler and messenger. He travels in a hot-air balloon, which creates a gap with reality, in order to share and communicate music with the villagers. This music, conceived specifically for this story, this experience, was inspired by mechanical music, very anchored in Les Gets. The soundtrack combines the sounds of nature, animal bells and the sounds of mechanical instruments, in a modern and innovative approach.”

Choose from our exquisite, hand picked selection of Self Catered Chalets and apartments and let us host a mountain escape to remember.

www.rschaletcollection.com hello@rschaletcollection.com | +33 (0) 6 29 14 63 23 /rschaletcollection

@rschalets

LGS Source winter 21.pdf

info@skischool.co.uk +33 (0)6 15 10 52 11

1

/rschaletcollection

08/09/2020

08:58

www.skischool.co.uk “ excellent tuition, individually tailored to our needs ”

Was this a difficult installation to create logistically? Of course you had COVID-19 restrictions to consider too!

“Using technology outdoors is a challenge in itself.

You have to make sure that the installation can withstand all weather conditions and that the technology is integrated on the course, so that the experience is in harmony with nature.”

“ kind and patient ”

“ professional, friendly, organised, brilliant fun ”

“In addition, Alta Lumina has been designed to be operated summer and winter on the same site with the same equipment with as little handling as possible. This is a first for Moment Factory. As with all of our Lumina night tours, we have developed a way of working to integrate multimedia into the environment, in order to be respectful and discreet.”

“At several levels, our teams and SAGETS had to adapt to the unpredictable realities of the COVID-19

Instructors who speak your language! //

alta lumina

41

pandemic in order to complete the project. >> Whether it is uncertainty, delivery times, travel, etc. All the teams have been able to adapt in order to deliver an experience that lives very well in this era of physical distancing.”

“Regarding COVID-19, specific measures have been put in place by SAGETS so that visitors to Alta Lumina can have a safe experience in the context of the Covid19 health crisis. This includes lowering the capcity of the course to just 50%.

They also provide hydroalcoholic gel, undertake regular disinfection of surfaces in contact with customers and provide markings on the ground in the waiting area to respect physical distances.

We also promote internet ticket sales to lower physical interaction. It should also be noted that the activity takes place entirely outdoors where visitors move at their own pace with wide paths allowing overtaking while maintaining barrier distances.”

As a year-round installation, how do you imagine the experience will change for each season?

“Alta Lumina has been designed to be experienced in both summer and winter, the changing nature will allow you to live and relive the experience through the seasons. We often say that a Lumina experience comes to life over time and with the evolution of nature, we can have the same experience many times, but it will always be different thanks to nature, thanks to the people with whom we meet, and thanks to the weather”.

At Moment Factory you are constantly innovating and pushing the boundaries for interactive human experiences. What technology can we expect next? What does the interactive entertainment of the future look like?

“Discovery through practice and experimentation has always been in Moment Factory's DNA. As the use of a technology can be limited to its primary function, our research and development team constantly seeks to "hack" existing technologies by taking them out of their original context and pushing the limits of their use.”

“As technology offers us multiple ways to interact through our personal devices, the need to physically come together seems more vital than ever. Whether for a moment or during an experience that can be repeated, our goal is simple: to encourage people to leave their homes to live a collective experience, even while respecting the instructions for physical distancing. To this end, we create epic encounters that spark safe public participation and radiate positive energy.”

“More recently, Moment Factory has developed several interactive innovations to transform any place into a true immersive playground of infinite capacities. Using cutting-edge technology, interactive apps, and creative multimedia content, augmented games and sports encourage collaboration and human connection while respecting physical distancing measures.”

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alta lumina

// © moment factory | Les Gets ODT

Source Winter 21for Advert halfLes page.pdf 1 19/10/2020 your source of information Morzine, Gets & Avoriaz

Alta Lumina Essentials:

09:52

Our menu now includes bar snacks, chef’s specials and our classic Nash pizzas with 2-4-1 on all eat-in pizzas each Tuesday

Alta Lumina created ten new jobs for local people when it opened and expects to welcome 100,000 visitors each year.

Tickets are only available online, in advance at altalumina.com/en It takes approximately 45 minutes to complete the 1km course The course is entirely outside so wrap up warm and wear a good pair of shoes.

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Families of two adults and two children enjoy a family pass priced at €53.

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children 5 – 15 years are €10 and adults €19 per visit.

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It’s a compulsory to wear a facemask throughout the course.

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to take a free shuttle bus from the centre of Les Gets.

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1829 Route des Grandes Alpes, St Jean d’Aulps +33 (0) 4 50 38 49 66 | www.barnational.com | hello@barnational.com

//

alta lumina

43

PISTE AND

quiet SKIING, SOCIALLY DISTANCED

With 650km of piste under your skis, all those resorts to visit and a huge number of different chairlift rides to enjoy, it matters not whether the Portes du Soleil is the largest or the second largest linked ski area in the world. What does matter however, is how you’ll use those multiple kilometres to get away from it all this winter.

For months we’ve highlighted how skiing – in fact all mountain pursuits – are the perfect socially distanced activity. You’re all wrapped up, safe from those pesky germs. You’re usually more than two metres from your nearest mountain user and as long as you stick to the rules in lift queues, skiing in the fresh Alpine air can be as safe as houses.

Tim Scott

Tammy Esten

Antoine Montegani

Tim Jackson

Sally Lee-Duffy

Les Gets Snowsports

Mint Snowboarding School

Evolution2

Torico Performance Skiing

The Snow Institute

www.skischool.co.uk

www.mintsnowboarding.com

www.evolution2.com/morzine

www.toricoski.com

www.thesnowinstitute.com

To help you discover the quietest corners of the Portes du Soleil this winter, we’ve roped in the help of our local ski instructors. So whether it’s a quiet circuit on which to practice your new turns, a peaceful hot chocolate stop with the kids or your very first ski touring experience (maximum social distancing guaranteed!), these experts have got you covered.

We’re a family of experienced skiers that love a good hot chocolate stop…

“Les Choucas (in the Charniaz sector between Morzine and Les Gets), is a firm favourite for families as kids love the rabbit runs and the bumps in and out of the trees. It’s a great long run and there’s a little chocolate stop halfway down at Les Blanchots, opposite the Chamoissière lift.”

“For young skiers or snowboarders, there’s no choice – it’s the Stash!

Bumps, trees, with good snow it is heaven! There are an incalculable number of routes through the forest and multiple places to warm up over a hot chocolate. The Viennese at Mamo’s café in Lindarets in my favourite!”

“It has to be just off the Ranfoilly (red), where there’s the great new viewing platform with views of Mont Blanc and le Wetzet restaurant. They serve huge mugs of hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows for four people.”

- Tim Scott -

- Antoine Montegani -

- Tim Jackson -

44

skiing, socially distanced

//

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

I’m a beginner and I’d like to practice on quiet slopes…

Treat yourself to

“There are beautiful beginners areas on both the Morzine and Avoriaz sides, but for me, the key to success when you are learning is to practice on long, easy slopes. In my opinion the sector which is most suitable for this, and the place I love to go with my clients, remains the Super Morzine.”

- Antoine Montegani -

“Once beginners have mastered some basic skills in Les Gets, the top part of Gentiane (blue) coming off the La Croix chairlift to the right hand side is just perfect. Crossing over to Piste 64 (green) by going under the draglift will help you avoid the steeper slopes above the restaurants at Chavannes. This is excellent terrain for early skiers but it’s important you know how to use a chairlift safely and that you can already control your speed.”

AT C H A L E T G E N T I A N E

Beautiful 8 bedroom catered ski chalet in Les Gets, at the heart of the Portes du Soleil.

To find out more please visit:

www.chaletgentiane.com

- Tim Scott -

email

summitspecial@chaletgentiane.com

“The most difficult thing for new skiers is usually the other skiers on the mountain! Beginner slopes can get quite crowded, so as soon as you’re able to, get out and see a bit more of the mountain. Cyclamen (blue) in Les Gets is a great run as it can be accessed just off Violette (blue) and gives you space to practice what you’ve learnt on wide open flats and slightly steeper sections.”

or call

+44 (0) 7931 934312 Source_TSI_Advert.pdf

1

15/10/2020

with

US

- Tim Jackson -

“The Raverettes (blue) piste from the Nyon plateau is a fantastic easy run. Not only is it quieter than the blues on Pleney, it’s also much wider, giving you all the space you need to remain socially distanced while keeping confidence levels high!”

- Tammy Esten -

I’ve never been a fan of a queue.

Which lifts rarely ever have a queue?

10:55

www.tsi.ski Call or email

NOW to book lessons

British or bilingual English speaking instructor guaranteed

“The Têtes chairlift from the Charniaz bowl rarely has a queue, there’s a couple of great reds at the top!”

- Tim Jackson -

“D’Atray chairlift mid-way up Pleney is always quiet, as is Pré Favre on Nyon.”

- Sally Lee-Duffy -

+33 (0)4 50 74 98 58 De c till Apr +44 (0)7 903 186 819 All ye ar round Email le sson@tsi.ski The S nowInstitute tsisnowsports the snowinstitute

//

skiing, socilly distanced

45

It’s the school holidays, where are the quietest slopes?

“I find that if you can plan your day, heading to Nyon first thing yields quiet slopes, then make your way around to Les Gets and the blues and reds along the Perriéres lifts. On the other side of the valley, Tetras (blue) on the Super Morzine has so much variety for all levels of skier and it’s often bypassed by everyone making their way to Avoriaz.”

- Tim Jackson -

“My favourites, and the ones I tent to use a lot during busy weeks, are Grizzli and Livère (both blue runs). These are the runs that end at the Pré Favre chairlift between Morzine and Nyon and they are glorious if there’s fresh snow.

More advanced skiers may prefer Arnica and Soutenailles (both red runs), which you’ll find hidden between the Ranfoilly and Nauchetes Express chairlifts in Les Gets. They’re nearly always missed by people as they’re not on the main run.”

- Sally Lee-Duffy -

“Cyclamen (blue) is a lovely little hidden secret in Les Gets and it’s a great way to ski back down to the village during the busy periods.”

- Tim Scott -

“If you have transport, why not head to the Roc d’Enfer ski area – it never gets busy compared to the rest of the Portes du Soleil! Mont Chery is another great place to head for quiet slopes and, of course, outstanding views. Further afield, Chapelle d’Abondance and Torgon at the furthest point of the Portes du Soleil are always incredibly quiet, so why not make a day of it and head over there on the first lifts?

- Tammy Esten -

46

I’m a good skier but I’m ready to leave the pistes behind and start touring…

“The route from L’Érigné to Lac des Mines d’Or is nice and easy with no nasty surprises as you’ll tour up the road, which closes to cars during the winter season. Another easy option is to tour up from the bottom of Pleney piste B up to the plateau at the top, or even from the Ys car park mid-way. Follow Pleney piste D (the Zouzous route) towards the Mouilles chairlift. This is also a road during the summer, so it’s a nice, easy introduction to ski touring.”

- Sally Lee-Duffy -

“My first recommendation would be to rent your kit from a local store that is specialised in touring equipment. Then I suggest you make your first experience with a professional, who can show you how to use the equipment correctly, whilst explaining the safety aspect. More and more ski resorts are creating ski touring trails now, it’s the future!”

- Antoine Montegani -

“Depending on conditions and your own off-piste skiing abilities, the Col du Ratti can be a good option, especially the first half, which has a gentle gradient. It’s a popular route, which makes it fairly obvious which way to go, but you’ll start at the Col d’Encrenaz at the back of Mont Chery.”

- Tim Scott -

“Ah, this should remain my secret! I like going to the Nyon sector as the slopes are quieter, the views magnificent and there are some great restaurants over there too.”

“For a short first route, the Pointe de Chésery is a perfect half day outing. It’s accessed via the Chaux Fleurie chairlift”

- Antoine Montegani -

- Tammy Esten -

skiing, socially distanced

//

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

I’m an experienced skier and I’d love a longer ski touring route…

PERFORMANCE SKIING

“There are so many great touring options local to Morzine. Longer routes for experienced skiers or snowboarders who have a good level of fitness include Pointe de Chalune and Pointe d’Uble, which can even be paired up for a mega long day. Both can be accessed using lifts or the local buses and don’t require a car.”

- Tammy Esten -

“The Vallee de la Manche, just along the valley from Morzine, has lots of great touring routes. If you want to keep it simple, a stroll up to Lac des Mines d’Or is nice and easy, but if you want to challenge yourself a little more, the Col du Coux, Col du Golese and the Tete du Bostan are routes all available from this spot. Alternatively, the Col de Chalune from the back of Mont Chery in Les Gets is a lovely tour. It’s not too hard, has amazing views and there’s lots of space to keep your social distancing to the max!”

- Sally Lee-Duffy -

“It’s quite possible to take a guide and do days that I call ‘enduro’! We’ll use the ski lifts to seek and go further in the mountains, using ski touring techniques to discover wider landscapes. This means we don’t have to use our cars and we can discover virgin snow and perhaps a beautiful croute aux fromages just over the Swiss border.”

info@toricoski.com www.toricoski.com +33(0)6 11 45 47 60

- Antoine Montegani -

How else do Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz’ finest ski instructors dodge the queues?

“Don’t hesitate to try other activities, such as cross country skiing, paragliding and even night sledging! They’ll be just as memorable as your days on the mountain.”

- Antoine Montegani -

“Ski touring is the best way to get away from it all and still get the thrill of skiing down. Getting out and enjoying the mountains on snowshoes or walking is always great too!”

GREAT VALUE PROPERTIES IN THEwww.alptitude.com HEART OF MORZINE www.alptitude.com

- Tim Jackson -

“I recommend that you avoid all main access lift stations after 9am or during ski school start times. If you get up early and take the very first lifts, you’ll give yourself a couple of hours peace before the masses arrive!”

- Sally Lee-Duffy //

skiing, socilly distanced

47

the slopes KEEPING YOU SAFE ON

By Tammy Esten

It’s the very first day of the ski season in the Portes du Soleil. As resort staff take up their assigned positions on the mountain, the lifts begin to turn for the first time. Thousands of skiers and snowboarders across the domain wait excitedly for their first turns on perfectly groomed pistes. They’ll likely fail to notice the hundreds of piste markers, crash mats, kilometers of netting and other safety features painstakingly placed around the mountain to keep them safe.

And who can blame them? We’re all here to have fun, right?

In readiness for the winter ahead, each of the ski resorts in the Portes du Soleil holds an on-piste Mountain Safety meeting. I started my snowboard school here in Morzine in 2006 and because I’m on the slopes every day throughout the season, I’ve an eye for where potential problems may lie on the pistes. These could be safety issues, traffic bottlenecks or general ideas for improvements. Our instructors are typically working with beginner or progressing snowboarders and we 48

keeping you safe on the slopes

want them to have the best and safest time on the slopes. So even though these early-season briefings usually take place on blue bird powder days, I’ll always be there (apart from that time I was in Japan, but that’s another story).

Also in attendance you’ll find elected members from the town council, the managers and directors of the ski lift company, the local police force, forestry commission and the technical services department. Mountain rescue join the

meeting, as do the directors of local ski and snowboard schools. These are the people who spend their days working, operating and developing the pistes. Their insight and input on what can be done to improve safety on the mountains is invaluable to ensure the continuous improvement of safety in our resorts.

Here’s a few stats for you, as I’ve been assured that Morzine Source Magazine readers love to geek out on facts. At

// © Chrristian Pourcin

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

peak times there can be as many as 80,000 people on the mountains of the Portes du Soleil. There’s 600km of skiable terrain on 300 slopes. 197 ski lifts span 14 resorts across two countries. Just in the Morzine-Les Gets ski area alone, you can expect to find an average of 13,200 skiers or snowboarders per day throughout the season, in addition to more than 400 ski instructors. Lift operators, piste security and other resort staff total approximately 430 people. That’s a lot of mountain users to keep safe and the daily operation, long term development and improvement of the resorts is a monumental task.

Behind the scenes there is a large and dedicated team of professionals including electrical and mechanical engineers, lift technicians, pisteurs, lift operators, security, snow technicians and many more. They’re working hard to coordinate everything that’s needed to keep the ski area safe and operational throughout the season. All so that you can spend your days being safely transported around the mountains and riding down perfectly groomed pistes.

But back to the Mountain Safety meeting. It’s also an opportunity to inform us of the developments taking place in the resort. For example, several improvements have been made on Morzine’s Pointe de Nyon area this summer. The rarely used mid-station chairlift (which was a known point of accidents) has been removed and a glass-floored viewing platform has been built at the Pointe, giving skiers the impression of stepping into the void.

+ 33 6 04 49 42 32 Deep Tissue • Hot Stones • Holistic • Sports Pregnancy • Ayurvedic In your chalet or our treatment room

Here’s a few more facts for you. There are precisely 697 snow canons across the Morzine-Les Gets ski area and an additional 30 avalanche canons. The first are necessary to maintain safe snow conditions throughout the season, the second to protect us after a heavy dump. As any beginner skier or snowboarder will tell you, they can become quite the obstacle as you’re taking your first tentative turns. A staggering 1750 of those bright orange crash mats are therefore deployed to keep everyone safe. You’ll also find them attached to chair lift pylons, trees, buildings and any other solid object a wayward skier or snowboarder could collide with. Even something as mundane as the location of these pads needs a huge amount of consideration and collaboration to ensure they are positioned in the right place each year.

Next time you are out and about on the snow, take a moment to look around at the impressive infrastructure around you.

Try to imagine how much effort is required to install new snow canons, build safety nets and barriers and erect new signage so you can find your way around the resort on pistes suited to your level. You’ll also hopefully notice improved traffic flow on piste areas where bottlenecks once occurred, in addition to entirely new pistes, improved lifts and even entirely new chairlifts.

For our local lift operators, the ‘to do’ list is on-going and endless. Yet we can all be rest assured that there is a huge team of professionals dedicated to securing your safety on the slopes. All you need to focus on is creating fun memories during your winter holiday as you race down the slopes of the Portes du Soleil.

More Info: MINT Snowboard School: mintsnowboarding.com Insta - @mintsnowboarding FB - /mintsnowboarding

strengthandserenityyoga74@gmail.com Vinyasa, Yin and Prenatal & Post Natal available. @ Yoga Morzine Studio or in your accommodation.

+330604494232 //

keeping you safe on the slopes

49

history & heritage Interview by Amie Henderson

This year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve watched endless live news broadcasts, observed elections both local and global - and experienced an unprecedented global pandemic.

So youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be forgiven for being over politics right now. But let me introduce you to Aube Marullaz, First Deputy Mayor of Morzine-Avoriaz in the remit of the tourist economy and culture, and Vice President of the Haut Chablais Community of Communes, also in the remit of culture.

50

HISTORY & HERITAGE - aube MARULLAZ

// Kieran Williams @kiwi.capture

Wild Beets source advert.pdf 1 01/10/2020 your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets Avoriaz &

09:49

Aube, tell me a little bit about your role at the Mairie and what elements youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re responsible for?

winner

Today, I am the First Deputy Mayor of Morzine.

Our Mayor Fabien Trombert is a very good Mayor, I am proud to be by his side, with our team. He can count on me whenever he needs me. It is a beautiful relationship of trust that we have built over the course of these first six months in office.

Today, in concrete terms, I am responsible for leading the economic and tourism policy of our municipal team for Morzine-Avoriaz. I also take on the task of carrying out our cultural and heritage policy for the village.

2020

awards

for excellence

Serving fresh, healthy, delicious dishes in the centre of Les Gets

Breakfast | Brunch | Salads | Wraps | Dinners

Further down in the valley, Fabien was also elected to the role of President of the Haut Chablais Community of Communes and I was elected Vice-President for culture. Our dual role is therefore municipal and inter-municipal.

Many years ago you told me that your mum leads the local history tours in Morzine each week. Does she still do this?

My mum has been showing tourists around the village for more than 30 years, once a week, but also she hosts residents curious about history and heritage. She is passionate. When I was a teenager, she put me in the footsteps, and in turn, I became a tourist guide, in Savoy and neighboring Switzerland. But in Morzine, THE guide in Le Bourg, that's her! For those who want to join her, it's a great way to learn French, every Thursday morning, at 10 a.m. in front of the church.

For a long time you and I have talked about your personal passion for retaining the charm and heritage of our village.

Why is this important to you?

Our village is rich in unique and outstanding histories. There is an extraordinary built heritage, ancestral traditions and know-how. This is a privileged environment and a multitude of generous volunteers work for the conservation of all these treasures.

We have a passion for quality coffee and healthy food 250 Route du Front de Neige, 74260 Les Gets Situated near the Chavannes telecabine

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16:27

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Of course, I am committed to the Morzinois for this "duty of remembrance" towards those who have given us everything that we see and enjoy today. But above all, I hope that together we will bring to our heritage that touch of modernity which will make our past a real tourist asset, alive and unique.

You were elected to the Mairie in March 2020, just days before France entered its first confinement. What plans have you been able to commence since then?

Professional catering for you in your chalet, from fully catered weeks to one off dinners, BBQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and lunch packs.

We have menus to suit all budgets.

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Before starting any projects whatsoever, we had to take our mark, get to know the town hall team, organise ourselves, assume the legacy of previous teams, understand current affairs and heavier and more complex issues. >>

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HISTORY & HERItAgE - AUBE MARULLAZ

51

The health situation since last March adds an additional difficulty to this task for which we have been elected. But it is an important challenge and we are here, all together, to meet it.

In the field of culture and heritage, the Maison du Bourg project (a museum center towards the Church in the centre of the village) has been brought back to life. It will be accompanied by the redevelopment of Morzine’s historic center, both in terms of traffic and other uses. As part of the Maison du Bourg initiative, the volunteer project of La Battante aux Dérêches (the reconstruction of the sawmill in the Parc des Dérêches) will also be supported in one of its final phases, its museography.

The global crisis that we are going through will have immense short, medium and long-term repercussions for all parts of our economy, including obviously on tourism. However we wish to take advantage of this imposed pause to discuss and reflect, together, on the directions that we will give to tourism over the next 10 to 20 years. What kind of village do we want for our children?

And for our residents? Representatives from all tourism stakeholders in the village will be invited to the discussion table. At the time of this interview (we are only in November) we are thinking about the format that these discussions will take during the course of the winter.

Why is it important that Morzine retains its culture and charm?

Its heritage and history also.

Morzine-Avoriaz is not Val d'Isère, Morzine-Avoriaz is not Val Thorens, Morzine-Avoriaz is much better! We combine the strength of a traditional village with a fantastic creation. We have to find the right balance of ONE village for TWO stations. Our individuality must be preserved, protected and enhanced. This is what makes our strength and our uniqueness.

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its soul and its inhabitants. We hope it is not too late and we remain optimistic.

Better-controlled extension of the village will allow, and be accompanied by, the social, residential and cultural development necessary so that Morzine remains a center for life. The visitors who come - those who live or who buy in the village today, are looking for this soul. Losing it could be fatal for all of us.

“we don't forget that alone we go faster, but together we go further!”

Of course our new Mayor Fabien Trombert and your team have made a commitment to four seasons tourism.

How can your history and heritage plan contribute to this?

In the 90’s, opening your establishment, store, restaurant or ski lifts for just six months each year was enough. We had earned enough, so we waited until next season! However times have changed and after this crisis, mentalities and consumption patterns, which were already evolving before the crisis, will be different. Those involved in tourism will have no other choice but to agree to work more, in order to earn at the same level as before.

How can we balance this preservation of heritage with the development of the village for the future? Is it possible to balance the two, do you believe?

By “four seasons”, we mean to encourage the development of periods that could be interesting to tourists outside of the obvious ones. The beautiful days of May or October, the months of June or September. It would be magical to be able to stay in Morzine during these times!

A reasoned extension of the village is natural, necessary even. The risk of too frantic development of second homes, for example, would empty the village of

The town hall must be a driving force in this initiative and provide support for a progressively wider opening over the year. The opening of municipal tourist

history & heritage - Aube Marullaz

//

services, the development of cultural or sporting offers throughout the year, negotiating with the ski lift operators and other tourist players in the resort, whilst supporting the private initiatives that share the same direction, this must become our role. It will come at a cost of course; our desire is to take responsibility for this and prioritise our projects in this direction, in the long term.

How will your heritage and history projects contribute to the sustainability and environmental plans of the village?

Today, the volume of our municipal buildings is very vast. Our team has chosen to allocate a budget of €2 million to renovate the energy supplies of these buildings and municipal housing. This budget is in addition to the environmental standards, which are now mandatory in any new construction or renovation project.

Additionally, the historic buildings of the town hall, the library and the presbytery will be the subject of individual renovation projects, as part of the development of the large cultural and heritage center around the town hall that I mentioned earlier.

Of course, other environmental and sustainability projects will be considered and debated as part of the “Flocon Vert” accreditation, currently being validated for our Morzine-Avoriaz destination.

How can the residents of Morzine Avoriaz - and by this I mean all nationalities, languages and ages contribute to the heritage plan?

We wish to involve the population as much as possible in our decisions; via working groups, advisory committees and neighbourhood meetings. These consultations must be perfectly prepared and orchestrated. It will take a little while to put them in place, but we don't forget that alone we go faster, but together we go further! This will not remain just a campaign promise.

We will protect and enhance the history and heritage for the enjoyment of all.

And finally Aube, what are you most looking forward to this winter?

May the beautiful days return quickly... with a vaccine!

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53 /acr74

LAUNCHING

By Amie Henderson

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian food, but not as you know it. La Bokka, a brand new authentic Italian restaurant, opens its doors in Les Gets this winter and fans of pizza and pasta are about to receive an education in genuine Italian dishes.

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launching la bokka

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Sue Source for Advert.pdf 1 Gets 19/10/2020 your source ofNeal information Morzine, Les & Avoriaz

Inspired by his travels throughout Italy, Head Chef Antony Trezy has developed La Bokka’s menu around the ingredients he discovered during his journey. “I met several fascinating growers and makers during my time in Italy,” Antony explains. “Getting off the beaten track, I was able to find rural suppliers who continue to use ancient methods in the production of their ingredients such as olive oil, cheeses and even truffles,” he continues. Such ingredients are the basis of La Bokka’s menu.

La Bokka represents a significant investment in Les Gets for the Alpine Restaurants group, who’ve opened a small collection of exclusive, unique restaurants around the Alps over the last few years. At a time when they’d be forgiven for pausing new openings while the world gets to grips with COVID-19, group manager Morgan Bientz explains the concept behind the new restaurant. “Les Gets has some very fine restaurants and we hope La Bokka will compliment the existing dining scene in the resort.” “Rather than a simple restaurant,” continues Morgan, “La Bokka is a complete evening of entertainment. It’s a dining event, just as in all the truly great Italian restaurants.

There’ll be live music in a laid-back, unobtrusive style during dinner and the accompaniment of a DJ into the early hours.”

“La Bokka is a complete evening of entertainment.

It’s a dining event, just as in all the truly great Italian restaurants.”

La Bokka is located on the ground floor of the luxurious new Kinabalu residence in a semi-subterranean space, akin to a James Bond lair. The restaurant occupies 390m2 and includes lounge space, a stunning central bar, stage, private dining room and 132 covers.

Interiors are refined, sophisticated and again likely inspired by 007 circa 1973. Linda Rabouine, formerly of Louis Vuitton, was responsible for the interiorscape and those cool, retro vibes. “La Bokka was born from the desire to create an Italian lounge restaurant in the middle of the mountains,” Linda explains. “A festive and warm place, of Venetian inspiration,” she continues. But La Bokka is about much more >>

10:36

Sue Neal Local Artist

Ranging from highly detailed ski and animal portraits to large scale contemporary canvases inspired by nature and the surrounding mountains, Sue is based between Morzine and Scotland’s Clyde Valley. She has a number of exhibitions in Morzine and Yvoire in 2021 and is available for commissions in both locations.

Delivery worldwide

Art Collection

Art Class Art groups for non-skiers in your holiday accommodation to create lasting memories.

To book an art group or commission a piece, contact Sue Neal on

+33 (0) 6 43 37 37 65 susiewendy1365@gmail.com suenealart.com suenealart

//

suenealart

launching la bokka

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than just food, no? “Beyond the culinary aspect, the concept is part of a ‘glam chic’ atmosphere, a lively place with different mixtures of styles, an atmosphere that evokes good humor and generosity.”

At a time when we’re all used to cocooning at home, it might feel odd or strangely alien to walk into a stark, minimalist restaurant and Linda recognises this. “As the space is located on the ground floor, we played with this constraint to give the restaurant a strong, cosy identity,” she explains. “The desire to create separations with metallic arches allowed us to sequence and give rhythm to a long space with roundness. We wanted to offer customers a moment of Italian poetry,” she continues.

Returning to the menu, Antony promises weeklychanging pasta dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. All pizzas will be homemade and you’ll enjoy fresh pasta and delicious risotto dishes too.

Elsewhere on La Bokka’s menu you’ll find arrancini with saffron infused risotto, mozzarella di buffala, salsa and parmesan priced at €9 and reminiscent of time spent in a Sicilian trattoria. Antony has also curated a plate of his own favourite Italian cheeses from his preferred producers for €15. Antipasti plates include aubergine parmigiana, complete with candied cherry tomato, Scamorza from southern Italy, capers, basil and parmesan cream priced at €12 and Insalata la Bokka, featuring every one of your favourite Italian ingredients in salad form and including homemade gnocchi for €19. Pasta dishes feature lobster or truffles; there’s even a Jamie Oliver-beating linguini alle vongole for €22. The pizza menu includes something for everyone from €15, while the secondi piatti list features meat and fish dishes synonymous with rural Italy. As you’d expect, the wine list includes everything from a light-bodied Bardolino to a robust Barolo, priced from €25 per bottle.

“The ambience we’re creating in La Bokka will be lively, stylish and fun,” restaurant manager Julien Moulinet explains. “This will be a destination restaurant; where you plan your family celebrations and stay to enjoy the entertainment, or simply drop in for a first class pizza or salad and a crisp glass of wine,” he continues.

More Info: If you’d like to experience La Bokka in all of its glory this winter season, we recommend booking in advance by emailing reservation@bokka-lesgets.com Keep an eye on the website – bokka-lesgets.com Instagram - @bokka.lesgets for further exciting updates

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launching la bokka

//

“The ambience we’re creating in la Bokka will be lively, stylish and fun. This will be a destination restaurant; where you plan your family celebrations”

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

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sight OUT OF

By Samuel Nelson

I lip-read, but now I can’t. There are many obvious side effects of the pandemic and it almost sounds trivial, but when I can’t necessarily hear or see what is being said, then I’m pretty stuck. Me behind my mask, you behind yours.

In a time when we’re supposed to be breaking down barriers, judging each other less, encouraging each other more, the pandemic has suddenly put up three new hurdles; my mask, your mask and the plastic window between us. It’s almost like there weren’t enough barriers in place already.

Compassion and COVID-19; I guess that’s what I’m here to discuss. Whilst the powersthat-be get a grip (or don’t, that will depend on when you’re reading this) on what’s going on, and while doctors and researchers race to find a way that lets us live in a world filled with COVID-19, we have to fill the interim.

Not only are we constantly alternating our plans, but also our compassion and understanding. There’ll be more space in a

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out of sight

queue, (which may finally mean European ski resorts find a way of making sense of the bottle necks that we often see), more patience when shopping and consuming, more time to understand what a person is trying to hear and say.

So much of what we’re saying when communicating involves being able to see someone’s mouth. And for me personally, this means concentrating intently on your mouth, not just vaguely watching it move. I’m lip reading as I can’t always hear your words.

But now, the eyes have it. On one hand I’m concentrating on trying to hear you behind that muzzly muffled mask, and on the other I realise I’m looking into your eyes like I’ve never looked at you before. I’d imagine this

// illustration by icons8.com

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can be disconcerting and maybe give you the wrong impression. I don’t fancy you. Well, not all of you.

But what am I saying? Well, at the start of the pandemic it was fairly apparent, to me anyway, that we are actually all in this together. It’s as awkward and as uncertain for you as it is for me. As time has gone on, some of us have gotten more ‘used to it’ than others. Perhaps you haven’t considered that this situation might be impacting someone in a way that you hadn’t even thought of. This isn’t a pity piece, I’m fairly content with my lot, hearing aids an all, but so much has been lost already. Have you seen your parents recently? Have you kept working? Have you maybe even lost a loved one? This must surely be the toughest and most tragic of all outcomes.

Could we all find it within ourselves to be that little bit more generous and patient with our time? As living with COVID-19 becomes more normal, the easier it is to forget what a f**king struggle it is for everyone. We find it too easy to dip into hard to forget (and often wrong) societal idiosyncrasies. Whilst we are trying to break the chain of infection, this is also our chance to break some of our less desirable human traits.

I’m writing this as Biden has just become US President. Europe is pretty much in Lockdown Part Deux and winter is approaching quickly.

And whilst we don’t have much time to play right now, surely it’s all still to play for? If I could ask you for one thing my fellow humans, it would be this. COVID-19 took a lot from us in 2020. But it didn’t take our ability to be kind, compassionate people. There’ll surely be more barriers and hurdles in the months to come, but our community can be stronger and better than it ever was. Keep smiling under your masks, as the eyes have it too.

Stay safe, stay kind.

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//

out of sight

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trending - snowboard -

Industry insider, friend to the stars of snowboarding and Satellite Coffee afficianado Samuel Nelson rounds up all you need to look fly on the mountain this winter.

samuel nelson opinionated Snowman

HOWL Legacy Facemask RRP â&#x201A;Ź34,95 howlsupply.com

If there were ever a season to obsess over facemasks, let this be it. Whilst we await an official announcement on whether standard ski masks can be a substitute for an actual facemask on the lifts, etc this winter, this example from HOWL is still a great everyday option. Suitable for all conditions by protecting you from winter storms and spring time UV rays, it comes in a variety of different colour ways.

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trending - snowboard

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M&MofDog Walking quarter pageLes advert.pdf 1 your source information for Morzine, Gets & Avoriaz

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M&M Dog Walking

Slash Brainstorm Split RRP €649.00 slashsnow.com

Snowboard-walking is going to explode, so make your investment now. Did I mention my mate Gigi Rüf? Slash is his signature brand of snowboard and the Brainstorm Split is based on the epically versatile and award-winning Brainstorm model. It has two tip-to-tail landing strips made of carbon fibre and Kevlar additives for power and stability.

There’s ice-slicing Traction Bumps on the edges to give added bite on technical tracks. In fact, there’s enough technology on this board to take on the furthest line-mining missions.

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Now, I know this isn’t the first time Stance snow socks have featured on the pages of this magazine, and that’s for one reason. They’re the best snow socks on the market, bar none. Good snow socks are a low-cost upgrade to your setup that can easily improve the connection between a rider and their ride. The new Wu Tang edition includes classic Stance features such as an elastic arch support, reinforced heel and toe technology and seamless toe closures.

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Yuki Threads Northbound Jacket & Bib Pants RRP Jacket - €250.95 | Pants - €218.95 yukithreads.com

Few brands in the ski and snowboard industry can claim to use only 100% recycled fabric in their manufacturing process and that’s why I love Yuki Treads. Founded in Australia in 2010, responsible production is at the core of this brand and their Northbound combo is THE combo for you. Both elements are made from100% recycled polyester, have a 15/15k waterproof / breathability rating, a recycled Nylon lining and hundreds of other great features.

Remind 'The Cush' Cougar Insoles RRP €25.00 remindinsoles.com

Guaranteed to raise a smile every time you push your feet into your shoes, The Cush has a three-layer foam impact rebound system made of the highest quality materials. I love these as Morzine artist Jono Wood designed them and they’re part of an entire Spirit Animal collection. Elsewhere, the anti-microbial and anti-friction fabric reduces hot spots and blisters, while keeping your feet cool, dry and odourless.

HOWL Network Mitt RRP €94,95 howlsupply.com

Mitts will never get boring and now, double mitts! The Network Mitt from HOWL is perfect for extra cold days whilst offering up double protection when touching any surfaces – you know, in case there are any germs hanging about. Anyhow, this stylish yet supremely functional finger warmer has a soft removable fleece liner, helping you to move seamlessly from board to bar. It’s a glove for all seasons.

Dragon RVX OTG Pearl Goggles RRP €245.00 Europe.dragonalliance.com

Including the most secure and quick lens changing system on the market, this new option from Dragon has all the technological innovation you’d expect from the world’s best goggle brand.

The RVX OTG also features Dragon’s patented Lumalens colour optimised technology, it’s 100% UV protective, helmet compatible with a silicone strap backing and features the toughest anti-fog on the market.

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the Lockdown diary of

mia brookes aged 13 Hi, my name is Mia Brookes and I’m thirteen years old. I snowboard for Team GB. I have been snowboarding since I was 18 months old and I love it. Some of you reading may have seen my feature in this magazine last year. Here is what I have been up to since…

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lockdown diary of mia brookes

// © sam ingles

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l a e r n u

Before Christmas we came to Morzine-Avoriaz.

Everybody is just having fun! The stoke is unreal, especially in the Stash, it’s sick! It was also arranged that I could ride with Gigi Ruf, that was amazing. I would definitely like to come again!

I spent Christmas in LAAX with my parents; we got some sick powder days. After New Year we went to Livigno to meet my Team GB coaches Ben Kinnear and Jack Shackleton, to start practising for the upcoming season. It was also my first World Rookie Tour comp of the season, I got through to the finals then took the overall title for both female U15 and U18 age categories. I was so happy and super stoked!

Of course, schooling is super important, so from December-April I spend three weeks at school then 3 weeks in the mountains. I actually love school and I have a great group of friends that are super supportive and so nice!

! ! c i ep

In February, my dad and I went to Finland to film a street part with @b00bytrap, it was epic! I had never been to Finland before and had never really been street filming before, apart from that one time when I was about seven and we went to Buxton when it snowed about 3 cm. The film is called HIGH RES’N, if you’d like to check it out.

February half term, we returned back to Livigno and that’s when I landed my first ever back-toback 900’s! Honestly I have never been so stoked in my life! We were actually lucky because a few days after, it was announced that Coronavirus was in Italy and the GBS (GB Snowsports) office advised us all to leave ASAP. We had to leave our motorhome, as it was snowed in, and get out before the borders closed the following morning.

I’d also been invited to go to the Vans High Standard event in LAAX. This was on the way to the airport and Switzerland wasn’t in lockdown at the time, so we still went there on the way home. I didn’t know that this was going to be my last time on the mountain in 2020! My homie Sam Nelson >>

so stoked //

lockdown diary of mia brookes

67

(A.K.A JACKIE), who is a G and is always working in the background to help me, met us there and introduced me to my favourite snowboarder Yung Doli. I loved shredding with everyone, and it was such a good time! I didn’t think that would be my last trip of the winter.

Once we flew home, I went back to school. Everybody was talking about Coronavirus and saying that they hoped we’d get to stay off school. We were in our food tech lesson, listening to the radio, it said schools in Scotland were closing down. Everyone was so excited! Until we found out that schools in England weren’t. But on the Thursday evening, I came downstairs and the news said that schools were also closing in England.

Over lockdown I did lots of schoolwork and by the time it came to the summer holidays I had been working every single day, until I had a folder full of everything that the teachers had set. It must have weighed three tonnes!

For those of you that follow me on Instagram, you will have seen I managed to cycle lots over lockdown. I set a goal to cycle 1000 miles with my dad but once we reached that I wanted to keep going. We are now on around 2500 miles. We also did a charity bike ride that we do every year which is #ridefornelly. Unfortunately, that got cancelled this year, so everyone did it via Strava. Me and my dad did 100 miles to Llandudno. It was super fun and I got to cycle right along the coast.

I also did weekly trampolining sessions with GB Acro coach Ross Hill and my teammates Katie Ormerod and GB skier Katie Summerhayes at Graystone Action Sports, in Manchester. The girls are both super nice and fun to work with, Katie Ormerod always encourages me and is super inspirational and I am very lucky to be working alongside her. I have also been skating my mini ramp lots.

#privileged

In August we were finally allowed to fly again, so we booked flights to collect our motorhome and car from Livigno. On the way home we went via LAAX and met my best friend Kona Ettel, who is on the German Halfpipe team, because I had not managed to see her all season. We went swimming in a beautiful lake and it was amazing to see the mountains in the summertime. We also went to Landgraf, a dome in the Netherlands. This was my first time back on snow in six months and I was super hyped and eager to get to it.

There has also recently been an amazing book published called Heroes

by Jérôme Tanon. It is all about female snowboarders and I am so privileged to be featured alongside some of the best female riders in the world.

Have a sick season everybody and keep the stoke real!!!!!

Peace out,

mia 68

lockdown diary of mia brookes

//

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COVID-19 cancellation policy in place hot property 69

brave BELLE ET

By Aisling Donnellan

Female Ski Patrol. Most people don’t know who they are or what they do. These Lara Crofts of the hill are the silent workhorses. Their job is one of prestige, skill and authority. It’s also one that used to be exclusively the domain of men - but times they are a changing.

Avoriaz boasts six female pisteurs in a team of almost 40, and that’s many more than it was a few years ago. It used to be just one per sector. When I met Xavier de Le Rue’s (now ex-) wife years ago in Verbier, she told me she was a pisteur.

I was not only in awe, but ashamedly surprised. Wasn’t that a dudes job?

There’s no denying it’s a mans world up there in the mountains, with the ratio of men to women massively uneven, although it is getting better these days.

When two friends of mine started their liftie careers 20 years ago, they were the only female team members. Fast forward to 2020 and there are many more, yet ski 70

belle et brave - female ski patrol

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patrol remains massively male. You can’t argue with the fact that it is an extremely demanding role, both physically and mentally. To qualify you must first pass the highly competitive ski technique test to gain entry onto the course. Once accepted, you’ll complete a five week training programme alongside a national diploma in first aid. Every year you are required to revisit certain modules, including the first aid and firearms elements and throughout your career you can add more specialities and higher degrees to your qualification. It’s a job that requires a cool demeanour in any situation that can be thrown at you whilst being comfortable skiing on every type

of terrain. You’ll need mountain, first aid and meteorological knowledge; the list goes on. Being a pisteur requires a very specialised skill set and it takes a certain type of person to be comfortable in the role. This, in my view, makes seeing more women in the role even more impressive.

For this job you need to love the snow, the cold and the mountains. Getting up at first light and heading up a cold mountain to trigger avalanches whilst confronted by harsh conditions and difficult terrain isn’t for everyone.

There’ll be dangerous rescue missions that demand competence on every level.

You certainly become thick skinned.

“The crew of female ski patrollers in Avoriaz that I have the honour to call colleagues and friends are just that. Sassy, classy and bad ass.”

My two worlds of ski and surf tend to celebrate the achievements of men. There’ll be photos of them ripping on world class waves and shredding vertical cliff faces, while too many female athletes are represented by shots in the latest bikini or Burton ensemble. Yet they are taking the same risks combined with the same level of high intensity training and, like females on the hill, deserve the same recognition. Female pisteurs do the same exams, the same training and must learn to earn their positions in the same way as men, but very often they have to work that little bit harder for their place at the table. And that’s not to mention the added pressure of having children and a family life to manage outside of the job.

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The crew of female ski patrollers in Avoriaz that I have the honour to call colleagues and friends are just that. Sassy, classy and badass. A day with them can promise sharp comebacks, incredible skiing, the best cabin coffees and professional and friendly help with a smile. Ask any male pisteurs and they’ll tell you, they love having diversity on the teams.

It adds a new dimension, something special. For particular situations and more delicate missions, a woman’s touch is vital; likewise a man’s strength and sometimes authority needed in others. It’s a simple fact that men and women differ and certain moments call for either or. Our strength is in working together and comparison and competition are counter productive. Recognising each other’s force and qualities creates an effective team.

yd ay

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The best pop rock bar in Morzine playing the best music from the 70’s til now

Visit our new cosy OUTDOOR LOUNGE Dj every night except Monday and Thursday LIVE SPORTS IN HD

Before I arrived in this valley, I spent a lot of time in the mountains, working on the Freeride World Tour.

Although I was somewhat in the hub of mountain life, I always felt a little on the outside, looking in with no real understanding of how it all worked. I was always in awe of the community on the hill and I was so keen to become more integrated and learn; to see it from the inside out and to really understand this unusual wintery world.

The friendly smiles from lifties, the pisteurs with their blood wagons, disappearing into their mountain huts. The intimidating but very cool shapers, who cruise around on their Burton steeds one footed, transporting a dazzling array of equipment. The relay at lift closing time as the night crew clock on, traipsing up the Prodain Express to recover their >>

Check out our great reviews on

www.tibetan-cafe-morzine.com //

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belle et brave - female ski patrol

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engines before disappearing under the moonlight to spend a long lonely night grooming the pistes. The snowmakers whose technical and demanding work requires impossible hours as shifts change with the weather. The lift pass sellers, who are literally on the front line, with the hoards of holidaymakers and their questions and demands. It’s a role requiring the utmost patience and the ability to slap on that smile, not to mention language skills. When people arrive for first lifts after a good dump of snow, frothing to get up yet upset when it’s not open, they don’t realise there has been an entire team working through the night trying to make that deadline. They want their bed as much as you want that fresh track.

As for the heroines of this article, they are there in the thick of things.

Getting up at the crack of dawn, armed with explosives, being towed up to the top of a pitch black mountain to prepare and secure the resort before the fast and the furious come up to tear the hill to shreds. It’s not for the faint hearted. And that’s all before the actual day starts. Once the snowpack is secure, pistes are examined, assessed and opened (or not!) according to the report made to a central control room.

A closed piste should never be ignored.

They are always closed for a very good reason, such as ice, fallen trees or not enough snow cover. A closed piste sign is a sign that must be respected, always.

The team in Avoriaz follow a wellexecuted plan each day, reporting piste and weather conditions constantly in case of any changes or deterioration.

Your pisteurs will be replacing and checking piste markers and signs, keeping skiers informed, safe and preventing them from harm, as best as can be done. All the while tuned into their radio, ready to drop everything to perform a rescue mission, or to tend to the injured on the mountain.

There’s also the sacred 4pm tea and 72

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cake and a rota for whose turn it is to bring morning treats for the coffee break. To be a pisteur you must be fit, ski to the highest level and have a perfect knowledge of the mountain environment and the local ski area.

In addition, you must have discipline, good interpersonal skills, and a sharp sense of observation and analysis. This is why these amazing women stand out to me so much, holding their own in such a demanding environment and all with finesse and style.

“For this job you need to love the snow, the cold and the mountains. ”

Morzine local Audrey grew up on her skis and like her father before her, becoming a pisteur seemed like a natural step. Helping people was always her motivation and alongside her other job as a year-round yoga teacher, she has found the perfect balance. In fact you’ll find mountain guides, nurses, vets, swimming coaches and ex members of PGHM Chamonix amongst this talented and impressive bunch of women. Each has veered toward careers that resonate and complement the demanding winter roles they have taken on.

With early starts for PIDA (avalanche control) and never a fixed hour for when the day finishes, unforeseen events can happen at any given moment and it can be a tricky balancing act with family life and other professional engagements.

But one thing resonates with all, and that is a deep love and respect of their work and playground. Talented mountaineers who even though they ski for a living spend all their free time climbing, skiing, hiking and ski touring. For many the best part of the day is first thing, being alone in the mountains before opening, when everything is quiet and still, before rush hour hits. And of course the first tracks down Combe du Machon on a powder day aren’t so bad either. Some say it’s the best job in the world, they might not be wrong.

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

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resort information

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trending - travel -

We’ll travel like never before once this COVID-chaos calms down and we’ve already made a long list of kit to take with us. Here are my favourites…

Michael Henderson morzine source magazine creative director

Mizu Jono Wood Collection – V6 RRP €37.96 mizulife.eu

Featuring the work of local artist Jono Wood, this V6 water bottle by Mizu keeps up to 560ml of cold drinks cold and warm drinks warm, wherever your travels might take you.

This bottle is the perfect size for everyday use, it’s 100% BPA free and entirely recyclable. But mainly you’ll buy it for those graphics, right? We love them.

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686 Everywhere Pants RRP €119.95 eu.686.com

Perfect for big travel days and available in a range of fits from slim to relaxed, these 686 pants actually look like a traditional chino but they’re made from stretch nylon fabric. They’re both water and stain resistant and they feature a staggering 10 different pockets dedicated to everything from coins to hidden cards. Available for both men and women.

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Atera Nova Ski & Snowboard carrier RRP €79.95 atera.de

The Atera ski carrier comes highly recommended. It’ll carry up to four pairs of skis or two snowboards and one pair of skis. It conveniently comes entirely pre-assembled. There’s a handy height adjustment function too and the large release button, spring arm and snap shut lock make it easy to use, even in your big winter gloves. Everything you need for installation comes in the box, including a handy hex wrench.

Stance Face Mask RRP €22.99 euro.stance.com

Who knew the face mask would become your trusted travel companion? Fortunately the need to wear a mask of the surgical variety passed a long time ago, when companies such as Stance launched their own versions in a variety of colours. Made with Stance’s own ButterBlend fabric to maximize comfort, these non-medical grade masks are both washable at 40 degrees and reversible too.

Flawless Hand Gel RRP 30ml - £2.95 | 60ml - £4.95 myflawless.co.uk

Big plastic pots of hand gel popped up everywhere in 2020, and needs must! But there is a way to keep your hands clean during your travels whilst avoiding all the plastic. Flawless’ non-rinse hand gel has an alcohol concentration of 75% plus added aloe vera to help soothe at the same time.

However, what we love most is the recycled glass pot, which comes with its own wooden spatula for application.

The North Face Back-To-Berkeley RRP €170 mens, €150 womens thenorthface.com

Recommended for winter but perfect for year-round travels, these hiking boots have a retro design and a whole host of features to keep your feet warm and dry.

Both men’s and women’s models are available and both feature a special winter outsole complete with temperature-sensitive lugs to keep your footing firm on icy surfaces. They’re lightweight, insulated and entirely waterproof, as you’d expect from The North Face and they come in a choice of three colours too. //

trending - travel

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t r o suppteam

r u o y #GoMorzine GAMES EVERY

WEDNESDAY &SATURDAY CHECK SCHEDULE & TICKETS ON

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Apex Morzine

Panther Snow Company

Skiology

Le Morzenettaz offers comfortable, relaxed accommodation in a renovated 180-year-old farmhouse, close to Super Morzine lift and town centre. Choose from either our 2 bedroom self catered apartment, available weekly, (Saturday to Saturday) or our B&B with 5 en-suite twin bedrooms and flexible arrival days. Minimum stay 3 nights. Free WIFI. Open winter and summer.

We operate La Marmottiere, a brand new 8-10 person luxury apartment in Morzine, and Chalet Aix in nearby Essert Romand. Both properties are built and designed to a high standard and are extremely comfortable.

There is a hot tub at both properties. We have two Leiths trained chalet staff in the resort to offer you either catered or self-catered holidays - the choice is yours.

Since 2006. Location, location, location, chalets circa 500m - 200m from pistes and/or resort. Passionate about good food - menu by former Fortnum & Mason development chef. Service with care and delivered sustainably, we’re on a mission to be the Alps accommodation provider with the smallest carbon footprint. Mention 'Source' and get a bottle of local bubbles with your booking.

apexmorzine.com

panthersnowco.com

skiology.co.uk

+ 33 (0) 4 50 74 65 49

+44 (0) 7836 611 076

+44 (0) 207 183 0688

apexgroup@free.fr

info@panthersnowco.com

stay@skiology.co.uk

45 Degrees North

Treeline Chalets

Chalet Roc

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. Both catered and self catered holidays available.

Award winning chalet company in Morzine with a range of catered, flexi-catered and self-catered properties. From 2 bed apartments to 6 bed luxury chalets, we have a large portfolio to suit all group sizes and budgets. With a friendly team full of local knowledge, we are here to help from the moment you book so you can really make the most of your time in Morzine.

5 bedroom, 4 bathroom detached chalet in central Morzine, just a short walk from bars, restaurants and cable cars. Outdoor hot tub, log burning fireplace, and full digital entertainment - WIFI, Netflix, Spotify Premium, Alexa and PlayStation. Summer friendly with lockup underground storage for 10 bikes. Available catered or self-catered, mention ‘Morzine Source’ for a discount!

45degreesnorth.co.uk

treelinechalets.com

ChaletRoc.com

+44 (0) 203 488 2845

+44 (0) 1483 220 505

+44 (0) 7887 551 921

hello@45degreesnorth.co.uk

info@treelinechalets.com

reservations@chaletroc.com

Alptitude Chalets

Chalet Fourmiliere

Ride & Breakfast Chalet

Alptitude is a family run company offering an extensive portfolio of quality properties at great value prices.

With properties that sleep 5 people up to 12 people, there will be something that suits your needs. As one of the oldest accommodation companies in Morzine, Alptitude prides itself on great service and value for money. With a 2021 COVID guarantee, you can book in confidence.

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 huge fireplace, sink into sofas, antiques and contemporary design. With a Michelin-trained chef creating amazing food, accompanied by fabulous wine, our mission is to make your winter holiday as chilled as it can possibly be.

Centre of Montriond, stay in a renovated chalet with 6 en-suites bedrooms (18 guests) and excellent facilities including an outdoor hot tub, sauna and fireplaces.

Self-catered or fully catered? It’s up to you! We provide any services to suit your needs at a great price and with maximum flexibility. This is the perfect chalet for large groups starting at 4,320€ per week in winter.

alptitude.com

chaletfourmiliere.com

rideandbreakfast.com

+44 (0) 7891 021 292

+44 (0) 7710 328 586

+33 (0) 6 07 45 35 18

info@alptitude.com

hello@chaletfourmiliere.com

contact@rideandbreakfast.com //

accommodation Directory

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Alpine Residences

Simply Morzine

Elevation Alps

Alpine Residences is the leading name in high-end holiday rentals in Les Gets. Annapurna and the new Kinabalu are two of the most luxurious self-catered residences. Located within the centre of the village and including an on-site wellness area, private ski-room and two restaurants. These developments feature interior designed apartments and penthouses of different sizes, sleeping 4 to 16 people.

Simply Morzine are THE original & best Morzine winter and summer holiday specialists. Established in 1995, we offer high quality centrally located &/or on-piste catered and self-catered chalets and apartments. We also work in close partnership with a lovely, familyrun French hotel. Alongside weekly winter holidays, we specialise in flexible short breaks. In summer, we provide unique family alpine adventures.

We are an independent chalet holiday specialist based in the French alpine resort of Morzine. Our unique combination of luxury chalets and apartments and bespoke concierge services makes Elevation the perfect choice for your winter ski or summer holiday.

Our large range of luxury self catered Morzine chalets and apartments are very close to the village and include ski in/ski out, hot tubs and saunas.

alpine-residences.fr

simply-morzine.co.uk

elevationalps.com

+33 (0) 4 22 32 60 93

+44 (0) 1664 568 902

+33 (0) 6 50 26 70 95

lesgets@alpine-residences.fr

info@simply-morzine.co.uk

info@elevationalps.com

Mountain Highs

Morgan Jupe

Prestige Mountain Chalets

Morzine self-catered specialists since 1995! A wide portfolio of 20 chalets and apartments to suit all budgets, from 2 to 7 bedrooms. Great locations, all with parking, WIFI and ski lockers. Contact us for full details on each property we rent out. We offer flexible start dates and with our COVID guarantee of 18 month transferable bookings - your booking is safe with us!

"Favourite Accommodation" winners at the 2020 Morzine Source Awards for Excellence, our carefully selected portfolio of chalets and apartments offer stunning views and excellent facilities. Book on an exclusive occupancy, self-catered basis all year round, with catering upgrades available during winter. Our unique flexible booking option allows you to plan your next holiday with absolute confidence.

Chalet Belle Chéry is a restored 350m² barn in a modern style available on a self catered basis for 14 people. With 6 en-suite bedrooms, a TV room, pool table, Jacuzzi and outdoor sauna, the chalet is 4 minutes from ski lifts with amazing views. We also offer a 3 bed apartment in La Côte d'Arbroz and B&B Chalet Nono, in Montriond. With 400m² of pure 5 * luxury for adults only there’s a hammam, healthy breakfasts, free shuttle to and from the slopes.

mountainhighs.co.uk

morganjupe.co.uk

prestigemountainchalets.com

+33 (0) 6 24 79 07 09

+44 (0) 7739 692 908

+33 (0) 6 50 48 76 63

info@mountainhighs.co.uk

jess@morganjupe.co.uk

info@prestigemountainchalets.com

Reach4thealps

Morzine Ski Chalets

Mountain Xtra Chalets & Apartments

A well-established family run chalet business run by Gina & Marcus Ewart operating in Morzine and Les Gets since 2002. Reach4thealps have a selection of 15 high quality apartments and chalets and offer both catered and self-catered holidays during both the winter and summer seasons. Mature staff, excellent food & service, hot tubs, saunas, ski & bike storage, log burners and great locations make for a perfect holiday in the Alps.

MSC is an exclusive chalet company with properties based in the heart of Morzine. We provide a unique range of rich ski chalets and apartments both catered and self-catered with a 5 star service. The MSC team offer a bespoke service and our personal touch makes every part of the customer’s journey enjoyable and memorable..

Mountain Xtra has a wide range of high quality self catered and catered chalets and apartments in Morzine and Les Gets. Whether you are looking for a large group, a family holiday or a romantic getaway we have winter and summer holiday properties to suit your budget. Visit our website to book online now.

reach4thealps.com

morzineskichalets.com

mountainxtra.com

+33 (0) 9 67 06 93 80

+33 (0) 6 06 47 59 13

+44 (0) 1483 608 396

info@reach4thealps.com

joanna@morzineskichalets.com

info@mountainxtra.com

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accommodation Directory

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your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Aiglon Morzine

Chalet-Hôtel la Marmotte

Alikats Mountain Holidays

12 stylish and contemporary alpine apartments within a stunning residence de tourism situated in a great location, less than a 5 minute walk from both the centre of resort and the Super Morzine lift. Open summer and winter. The ultimate MTB retreat. Family fun, Multi Pass member. On-site gym, sauna, treatment rooms and fitness classes. Secure parking.

La Marmotte chalet-hotel and spa is ideally situated, at the foot of the slopes of Les Gets. This cosy, friendly, welcoming venue boasts attractive antique furniture, quirky accessories and a level of service that’s second to none. So settle in and feel like you’re at home. Soak in the stunning, panoramic mountain views through the vast windows as you relax by the fire in the large living area, surrounded by natural wood décor.

Chalet de L’Ange has style and design at its heart.

Architect Hervé Marullaz ensured the extensive use of large windows maximised the mountain views and its beautiful surroundings. It sleeps 14 people in 7 en-suite bedrooms and sports a brand new renovation and interior re-design including an outdoor hot tub. It has an excellent living space filled with Danish inspired furniture, giving this chalet its own unique personality.

aiglonmorzine.com

hotel-marmotte.com

alikats.eu/chalets/chalet-de-lange/

+33 (0) 6 82 05 81 12

+33 (0) 4 50 75 80 33

+44 (0) 2035146012

info@aiglonmorzine.com

info@hotel-marmotte.com

bookings@alikats.eu

The Farmhouse, Mas de la Coutettaz

Hideout Hostel

the HOFNAR experience

Originally created by a rich slate miner, The Farmhouse has been lovingly preserved with just three owners since 1771. Dark wooden beams, slate flooring mined from the mountains of Morzine and original farmhouse features have been left wonderfully exposed in rooms which include a former cobbler’s shop, carpenters workshop, seamstresses and the town’s only prison cell.

We offer stylish yet affordable winter and summer mountain accommodation from just €30 a night B&B. With a choice of double, triple or dorm rooms, we can cater for any group of guests or budget. All our rooms have been recently renovated, are clean, functional and comfortable, and have high-speed WIFI access throughout the Hostel. Centrally located with secure bike and ski storage.

Specialists in holidays for solo travellers, we have 2 fantastic chalets in Morzine. As well as our regular trips we also run weeks for 'beginners & improvers,' 'ladies only,' 'snowboard only' and 'off piste' holidays.

A ready-made-group of new like-minded friends, skiing and snowboarding in the winter, biking, hiking, rafting, all kinds of things during the summer.

thefarmhouse.fr

hideout-hostel.com

hofnar.com

+33 (0) 6 83 86 55 49

+33 (0) 7 68 63 48 21

+44 (0) 203 286 4469

info@thefarmhouse.fr

info@hideout-hostel.com

hello@hofnar.com

My Home in the Alps

Hotel & Spa Le Dahu

Croc Blanc 4 Saison

Chalet "W" is a luxury 5 star chalet in a prime location in the centre of Morzine with stunning views of the mountains and river, huge light-filled rooms and a luxurious contemporary decor. My Home in the Alps is a real estate agency with a unique portfolio in Morzine and Les Gets. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Nestled on the south side of the Morzine Valley, the 4* Dahu Hotel & Spa offers guests a uniquely sunny location and a panorama that encompasses the emblematic mountains of the station and its lovely village. Relax next to the fire after a day of skiing or take a dip in our pool after enjoying a massage. Our restaurant serves delicious dishes with a focus on local ingredients.

The ultimate ski holiday getaway is located right in the heart of Morzine, just a few steps from the slopes. Our luxury chalet accommodates up to 12 guests across 6 bedrooms. With all that Morzine has to offer located right on your doorstep, you’ll also enjoy the private sauna, spa and wellbeing area, modern, stylish interiors and a private garden too.

myhomeinthealps.com

Dahu.com

croc-blanc-chalet.com

+33 (0) 9 54 76 22 30

+33 (0) 4 50 75 92 92

+33 (0) 6 31 45 30 21

info@mhita.com

info@dahu.com

info@croc-blanc-chalet.com //

accommodation Directory

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Avoriaz Holidays 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 linens are included (flexible meal plans including breakfast delivery are available with Avoriaz premium), and we arrange discounts on ski passes and equipment rental on your behalf. Here are a selection of our properties:

Chalet Ioda

Saskia Apartment

Recently refurbished to a high standard, this large chalet accommodates up to 10 people and offers stunning views over the resort. Facilities include WIFI, TV, beds made before arrival, daily cleaning service, towels and firewood provided, sunny terrace and washing machine and dryer. You’ll love the large, open plan living room.

Aster Apartment

Located on the 4th floor of the Saskia Residence in the Falaise area, this apartment sleeps 6 people in comfortable rooms. There’s 1 double bedroom, a bunk room and a sofa-bed in the lounge. Facilities include beds made before arrival, WIFI, TV, kitchen with microwave, fridge and dishwasher. The south-west facing balcony offers stunning views!

Chalet Aspen

Sleeping 6 in modern comfort, this 3rd floor apartment has been recently refurbished and offers great views over the local pistes. Facilities include secure boot room and ski storage, beds made before your arrival, WIFI, flexible bedroom arrangements, fully-equipped kitchen and south west facing balcony. We love the Savoyarde themed décor in this property!

Chalet Kouria

Chalet Aspen is an exceptional modern living-space set in a prime location in the centre of the resort. Designed in Jean Michel Villot's iconic style, upon which Avoriaz is built; comprising of 5 luxury triplex apartments with a 400m2 shared space dedicated to the spa, heated pool and ski room. There is also a fitness room and a massage room.

Malinka Apartment

This beautiful, uber-modern chalet sleeps 10 people in 5 bedrooms. It has its own private lift, a beautiful living room with a large fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. Other features include heated boot warmers, laundry room, access to an indoor swimming pool, hammam, sauna and beautiful south facing balconies.

Accommodating up to 4 people, this charming apartment is on the 4th floor and enjoys a south-west facing balcony and views. Facilities include beds made before your arrival, WIFI, a kitchenette with a microwave, electric stove, dishwasher and fridge. There is a nice dining space, double bedroom and 2 single sofa beds.

Chalet Doriaz An individual chalet offering accommodation for up to 12 in a huge, beautifully decorated space over several levels. Facilities include WIFI, beds made before arrival, fire wood and towels provided, secure ski storage, laundry room, sauna, fully – equipped kitchen, large dining area and several bedrooms to suit your whole group.

Chalets Hauts Forts Located in the oldest neighbourhood of Avoriaz, facing the Dromonts Hotel, discover this incredible 188m2 new-build. Spacious and designed with high quality materials, these chalets have a capacity between 11 and 13 guests. Fully equipped and built in a traditional and modern alpine style, you will feel settled in and relaxed from the moment you arrive.

Alpages 1 Renovated in December 2020, this duplex apartment of 72m2 located on the 6th and 7th floor of the Alpages 1 residence offers all-round comfort. The apartment has been renovated in its entirety with high quality materials.

The living room is open-plan with fully equipped kitchen.

The dining room opens up on a large balcony, and continues into the vast living room. The beds are made prior to your arrival. You also have access to the free WIFI.

a selection of avoriaz accommodation from avoriaz-holidays.com | +33 (0)4 50 74 16 08 80

accommodation Directory

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MORE THAN A REAL ESTATE AGENCY Here, two buyers explain why they were motivated to invest in our valley and how they manage their property from afar. “ My husband Paul and I met 20 years ago on a ski holiday. It was always our dream to own a home in the mountains and in June 2018, after five years of searching, we bought Chalet Agapes. The property is in a wooded area, just five minutes from Lac de Montriond and five minutes from the centre of Montriond village. We spend most of our holidays in the chalet, plus many long weekends too.

Working with Aurélie and Nico at My Home in the Alps helped us bring our dream to life. We chose the Portes du Soleil because of the extensive skiing on offer and the thriving summer season too. Montriond’s close proximity to Geneva Airport means we can maximize our own time in the chalet, plus the whole valley is bustling all year round. However, like many, our lives have changed drastically during 2020 and we haven’t been able to visit our chalet at all.

Thankfully the team at My Home in the Alps were able to welcome both French and Dutch guests to our property during the summer season. They have a well-established rental business and they take care of the marketing, booking system and rentals with an efficient check-in service. They really take care of the property too, providing a fully managed service for any guests, but also taking care of the maintenance too. They even arrange a Christmas tree! We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.

Without their services it would be extremely difficult for us to manage the property from afar. We sincerely hope that guests can enjoy the mountain safely this winter and we hope to be able to visit again soon. ”

Julie & Paul C

“ We had quite a long list of criteria during our property hunt. We wanted access to a world-class ski area and to be within walking distance of a vibrant town centre. We needed enough space to accommodate two families comfortably whilst multi-season use was very important to us too. Morzine represented the best value by far, and as soon as Aurélie showed us our chalet, it was an instant ‘YES!’ Our property is slightly different to a traditional wooden chalet; it has a more Skandi style with large, panoramic windows that catch the sun all day long. It’s light and spacious with views right across the valley. We tend to spend four full weeks and several weekends in the chalet each year.

My Home in the Alps make it very easy to own a property in Morzine, as they’re both letting agents, property management and maintenance experts. Our chalet required some investment to upgrade the facilities for both our guests and ourselves and Nico was excellent at liaising with reliable local tradesmen on our behalf. Aurélie, Nico and their team work hard to give guests a selection of great properties to stay in and they ensure that they have the best possible holiday in Morzine. ”

Antony & Suzy H

Discover more about how our full service estate and property agency can help make your alpine home dreams become a reality by contacting My Home in the Alps @myhomeinthealps

chaletsexceptionmorzine

+33 (0) 9 54 76 22 30 | info@mhita.com | www.myhomeinthealps.com

COVID. Brexit. Fluctuating exchange rates.

Just three good reasons why you might expect the local property market to be a scary place right now. Au contraire. A clear desire for life

property €320,000

where and how we work is creating the perfect storm in the local property market. Here’s our selection of the hottest properties on the market right now, form an orderly queue ladies and gents.

€424,000

Characterful Apartment

Authentic Semi-Detached Farmhouse

This attractive 3-bedroom apartment is within walking distance of the centre of the charming village of St Jean d’Aulps and only a few minutes’ drive from nearby Morzine. Offering 72.54m2 of space, it is an ideal principal residence or second home. It has been fully renovated throughout, with nice touches such as the stone walls and wood features. The large private terrace of 46m2 enjoys an unobstructed alpine view. The apartment is sold with a garage and a cave.

Situated in the very sunny area of the Pied de La Plagne, a few minutes drive from the centre of Morzine, this authentic semidetached farmhouse dating from 1911 requires a full renovation. It is composed of a living area with a kitchen, living room, bedroom and the old stable. The barn, with its high ceiling, offers a great opportunity for renovation. A pretty, flat garden at the side of the property completes this farmhouse.

MORE INFO:

Lucy Pilcher, France Property Angels +33 (0) 6 95 73 17 79 lucy.fpa@gmail.com francepropertyangels.com

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hot property

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MORE INFO:

Sylvie Payen +33 (0) 4 50 04 94 76 sylvie.payen@century21.fr callhome-morzine.com

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Chalet Therese €475,000

This beautifully presented 2 storey property with private garden and terrace, sits in the pretty mountain village of Essert Romand. Laid out over 2 floors, this spacious family home benefits from 5 bedrooms, 1 shower room and 1 full bathroom, a huge storage room, a lovely open plan lounge dining room and kitchen with fireplace, balcony and gorgeous terrace. The property sits in a small residence of just one other upper floor apartment.

A must see if you are hunting for property.

MORE INFO:

Joanna MacGovern, Geranium Immobilier +33 (0) 4 50 38 86 30 info@geranium74.com geranium74.com

France Property Angels half page winter 20.pdf

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29/10/2020

14:51

Emma and Sam Wrench talk about buying a renovation project in St Jean d’Aulps with France Property Angels What kind of property were you looking for?

We wanted something with external character and an interior we could make our own. We also wanted to to generate income.

What did you ultimately buy?

We were looking in St Jean d’Aulps because of its year-round village appeal. We saw 3 places in budget and then a special one “that’s out of your budget but incredible”. Of course we loved it, a 6 bed stone house with a barn on the edge of town.

Nothing has been touched for ages, so it’s quite the project!

What are your plans for the property?

We hope to create 2 x 3 bed apartments and a 4 bed to share with others keen to experience a village in the Portes du Soleil.

We found our dream ski property during Covid-19 thanks to France Property Angels

What was the biggest challenge buying a property from afar?

We are often in Los Angeles so we were prepared for the time difference. We hadn’t planned on not being able to visit! Financing from the USA is difficult, as well as postal delays and only having an hour to talk with France Property Angels each morning.

What made you choose France Property Angels?

Lucy and Kate were so good from the start; open, honest and incredibly patient as we jumped through hoops to make the purchase a reality.

How did France Property Angels help keep the process moving during Covid-19 restrictions?

Lucy and Kate persevered through the challenges presented by Covid-19 and were incredibly good at reassuring the seller to stick with us.

Which part of the France Property Angels service did you find the most useful?

Their knowledge of and relationships with the town were great. Lucy generated a 360 property tour which allowed us to work with builders remotely. They were both around to pop in and answer questions which was so helpful.

Any tips for other buyers?

Committing can be really scary but it’s the best thing you’ll do. Having a space to share with others is lovely, especially as we have more opportunity to spend time at home. Don’t be afraid of a project and to search out of the hot spots.

France Property Angels – We help buyers purchase property in all parts of the Portes du Soleil, including Morzine, Les Gets and St Jean d'Aulps as well as other ski resorts in the French Alps.

www.francepropertyangels.com | info@francepropertyangels.com | +44 (0)1225 442128 //

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Brown Bear Lodge In Montriond village and minutes from the slopes, Brown Bear Lodge is a traditionally built chalet with a truly special combination of alpine charm and modern comforts. The ideal mountain home for all the family, whether relaxing over dinner and snuggling by the fire in the gorgeous living area, kicking back with a movie in the games room, or enjoying a moment of peace in the sauna and hot-tub – life at Brown Bear Lodge can only be sublime!

€1,450,000

MORE INFO:

Marie-Anne Denicolo, Alpine Property +33 (0) 6 08 15 46 54 marieanne@alpine-property.com alpine-property.com

Le Genepi Located in the picturesque family area of La Turche in Les Gets, the 600km of the Portes de Soliel ski slopes are on the doorstep. The Le Génépi penthouse apartment has two spacious private balconies facing south and west which will become your favourite spot for apres-ski whilst enjoying the amazing views. Watch the skiers descend the pistes or the sun set over the valley du Giffre. This exclusive property has exposed beams with high ceilings in the open living area and 5 bedrooms and a bunk room.

€1,890,000

MORE INFO:

Amanda Hardwick, Promoteam +33 (0) 6 82 59 21 31 a.hardwick@promoteam.fr promoteam.fr

Farm Le Planet Fantastic location for this high quality, new build, off-plan complex of 4 small chalets reuniting 17 original apartments and set in a green environment with amazing views. They are located just 600m from the town hall in Morzine and there is a ski shuttle stop at the foot of the residence. Each apartment includes a balcony, private cave, private parking or garage and communal secured bike cave. Reduced notary fees, reserve early to select your ideal mountain property.

Price: From €395,000 to €810,000

MORE INFO:

Ingrid Maes, Morzine Prestige +44 (0) 4 50 04 33 26 info@morzine-prestige.com morzine-prestige.com

Apartment La Terrasse With a character of yesteryear but resolutely contemporary and with very comfortable interiors, La Terrasse is a stunning 4 bedroom ground floor apartment, which can accommodate 8 to 10 people. Completely renovated with excellent facilities, this property also includes shared access to a balneo room, perfect for moments of relaxation.

MORE INFO:

Agence My Home in the Alps +33 (0) 9 54 76 22 30 info@mhita.com myhomeinthealps.com

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€515,000

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

614, avenue de Joux Plane - 74110 Morzine

+33 (0)4 50 04 94 76 www.callhome-morzine.com

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€3,200,000

Chalet A, Hauts Forts Avoriaz is known for its groundbreaking architecture and the new Hauts Forts development continues this theme. Chalet A is a 188m2 property in this exclusive new residence, comfortably accommodating 10 people in 5 en-suite bedrooms, some with private terraces. With south-facing views, a large, open-plan living space, an open fireplace and premium kitchen, properties in the Hauts Forts development also feature contemporary interiors in a ‘mountain chic’ style. **Images are representative and non-contractual MORE INFO:

Thomas Arneodo Avoriaz Premium +33 (0) 4 50 74 16 08 info@avoriaz-holidays.com

€825,000

Kinabalu Your final opportunity to purchase a part of this exclusive development, our Kinabalu residence includes new build apartments within metres of the ski slopes. Just 4 properties remain, ranging in size from 2 bed plus cabin to 3 bed apartments, all of which are available fully furnished with contemporary interiors curated by our in-house design team. Other facilities include underground parking and storage whilst residents benefit from fantastic on-site facilities including our concierge service, bar, restaurant, gym, spa area and swimming pool. Each property has great rental potential; delivery is scheduled for December 2020.

MORE INFO:

Samantha Gates – Alpine Lodges +33 (0) 4 22 32 60 96 info@alpine-lodges.fr alpine-lodges.fr

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your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

ESSERT ROMAND • LES GETS • TANINGES

Tél: 04 50 75 74 00 contact@muffat-pierreyves.com

HEATING & VENTILATION / CHAUFFAGE, VENTILATION RENEWABLE ENERGY / ENERGIES RENOUVELABLES BATHROOM PLUMBING & INSTALLATION / SANITAIRE

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trending - interiors -

If the world has taught us one lesson this year, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that our homes must be a place of sanctuary; a safe place in which to retreat from the uncertainties outdoors. As an interior designer I truly believe that the things we surround ourselves with have a huge influence over our wellbeing - both mental and physical. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my selection of interior musthaves to help you create a calming refuge in which to cocoon this winter. kyles garrett interior architect shepandkyles.com

Moooi Light Shade Shade contemporary chandelier moooi.com

At the moment at-home entertaining is more popular than ever and this is an easy option out here in the Alps with an amazing range of gourmet delivery services available in the resorts. This gorgeous chandelier from iconic design brand Moooi gives a stylish, contemporary twist and will act a sumptuous centre piece to any dining table. A traditional chandelier is encased in a semitransparent mirror shade. When the lights are off, the mirror shade will reflect its surroundings, and when illuminated it is revealed as a stunning piece of contemporary lighting design.

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Timorous Beasties Golden Oriole wallpaper panel Timorousbeasties.com

Our living spaces can significantly influence our physical health as well as our emotional wellbeing. We can create environments that positively stimulate our senses through colour and texture, giving personality and individuality to a home. This wallpaper panel from Timorous Beasties oozes opulence and positivity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; teaming the metallic richness of gold leaf with intricate design.

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Ambiance des Alps reed diffuser Ambiancesdesalpes.com

You can help create a sense of relaxation in any space with a reed diffuser. At Delbard garden centre in Morzine they stock many different scents but we absolutely love the â&#x20AC;&#x153;au coin de feuâ&#x20AC;? fragrance by Ambiance des Alpes. Resonant of a log burning fire on a snowy alpine evening, it is a rich and smoky fragrance that will help you unwind and relax!

Top Floor Rugs Amber rug Topfloorrugs.com

With us all spending much more time at home this year, our focus has shifted to nesting. Texture, colour and softness are key to a cosy interior and a gorgeous rug can be a focal point to any room.

At shep&kyles design we are fortunate enough to collaborate with the amazingly talented Esti Barnes of Top Floor rugs. Her bespoke handmade rugs in wool and silk are simply wonderful, and we love the rich opulent colours of her Amber rug.

Clarissa Hulse Goosegrass bed linen Clarissahulse.com

A key element for a bedroom is creating a space with a sense of security and calm, an escape from the outside world - even if it is just from the children or your wonderful house guests! Soft and cosy materials can be teamed with colour to lift the spirits and invoke the serenity of the natural world. We simply love Clarissa Hulse for her use of nature-inspired prints and gorgeous colour combinations. Our current favourite is her goosegrass bed linen with cushions and throw.

William Yeoward hand cut crystal barware and glasses Williamyeoward.com

Our abstinence resolutions for this year were firmly derailed by global events, but as a positive we have re-discovered the joys of cocktail making! William Yeoward are renowned crystal manufacturers, these glasses are made by hand using traditional techniques. Their new collection - American Bar is based on the glamorous cocktails of the Jazz Age, something we are very happy to embrace! //

trending - interiors

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kids DOING IT FOR THE

FINANCIAL PLANNING IN THE AGE OF COVID-19

BY ALAN WATSON AT SPECTRUM IFA

For most of 2020, nobody in France has been able to escape the daily Virus update. From a financial planner’s viewpoint, and thinking of my family, long term Rhone-Alps based, it can spin one’s head wondering, “how much, and for how long, will our children be paying extra taxes and social charges to balance this black hole?”

Many of my clients in the Alps are either retired, considering it, or working hard in their business to secure a tidy financial future, not only for themselves, but for their families too.

It’s a part of life’s pattern that many of us become beneficiaries of a family estate, and being a French fiscal resident, this brings up potential questions and complications. “What are the limits I can receive before the tax man becomes an unwelcome beneficiary?” you may ask yourself. “My children deserve a portion of this, but the bank offers a derisory return, not even Eurozone inflation proof,” you may ponder. “Our young daughter dreams of studying in the US, how much will that cost?” These are all common questions right now, in the life of a financial planner.

every 15 years from parents to children, free of tax and social charges. It could be used for that far off house purchase, a highly regarded study program, or even setting up a business. A lower, but still highly valuable, allowance of just over €30,000 applies for gifts between grandparents and grandchildren.

Currency is also an important consideration. French banks are always happy to offer short and long term saving vehicles. The wording of the contracts, terms and fund choices, even for somebody who has spent over 30 years in European financial services, can be rather bewildering. Plus they always insist on converting your Sterling to Euros, and currently this is not a sensible proposition. In the last year alone we have seen swings between the two currencies of 10%; the Pound is still a global currency and will return to its former glory. A far better facility is to be able to choose your exchange date, then take advantage when the currency is stronger to move to your new Eurobased need. This flexibility coupled

So how do we approach such matters?

You may be surprised and relieved to hear that the French fiscal system can be both generous and highly tax efficient when it comes to financial planning for ourselves and our families. For example, a gift of €100,000 can be made

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financial planning in the age of covid-19

with tax efficiency, could make a gift for your loved ones a very sensible and well-planned move.

As a financial adviser, I meet many people in sometimes complex and misunderstood situations. “I have actually lived in France for the last two years, is it now time to declare fiscal residency?” they ask me. “My children have UK ISAs set up by their grandparents, living here as a family, is this tax efficient?” is a further example.

A no obligation meeting with an experienced financial planner may help to unravel the complex French reporting system, and allow you to enjoy all the things that brought us here in the first place.

More Info: Contact Alan: alan.watson@spectrum-ifa.com

// illustration by icons8.com

sourcemag skijo MH.pdf

1

27/10/2020

Dixie Bar half page SOURCE.pdf

MORZINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ORIGINAL

APRES BAR www.thedixiebar.com

1

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

11:39

31/10/2020

12:33

OPEN 11AM - 2AM EVERY DAY

SHOWING ALL LIVE SPORTS thedixiebar@gmail.com

12 different beers on draught including craft, IPA, Guinness, Cider & Lager | Speciality wines and cocktails Crepes, tapas, snacks & pizza always available | Private room available for parties and groups

THE DIXIE MICKS Looking forward to seeing friends old and new!!

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LAST CHANCE TO BUY YOUR DREAM APARTMENT

WE HAVE APARTMENTS AVAILABLE IN ALL OF THESE DEVELOPMENTS RANGING FROM A 1 BED TO A 6 BED PENTHOUSE. PRICES START FROM €200,000 AND YOU’LL FIND FURTHER INFORMATION ON

ALL

OUR

CURRENT

DEVELOPMENTS AT: WWW.PROMOTEAM.FR

LE CARLINA – MORZINE PRESTIGIOUS SKI-IN AND SKI-OUT RESIDENCE

LE GÉNÉPI – LES GETS SKI IN, SKI OUT WITH AMAZING VIEWS

LE GÉNÉPI LES GETS Located in the picturesque family area of La Turche in Les Gets, the 600km of the Portes de Soliel ski slopes are on the doorstep.

All the Le Génépi apartments have spacious private balconies or terraces which will become your favourite spot for an apres-ski whilst enjoying the amazing views. Watch the skiers descend the pistes or the sun set over the valley du Giffre. This exclusive property development has apartments from 1 bedroom and a bunk room to a penthouse with 5 bedrooms and a bunk room.

The design is a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional Savoyard architecture, in harmony with its stunning surrounding. The construction material is authentic, using natural aged larch.

A modern chalet design with a light and bright feel thanks to the large windows that make the most of the views. With simple lines and open plan living using natural materials such as wood to give a cosy feel.

FROM €340,000

L'ECHO DU PLENEY MORZINE Perfectly located in the centre of the village of Morzine, with all its fabulous bars and restaurants, and a few steps away from the Super-Morzine Cable car serving the high-altitude ski slopes of the Morzine-Avoriaz ski resort.

This prestigious property development is made of 1 to 6-bedroom apartments within two connected chalets. Each apartment is designed to maximise modern comforts, and comes with a large choice of quality finishes. The generous living space opens onto a balcony or a terrace to enjoy the wonderful surrounding mountain and village views.

There is a ski locker and a covered underground parking, so you can enjoy the wonderful location and surroundings by foot.

FROM €310,000

FOR MORE DETAILS CONTACT AMANDA ON +33 (0) 6 82 59 21 31 OR EMAIL A.HARDWICK@PROMOTEAM.FR

Jonnie Irwin interview By Amie Henderson

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your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

It’s June 2019, I’m on my weekly magazine delivery round, heading into Morzine fully loaded and ready to restock. By my side is Molly Jefferies, it’s the final afternoon of her week-long work experience in our office. “Oh look, he’s already got a magazine,” says Mollie, as we drive past a bloke walking along the road, Source Summer 19 tucked carefully under his arm. “Hang on…” I say. “Was that Jonnie Irwin off of the telly?” I screech to a halt in the middle of the road before attempting a U-turn, but Molly has no idea. She’s never watched A Place in the Sun - Home or Away and she’s looking at me like I’m crazy. Jumping out of the car and shouting ‘Excuse me, are you Jonnie Irwin off of the telly?” does little to dissuade her.

As it turns out, it was Jonnie Irwin off of the telly, and we have a lovely chat about why he’s in Morzine (he’s filming), how lovely the village is (it is, everyone should live here) and about Morzine Source Magazine (yes, it’s mine, I’m the delivery girl too.) I take the obligatory picture and in a fit of teenage giggles, Molly and I bundle back into the car. “What a nice bloke!” we agree.

A Place in the Sun - Home or Away on Channel 4 is one of those programs that everybody loves.

For 21 years the show has offered one hour of pure escapism, taking us to beautiful destinations across the globe with Brits hunting houses. Will they find their dream Florida villa? Or that perfect Spanish holiday apartment by the sea? Will they be inspired to pack up and leave the UK for good?

Or will they abandon their plans and stay in sunny Wiltshire?

“Amie, you sound like you’re in the pub!” says Jonnie when I call for a chat. I’m not, unfortunately.

France has just entered Confinement 2.0 and any prospect of the pub is many weeks away. Jonnie is at home in Newcastle where he lives with his

wife Jessica and three boys. I’m keen to know how he came to appear on our TV screens in the first place.

“It was 2003 and I was already working in property actually, focusing on the sale of business properties, hotels, that kind of thing,” Jonnie explains. “My mate Bobby was asked by a TV production company to recommend a property expert to join their team. I’d plateaued in my current role and was actually considering a move to Sydney.” Jonnie had toyed with the idea of becoming an actor at an earlier age, but “I’m a provider” he tells me. “The idea of acting felt too uncertain.” Upon return from a holiday in Argentina, Jonnie was called to audition for A Place in the Sun - Home or Away and he’s been a regular on our screens ever since.

“Abso-bloody-lutely!” is Jonnie’s response when I ask him if he prefers the ‘away’ to the ‘home’ roles on the show. Five weeks in Florida was his first mission abroad for the show, but a lot has changed in the last 16 years. “When I was single, I’d be working on Escape to the Country and Cowboy Trap for the BBC, A Place in the Sun and The Renovation Game, going from set to set. I’d be away for months at a time, usually between 25 and 30 weeks each year,” he explains. “But now I have all these children, I want to go away less.”

In June 2020 Jonnie and his wife Jessica welcomed identical twins to join older brother Rex and filling their world with in three boys under the age of 18 months. “I feel guilty leaving my wife on a Sunday morning to go off to work for a few days. We used to take Rex with us, his first six months were jet set; Cyprus, Spain, Greece…” If leaving his family at home is the least enjoyable part of his job, I wonder what the best part is? “It’s the challenge.

I want to see emotion – good or bad – when I >>

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show a couple a property on the show,” Jonnie explains. “I also enjoy the sense of anticipation when I’m travelling somewhere new.”

New, like Morzine? “No! I go to Morzine out of my own volition! Morzine is my place!” As it turns out, Jonnie has been here several times, summer and winter, and is desperate to join us all for more mountain biking in the summer.

“Some resorts are just resorts,” Jonnie tells me.

“But Morzine has its charm and a community that you just don’t experience in other resorts.”

Is he surprised that so many Brits live here?

“Not at all, it’s so accessible. A lot of places in France have become hugely popular with the Brits.” A conversation on the merits of Dordogne-shire follows…

Now, I’m not sure about you, but I’ve certainly revisited my own definition of ‘home’ since COVID-19 started causing chaos. I wondered whether this is a trend Jonnie has seen within his own consultancy business (he also finds properties for private clients, outside of his TV work). “This is a big movement.” Great! It’s not just me then! “Buyers who’d previously considered a holiday property abroad whilst retaining their permanent home in the UK have flipped. They’re now considering a full move abroad whilst retaining a pied à terre in the UK.” I guess that comes with a different set of requirements though? “Lockdown has shown many people that they can work from anywhere. Buyers are now looking for more substantial properties, where they’ll spend extended periods of time.”

“A mountain village that offers the full Alpine life, that’s the dream” 96

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I almost dissuade myself from mentioning the dreaded B word in the face of Jonnie’s enthusiasm for the international property market. But he’s probably expecting it. “I’m European to the core,” he tells me. “I tried to scare people off voting leave during the referendum.” Will Brexit change demand for European property? “There’ll certainly be more transactional hoops to jump through than before,” Jonnie believes. “But Brits have been buying in The States for years, and that involves a lot of red tape too. It doesn’t put people off!”

That’s a very good point, but what about the relentless uncertainty? “There’s sure to be some bilateral agreement ultimately,” Jonnie believes. “Airports will take longer, it’ll become more difficult to travel with pets,” he continues.

“But come next spring and summer, this won’t be putting buyers off. Brexit won’t stop buyers coming to France.”

On that note, I’d read that Jonnie’s hobbies include snowboarding, mountain biking and hiking and I happen to know a little place that does all three brilliantly. Has he considered buying his own place in the mountains one day? “Always. I ran out of time when I last came to Morzine, there’s so much more I need to explore. A mountain village that offers the full Alpine life, that’s the dream eventually.”

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

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2441 Route des Grandes Alpes, 74260 Les Gets www.vina-annapurna.com

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THROUGH THE

keyhole “You must visit some amazing chalets Amie,” they say. And it’s true! I do! Our valley is home to some stunning residences, old and new in age, contemporary and traditional in style. Some are permanent homes, many are holiday chalets, but I love nothing more than a good rummage around a Savoyarde building.

“Do you have a favourite?” they ask. I have five actually.

In the forthcoming issues of Morzine Source Magazine I’ll introduce you to my favourite buildings in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz alongside the people who made them happen.

We’ll kick things off with Chalet Joux Plane.

Chalet Joux Plane in Morzine is an expansive, new-build chalet completed in 2018. Having drawn comparisons with a James Bond lair, the interiors are, as you might expect, masculine and minimal.

There’s a floating dining room. An indoor, outdoor, indoor swimming pool measuring 22 metres in length. The space is dissected by a glass atrium and there’s a subterranean tunnel connecting the garage with the boot room, which itself resembles a store on London’s Bond Street. Elsewhere there’s a private spa, gym and games room in addition to a cinema and art gallery. And that’s before you get to the six en-suite bedrooms.

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// © Neil Sharp - @sharpography © oreli b

morzine prestigefor Source.pdf your source of information Morzine, Les 1Gets01/10/2020 & Avoriaz

14:59

“The plot was perfect for us. It has both views and privacy whilst also feeling like it’s in the mountains, close to the forest and a stream. It was an easy decision to invest in Morzine as we’d been coming here for years on holiday.

It’s accessibility from the UK in addition to its appeal as a summer destination sealed the deal for us. We wanted to design a home that we’d be excited to visit – somewhere that would become a destination in its own right. My design brief was fairly loose, but I did want to bring the outside indoors as much as possible.”

The Owner: Toby Chapman

“As with all the projects that involve Maruallaz architects and Shep&Kyles, as soon as you cross the threshold and step inside chalet Joux Plane, you’re hit with visual delights everywhere you look.

Translating this into a captivating shot can be quite tricky. As a photographer, I feel that I have to look at the projects in a slightly different way than the client or architect would. To show off the use of space and attention to detail, but to also make the viewer feel like they are really there.

One of the aspects I like best about this particular project is how you don’t feel overwhelmed by the size of it. It feels like a cosy chalet, nestled into its surroundings, but it still has that wow factor.”

The Photographer: Neil Sharp of Sharpography

FIND YOUR PERFECT PROPERTY WITH US Personal service before, during and after sale Specialising in Morzine & the surrounding area Multilingual team Agency established 10 years in Morzine

+33 (0)4 50 04 33 26 info@morzine-prestige.com www.morzine-prestige.com //

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“I spent over three years working on the design and construction of Chalet Joux Plane, but I knew instantly that we could create a fabulous building.

Hervé and I shared a design vision and (thanks to a fabulous, open-minded client) we wanted to take a more contemporary approach to the design. This led to a building design with a relatively simple palette of materials and a striking contrast between old wood, and glass.

We used materials in a slightly different way (such as the glass staircase) to create contemporary features seldom seen in ski lodges, and worked very closely with the whole build team in designing and creating bespoke finishes and fixtures throughout. We are particularly proud of the carpentry dividing the glass atrium from the salon area – a series of internally illuminated niches open on both sides that were exquisitely manufactured to our very complicated design!

Our client requested simplicity so we selected contemporary, muted colours, both for the walls and the furnishings. Combining the expansive space inside the chalet with smaller niches and usable spaces really works for our client and his family. We continue to be immensely proud of Chalet Joux Plane, sometimes I return just to admire the swimming pool!”

The Interior Architect: Kyles Garrett of Shep&Kyles Design

“With an team of two or three, and often more exceptional carpenters, my company spent approximately 2,600 hours inside Chalet Joux Plane.

We were responsible for all internal woodwork including the walls, ceilings and the staircase, in addition to the doors, wardrobes and the flooring.

I feel a huge satisfaction in the final results of this project. We took up many challenges and solved many problems along the way, such as the hand-placed fibreoptic ceiling in the spa area and the bridge crossing the swimming pool. The wine cellar and the library furniture are just some of my favourite elements. For my company and I, Chalet Joux Plane is one of the most beautiful projects I have achieved in my career as a carpenter. This was combined with the pleasures of working with Hervé Marullaz and Kyles Garrett.

Starting a building from scratch and delivering a project will be the thing that I miss most when I retire.”

The Carpenter: Claude Tavernier of Confortbois

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// © Neil Sharp - @sharpography

prooframmonage.pdf 1 02/10/2020 your source information for Morzine, Les Gets & 14:35 Avoriaz

Member of the European Federation of Chimney Sweeps

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we accept: nous acceptons:

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Tel: +33 (0)6 82 57 56 41 /proramonage

“The clients gave me a relatively simple but very clear brief. In addition to some general requirements – the number of rooms, etc, I wanted to create a few defining architectural elements in this chalet. For me, this meant symmetrical and simple architecture that was classical yet contemporary, coupled with large terraces and a clear indoor-outdoor flow. Above all, we wanted to create generous proportions in the principal rooms. The result is a chalet with a simple, elongated design, which emerges seamlessly from the ground.

The main volume of the building, where the living spaces reside, are divided into different zones. Beneath, the bedroom suites follow the flow of the land with terraces that open to the forest. Finally, at the bottom of the plot, the outdoor-indoor-outdoor swimming pool bisects the property perfectly.

The fluidity of the spaces contribute to the tranquility of the property.

Of course within all of this there a few "twists", such as the central glass roof, the glass stairs and the access walkway to the “suspended" dining room. These ensure that our clients can enjoy the views, the light, and embrace the sense of space that this chalet provides.

Alpine Sk ye kitchens Superlative bespoke birch plywood kitchens designed to last a planet ffiendly lifetime.

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Chalet Joux Plane is simple, in the best of sense of the word, and complex; ultimately just like it’s owners I think!”

The Architect: Hervé Marullaz

info@a lpines kye.com | +3 3 (0 ) 650 98 7 2 76 | www.a lpines kye.com //

through the keyhole

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the market THE STATE OF

By gareth jefferies

Marketing Director at alpine-property.com

Reflecting on the pandemic so far and looking to the future.

The pandemic started for us in mid-March with a very strict “confinement”. At Alpine Property we don’t have physical branches. Since 2000 we have been based online, with all our team working from their homes. So the day to day impact for us has not been huge. We carried on responding to enquiries as normal. Because we could not visit our properties during this period, we conducted online viewings via our virtual tours and 360° videos. We even made some sales during this time. The lockdown then lifted two months later in midMay. Normal service resumed straight away.

We had picked up on the increased demand during the confinement. Our website and our enquiries were busier than usual for the time of year. It could just have been because people had time on their hands and were idly browsing the internet looking for an escape. The reality was that these people were determined and followed up their dreaming with visits and firm offers. Now seven months later, the first of our “post-COVID” customers are taking possession of their new properties.

Overall, the Alps had an excellent summer of Europeanbased visitors, many of whom had not visited before. Some of the Tourist Offices are reporting lower turnover during the summer, however, this is mainly because they had to

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cancel the big headline events. The general feeling in July and August was that the alpine villages were busier than usual for the time of year. We did have a fair number of British visitors, but overall that number was down on what we are used to.

Unsurprisingly, bookings are poor for ski holidays over this forthcoming winter. Various polls conducted by our tourist boards are reporting that people still want to come on a ski holiday, but they will wait to see how the situation develops.

Thanks to the bucket loads of uncertainty, this is totally logical. My prediction is that we can expect a boom in skitouring, nordic skiing and snow-shoeing!

As I write this at the end of October, we still have a strong demand for properties in our area; higher than usual for the time of year and just as much for properties further down the valley towards St Jean d’Aulps and Le Biot. The proximity to skiing is less of an issue. In fact, the shift away from a ski focus continues. It’s all about a search for space and access to nature. Outside space is the number one priority. Good internet is high on the list too. The other shift that we have been feeling over the last few years is a move away from the British focus on the French Alps. Now we are selling two to one, split Francophone / Anglophone.

Simply Spas 1-2 for pageMorzine, advert.pdf 01/10/2020 your source of information Les Gets1& Avoriaz

COVID-19 is causing demand from buyers but it is also causing properties to come onto the market. This is unusual, but a perfect scenario for estate agents. Obviously, this market can tip either way. Too much property supply can lead to people "waiting for the best property to arrive", which will cause the activity to slow. Too many issues from COVID could put a brake on demand too. Right now the balance between the two is stable. Our feeling is that prices are going up. However, it is still too early to be able to show the evidence. Mortgages are getting harder to obtain but this mostly only affects people in the fragile industries - airlines, hotels, restaurants, entertainment etc. This doesn’t seem to be dampening demand overall.

“It’s all about a search for space and access to nature. Outside space is the number one priority. ”

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There are some other “pull-factors” at work at the moment.

Talk of negative interest rates may well push people to invest the cash they have, and property investment has always been a good bet, especially if you can combine it with a holiday! And there is a bit of a rush of pre-Brexit buying happening too. Anyone resident in France prior to December 31st can apply for a carte de séjour that will allow them to stay in the country permanently. Though, I am happy to tell anyone that asks, that they don’t have to own a property to make this application. Renting is just as viable, and they have up until July 2021 to make the application as well. And even without a carte de séjour, a resident of the United Kingdom can stay in France for up to 90 days in every 180 as a tourist. Which, without question would fulfil the dreams of most people I know!

So in the end, the fundamentals don't change. The Alps are a great place to take a holiday at any time of the year or to live full time. We have space and clean air to breathe. It is not crowded and thanks to the mountains, it never will be. We are close to larger towns for essential amenities and only an hour from Geneva and the airport if that is required.

09:58

AVAILABLE TO

BLE TOO.

E-INS AVAILA

SON,TRAD T FOR THE SEA

REN

More Info: Stay up to date on further developments and trends in our local property market at blog.alpine-property.com

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN VERCHAIX

WWW.SIMPLYSPAS-ALPS.COM //

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Few buildings look just as good, or arguably better than they ever did, in their 250th year. Even fewer buildings have had just three owners at this grand old age. In a world where architectural trends move swiftly and many buildings lack any sense of permanance, Morzineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mas de la Coutettaz has certainly stood the test of time. In 2021 Morzineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest standing building - you may know and love it as The Farmhouse Hotel - celebrates its 250th birthday.

the test of time

By Amie Henderson

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the test of time

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Built in 1771 by local slate miner or ‘excavateur d'ardoise’ Antoine Plagnat, Mas de la Coutettaz speaks of a time long before tourism. In the years spanning the 18th to early 20th century, Morzine owed much of its development to it’s very first export, the industry of slate. Indeed one mine remains in operation to this day. Antoine’s ‘farmhouse’ was split into two, with one side for the household and the other, known as a ‘grange’, for his 60 cattle. He’d amassed great wealth from slate mining, and Mas de la Coutettaz, occupying a prominent site overlooking the village, became one of the most important properties in the valley. Originally, access to the stables was via the current boot room and to this day, the original front door and window remain in place.

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the test of time

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occupational needs. The hotel’s office was once home to the village’s seamstresses, while one garden cottage was dedicated to the cobblers, another to the apple store. The dining and breakfast room housed the cattle during the cold winter months; a convenient water trough just outside in the garden was constructed in 1860 and makes a stunning feature to this day. As is tradition across the Alps, a prominent mazot in the garden stored the family valuables, from their grain to their bible, their Sunday best to their property deeds. The hotel’s Atelier suite was once a carpenter’s workshop, but why on earth was there a prison cell? As history recounts, the Bauds were a family of lawyers and notaires, serving the residents of the valley, and at some point during their residency, a senior Baud became the Mayor of Morzine. The cell was used to hold undesirables and was warmed by cattle in the adjoining stable.

Winter tourism arrived in Morzine around 1930 with the instillation of the original

More Info: Discover more at thefarmhouse.co.uk

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Pleney lift. Second in France only to the new ski lifts of Megeve, the Pleney lift was a game changer in Morzine’s fortunes. As the Baud family continued their occupation of Mas de la Coutettaz, the original building continuously developed to suit the needs of a growing household. These days The Blue Room is an expansive, welcoming guest bedroom, but for many years it was the main family living space, accessed by five different doors. The bathroom within the hotel’s family suite was originally a dark room, used by a Baud family member keen on photography.

During the 1950s and 60s, the current bar area was divided in the middle, splitting the dwelling in half with a front door on either side of the property. The roaring fireplace, now enjoyed by weary skiers after a day on the mountain, was once double-sided and used entirely for cooking. Indeed it wasn’t until the 1970s that the old kitchen was moved onto the ground floor of the building and significantly upgraded.

In 1993 current owner Dorrien Ricardo leased the building for his fledgling holiday rental business, purchasing it from the Baud family a short time later. The intervening years have been spent maintaining the exquisite original features of the building whilst retaining its authentic charm and character. In 2011 the grange was converted into two new guest rooms, bringing The Farmhouse’s room count to 11 unique bedrooms. As Mas de la Coutettaz stands today, it’s easy to see why 90% of the hotel’s guests return each year.

As owner Dorrien recounts, “there are few houses of this age and style left and they’re known as ‘chateau chablisienne’.” “Those that are still standing,” he continues “have been modernised and changed considerably, so little remains of what they were originally.

Here at The Farmhouse, many original features were still in tact when I took over and I have, where it is possible, tried to maintain these features. Once they are changed, they are lost forever.”

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Flexible arrival days

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MUCH MORE THAN JUST RENTALS

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Winter and Summer adam@alpine-sports.eu

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+33 (0)6 30 06 10 24

// resort information 107 We stock a superb range of winter sports equipment and in the summer months can meet all your two wheeled needs - Mountain bikes, E-MTB’s and road bikes

news round-up Your Café Chaud, Hideout Hostel and Laury’s Bar

We’ve hijacked an entire page of Morzine Source Magazine to update you on what’s new in our venues this winter. We’re expecting a season like no other, but that isn't going to stop us bringing you the same great times, fantastic food and friendly safe service you know and love.

Help Out To Eat Out

The Café Chaud Food Truck

COVID-19 has put a right spanner in the works for a lot of local people, from losing jobs and accommodation, to just finding it hard to get to the shops during lockdown.

We’re stoked to report that our famous food truck is open all winter long, serving up an eclectic range of burgers, Asian dishes and weekly specials. Ollie and Oscar are really looking after you this winter, with each and every meat and veggie option on the menu available as an epic vegan alternative.

In an effort to bring the whole community together and to support those who are vulnerable and in need, we’ve joined forces with a number of other local businesses for Help Out To Eat Out.

And just when you thought life couldn’t get any better, we’re even more excited to announce that we’ll deliver. That’s right, new for this winter season, we’ll deliver anywhere in Morzine for orders over €30.

It’s a simple plan. Do your bit in the local community by helping out in one of our projects and you’ll be rewarded with substantial discounts on food, drinks and activities throughout the winter season. All you need is one of our wristbands to take part. Find out more at hideout-hostel.com/helpout

For the full menu head to: café-chaud.com/foodtruck

Laury’s Bar Rumor has it, twice winner of a Morzine Source Magazine Favourite Bar Award is hosting some rather underground and intriguing events this winter. If you know, you know, you know?

One such whisper may include Morzine’s first burlesque soirée and a sophisticated journey through the history of this fabulous and often misrepresented art form. Event capacities this year are extremely limited, so please keep an eye on our social channels for more info.

The Morzine Film Awards Morzine's biggest community event is moving online.

COVID-19 can't stop our town having a good time, so this winter the Morzine Film Awards and Cafe Chaud have planned an online show that is guaranteed to be the biggest night you’ve ever had. In the meantime check out the all-new website, streaming the best, worst and weirdest films from the last three years.

Shred flicks and chill! Morzinefilmawards.com

The Hideout Kitchen Collective Morzine is home to so many seriously talented chefs, but COVID-19 has left many of them up the Dérêches without a paddle.

We’ve therefore established the Kitchen Collective, a series of pop-up dining experiences at Hideout, all aimed at helping support the amazing unsung heroes behind your tartiflette and fondue.

Each week a new Chef will take you on a culinary voyage, from Asian to Middle Eastern, Chinese to Indian, South American to Mediterranean. We can't wait!

Head to hideout-hostel.com/kitchen for the weeklychanging menu.

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café chaud, hideout hostel & laury's bar news

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resort information

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m a e t y meet m

By Benjamin Eyre

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a hockey club in Morzine since 1963, when a handful of locals formed a team with few resources but a huge determination to succeed. Hockey Club Morzine-Avoriaz is now one of the oldest clubs in France and attracts professional players from around the world.

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meet my team - hockey club morzine-avoriaz

// Š Mojocom

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28

season: 20/21

!

Go Penguins

name: Ben Eyre age: 23 position: defence

number: 28 height: 178cm weight: 81kg

We call them ‘The Penguins’ these days; it’s a mascot used by many of the sporting clubs in our valley, from the ski team to the football team and more in between. It was inspired by Jacques Mesnard, a coach at Morzine’s Ski Club who, in 1950, gifted a small penguin made of felt to his friend François Baud as he headed for the skiing World Championships in Aspen, USA. I grew up here in Morzine with dreams of becoming a professional ice hockey player. My dad would take me to all the games and I played for the junior teams.

When I was 14 years old I went to Austria to train before moving to the US to play for the Boston Bandits.

In 2018 I returned to France to play professionally for Montpellier before coming home to play for MorzineAvoriaz in 2019. It really has been a dream come true.

But enough about me. I’d like to introduce you to some of my teammates here in Morzine-Avoriaz this season and also I’d like to persuade you to go watch a game this winter. As I write this article in mid-November, we’re currently in second position in France’s D2 (second division) league. Whether you’re into competitive sports or not, I promise you’ll enjoy the atmosphere, the conviviality and the camaraderie. Ice hockey is a really physical sport, which is worth watching even if you don’t entirely understand the rules. The Skoda Arena is a brilliant venue, there’s a lively bar and snack bar and the chance to buy Penguins merchandise – the perfect holiday souvenir!

As the season progresses and we move up through the league, the games become more exciting and it’s much busier in the arena. It’s therefore always better to book your tickets in advance on the club website to guarantee entry. League match tickets are just €10 for adults and €6 for children over five years of age, whilst playoff matches are €12 for adults and €8 for children. Children under the age of five years old can enjoy a game free of charge. >>

www.turnerpocock.com

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meet my team - hockey club morzine-avoriaz

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“Our objective as a team this season is to be the champions

1

season: 20/21

!

Go Penguins

and to be promoted to the D1 league. The teams I enjoy playing most are the Annecy Chevaliers and the Courchevel Bouquetins – the local rivalry is fun! When I’m not playing hockey or training to play hockey, I like to hang out with my friends and to ski too! There’s no special preparation that I do before a big match, but I will absolutely enjoy a beer with my team if we win! My favourite places are the Tibetan Café, Crepu and the Cavern Bar. When the season is over I’ll keep playing hockey! I also enjoy tennis and football too.”

name: Mathis Bouvet age: 21 position: Goalkeeper

number: 1 height: 180cm weight: 84kg

“I’m new to the Morzine-Avoriaz Penguins team this

season: 20/21

winter and I’ve only played a few games, but my favoruite

Go Penguins!

58

game so far was definitely against Villard. They beat us 1-0 and I’d like to play them again to get revenge! I’m excited to snowboard while I’m in Morzine this winter and also to celebrate over beers with the boys at Café Chaud when we win matches. And then when the season finishes, I love to fish and golf… two activities which are the opposite to playing hockey!” name: Davis Ross age: 25 position: Defence

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meet my team - hockey club morzine-avoriaz

number: 58 height: 174cm weight: 73kg

// © Mojocom

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

“I think we will finish at the top of the standings this season and make a strong playoff run. The team I’ve enjoyed playing most so far was Villard because they were able to beat us. I enjoy the competitiveness.

season: 20/21

When I’m not playing hockey I like to ride my bike around town, hike,

Go Penguins!

22

and enjoy the beautiful mountains. I fractured a vertebrae when I was younger, and I have sprained my MCL. I think they were my worst hockey injuries so far! To prepare for a big game, I wake up early and eat a small meal. I like to get active for a few hours, eat a large meal, and then I nap for a couple hours before heading to the rink. And of course if we win we’ll celebrate with the team, some music and a beer! My favourite place to eat in Morzine is La Rotonde and my favourite place to party is Café Chaud. And once the season’s finished, I’ll go back home to the States, work during the summer months and prepare for the next hockey season.”

! s n i u g n e go p

//

name: Chase Hatcher age: 26 position: Defence

number: 22 height: 191cm weight: 91kg

Follow the Penguins: Hockey-morzine.com Facebook.com/MorzineHockey Instagram - @morzinehockey

meet my team - hockey club morzine-avoriaz

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home WORKING FROM

WHEREVER HOME IS!

By travel insurance experts MPI Brokers

The COVID-19 cloud is over us all, however some lucky folk have realised that this new ‘working from home’ regime, apart from lessening the commute, may have another upside.

Many who are fortunate enough to be able to WFH have discovered that they can actually take their work anywhere, as long as there is good enough internet and phone reception – it doesn’t need to be from ‘home’!

It seems that quite a few people have decided to take their work to the Alps for the winter season, or to the Mediterranean for some much needed sun. They’re either utilising their holiday home, which may be difficult to let out to others for holidays at the moment, or actually renting a place of their own for a length of time. Any why not if you can?

For those who do spend an extended period of time abroad this year, MPI can provide a long stay travel insurance

policy for up to 12 continuous months.

If your lengthy stay includes winter sports, you can ski every day of the season, both on and off piste (with or without a guide), along with many other activities too. And should something crop up back in the UK, you can temporarily return to the UK, without the policy expiring.

MPI can also provide you with insurance cover if you travel against FCDO advice. However, if a country is in lockdown following a government decision that restricts travel for certain reasons, then you won’t be covered, unless you fall within their criteria which allows travel.

For more information, head to: mpibrokers.com

The Ellie Soutter Foundation

Peace & Toast Yoga Breakfast

Established in memory of Les Gets professional snowboarder Ellie Soutter with the objective of raising funds for talented young winter sports athletes, this charity based in Les Gets has gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months. They’ve continued to support their athletes throughout the pandemic whilst also offering vital mental health support in our wider community. Ellie’s Dad Tony has also developed his #riding2win brand of clothing, which is for sale inside a dedicated shop in the centre of Les Gets.

All profits from the sale of merchandise are donated to the Foundation, you’ll find the opening times on the Ellie Soutter Foundation Facebook page and everything is available to order online at theelliesoutter.foundation

Fuel your body for a day on the mountains with Nicole at Mobile Mountain Massage.

She’ll come to your accommodation to host a private yoga class that’s tailored to your requirements while a chef prepares a delicious, unique breakfast, coffee and herbal teas for you to enjoy when you’re finished.

Vegan options are also available. Priced at €30 per person, mats and other equipment are provided and the minimum group size is six people. For more information email Nicole on strengthandserenityyoga74@gmail.com

Launching La Box Brand new for this winter season, La Box is the ultimate welcome pack. Order online before you arrive in resort and you’ll discover a beautiful range of hand-picked local products in your accommodation upon your arrival.

You can expect to find wine, tea, coffee, fresh breads, dressings, peanut butter, cookies and more in a lovely, entirely recyclable presentation box. All of the goodies inside the box are also available to order individually, should you wish to take any of them home with you! Head to laboxalps.com for more details.

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Loop THE

By Edwina Sutton

An hour. That's all we are allowed outside.

One hour and within one kilometre of home.

Now, for someone who thrives and earns their living through obsessive over exercising, confinement is quite a traumatic process to go through.

On a normal day I cover between 20km and 40km on my two feet, sandwiched between dog walks and being out with the kids. I regularly run over all our local mountains, I live for the satisfaction of working up a hill to take a moment to catch my breath and the vista then hurtle back down to get on with my day. I normally have no constraints on my time or the distance covered, apart from how much energy I have in my legs that day. But this is suddenly removed. My work, my play, stripped away. All I have left is this short loop.

One hour, one kilometre.

I feel panic rise through my chest as we pass through the early days of confinement. Can I do this? Can I continue to achieve the fitness required to do my job as well as look after my family and maintain the restrictions? And an almost louder emotion… do I even want to?

It’s an internal battle that rages daily within me; finding the motivation to get out with no mountain view to be gained or 100kms to be run. I quickly realise I need and must find a new motivation, and more importantly, a new peace with this hand that has been dealt to us.

Days tick by. Up and down I go, round and round. One hour, one kilometre. Dare we step outside this zone? Paperwork must be carried at all times, fines are given and every day on 116

the loop

//

Facebook there are stories of altercations with gendarmes. Clearly some people are bending the rules, clearly some of the rules aren't clear.

“I live for the satisfaction of working up a hill to take a moment to catch my breath and the vista then hurtle back down to get on with my day.”

No one likes them. But they do work and it is fair. Everyone has to do the same irrespective of where they live, how old they are, what they do. One hour, one kilometre.

To us locals, the fact we can see the mountains but can't get to them is really hard. The mountains are where we feel most comfortable and it's where life and living is earned. Not having access to our dearest friend makes life unbearable for many and there’s a genuine fear that even though we live in the most beautiful place, many still feel terribly isolated and alone.

I am continuously amazed that even though many risk-takers and adrenaline junkies populate our valley, we turned into real law abiding citizens during confinement. Craving the mountains and a return to normality, we’d do anything to conform. And there’s a real sense of community, even though we cant see each other. The strong bond of trust that you need to live in this environment is still shining through, even though we are safely tucked up at home.

In the hardest of races, or during the longest of training blocks, I have to find a way to cope, both mentally and physically. One hour, one kilometre. I must find a way to cope with this confinement. To find a different breathing space in my window of freedom.

For me, running is like the best friend who never leaves my side. The one who, most of the time I cant get enough of, who I tell everything to, who has seen my best and my very worst sides. And here in this hour, on my small piece of track, we enter a new era. I slow down. I begin to listen to her rather than dictate her voice. I really notice the change of seasons;

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every bulb, every patch of melting snow that brings fresh greenery.

As I turn down the podcasts that I’ve have been using to block out the tedium, I hear spring bird song, the river rushing as snow is melting, sometimes so loud it blocks out my breath, my voice. I love the noise.

I stop. I never stop.

Day after day I run the loop. One hour, one kilometre. Up and down, up and down. I see the same people every day. We become friends.

In my head they all have nicknames. Days go past, I soften to the loop. I stop fighting the restriction and just let it flow... I’m practising turning my mind off and really just being.

I hadn’t realised how much I don’t stop. How much I love the mountains without ever listening to them. I just come to conquer them; they’re an obstacle. Now they become something more. I see them living and breathing. Something real. A comfort. Whatever we are going through, they continue to plough through into the next season. On my loop, the snow melts. The crocuses arrive. My footfalls stop crunching though snow and I start sliding and squishing through mud, the first time my trainers have been dirty for months. We are outside without gloves, hats, the fresh spring sun feels so good on winter skin. I am learning to my love loop.

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“For me, running is like the best friend who never leaves my side. ” As news around the world remains full of doom and gloom, my loop, one hour, one kilometre, which once felt so restrictive and pointless, is now my sanctuary. I know every step, every root, every rock. Here I am safe. Here I can be as quiet or loud as I want to be.

Here I feel the mountains wrap me in their protective arms. Their continuous beat against the seasons, their relentless quest to take whatever the elements throw at them, overriding everything else.

They are the strongest and most consistent part of my life. This hour, this kilometre, has taught me so much. It has taught me to be. It’s shown me that the mountains are indeed always right, they know best. They continue to prepare for the next season, always the same, always putting even our biggest worries into perspective. They are the Mother to our fears.

Thank you for my loop, my one hour, my one kilometre, dear mountains. Thank you for teaching me humility and graciousness, thank you for keeping me sane when all around me was filled with turmoil, disappointment and anxiety. Thank you for showing me who I really was, why I really live here and what was important to me in life. Thank you for your patience and kind presence and most of all thank you for not leaving me. Coming out of confinement, even though I do not feel as physically fit as I would’ve liked, mentally I feel like a different person. My heart beats stronger than ever to find my limits and push my boundaries. I feel more at peace with that internal voice, which before told me I was never enough. I am, I am me and I am content.

Never underestimate the

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power of the hour, the kilometer and the loop.

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the loop

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trending - trail running -

I’ve been a professional ultra runner and coach for 10 years and you might imagine that I’ve got my winter kit selection dialed. In reality, each winter I find a new sport to fall in love with, and new gear to go with it. Here’s my selection of versatile winter must-haves, all tried, tested and approved in some of the harshest winter conditions.

edwina sutton professional ultra runner edwinasutton.com

La Sportiva Aria Vest RRP €129.00 www.lasportiva.com

trending - trail running

Here’s one for anyone with a ponytail that’s ever tried to run in a beanie hat. It just doesn’t work. You need a headband to keep your ears warm, whilst allowing all that excess heat to escape from the top of your head.

This La Sportiva option is wicking, so it doubles up as a sweatband too.

See, told you I was all about versatility!

Salomon Primo Warm Seamless Tee RRP €75.00 www.salomon.com

I love a layer. All the layers. This trail running vest is not only very pleasant to look at with its super-feminine fit, it also scores highly on technical abilities, as you’d expect. It’s both thermal and breathable, two qualities that are a must when you’re propelling yourself up hills. I also wear this beneath my ski jacket when I’m off piste-bashing on those extra cold days.

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La Sportiva Draft Headband RRP €25.00 www.lasportiva.com

//

When is a thermal base layer not a thermal base layer?

When it’s the only layer you need. I’ll wear this t-shirt as I’m ski touring up the Col du Ratti on a sunny day, or when I run on those cold spring mornings. Its breathability, ventilation and comfort is second to non, its seamless-ness makes it really comfortable (sans-chafe is the only way to move!) and it’s nice to look at too!

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Mammut Astro Gloves RRP €55.00 www.mammut.com

They may be the last things you slip on before heading out the door, but I cannot and will not underestimate the importance of good gloves. These ones from Mammut are substantial enough to keep you warm and dry whilst charging up a mountain, but they’re also lightweight enough not to feel like ski gloves. They’re both breathable and windproof, plus they’re compatible with touch screens so you can shuffle that Spotify and check your Strava status until your heart is content.

Montane Trail Series Thermal Tights RRP €94.950 www.montane.com

It’s a fact that the leggings you use on your summer runs just don’t cut it in the winter. Once the snow hits the ground, you need a thermal version, I promise. This Montagne option is made from a fast drying stretch fabric with a soft, brushed inner face (again, let me remind you of the chafe) and there’s a weather-resistant protective overlay on the front, because I know you just love heading out, whatever the weather. The gel shot pockets on the back make these my favourite winter running tights.

Rab Microlight Alpine Long Jacket RRP €229.00 www.rab.equipment

The shorter version of this iconic mountain coat is one of my all-time favourites, but this longer length is just perfect for those really cold winter runs. Rab describe the cut as ‘active,’ which you really do feel as you manage those switchbacks or while you’re scooping the kids up from school. I’ve also never been cold in this coat; the baffles (the puffy bits) are sized to improve core warmth and there’s a really handy zipped check pocket too. //

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hive: noun: a colony of bees verb: a place swarming with activity

Morzine gets itself a new year-round, purpose-built gym for 2021, but to call the Hive a gym is a huge understatement. “We wanted one place from which to host and coordinate all of our fitness activities,” the Buzz Performance team tells me. “So we’ve created the Hive.” From here Buzz Performance will schedule their coaching sessions, nutrition consultations, classes, cycling and triathlon training, bike hire services and shop, plus much more.

Spanning a staggering 400m2 of floor space and featuring a list of facilities as long as your arm, the Hive doesn’t do things by halves. Whilst it’s true that those of us living in the mountains are slightly more health-conscious than the average person, 2020 served up an important lesson in maintaining a good wellness balance for all. And that’s where the Hive comes in.

“This is a space for everyone, for every lifestyle, for every fitness journey, for every sporting goal; or just for those wanting to pop in for a coffee and a chat,” Amelia Pearson, co-Founder of the Hive and Buzz Performance explains.

“I am primarily a triathlon coach working with athletes of all levels. I have first hand experience of training and racing at an elite level and I have 20 years of experience in education, sports science, fitness and wellbeing,” Amelia continues. “I equally enjoy helping those setting out on their health and fitness journey. Wellness is for everyone and everyone is welcome in the Hive. The Hive will unite a range of healthcare professionals including sports, wellness and nutrition consultants who can help you with fitness, lifestyle, weight-loss goals or improve your energy levels.”

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On the ground floor, beyond the Hive’s sleek welcome area, you’ll find Wild Beets Kitchen, an off-shoot of the Les Gets restaurant owned by passionate health foodie Jo Watts. “I’ve always wanted to bring the Wild Beets experience to Morzine and opening a café within the Hive is perfect!” Jo explains. What can we expect on the menu? “You can still expect to find the same style of healthy, well-rounded items on the menu as in our Les Gets restaurant,” explains Jo. “We are also looking to focus a bit more on nutrition, offering meals that are perfect before or after a work out, to replenish your body and provide the best nutrients for your fitness needs.” A sneak peek at the menu promises overnight oats and breakfast muffins, those ever-popular poke and buddah bowls for lunch (five of your five a day right there…), plus other salads and wraps. There’ll also be customisable smoothie options with extra protein additions, plus cakes and coffee. “A balanced diet should always include a treat!” believes Jo. Elsewhere on the Hive’s ground floor you’ll find a shop selling Buzz Performance merchandise (including those iconic Buzz cycling jerseys), bike equipment plus road and gravel bike hire during the summer season. “We’ll use the space for our regular TRX,

Body Conditioning and Spin classes, as well as some new and exciting classes to be revealed in our programme,” Buzz Performance director Rachael Hallewell explains. “It’s a large, bright space, it’ll be perfect for so many different classes,” Rachael continues.

The tour continues as we head downstairs to the lower floor, which will house the changing rooms (separate for males and females, including showers, toilets and a water cooler!) plus a 110m2 gym. It's here that co-founder Joe Pearson starts to get really excited.

His Sport Science & Human Movement degree and extensive strength training experience has fuelled a long term goal to have his own gym. Sourcing a

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

range of top quality equipment including weights, treadmills and rowing machines creates a multifunctional training centre.

“BLK BOX Fitness have supplied a range of weight benches, their world famous Belfast Bars, a full set of Hex dumbbells, a huge wall mounted monkey bar rig, a set of cast iron kettlebells, resistance bands, wall balls, plyo boxes, TRX's and a variety of other functional training equipment,” Joe explains.

“We also have amazing high-end treadmills from BH Fitness, which come with huge LED monitors and total connectivity. They will also supply two dual adjustable cable machines and a variety of accessories to enhance the number of exercises on offer.” The gym will also include two Concept 2 rowing ergos, one Concept Skierg, a state of the art Drax Fit self motorised treadmill, Rogue Echo bike and Hatton boxing equipment, speed ball and punching bag. There’ll also be Sonos speakers throughout. Phew.

I find myself wondering what could possibly be left to discover on the top floor of the Hive. From here the views towards Morzine, Pleney and the Roc d’Enfer are fabulous, but who else is using this space? “It’s been a long-standing dream of mine to have an apparatus Pilates Studio of my own in Morzine,” instructor Georgie Kennington explains.

“I am beyond excited to be able to bring the amazing Gratz Industries Pilates equipment to the Hive.

Using the reformer and resistance springs as part of your training is an absolute game changer! It will help a huge amount of people, not only to maintain strength and flexibility, but to prevent injury and to help regain strength safely after injury too.”

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Open from 9am until 1am every day

Savoyarde Specialties and Take-Away Pizza

Several membership options will be available when the Hive opens, from short and long term memberships and even single visit passes. There’s

something to suit everyone, whether you’re in Morzine for the week, the season or forever.

Members can enjoy gym access between 6am and 10pm, whilst classes will typically take place between 9am and 1pm and 5pm and 8pm. You’ll find a full class timetable at buzzperformance.com and studiopilatesmorzine.com soon. Wild Beets Kitchen will be open every day between 8am and 6pm.

Tel: 04 50 75 78 47

36 Route de Morzine - 74110 - Montriond www.lerocher-montriond.fr

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this is my

thing

The first time you see someone using a Pilates reformer, you’ll wonder what the heck is going on. You’ll blink, look back, and yes… someone is tethered to a sliding bench adorned with ropes, pulleys and springs – in public. Yet this is the true origin of Pilates, dating back to the 1920s.

“This is my thing,” explains Georgie Kennington.

“I was a chronic sloucher,” Georgie explains when I ask about her journey into Pilates. “I’m tall, my height made me shy and my posture gave me a constant tension headache,” she continues. In an effort to strengthen her core and resolve her posture issues, Georgie’s osteopath suggested she try Pilates. “I went into my first class with a headache, and left without one,” Georgie explains. Having previously enjoyed netball, tennis and many other sports, in addition to being a cellist and singer, Pilates brought everything together. Georgie was hooked.

She trained and taught full time in London

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before taking a maternity cover position teaching full time in Cannes, bringing her to France. Her first winter season in Morzine yielded Georgie a husband and a full time base in our valley, which she now calls home. “Pilates brings both a healthy body and a healthy mind,” Georgie believes. “It’s a joy to pass this on to others from my new Pilates studio at the Hive in Morzine.”

But back to the reformer. What does it actually do? “A reformer is a piece of Pilates apparatus with springs to offer resistance but they also support and challenge your body,” Georgie

la of grange.pdf 09/11/2015 14:33 your source information 1 for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

explains. “It’s weird to look at, I know!” The reformer aims to teach you what to feel in your body while you’re doing Pilates. It’ll help you improve your mat work, and you’ll feel lengthened after using the springs to stretch and guide you.

Within her new, dedicated Pilates space on the first floor of Morzine’s Hive, Georgie has installed over ten pieces of Pilates apparatus, from a reformer to a wunda chair, from the Cadillac to the spine corrector.

“This was a big investment for me, but the Hive will become the hub of all things health and fitnessrelated in our valley, so it felt like the right time to share my passion further,” explains Georgie. “And people will finally understand what I’ve been banging on about!”

“Pilates brings both a healthy body and a healthy mind.

It’s a joy to pass this on to others” A Pilates reformer is particularly useful for those recovering from injuries. “You shouldn’t be loading through your joints if you’re injured,” says Georgie.

“With the reformer you’ll bear no weight, preventing further injury whilst at the same time offering up a really solid workout, using your own body weight and the springs as resistance.”

It’s Georgie’s aim to make her reformer apparatus accessible to everyone. She’s therefore planned a collection of classes for all, from absolute Pilates beginners to those experienced on the mat but seeking progression. Either on a one to one basis, or in small groups, Georgie is dedicated to sharing the joys of the reformer and other pieces of Pilates apparatus with all. “This is my thing,” Georgie repeats. “And I would love it to be your thing too.”

More Info: For full class details and more information head to georgiekennington.com

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Unexpected ACCEPTING THE

By Natalie Elvy

In an ideal world we would be ranting and raging over Brexit, climate change, and the American presidential elections, but in 2020 everything took second place to the COVID-19 global pandemic. During lockdown, wallowing in every ‘what if?’ scenario I could imagine, it became clear I had to find a silver lining if I wanted to stop my ‘what if?’s becoming ‘what’s the point?’.

After the initial Coronavirus hiatus (tourists encouraged to come on holiday then getting stuck in the mountains; tour operators trying to take care of their clients and staff; shock about the soaring death toll, while simultaneous disbelief that it could be serious enough to compel us to shut ourselves down) a flat, wasting, anxious feeling overtook me. I could only legally leave the house (for up to 1hr and 1km) if I had a self-signed bit of paper or downloaded form recording the time and excuse for my sortie. I missed the routine that mundane obligations demand; getting up, dressed and breakfasted no longer held any urgency. There was no school or work to worry about being late for. The reality of my nearest-and-dearest being at home all the time was rendered less pleasurable because of the unknown time-scale. A forced stint at home should allow a concentrated effort to clear the admin mountain, but businesses everywhere were paralysed. With everyone at home and a growing todo list but nothing to be done about it, the novelty wore off and bickering and boredom took over. For the first time ever, I felt there were more hours in a day than I knew what to do with.

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“The reality of my nearest-and-dearest being at home all the time was rendered less pleasurable because of the unknown time-scale.”

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Initially I hoped I’d found my niche whilst home schooling. Here lay the possibility of structure. Not only did it fill some of the yawning hours without guiltily resorting to screen-time, it also meant one parent would be able to work (monitoring the ever changing rules and regulations and their potential impact on our business), while the other spent constructive, quality time with our son.

All at once my chance to nurture and expand a young mind was here! I envisaged an appreciative child asking interested questions and both of us finding creative and innovative solutions to learning problems; this was to be a golden time when memories would be made! The reality was disappointing. Rarely did my creative and inspired lessons seem that way to my six year old and I felt inadequate for being less capable than his teacher and less fun than his pals. It added to my worries about the future. Not only was the world falling apart, but my son was going to be educationally and socially stunted too.

“I felt inadequate for being less capable than his teacher and less fun than his pals.”

Listening to the news in the hope someone would reveal it was all a hilarious April Fools, journalists made it clear that while no one could think of anything else, neither did anyone have any idea what to do. I thought of people diagnosed with serious illnesses or dealing with trauma who are advised to ‘take it one day at a time’. The regulations imposed by the pandemic left us little choice but to do just that. In the absence of any idea about what might happen next, it became easier not to worry about it, and obvious to live in the present. I’ve dabbled in self-help books and half-heartedly meditated, and a principle concept in both seems to be, in Buddha’s words, “The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly”. I was pretty certain this was great wisdom and with nothing to lose, I decided there couldn’t be a more perfect moment to put it to the test.

So life slowed down. While there was little point in planning a wedding, a holiday, or a hike up a mountain, equally there was no point in worrying and being anxious about it as information changed every day. Our days were taken up by checking the progress of the insect hotel (newly constructed in a wholesome moment), deciding which plants to plant then monitoring their growth, while >>

Wellness

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debating the merits of marble vs. banana cake. Being prevented from doing anything, knowing everyone else was too, and living in a beautiful place made it easy to find pleasure in gently letting the hours pass. The weather was perfect. We noticed how busy the bees were, the silence and clarity of the sky with no airplanes overhead, the pollen released in clouds from the fur trees. Our pleasure at being here was increased by not thinking about what came next.

“trying to expect the unexpected is a fruitless way of ‘futureproofing’.”

But then confinement stopped and real life was amplified. There were fewer empty hours and more uncertainties than ever. All of a sudden revelling in the present seemed like an indulgence for the time-rich, stress-free and loaded. I’d liked living in the ‘now’, but my priority should be to get back to whatever was left of the grind-stone… until it occurred to me by doing so, I’d waste any benefits I might have gained during lockdown. I’d be the same anxious, impatient, worried person I was at the start, i.e. not adapted for the ‘new normal’. “Unease, anxiety, tension, stress, worry - all forms of fear - are caused by too much future, and not enough presence,” says Eckart Tolle, and (just in case anyone’s feeling smug,) he continues, “guilt, regret, resentment, grievances, sadness, bitterness and all forms of non-forgiveness are caused by too much past, and not enough presence.” Trying to stay focussed on the present, despite all the uncertainties and distractions, seemed like a good strategy.

COVID-19 and all it’s brought with it have shown me how much time I wasted worrying. From a car crash to cancer to COVID, trying to expect the unexpected is a fruitless way of ‘futureproofing’. After all, it’s rarely the expected that happens. Accepting powerlessness and vulnerability in the face of life’s volatility frees up time and energy that might be more usefully spent enjoying what we’ve got, and counting our existing blessings. Rather than ‘expecting the unexpected’ and believing that ‘forewarned is fore-armed’, perhaps the silver lining of COVID-19 has been to force us to appreciate the present, and accept the unexpected.

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+33 (0)6 37 13 02 64 www.mountain-rehab.com info@mountain-rehab.com L'aiglon 481 Route De La Plagne 74110, Morzine

PHYSIOTHERAPY|

If you have sustained an injury whilst on holiday or are carrying an injury when you arrive, whether you have a minor strain or are looking for long term rehabilitation, our expert team of Physios are here to help you get back out on the mountain as soon as possible.

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all your fitness and wellbeing needs under one roof

PILATES|

We have studio classes running throughout the week ranging from rehabilitation to advanced flow.

We also offer 1:1 sessions using the reformer and private classes, tailoring sessions to your individual needs.

MASSAGE|

Our team of therapists are experts in: sports massage, relaxing, post exercise massage, trigger point and myofascial release. There are no formulas to our massages, so just book us for as long perfect results.

Whether you prefer Watt bikes or a squat rack, our performance and rehabilitation gym is full of top quality equipment. We are open year round and based in Morzine town centre.

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All you need for a great summer stay in Morzine

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Book EMILY’S

REVIEW

Mindfulness, yoga and meditation have all exploded over the last few years, and there are so many incredible books out there, just waiting to get stuck into! I’ve chosen a few that I’ve read, enjoyed, and found to be pretty enlightening. All of them touch on many different philosophies and concepts, from East to West, best advice is to delve into them with an open mind, let go of preconceptions and allow yourself to learn and expand in doing so.

You never know where it might lead you…

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz Inspired by the traditions of Toltect wisdom from ancient Mexico, the conversation begins with how much of an impact society and familial conditioning has on you as a child. Don Miguel Ruiz asks you to reconsider the way in which we are shaped, and begin to undo the conditioning we have undoubtedly experienced, stepping into a new way of thinking. From this stems the four “agreements”, acting as gateways to leading a more fulfilling life, encouraging you to regain your own personal power and energy.

There are clear links to, and elements of, yogic philosophy which is a really nice parallel given this book is derived from a different tradition, and a reminder that so many are fundamentally linked when it comes to mindfulness and spirituality. The agreements; be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, don't make assumptions and always do your best, are clear and easy to understand. Ruiz reveals the depths of each, and you’ll finish the book feeling ready to make the subtle shifts within yourself if you desire. Simple, yet highly effective, a short read that gives you tools to create personal freedom from within.

Daring Greatly by Brene Brown Brene Brown, where do I start. Brene was flung into the spotlight after doing a TEDx talk in her home state of Texas in 2010, which then went viral. She’s a self-proclaimed storyteller, researcher and holds decades of knowledge through study, work and lecturing in her speciality field of shame and vulnerability.

This is a key theme of the book and through quickly dislodging our built in beliefs around what “vulnerability” means, she unravels a whole host of other questions to examine your own life. Humorous, engaging and interesting, you’ll feel connected to Brene as a person, as well as the concepts she expresses in an easy and accessible way. If you want to delve deeper into your psyche, understanding yourself, your relationships, and the way we live, and more importantly, how and why we could live more whole-heartedly and authentically, this is a book not to be missed.

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The Power Of Now by Ekhart Tolle The Power of Now is, in my opinion, one of the most important books out there for understanding how we consciously function, and how we can move toward a higher state of inner peace. Although some of the topics Tolle focuses on appear simple on the surface, for example, “You are not your mind”, and “The only moment that truly exists is the present”, the lessons that arise within them continually expand.

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The language used, whilst easy to read, may be challenging at first if you are relatively new to Yoga and mindfulness. In fact, as this book readily asks you to step away from “egoic mind”, a reaction to resist what the book teaches can arise. However, if you are able to come openly to the book, there is a world of consciousness to be unlocked within yourself. Written in such a way that you are encouraged to take time to stop and process what you’ve read, this is a book you’ll come back to time and time again.

If you’d like to share your thoughts on any of the books, get in touch!

And if you’re looking to get moving mindfully this winter, join me for a Yoga class, in person or online - it’s a great place to begin to create space in your mind and body, and tune inwards.

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Find out more about Emily’s yoga classes at emilyruthyoga.com Follow her winter on Instagram - @emilyruthyoga

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hugs THE SCIENCE OF

By Carrie Greer

Almost everything you want to say to someone you can say with a hug. Hugs have a way of getting right to the point and there’s no faking them; if it’s a bad hug without genuine feeling, you’ll know straight away.

2020 has been the year of the anti-hug. Hugs are a no go area. I can’t lie, I’ve found it hard to cope.

My natural instinct is to throw my arms around my family and friends. When I talk to you, I touch you; a hand on your arm, a tap on the shoulder, I’m drawn in towards you. I’m also a massage therapist and energy practitioner, so really, touch is my life.

That warm feeling when you fall into a hug with a loved one or great friend? It’s the ‘cuddle hormone’ oxytocin. Released from the pituitary gland at the base of the brain, it’s produced in the hypothalamus when neurons in the brain are stimulated by a hug or by touch. Oxytocin acts as a messenger in the brain and relates to different behaviours including recognition, trust, anxiety and parent and child bonding. A good squeeze a proper one, ideally for at least 20 seconds, will get those neurons excited, stimulate oxytocin production and lead to a reduction in blood pressure, while at the same time slowing your heart rate, reducing stress levels and helping you to feel calm and content.

So how have you felt this year with your lack of hugs? Are you desperate to grab hold of your friends and family? Have you noticed the lack of touch? Has it made you feel any different?

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Us Brits in particular tend to be a bit standoffish.

We protect our personal space and we tend to not be physically demonstrative, but this year, it seems to me that we’re looking to fill that hug gap. When we came out of our confinement in May, I expected to be inundated with bookings for wax appointments, and that did happen, but what everyone really wanted has been the hands on therapies. I’ve seen a whopping 120% increase in massage treatments this summer compared to last year.

Massage, reflexology, reiki; treatments that mostly we count as a luxury, something for a special occasion, that you’ll treat yourself to on a holiday.

But the science that validates these treatments is undeniable and really comes into its own this year.

Lockdown, restrictions, lack of control, lack of privacy and uncertainty are all playing havoc with our emotions. Stress, anxiety and sleepless nights, each contributing to a lowered immune system. In basic terms, our bodies immune system is there to protect our body from infection.

It’s made up of a collection of organs, cells and chemicals that work together to recognise and protect us from invaders. When our body is not operating normally; when it’s out of balance, then

the immune system is weakened and we’re more susceptible to infections such as colds, the flu and of course, COVID-19.

When we get stressed, our body produces the stress hormone cortisol. In short spurts (the fight or flight mechanism for example), cortisol production is a good thing. However in those times of high stress when we get stuck in that mechanism - like this year, the body goes crazy and floods our system with too much of this hormone. Increased cortisol levels can lead to increased blood sugar levels, weight gain, digestive problems, heart disease and a suppressed immune system.

So you’ll be feeling pretty rotten and thinking that maybe a massage sounds like a good idea? From the minute that you make that decision to dedicate time to a massage, your body will start to relax.

You’ve regained some control amidst the chaos and you’ve got something to look forward to in a year where so much has been taken away from us.

Just one massage, or other energy therapy such as reflexology or reiki, can enhance those positive feelings. Your therapist makes you comfortable, you feel the basic human needs of connection and touch and just like that 20 second hug, your brain’s neurons are stimulated and oxytocin is

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released, making you feel good. The tension is reduced or released from your muscles and your body starts to soften. Your mind calms down and those zillion little worries and concerns suddenly don’t seem so pressing.

Any physical pain you’ve been holding on to is also relieved and this is a big boost for the immune system. It helps to maintain white blood cell levels, and it’s these that identify foreign invaders in your system that would otherwise be reduced while the body suffers chronic pain. Massage improves circulation, improves the health and quality of your cells and tissues and makes them stronger. Lymphatic flow is improved and homeostasis, or balance, can start to return to the body.

Regular massage will build on all of this. Research suggests that through regular treatments, the immune system is strengthened. The body actively produces more lymphocytes - the cells which make antibodies and control immune responses. Perhaps most importantly for us this year, is the bodies response to massage in decreasing the levels of cortisol and increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine in addition to those super duper feel good endorphins.

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“So how have you felt this year with your lack of hugs? Are you desperate to grab hold of your friends and family?”

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2020 has ramped up our fight or flight response and massage has helped bring us back down again. As an added bonus we get the really good stuff thrown in too. Serotonin helps regulate mood, appetite and digestion while dopamine is the reward hormone (often activated by drug taking and social media likes!). Both can increase by up to 30% following a massage and that’s why you feel so dreamy when I’ve finished.

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Regular massage also gives you a real connection with your therapist (who also gets a nice hit of oxytocin from giving you the treatment so everyone’s a winner), but this can also give you the chance to talk about how you’re feeling in a safe place with no outside judgement. Being able to talk freely is another big de-stresser, calming that fight or flight mechanism and lowering that continued cortisol production.

Social distancing has made life hard this year. We’re being reassured that it’s worth it and the time will come when we’ll be together again. Until then, try a massage, see how it makes you feel, have a good sleep and get yourself ready for a massive hug-fest in 2021.

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trending - local gifts -

Many brilliant ideas came from lockdown 2.0, including our 2020 Festive Gift Guide, published on our website to support the local artists and makers of our valley.

Here are some of your favourite items from the guide (which can still be found on our website), we think they make the perfect holiday souvenirs!

amie henderson morzine source magazine editor

The Photography of finesse art prices From €30.00 for fine art prints finesse-art.com

The Macrame of Charlotte’s Web prices From €20.00 charlotteswebmacrame.com

Ideal for house plant lovers Morzine-based Charlotte is an expert in all things macrame and produces beautiful dream catchers, wall hangings, plant pot holders and even wedding decorations. Varying in size and available in a range of colours including black, natural and grey, Charlotte's work is both intricate and original. Everything in her range is available for UK delivery and she's available for personalised commissions too!

La Poterie de Morzine et d’Yvoire prices From €12.00 facebook.com/Poterieyvoire

Ideal for year-round mountain lovers who love to daydream

Ideal for those who like to recreate their favourite mountain meals at home

Local landscape photographer Jacquie Cutler is frequently asked for prints of her stunning local images, which make a lovely backdrop to an interior design scheme or a thoughtful gift for someone who loves the mountains. She’s now launched Finesse Art, a website dedicated to bringing these landscapes into your home. Her art is available in a range of different materials, from traditional high quality canvas to aluminium and even acrylic glass. Order online for worldwide shipping.

Our local potter Gérard is one of the most characterful people in our village. From his atelier and shop on the rue du Bourg in Morzine he hand makes wonderful pieces of pottery, inspired by local traditions and Savoyarde decoration. He uses bold colours and patterns to create collections, making his work the perfect collectable gift.

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The Photography of Aspect Images prices From â&#x201A;Ź100.00 aspectimagesmorzine.com

Ideal for those who love handmade gifts

The Art of Sue Neal prices on enquiry suenealart.godaddysites.com

Local photographer George Treble used his time in lockdown productively. Using reclaimed wood from our valley, he's begun hand making frames for his stunning photographs. George uses this project to raise important funds for local sustainability initiatives, giving you another reason to buy a piece of his work. All pieces arrive ready to hang on your wall.

Ideal for those with a favourite mountain-scape Local artist Sue Neal has a passion for all things rustic and rural.

She uses a variety of materials to produce bespoke mountainscapes, often featuring our local animals, skies and peaks. Sue is locally famous for her commissions and has created several pieces of art based around a favourite view or special place.

The Photography of Sadie Aldridge prices from â&#x201A;Ź40.00 sadiealdridgephotography.com

personalised ski lifts prices Depending on level of customisation taninges-telecabines.com

Ideal for those who like bold colours

Perfect for those who love a chairlift chat

Local photographer Sadie Aldridge has many talents, including wedding photography, scenic shots and personalised photoshoots. She also prints her images in six different formats including framed prints, canvas or acrylic and three different sizes from A4 to A2 size. She has a selection of images to choose from, all based around the Haute Savoie.

You've likely driven past Taninges Telecabines on your way up the mountain towards Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz (or read about them on page 146 of this magazine) and fantasised about having your very own ski lift in your home. They buy old lifts from across the French Alps before lovingly restoring them to be used as home decorations, events space and more. //

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the track ahead

By Daniel Elkan

Gatwick airport, 5am: a sea of a thousand grumpy faces, shuffling in queues, headed for the Alps. It’s not a great start to a ski holiday, but it’s how many ski holidays start.

From the UK, there’s no such thing as a quick journey to the Alps. Even if you pick resorts close to Geneva, like Avoriaz, Les Gets or Morzine, it still eats up most of a day.

In 1998, when I first went skiing with some friends to Andorra, I didn’t even realise that there was an alternative to flying to the slopes. But my second trip, to Sauze d’Oulx in Italy, changed all that. Slumped sleepily against a coach window on a transfer from the airport, I spotted a railway track in the valley below, just as we neared the resort.

Could we have come by train?

No one in the resort had a clue about the options for travelling by train from the UK. But I kept researching, and eventually found that by taking a Eurostar to Paris and then a TGV to a little train station called Oulx, we could have alighted just 15 minutes from the resort. Door-to-door, the duration is only about an hour more than flying.

The more I researched, the more railjourney options I discovered - to resorts all over the Alps. The research would take ages and booking unfamiliar travel for a group of mates felt daunting. No wonder so many skiers tread the well-beaten airport route but they are missing out on some awesome rail journeys.

Since then, I’ve travelled to resorts by train with friends every time. Morzine, with its huge variety of catered chalets and epic slopes is a favourite, and the train journey is definitely part of the holiday. Pop open the bubbles at 9am as your Eurostar speeds towards France, share food, play games, tell stories… and time glides by like the scenery. For big groups particularly, where not everyone knows each other initially, the camaraderie of the train journey has a wonderful bonding effect. I’ve witnessed so many happy children enjoying the journeys too. It’s quite something.

15 kg

per person

52 kg

per person

10.5 hrs 12.5 hrs

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“Studies of the total carbon emissions produced by French ski resorts have shown that the transportation of holidaymakers to and within the resort is by far the biggest factor” When I launched Snowcarbon ten years ago, to help more skiers enjoy journeys like ours, travelling to resorts by train was still regarded as a bit eccentric. Indeed, if someone in resort asked me about my journey and I told them I’d come by train, they’d often say “Yes, but which airport did you fly to?”, and then I’d watch their eyes widen as I explained that I’d come all the way by train, and that it didn’t take a great deal longer than flying. At the time, the default mode of the ski industry was all about getting bums on plane seats, the only exception to this being the direct Eurostar Ski Train. But the industry is responding to the climate emergency and there’s great warmth towards rail travel. >>

Supply and installation service throughout the Alps

80 kg

per person

7.5 hrs

bosanquet@outlook.com +44 (0) 7768 815745

les gets

bosanquetives.com/morzine //

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By train, you really do save a load of carbon and pollution. Travel from London to Les Gets by plane for example, and the journey produces around 80kg of CO2, per person; the equivalent car journey creates around 205kg of CO2 (per vehicle); but going by train is estimated at only 15kg of CO2, per person. Studies of the total carbon emissions produced by French ski resorts have shown that the transportation of holidaymakers to and within the resort is by far the biggest factor, at 57%. That means that if we want resorts to become sustainable, train travel is a major part of the solution.

It’s crazy, but booking these journeys is far more difficult than it should be. Online booking systems frequently fail to show skiers the best available options. The algorithms that power online searches can’t cope with the convoluted fare system, and the unfortunate knock-on effect is that they don’t even show some of the important journey schedules. As a rule, sometimes you can trust what you see online, and sometimes you can’t. Clearly, that’s a ridiculous state of affairs. Using an expert railbooking agent to book your tickets for you gets

“Many of the solutions are simple, but we need political action to force the various rail companies to get their act together.”

around this problem. But few people know they exist.

For ski tour operators who want to create railinclusive ski packages, it’s frustrating too.

Eurostar and SNCF seem to have a philosophy of wanting to sell everything directly themselves, instead of collaborating with the travel industry. It’s like watching a person trying to eat soup with their hands when someone sitting next to them is offering them a spoon.

Many of the solutions are simple, but we need political action to force the various rail companies to get their act together. That means resorts, and regions and mayors getting proactive. We are starting to see this happen.

More direct trains into the Alps are needed, too.

For example, in recent years, there have been only two TGVs running to Cluses, Sallanches

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Alpine Van Man SOURCE advert.pdf 1 Avoriaz 29/10/2020 your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets &

13:21

and St Gervais stations each Saturday in winter. Yet those stations in turn serve the resorts of Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz, Flaine, Les Carroz, Samoens, Megeve, St Gervais, Les Contamines and Chamonix. By contrast, Moutiers, Aime La Plagne and Bourg St Maurice get eight TGVs per Saturday - and they also need more capacity themselves too.

Montagne Verte has an initiative to engage SNCF, with a view to creating better transport options - including direct TGV services from Lille or Paris-Nord. It’s just what the doctor ordered. These options would mean that skiers from the UK, Belgium and Holland would have more options that avoid a change of station in Paris and add more rail capacity into the valley.

We need this proactive approach at a time when Eurostar have cancelled the direct Ski Train to Bourg St Maurice for this winter.

‘Save The Ski Train’, a joint campaign by Snowcarbon, Protect Our Winters FR and UK and Ski Flight Free, has at least created a

REGULAR DELIVERIES BETWEEN THE UK AND THE FRENCH ALPS

UK TO FRENCH ALPS EVERY WEEK HAULAGE, COURIER & REMOVALS FAST, RELIABLE, PROMPT SERVICE HANDLED BY PROFESSIONALS ALL ITEMS FULLY INSURED STORAGE ALSO AVAILABLE

silver lining of galvanising support by skiers and the ski industry for more and better rail services to the Alps. Eurostar hasn’t decided on whether to run the train during the 202122 ski season, but whether it does or not, we need a revolution to enable more skiers to travel to the Alps sustainably. Gatwick airport at 5am? It will seem like it was all just a bad dream.

More Info: Find out more at snowcarbon.co.uk Daniel is a London-based freelance ski journalist and founder of Snowcarbon, an independent

WWW.FRANCEFREIGHT.CO.UK +44 (0)7538 218 096

guide to travelling to ski resorts by train.

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neige FRONT DE

MORZINE

Here at the Association de Front de Neige Morzine, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a group of traders and individuals who want to develop the Front de Neige as quickly as possible, so that it becomes a showcase for Morzine. This is very important because all the famous resorts have a snowy and lively Snow Front.

In a beautiful Front de Neige area, one would expect to find well-prepared and snow-covered beginner ski areas, a well-prepared toboggan run, a beginners Snow Park, après-ski entertainment and a floodlit pedestrian path. Our plan is to include facilities for families of all ages and abilities on the Front de Neige.

We want the cultivated snow that is prepared for this area to be more substantial, so that we can model a beginners area with a magic carpet.

It would be important to create a real family toboggan run with sound and light; something for everyone to enjoy.

It would also be necessary to carry out more activities in this area, maybe on one or two evenings in the week so that the Front de Neige remains dynamic.

Our ideas include a parallel slalom

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competition, a toboggan race, snow tubing, an introduction to the sport of biathlon and much more. A lighted pedestrian path for a magical evening stroll should be created so that families can walk safely on the bottom of the Front de Neige.

Of course the Front de Neige only has snow during the winter season and so we must plan for this space during the summer months too. Summer is more complicated because the regulations are different to those in winter. To develop activities, permission must be sought from the landowners on the Pleney. It would therefore be necessary to create a DSP organisation (public service delegation) as Morzine has to operate this space during the winter season, to be able to use this land.

The association also wants to create

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activities and entertainment in summer as a second step. With global warming the summer season is becoming very important. We saw it this summer, with an influx of tourists who did not know our village before and who discovered the mountains in the summer.

are responsible for the production of snow on the Front de Neige. If we have

To become a member, simply go to our Facebook page “Front de Neige Morzine” and click to send us an email.

We will then send you the membership form. The membership fee is € 15 for individuals and € 100 for companies.

Of course it’s important that we start to see change in this area straight away if Morzine is to retain its position as a first class family resort. Starting this winter, we hope to benefit from more cultivated snow on the Front de Neige, to have more regular grooming and to create a lighted toboggan run with sound for the happiness of families. We also want a small train type of transport option, that will make shuttle runs between the bottom of the Pleney and the Joux Plane roundabout. This will allow holidaymakers to return on foot to our Snow Front.

Our plans as an association are already progressing well and we’ve taken a number of measures to gather support for our project. For those who don’t know, a new team was recently elected at the town hall. They contacted us during the last summer season to offer help in developing the Morzine Snow Front. We are looking forward to meeting them again to present our detailed project. At the same time, we contacted the Morzine Office de Tourisme and a meeting is scheduled to explain our ideas to them.

We’ve established our initiative to develop Morzine’s Snow Front as an official association as we need the support of other stakeholders in the village. This association gives more weight to the negotiations with the town hall and the Pleney lift company, who

More Info: a lot of members, then we have a better chance of seeing our project of creating a real Snow Front succeed.

Facebook - LaDezAlpRestaurant Instagram - @ladezalprestaurant

facebook.com/associationdufrontdeneigedemorzine Email: frontdeneigedemorzine@gmail.com

www.ladezalp.fr +33 (0) 4 50 79 81 52 | +33 (0) 6 75 50 93 11

La Dez 'Alp restaurant welcomes you in a warm Savoyard setting, in the heart of rue du Bourg. Handmade sculptures and woodworking are waiting for you! A feast for the eyes ...

Le restaurant La Dez' Alp vous accueille dans un cadre savoyard et chaleureux , au coeur de la rue du Bourg . Sculptures faites main et travail du bois sont au rendez vous! un régal pour les yeux ...

Delphine and Julien will ensure you have a lovely time with the indulgence of homemade, refined and quality dishes.

Delphine et julien vous feront passez un moment agréable avec la gourmandise des plats faits maison , raffinés et de qualité.

Take advantage of our panoramic terrace with a splendid view over vallée des ardoisières and of Avoriaz, enjoy the same view by the fireside.

Profitez de notre terrasse panoramique avec une splendide vue sur la vallée des ardoisières et d’ Avoriaz , profitez de la même vue au coin du feu .

A unique place where pleasure and conviviality are the key words...

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La Dez’ Alp treats you from 11am to midnight non stop service View notre carte sur www.ladezalp.fr

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La Dez’ Alp Caterer will come to you, ask for your personalized quotes!

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TEN

green bottles By amie henderson

2019 was the year of all things green here in Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz.

We got ourselves a passionate new environmentally focused community organisation in the form of Montagne Verte Morzine and a

THE POWER OF THE SUN

For the very first time in the Haute Savoie, ski lifts will be powered by solar energy. 41m2 of photovoltaic panels have been installed at the Proclou arrival station in Avoriaz. They’re expected to produce 9000kWh per year, all of which will be dedicated to the operation of the ski lift, reducing its regular energy consumption. We’d love to see more of these panels popping up across the Portes du Soleil!

raft of new sustainability measures were introduced by operators across the valley. It often felt like we were reporting on new eco initiatives every week! The future looked bright. The future looked green.

Then up pops COVID-19 to challenge the efforts, investments and energies of those at the forefront of this massive change. They’d certainly be forgiven for downing their eco tools in the face of such huge obstacles. I mean, would you continue in your quest to make your business entirely carbon neutral if there was a real chance that said business would go out of business?

Fortunately, for us all, and for the skiers of the future, the answer was yes. Confinement 1.0 followed by a calmer summer season yielded an explosion of sustainability projects and we’re delighted to showcase them on the pages that follow.

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LOCAFAUNE - A FLORA & FAUNA OBSERVATORY A further initiative in Avoriaz sees the careful management of biodiversity in the resort. Its aim is to list and monitor plant and animal species, identify sensitive areas within the ski domain and establish action plans to protect the natural environment. Of course the marmot, the chamois, the eagle and the ibex are all synonymous with the mountains and this project aims to protect them for the future.

// illustrations by icons8.com

Zero Limits Source 1 & 20/10/2020 your source of information forAdvert.pdf Morzine, Les Gets Avoriaz

CITIZEN OF WINTER PLEDGE

The entire objective here is to make your own winter holiday more sustainable, so it’s no surprise that Citizen of Winter have joined forces with our own Montagne Verte Morzine. In taking the pledge you’ll discover how to spend time in the mountains with minimal impact, discover organisations that are transforming the winter sports industry and bring sustainable practices into your own life. You’ll choose eight or more objectives for the coming year such as “I will travel to my next snow sports adventure by train” (see page 134 for details), “I will repair my outerwear instead of buying new” or (our favourite), “I will book my holiday with providers who have an environmental policy”.

Sign the pledge at citizenofwinter.com

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Providing the complete services of an IT department to small businesses and individuals

We offer a broad array of services including:

| Apple Certified

| Hardware / Software Repair

| Managed IT Services A MORE SUSTAINABLE COFFEE What do you get if you combine a love of the mountains with a love for great coffee? The Montagne Verte Morzine takeaway beverage cup by Satellite Coffee and Real Snowboaridng, of course. Funded by both businesses, these cups are available to buy for €15 at Satellite Coffee on the rue du Bourg in Morzine and the full amount is donated to Montagne Verte. They come pre-loaded with one free coffee and you’ll receive a 20c discount each time you use it. At the same time, Satellite Coffee started charging an extra 20c for a paper takeaway cup, donating this to Montagne Verte too. Approximately €1000 in total has been raised from both initiatives so far. Buy yours over the counter this winter.

| Remote Technical Assistance

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www.zerolimits.com //

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A SUSTAINABLE SPA

GREEN SPIRIT IN AVORIAZ

WATER MANAGEMENT

They were the first hotel in our valley to install electric charging points for EVs, they’ve removed all the minibar fridges from their bedrooms and it’s no surprise that Le Dahu continues its eco drive by focusing on their spa this winter. They’ve partnered with Avril, a professional bio product range that includes a wide selection of organic and mineral ecological skincare products. “The Avril range is respectful of our brand values,” Assistant Manager Sophie Heu explains. “We’re delighted to introduce the products to our spa guests this winter.”

The signs of climate change are increasingly obvious in the mountains and with this in mind, Avoriaz lift operator SERMA have introduced a number of developments into their everyday operations. In order to preserve water and reduce the need to manufacture artificial snow, SERMA go to great lengths to protect the natural snow in Avoriaz. Grassed ski slopes for example, are better able to retain natural snow, whilst wooden snow barriers have been installed to help retain snow on the piste in windy conditions. Both of these measures minimise the need to produce new snow and subsequently reduce the resort’s water consumption.

Les Gets launched its own rigorous water management programme a few years back and the work continues this winter season.

Summer earthworks have taken place in various places to make the slopes more gradual and therefore more likely to retain natural snow.

The overall mission is to reduce the work of snow groomers and the reliance of artificial snow production. Many areas have also been re-grassed to prevent soil erosion and to better fix the snowpack to the mountain.

Discover more at dahu.com

Discover more at avoriaz.com

Discover more at lesgets.com

RENT, DON’T BUY

SNOWSAT

Renting rather than buying your ski clothing is one of the simplest things you can do to minimise the impact of your ski holiday on the environment that you love so much. Save money (and baggage allowance) by renting your outerwear in resort. Intersport Morzine offer a rental service for all kinds of handy kit, as do Crevasse Clothing, who encourage you to order online before your trip so they can delivery your kit directly to your accommodation in time for your arrival.

Discover more at intersport-morzine.cm/en and at crevasseclothing.com 142

10 green bottles

Our local lift operators including Morzine's Pleney lift company are replacing their fleet of piste bashers with a more environmentally friendly alternative. The new machines run on non-toxic, biodegradable fuel, as opposed to the winter diesel used by traditional piste bashers. But perhaps more impressive is the introduction of Snowsat, a piloting software that brings technology to the art of piste bashing.

A GPS installed on each groomer allows its operator to precisely measure the depth of snow on a piste, helping them to redistribute and disperse existing snow, rather than making new stuff.

LE ROUTE TERROIR

Our local council, Communauté de Communes du Haut Chablais (let’s call it CCHC for short!) published a dedicated and extensive new map showcasing the local growers and makers of our valley, in addition to a click and collect service which saves you from visiting them individually while you’re doing your weekly shop. From locally-reared meats and cheeses to honey makers, fresh fish, milk and more, you really don’t need to stray far from home to fill your basket and save food miles.

Discover more at cc-hautchablais.fr/la-route-terroir-et-savoir-faire

// illustrations by icons8.com

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

Treat y�urself to m�re �f M�rzine this winter...

Our relaxing spa facilities and intimate restaurant are open to all.

SPA & WELLNESS

Overl��king the r��ft�ps and pistes our wellness centre and spa facilities are open each day between 10am and 8pm

Book a massage, beauty treatment or enjoy access to our spa and swimming pool to take extra care of yourself Book in advance by emailing spa@dahu.com or call +33 (0) 4 50 75 92 92 You can download our spa menu from our website.

RESTAURANT

Enj�y a refined dining experience with the lights of Morzine twinkling below, each evening between 7pm and 9.30pm

Our a la carte and menu du jour options feature contemporary dishes with a strong emphasis on local products Book in advance by calling +33 (0) 4 50 75 92 92 or email info@dahu.com

Our 37 bedrooms are also available during the winter and summer seasons for short breaks, groups and family holidays.

www.dahu.com

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143

graveyard SKI LIFT

by amie henderson

It’s a landmark for so many of you. Just a few more turns and you’ll be in Morzine, Les Gets or Avoriaz, settling into the winter holiday you’ve been waiting for. For others, it’s Batman, surveying the valley floor from his elevated position. Where am I? Taninges Télécabines, of course.

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// © sadie aldridge

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For eleven years I’ve passed what we’ve been calling ‘ski lift graveyard’, wondering what the heck goes on down there. With its location right on the roadside, row after row of old chair lifts, bubbles, gondolas and more fill a yard that spans 1600m2. But who do they belong to? And why are they there? Can I have one?

The story begins with Roger Gaudin, owner of the brocante (flea market) in Taninges. He’s a life-long collector of mountain heritage and is passionate about preserving the history of our area. The acquisition of a precious egg from the Flégère cable car in Chamonix in the early ‘00s inspired his sons Stéphane and Julien to take up the mantle.

In 2010 Les Gets replaced all 42 red bubbles on the Chavannes lift, Stéphane and Julien bought every single one of them and Taninges Télécabines was born. “There’s nothing else like this in the world,” Stéphane tells me when we meet in their ‘parc’ one autumn morning.

“This is entirely unique,” he continues. But how many individual lifts are there? “We’ve no idea.

Very many…” >>

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We’re surrounded by ski lifts from across the Alps – from even further afield most likely. Every colour, shape, age and design can be found in this parc, and also in their makeshift showroom across the road. The lifts vary in size from ancient single-seater chairlifts to huge 80-person gondolas.

The original Prodains gondolas, replaced in 2013, are immediately identifiable, whilst a carriage from the Aiguille du Midi takes pride of place. Megeve, Courchevel and several of France’s most popular resorts make an appearance.

But the big question is this… are they for sale? Well yes, and no. And there’s a waiting list. And it depends on the level of customisation you’d like. And if it’s part of a collection set aside for event decorations, then no. Stéphane and Julien take their work very seriously. This is a labour of love, not wealth. “We must protect this heritage for future generations,” they tell me.

These little pieces of mountain heritage travel to London on hire for weddings, to Monaco for corporate events. They’re part of pop-up dining experiences in Paris and they’re transformed into ticket desks for ski resorts such as La Plagne. Property developers and interior designers across France are also quick to snap them up as statement pieces and talking points inside chic alpine properties. Demand is high, but restoration is slow. >>

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Ethical fashionable clothing for all Opening Hours Tuesday-Sunday 10am - 7pm Closed Mondays

100% proďŹ ts from #riding2win sales go to support

which supports talented young winter sports athletes through funding initiatives and coaching them through the pressures of professional competition.

stockists of:

#riding2win 86 rue du Vieux Village 74260, Les Gets Tel +33 6 40 92 25 27

www.theelliesoutter.foundation

// Š sadie aldridge

ski lift graveyard

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We travel further into Taninges to visit their workshop and this is where the magic happens. Julien is busy restoring a bubble lift, while Stéphane proudly shows me a beautifully restored chairlift.

It’s painted mint green and the wooden slats on the seat have been painstakingly restored using local wood. There’s a customised pink egg, piste markers from Pleney, old skis painted bright red. Roger pops in to check on the progress of his sons.

“Ultimately, we want to create an international museum,” Stéphane tells me, when it becomes obvious that this is an ever-growing collection. Much, if not most, of the collection is too precious to sell on.

Giving others access to the ski lifts of yesterday is their passion. “Many people stop here, they’re fascinated and they want to view the lifts.

Anyone who’s ever spent time in the mountains can appreciate them,” Stéphane believes. We’d love to see this dream become a reality.

But what of Batman? Previously perched on top of a telecabine along the roadside, he’s conspicuous by his absence. “He was stolen, in the middle of the night!” Stéphane is still furious, I can tell. “It was 23rd December 2018. We’ve CCTV footage of the whole thing. They stopped, climbed up, and took him, all 60kg of him.” He's never been seen since.

I get the impression that Julien and Stéphane are continuously amazed by the unwavering interest in their business, especially from British skiers. If this article has inspired you to purchase your own little piece of the mountains for your garden, or if you’d simply like a wander around their parc, head to their website: taninges-telecabines.com or message them on Instagam @taningestelecabines

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// © sadie aldridge

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ski lift grave yard

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resort information

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summer

mountains IN THE

d at the lake an ve splashing eney” Pl “The Kids lo e th on rs cable ca riding in the s- Victoria

Evan

We’re endlessly banging on about summer in the mountains – it’s the best kept secret in travel. Fresh alpine

“Never too yo ung! Ivy Ande rson aged three riding sh otgun and lov ing it!”

- Gary Anderson

-

air, snow melt and refreshing lakes.

Long hot days, rumbling mountain storms and an endless list of family friendly activities. But don’t take our word for it. We asked our followers on Instagram and Facebook to share their “Technically Morgins but whilst we were on holiday in Morzine” - Gavin Farr -

summer experiences in Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz with you.

“Me and my daughter at the top of the Super Morzine, loving life back in 2019” - Damien Shawyer -

“Sunset dinner at L’Aubergade”

er to

“We love coming over for the summ ride bikes and paddle board”

- John Paul -

- Jade Limpus -

“Sunsets at Lake Montr - Will Holmes -

idays ever on the “One of the best hol hot as well!” so s wa it and e bik

iond”

- Paul Nicholson

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“Managed to ride up to Avoriaz on our Honeymoon last year” - Katie Lucas -

Mont Chery to Mont “Our favourite walk!

Chevrelles after!”

Les at Caly with lunch - Gemma Gooch

-

your source of information for Morzine, Les Gets & Avoriaz

We’re looking forward to the following events during Summer 2021!

Pass’Portes du Soleil 25, 26 & 27 June 2021 This epic mountain bike challenge returns for its 17th year and this time Les Gets hosts the accompanying bike show, guaranteeing a fantastic atmosphere in the resort across the whole weekend. This event always books up quickly and if you’re luck enough to take place in 2021 you can expect 80km of trails across both the French and Swiss resorts of the Portes du Soleil. The bike show is also a great opportunity to check out new equipment from the largest brands in mountain biking, and there’ll be loads of live entertainment, demo rides and more. Head to passportesdusoleil.com for more information.

Book your Summer 21 Bike Accommodation Now Prices from £349 per person half board per week We also offer Short Breaks, B&B and self catering Contact us today to find out more: UK 0121 2886131 or FR 06 86 43 69 56

UCI MTB World Cup 2, 3 & 4 July 2021

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Les Gets has firmly established itself as a top rank host when it comes to major global mountain bike events and this summer we’ll welcome the MTB World Cup back to our mountains. The best cross country and downhill athletes in the world will assemble on Mont Chéry for a highly technical, reworked track. For many of them, this will be their final competition before flying to the Tokyo Olympics. For more details head to worldcuplesgets.com

Harley Days 15-18 July 2021 Every other year the Harley Davidson owners club descends on Morzine and our streets become home to more than 80,000 beautiful bikes. Whether you’re into your leather chaps, roaring engines and big beards or not, this event is still a huge spectacle for our resort, which usually climaxes with a high profile musical event in the centre of the village. Keep an eye on our website for more details.

Terre de Jeux 2024 Morzine and Les Gets have been selected as preparation resorts ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games set for Paris.

Les Gets will host training camps for national cross country MTB teams, while Morzine hosts the disciplines of road cycling, triathlon and Paralympic triathlon. This means that next summer, you’re likely to spot some of the world’s best athletes and Olympic contenders on our trails and roads.

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Our 2021 Charity Calendar COVID-19 scuppered our plans for a variety of fund raising events in 2020, yet our first local landscapes calendar carried on regardless. We’ve raised over €4000 for the APE Essert Romand et La Côte d’Arbroz, a charitable association attached to our local schools, through the sale of our 2021 charity landscape photography calendar. Twelve local photographers generously donated stunning images and we were thrilled to sell all 500 copies of the calendar.

Supporting Secours en Montagne

Last Minute Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz

Three times we scheduled and then postponed our Morzine & Montriond screening of the European Outdoor Film Tour before conceding that it couldn’t happen in 2020. In 2019 we raised €4100 for Secours en Montagne (our local mountain rescue volunteers) at this sellout event. We even commissioned our own short film to demonstrate the work of these local heroes. We’re hugely grateful to Skiidy Gonzales, Alpine Property, Cavern Bar and Billski Ski School for sponsoring the film, it WILL have its own premier this winter season.

Thanks also to Rebuen and Polly Shaul at Story Crafters for your incredible work.

Despite all the uncertainty served up by 2020, we always new that skiers wanted to ski.

To make this as easy as possible for you, we launched Last Minute Morzine, Les Gets and Avoriaz, a late availability booking platform that introduces you to local accommodation providers with discounted availability. At morzinesourcemagazine.com/lastminute you’ll find a variety of special offers and deals for a variety of group sizes and budgets, all with an arrival date in the next six weeks.

We even deliver a summary of new deals to inboxes every Monday. Sign up for your own last minute mailer on our website.

The Source Awards for Excellence Under normal circumstances our winter issue would feature details of our annual Source Awards for Excellence. Established in 2015, these are our way of recognising the hard working, innovative and sustainable businesses in our valley – those that go out of their way to market our destination and exceed the expectations of their guests and customers in a number of different categories.

Our plan for Winter 2021 is to run the awards entirely online, so keep an eye on our website, mailers and social channels for more details once winter gets underway.

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