Yodl gives you access to thousands of self-catered ski chalets & apartments not readily available to UK skiers. skiyodl.com
What is the Long Lunch Club?
The Long Lunch Club gives you local recommendations on where to eat, drink and wine in the Alps so you never end up in a rubbish restaurant again.
WORDS Joe Englert, Yodl Head of Marketing
So here we are. It’s nearly winter 2024/25. It’s been a wild year since we launched the Yodl Echo. Deep into startup life, I’ve been used to getting my head down and getting sh*t done, but, now Yodl is growing, & quickly, it’s been a big learning curve in the world of collaboration. Rather than battling away behind the laptop at home, we’ve expanded operations into a fully fledged team complete with office space in Farringdon, London. And yes, we do have a fancy coffee machine.
So many ski companies help you to choose where you’re going to ski by statistics. But when did you last book a beach holiday based on the tides? Or a city break based on the number of miles of pavement? We wanted to share what makes each resort human, not just a statistic.
Here’s to hoping the winter ahead is snowier than the one behind us. I started this paper as a way to share my favourite places to eat on the mountain. And you can find my lunch stop google map throughout this paper -sample a few yourself next time you’re mountainside.
IN THE KNOW
ALTITUDE
Val Thorens is the poster child of high-altitude skiing. But it’s far from the only one. A couple of early season snowless spells in the last 2 years has led skiers rushing for altitude. And Val Thorens with that infamous ‘highest resort in Europe’ tag is on everyone’s lips.
BUT
Wade past the chatter and there’s plenty of resorts with equal if not better snow security, higher slopes and bigger glaciers. Think Alpe d’Huez, Les 2 Alps, La Plagne and Tignes to name but a few. Avoid the tourist trap of Val Thorens and hit up Les 2 Alpes for far more fun.
SNOW PRIDE
FREE LIFT PASSES
Taking the kids skiing this year? Save a bit of money in Tignes-Val d’Isere where children under 8 get free lift passes. Find out more on p6.
This is now Europe’s biggest gay ski week. Starting out as a pure clubbing venture it now incorporates an entire resort and over 1,000 people attend annually. More on p13.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Fancy a white Christmas hit but still want to be home in time for the big day? Ski resort Christmas markets could hit the spot.
Find the best pre-Christmas Christmas on p19
TIGNES, APRIL 2024
Find me a Folie!
Ever enjoyed a little apres ski whilst still up the mountain? If you were in France then you were probably at a Folie Douce.
The open-air high-octane apres venues have taken the Alps by storm. So much so that skiers are starting to base their ski holidays around which resorts have a Folie Douce.
Don’t get us wrong, a Folie Douce isn’t for everyone. You wouldn’t catch Ed Leigh in any of them. But if dancing on tables to thumping DJs and champagne spray is up your street - then Folie Douce is probably your thing.
Here are the resorts with a Folie Douce to apres your afternoons away:
Val d’Isere
The Original Folie Douce, this is where it all started. You can also access it from Tignes but you need to catch the last lift back over or you’ll be stuck. And as the OG, it’s an absolute belter.
Val Thorens
Arguably the most iconic Folie venue. You’ve probably seen the chairlift shots going over the venue. High Altitude and positively thumping. Seasonaires crack open tinnies on the slopes above before joining the throng.
Meribel
Called Meribel-Courchevel probably just for the reputation Courchevel brings. This Folie is definitely in Meribel, if you’re in Courchevel you’ll have to catch at least one lift back over.
Alpe d’Huez
Right at the top of the Marmottes 1 telemixte, meaning you can catch the gondola cabin up and down from here so you don’t even have to ski.
Avoriaz
Of course, the ski in ski out resort has ski in ski out apres ski. The venue is also a big part of the annual SnowBoxx music festival when it comes to town.
Les Arcs
Just above Arc 1800. This spot is great for a post-lunch boogie. Bear in mind it’s much easier to get to the various villages of Les Arcs than it is to get back over to La Plagne. Make sure you plan accordingly and don’t get stranded.
Chamonix
The first Folie Douce Hotel and it’s actually ski in ski out in Chamonix. You probably
thought that didn’t exist in Chamonix! Folie to the rescue.
Saint-Gervais Megeve
Not known for its lively apres scene, Megeve does have a Folie. Psst. They do awesome lunches as well.
Speaking of lunch - lunch is a much more civilised way to experience a Folie Douce.
Whilst a heaving bar and dancing on tables in ski boots whilst scantily clad performers whip the crowd into a frenzy is probably not the ideal environment for families. Lunch at a Folie Douce may be the gentle introduction you’re after. If you’re after one that is.
The food at the Frutiere is fantastic and you may even catch an acrobatic display or live singer whilst you eat. The thumping apres doesn’t get started until 3pm. But you can catch ‘Le Show’ over a family lunch if you wish. Folie family entertainment anyone?
Find out more: lafoliedouce.com
Photo credits: Folie Douce Val d’Isere
Val Thorens
Meribel - Courchevel
Alpe d’Huez
Avoriaz
Chamonix
Megeve
Les Arcs
APRES FOR OPEN AIR APRES ENTHUSIASTS
Brits most hated ski resort
There’s so much chatter around the best ski resort. Which resort has the highest altitude, the most annual snowfall or the largest ski area. But little thought has gone into which resort is the most hated.
The ‘Most Hated Ski Resort’ is not an award many resorts would put themselves up for. But maybe there’s a market there. A tourist trade that would pay to see just how bad a ski resort could be.
The judging criteria for such an unsought-after award is something we couldn’t agree on. Lack of snow? Lack of slopes? Expensive? Crowded? Too much apres? Too many Brits? Long transfer? Slow lifts? Button lifts? It’s surprising how much we don’t like about skiing it seems.
So rather than ask what is the most hated, we reversed the existing research.
The Ski Club of Great Britain asked the question ‘Where is your dream ski destination?’ to UK skiers and the country that gained a measly 1% of the votes was also the country that when asked ‘ Where did you ski last year?’ received a whopping 62% vote majority. Making it simultaneously the most hated and the most popular place to ski.
It seems there is a market for the most hated ski resort after all. Or at least the most hated country to ski.
Where? France of course. (Ok we cheated with a country, hate us for it)
Chalets with a swimming pool
1. SPACIOUS APARTMENT WITH RELAXATION AREA AND GYM
Megeve, France
Sleeps 8, 4 bedrooms
Balcony with great views, access to communal swimming pool, gym, sauna & hammam. From £3,599 for a week at skiyodl.com
3. AMAZING SWIMMING POOL AND SPA
Val d’Isere, France
Sleeps 10, 5 bedrooms
Huge picture windows and fireplace. Jet pool & hammam. You can even book a private chef, waiters and a butler for your stay. From £8,813 at skiyodl.com
Les Arcs (Arc 1800), France
Sleeps 15, 6 bedrooms
Ski in ski out chalet, private heated indoor pool, massage jets, counter-current & sauna. Home cinema room, games room and equipped office. From £15,212 at skiyodl.com
4.
Courchevel Village (1550), France
Sleeps 15, 7 bedrooms
Luxury on another level 830sqm over 6 levels including a petanque court, cinema room, games room, indoor & outdoor swimming pool with natural sand, sauna, hammam, massage room & relaxation area. Ski room & garage. Private chef for breakfast, tea and dinner, butler, housekeepers, driver service and a Champagne reception. The food consumed is not included. From £48,918 at skiyodl.com
2. LUXURY SKI IN SKI OUT CHALET IN ARC 1800
DREAMIEST CHALET OF ALL TIME?
Free ski lifts & passes
LIFT PASSES FOR BEGINNERS? USE THE FREE LIFTS
Skiing is not a cheap hobby. And lift passes are what pushes a ski holiday above the price bracket of a beach holiday. That extra up to £370 (for 6 days in TignesVal d’Isere) is essentially a compulsory tax to use a lift system which is the only reason you booked the holiday in the first place.
It feels like lift passes should be included in the price. After all you’re not charged to go in the sea, though I suppose you would be charged if you wanted to go on a speed boat. Anyway regardless of your lift pass stance, it feels like a ripoff if you’re learning, meaning you’ll probably be stuck on a handful of lifts for at least the first few days.
There must be a way around it. And as it turns out, there is. At least in some resorts. Meaning you could get to grips with the snow for a day or two for free, maybe even the whole week. Saves forking out a fortune
only to find out skiing’s not for you.
So if you want to test the waters before you take the leap head to one of these resorts for your ski trip.
La Plagne - 16 free lifts
By far the most in any resort in France. La Plage has drag lifts or magic carpets throughout the resort meaning that wherever you are staying you should have access to at least one to test your ski legs for the first time without buying a lift pass.
La Plagne bonus:
You can also buy a ‘Cool Ski pass’ (they named it not us) for 34€/day rather than the full pass at 74€/day. This gives you access to the protected zones with easy slopes and circuits to find your confidence.
Children under 5 ski for free in the whole Paradiski area (La Plagne, Champagny and Les Arcs)
Tignes - 9 free lifts
Tignes is another great option for free lifts. And although less than La Plagne, the free lifts feel more extensive here. There are even 3 chairlifts you can use for free. There are 2 chairlifts in Le Lac and one in Val Claret so these are arguably the best villages to stay in to utilise them. Though Tignes 1800 is arguably the most family-friendly with 2 free magic carpets. Les Brevieres by far the prettiest, with some amazing chalets, has a free drag lift.
Val d’Isere - 7 free lifts
Val d’Isere’s free lifts are split into 2 sections. The main Solaise area (the main Val d’Isere hub) has 2 chairlifts and 3 drags and then down the road in quieter La Daille, there are 2 free drag lifts.
Top tip:
For families skiing in Tignes or Val d’Isere children under 8 ski for free. They’ll still need a lift
Green Gervais:
The local initiatives
Ski resorts always tread that fine line between implementing fantastic green practices and being big carbon footprint contributors by simply being there. But St Gervais is starting to stand out this year by focussing not just on the ski area but improving the area for locals as well. A more rounded approach to improving the area as a whole in sustainable ways.
Their big leap forward this year is in the construction of the new Valléen gondola linking the SNCF station Le
Fayet (a major axis where TGV, TER (Paris, Lyon, Annecy, etc.) and Facilibus bus lines (100% ecological and free shuttles/ ski buses from Saint-Gervais) stop in summer and winter) to the centre of Saint Gervais (850m). There are also plans for a second section to link Saint Gervais to Bettex.
Saint Gervais is a somewhat under-the-radar ski resort. It’s an old spa town in the Evasion Mont Blanc ski area with over 400km of piste up to 2,350m in altitude. The same area as Megeve. And from Le
pass but it’s free. Most resorts are free for under fives but you get a few extra years in TignesVal d’Isere.
Meribel - 7 free lifts
Meribel’s 7 free lifts are scattered around the lower slopes of Meribel and Meribel Mottaret. The lifts access dedicated secure learning zones protected from other skiers. They are wide and gentle often ending on the flat in case you pick up speed without knowing how to stop.
A great place to build firsttime confidence.
Children under 5 ski for free in the whole 3 Valleys ski area
Les Arcs - 7 free lifts (at the weekend)
Les Arcs has a different approach to free lifts. Rather than dedicated free lifts on the lower reaches. They open up 6 chairlifts at the weekends to use for free. Which could be a great opportunity to explore a little on a Sunday if you’re arriving on a Saturday. There’s a free lift open in each village and there’s two in 1800.
Children under 5 ski for free in the whole Paradiski area (La Plagne, Champagny and Les Arcs)
Top tip: If in doubt about what ski pass you need, ask your ski school before buying. They’ll know exactly what you need based on your ability.
More resorts with free lifts:
• Courchevel - 5 free lifts
• Les 2 Alpes - 4 free lifts
• Val Thorens - 4 free lifts
• Flaine - 4 free lifts
• Alpe d’Huez - 3 free lifts
• Serre Chevalier - 2 free lifts
• La Rosiere - 2 free lifts
Fayet station you can catch the Tramway du Mont Blanc to Les Houches, Chamonix in just 35mins as well.
But back to the Valléen gondola. It should cut CO2 emissions in the area by 1215%. Reducing road traffic by 25% on average and reducing vehicles in the centre by 15,000 per year. As well as halving the journey time by car giving locals an enhanced quality of life by gaining mobility in their daily lives and an increased attractiveness in the area with
the reduction in traffic.
Saint Gervais is working hard in all areas of environmental management from water resource management, ecodriving for snow groomers and new ecological public vehicles to wildlife rehabilitation.
They’ve also been working on their carbon calculations making it easy for skiers in the area to calculate their carbon footprint on the mountains. Boiling it down to a simple calculation of multiplying your number of ski days by 220g of CO2. So by skiing 6 days your carbon footprint would be 6x220 = 1320g of CO2, the equivalent of 8km travelled in a fuel-powered car. Find out more at ski-saintgervais.com
The easiest ski resorts to get to by train
With the Eurostar operating a service from St Pancras to Lille where you catch your connecting train to the Alps again this winter, we wanted to look at the ski resorts which are the easiest to access by train. As it’s not the easiest topic to find information on.
What is the Eurostar service?
Tickets are now on sale. The service operates outbound from St Pancras every Saturday between 21st December 2024 and 1st March 2025 and they return from the Alps every Sunday morning between 29th December 2024 and 2nd March 2025. You get 2 bags + ski equipment allowance and much more space and comfort than a flight. Plus it’s greener with arguably better views. There are plugs at each seat and a bar onboard for drinks and snacks (for the first leg) as
well as free wifi.
What’s the route?
The service is direct from St Pancras International to Lille Europe where you grab your connection on to the Alps stopping in Chambery, Albertville, Moutiers-SalinsBrides-Les-Bains, Aimela-Plagne or Bourg-Saint Maurice.
How long does it take?
Total time from London to Bourg-Saint-Maurice (the final stop) 8 hours outbound and 9 hours return.
What does it cost?
The tickets are dynamically priced so they will change but a return is twice the price of a single so there’s no saving, you’re just booking 2 tickets. For the majority of dates, a return ticket is £238 per adult and slightly cheaper for a
child. Some dates are slightly less and school holidays slightly more.
What resorts can you get to?
The diagram above (from Eurostar) shows you which resorts you can reach from
each stop. What it doesn’t show you is how you can get from the train station to each resort. And that’s the part, we at Yodl, get asked about the most.
By far the simplest resort is Les Arc 1600. The only resort with a direct link. From Bourg St Maurice station you simply walk across to the Furnicular (this is not in the train station, it’s approx 800m) which takes you up to Arc 1600. Though to get to another Les Arcs village you’ll have to catch a bus from here.
For any other resort on the map above you catch a shuttle service from the train station to your resort. The shuttles are scheduled by Altibus.com and it’s a relatively easy website to navigate and prebook your shuttle.
On a Saturday Altibus runs once every 45 minutes-ish to Tignes and Val d’Isere up until around 19:00.
Approx. Altibus prices (oneway):
La Rosiere 3€
Tignes 12€
Val d’Isere 12€
La Plagne 12€
Courchevel 12€
St Martin 12€
Les Menuires 12€
Val Thorens 12€
Book your train tickets on Eurostar.com
STARTING FROM LONDON ST PANCRAS
Maison Sport Instructor-ApprovedSki
Itineraries:
How to Spend the Perfect Day on the Slopes
Expert ski instructors from leading ski lesson booking platform, Maison Sport, share their top ski itineraries for a perfect day on the slopes.
These instructor-approved routes in Courchevel, Megève, Méribel and Verbier promise the ultimate ski day, featuring pacey runs, scenic views, top powder spots and plenty of kilometres of slopes. Showcasing the best each resort has to offer and packed with insider tips and local recommendations, these itineraries will be sure to take your ski experience to thrilling new heights!
The Perfect Day in Courchevel for Intermediate Skiers
By Ellie P. from Maison Sport
Best Warm Up Run: Start on Bellecôte, a wide, groomed run that’s ideal for easing into the day. Your Maison Sport instructor will guide you through warm-up exercises and help identify areas for improvement.
Best Intermediate Run: Next, we’ll head to Pralong. Its gentle gradients are perfect for working on your technique. With step-by-step guidance, you’ll feel confident on slightly steeper terrain.
Best Coffee Spot: After some hard work, we’ll make our way to La Cave des Creux for a coffee break on the sun terrace.
Best Viewpoint: Take the Suisse chairlift for panoramic
views of Mont Blanc and the Three Valleys.
Best Après Spot: We’ll finish with vin chaud at Le Tremplin, enjoying live music and celebrating your progress.
Book your instructor at maisonsport.com for the ultimate Courchevel experience!
The Perfect Off-Piste Day in Verbier for Advanced Skiers By Raph R. from Maison Sport
Best Ungroomed Run: We’ll head to Tortin, a challenging, ungroomed run perfect for honing your skills on variable terrain. Your Maison Sport instructor will provide technical tips to help take your skiing to the next level.
Best Powder Run: Next, we’ll venture off-piste into Vallon d’Arbi, an exciting backcountry area. With step-by-step guidance, we’ll work safely on handling powder and navigating tricky terrain.
Best Coffee Spot: After some serious skiing, we’ll stop at Le Dahu for a coffee break, soaking up stunning views of the surrounding peaks from the terrace.
Best Viewpoint: We’ll head up to Mont Fort, where you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and beyond.
Best Après Spot: We’ll end the morning at Le Rouge enjoying a lively après-ski atmosphere.
your speed. With one-on-one instruction, you’ll make rapid progress in no time.
Best Coffee Spot: Time for a break at Le Blanchot, a cosy spot where you can relax with a warm drink and refuel.
Best Coffee Spot: After our session, we’ll relax at Rosalita, enjoying a delicious coffee or chocolat chaud while taking in the stunning mountain views.
Book your off-piste lessons at maisonsport.com
The Perfect Day in Méribel for Beginner Skiers
By James S. from Maison Sport
Best Warm Up Run: Start your day on the gentle Doron run, an ideal area for beginners to get comfortable. Your Maison Sport instructor will guide you through essential warm-up exercises, helping you build confidence.
Best Beginner Run: Next, we’ll head to the Méribel Altiport area, a wide, gentle slope, perfect for practising your turns and learning to control
Best Viewpoint: We’ll ride up the Rhodos gondola, which offers stunning views over Méribel and the surrounding valleys.
Best Après Spot: We’ll end the day at La Folie Douce, celebrating your progress in a vibrant atmosphere. A direct gondola ride will take you back to the village, ready to hang up your boots for the day.
Book ski your instructor at maisonsport.com to get the best out of Méribel.
The Perfect Day in Megève in an Intermediate Adult Group Lesson By Luke S. from Maison Sport
Best Viewpoint: A ride up to the top of Epaule offers breathtaking panoramas of the Mont Blanc massif, the perfect spot for a selfie!
Book adult group ski school lessons at maisonsport.com for a fun day of skiing, making friends and learning new skills!
Book Lessons with Maison Sport
Maison Sport connects snowsport enthusiasts of all abilities with expert ski and snowboard instructors across Europe’s top ski resorts. With over 1,000 highly-rated, verified instructors, Maison Sport delivers private and group ski lessons designed to enhance your mountain experience and help you achieve your full potential.
Best Warm Up Run: We’ll begin the day on the gentle slopes of Mandarin.
Prior to your lesson, you will be grouped by ability with just 4 to 6 adults, guaranteeing plenty of personalised attention.
Best Intermediate Run: Next, we’ll head to Prapacot, a picturesque blue run where we will work on a variety of drills to develop your technique.
Quality demonstrations will help you to refine your skills.
The top-rated instructors will understand exactly what you want from your skiing experience and can tailor your lessons to your specific needs. Whether it’s improving individual performance, exploring off-piste terrain or having a personal mountain guide, you can make your lessons your own.
Your perfect ski instructor is just a click away. Simply visit maisonsport.com, select the resort, discipline and dates you are looking for and choose the instructor that best suits your needs. Alternatively, you can contact the customer support team at +442038568307 or hello@ maisonsport.com who will be able to assist you with any queries you may have and ensure that you choose the best option for your lesson requirements.
The Style Guide
How to deck out your flat like a ski chalet
Thinking about ‘chalet style’ conjures up feelings of curling up beside a roaring fire, sinking into fir throws with hot cacao and taking in the primordial mountain views. That quintessential Swiss Alpine village we fall in love with on holiday, but how can we translate it to back home in London?
How can you recreate a cosy winter snug for yourself?
According to University of Notre Dame professor Kate Chambers, “Chalets are all about creating a harmonious
connection with the natural landscape that surrounds us... This can be done by incorporating natural materials—everything from stone dishware to marble tchotchkes—into the decor.”
So It’s less about pictures of reindeer and more about natural textures and patterns. Got it.
You may not have space for a massive wooden dining table but you can bring natural materials into your home with this Soho Home Ted coffee table made from oyster-cut
INSPIRATION IN THE FLESH
Fancy bringing the Alps home with you?
Try these finds inspired by spectacular chalets in the Alps. Or stay at the chalet by booking at skiyodl.com
Get that hug in a cup with these porcelain mugs from Denby sustainably handcrafted in Derbyshire.
£36 for 2 at denbypottery. com
guanacaste wood with a gorgeously organic feeling silhouette.
£2,801 for members at sohohome.com
Modern Chalet With Mountain Views
Avoriaz, France
Ski in, ski out Sleeps 11 5 bedrooms skiyodl.com
Adding soft textures to your roof just adds to the hygge. A green and mustard herringbone throw brings those soft colours and textures in without screaming ALPS.
From £53 at thebritishblanketcompany. com
Ski-in Ski-out Chalet For A Large Group Alpe d’Huez, France Sleeps 14 6 bedrooms skiyodl.com
No one needs the polar bear pictures at home. But get some artwork on the walls. A print from boring friends will liven up your wall from $29 and they ship to the UK boringfriends.ca
Chalet for fifteen close to the slopes and centre
St Martin de Belleville, France
Sleeps 15 6 bedrooms skiyodl.com
Looking for that statement pendant light full of natural movement to bring the chalet focal point together. Look no further than Las Sola’s Renée Pendant. The rolling lips of a snow bank? The foaming waves of Cornwall? It’s abstract, organic and looks fabulous.
£239.99 at lassola.co.uk
Have a lake in your garden? Go the whole Alpine hog with a barrel sauna and get your wellness fix back home as well.
Barrel Sauna Edda from £2,327 at Polhus.co.uk
Modern Family Chalet With Sauna
St Martin de Belleville, France Sleeps 12 6 bedrooms
Cosy nature incoming and my eyes are sinking deep into this rust velvet armchair from Daals.
Perfect for collecting biscuit crumbs down your front as you munch away to another Love Actually re-run.
£549 from daals.co.uk
Luxe Apartment Close To Everything
Avoriaz, France
Ski in, ski out Sleeps 12 6 bedrooms skiyodl.com
Or bring some colour and pattern to your sofas. Colour pops in cushions can be easily changed rather than the sofas themselves.
£65 from nkuku.com
Some Michelin
Star mountain stops
THERE’S NO NEED TO FEED ON FODDER WHEN YOU SKI
Hi there, fellow ski food adventurers!
Want to treat your taste buds when you’re in the mountains and nothing but the absolute best will do?
We’ve scoured the Michelin guide and tallied it with the piste maps of France creating a map of stars in the Alps. Stars you can gobble down whilst you’re skiing.
Simply scan the QR code to get the map: (at the end of the article) save it to your Google account and you can access it any time you’re in the Alps to find your closest Michelin-star restaurant.
Where can I find Michelin Stars on the slopes you ask?
Here are a few highlights in some of the best resorts in France.
L’Ekrin by Laurent Azoulay
Meribel - Hotel Le Kaila
*
On the main street in Meribel, It’s ski in ski out with the piste running behind the hotel though you probably won’t be eating in your ski boots. What the guide says: Skilfully playing with the flavours and traditions of different regions, Chef Laurent Azoulay takes guests on a culinary journey through his native Provence and adopted Savoie... creative and colourful cuisine which
with a striking repertoire of contemporary cuisine, in which creativity and audacity are entirely guided by the guest for flavours.
€€€€ . Creative
Ursus
Tignes Val Claret
* & a green star
The Michelin Green Star is an award given to restaurants in the Michelin Guide that are considered leaders in sustainable gastronomy. Ursus is one of them.
Jeanblanc has swapped his native Jura mountains for the Alps, devising meals that crescendo over the course of simple and inspired creations using premium ingredients sourced from all over France.
€€€€ . Modern Cuisine
Albert 1er
Chamonix - Hotel Hameau
Albert 1er
is refined and delicate yet also offers some bold combinations.
€€€€ . Modern Cuisine
Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc Courchevel 1850
***
You can only reserve a table (there are only 5) by email, it’s about as exclusive as it gets in an exclusive resort. 3* for a reason.
What the guide says:
Yannick Alléno has trodden a remarkable path! At one great restaurant after another, the chef from the Paris region has always been adept at channelling his passion into fulfilling his ambition. He regales a few lucky diners
What the guide says: This restaurant loves nature, with a name that pays tribute to the last species of bear in the Savoie. Its dining room resembles a forest with its slim tree trunks separating each of the tables into little copses. The chef creates contemporary-style Alpine cuisine with real technical wizardry, resulting in generous dishes which are full of flavour.
€€€€ . Creative
Les Explorateurs
Val Thorens - Hotel Pashmina
*
At a whopping 2,345m altitude, this is high altitude fine dining in the resort of the moment. Does Bresse chicken cooked two ways, the leg is slow roasted and grilled and the breast roasted in hazelnut bread and served with a vin jaune and morel sauce tickle your fancy? Yes? Then we suggest booking ahead.
What the guide says: Josselin
* Just down the road from Chamonix train station, you’ll find Albert 1er in the same spot since 1903 run by five generations of the Perrine Carrier family.
What the guide says: Chef
Damien Leveau’s cuisine draws on the culinary heritage of Savoie and Piedmont, using produce from the region (Arctic char and whitefish from Lake Geneva, snails from around Mont Blanc, pork and lamb from the surrounding farms), enhanced by what is grown in the aromatic garden: oxalis, lovage, citrus thyme, savoury, lemon balm and sage. Meals are served in a supremely stylish, yet understated interior.
€€€€ . Modern Cuisine
Save the Michelin Map of the Alps by scanning the QR code:
FANCY FOOD
Ursus
Le 1947
Les Explorateurs
Albert 1er
L’Ekrin
Joelle recommends
THE LOCALS EAT IN TIGNES
If you’re going to have a great ski trip, you need to know where to eat. It’s as simple as that. There’s no easier way to elevate your time away than making sure those dinners and lunches out are worth every penny.
And the recommendation’s I want to get is those from a local passionate about food and the place they live. They can be hard to find but worth it if you do.
Enter Joelle - she runs the L’Etoile Des Neiges with her partner (The Chef) right at the bottom of the piste in Les Brevieres (Tignes). A muststop spot for a deliciously easy lunch. If you’re in Tignes, don’t pass it by. Joelle’s energy makes you fall in love with the atmosphere before the food even arrives at your table. A perfect lunch spot in the sun.
We thought, if someone could create such an awesome lunch spot, she must have some personal favourites in the area worth trying for ourselves. So we had to ask the question.
Where are Joelle’s favourite places to eat in Tignes-Val d’Isere?
Hotel VoulezVous - Il Savoia
Tignes Le Lac
Hotels in the area have had to elevate their restaurant game to attract outside guests as well as those staying. This has given rise to some spectacular dining options. Il Savoia at Hotel VoulezVous was Joelle’s top recommendation. A delicious Italian-Savoie gastronomic blend. We caught them on closing night and had what was probably our best meal of the weekend. Would come back.
£££
La Baraque
Val d’Isere
Come for the atmosphere. The vibe is unreal. And the food matches perfectly. Think tapas and big sharers. Washed down with a live band and a beautiful buzz. It’s a great post -dinner spot too. So come for dinner and stay for the night.
££-££
La Pignatta
Tignes Val Claret
In a word - hearty. Tucked away in Val Claret with a wonderful wine wall. This place will fill you up with a cosy atmosphere.
££-£££
Avancher Hotel
Val d’Isere
The only recommendation we didn’t get around to trying, but judging on the others it’s bound to be good. The menu’s packed with local produce and it claims to be the only place
Quick Eats
If you’re racking up the miles on Ski Tracks (or the alternative app of your choice) the last thing you need is a sit-down lunch. At least not the kind that comes with table service and magnums of rosé.
The ultimate mile muncher lunch is a pre-made baguette on the chairlift to refuel. A no time wasted type of lunch. And France has a million boulangeries that are perfect
But what if you wanted something a little more, or something hot, it can be cold when skiing after all. Something to make the tastbuds dance, to warm you inside out, something that may even give a little zip to your afternoon ski.
in town for a traditional-style raclette if you fancy getting cheesy.
££-£££
A short and sweet highlight list that’s sure to set fire to your ski holiday. We had one weekend in Tignes and it’s safe to say we ate very, very well indeed.
You can find Joelle’s recommendations and plenty of other local spots on our Long Lunch List
A Google map full of the best places to eat in the Alps, recommended by locals, tested by Yodl.
Just scan the QR code:
is a much more popular ski destination. And Meribel has our absolute must quick bite spot.
But whilst the chances of you skiing in Lindvallen are remote, the Three Valleys for that.
Where can you grab a super quick bite on the slopes?
If you happen to be skiing in Lindvallen, Sweden you may not be racking up the miles (there’s only 50km of piste) but you can get a quick lunch at the ski in ski out golden arches. Yes, this resort has a McSki, the world’s only skithru McDonald’s.
Chez Bif has punters exclaiming things like “Best burgers I’ve ever had.” clearly so good she had multiple. Or how about Conor’s “The burgers are consistency mind blowing!” Clearly they have great texture too. But seriously, you should rock up to this hole in the wall in the centre of Meribel Mottaret and grab a burger that would have Jules Winnfield exclaiming
“that is a tasty burger” before skiing off on your merry way. There are no seats to hang around on so off you ski. Quick lunch sorted.
If you’re in the area but a burger is a little too much. Or you’ve bagged a baguette but need that warming hit. Les Rhododendrons by the Rhodos gondola, just a little ski down from the top, does a snappy and utterly delicious hot chocolate with all the trimmings - chantilly your heart out. The perfect winter warmer to refuel and go.
FOOD
SO YOU CAN KEEP SKIING FOR LONGER
LONG LUNCH MAP
FOOD & WINE IN THE 3 VALLEYS
Here you’ll find our personal favourite places in the 3 Valleys LONG LUNCHES
1. LE MONTAGNARD
35 Rue des Places, St Martin de Belleville
Great for evenings as well but nothing beats that balcony out in the sun for a lovely long lunch. One of our favourite spots in the whole 3 valleys for coffee, lunch or dinner. Food looks and tastes amazing but the building, position and family history all add up to a top top spot.
2. CAVE DES CREUX
Courchevel, La Cave des Creux piste
If you’re going to burn some cash at least do it in style. Under blue skies or belting snow, this is the place. Live band or not, take your time here as service can be slow. It’s busy. But they have the best Oysters in the Three Valleys paired with a nice magnum of rosé and you’ll be well on your way for a most enjoyable afternoon.
3. ADRAY TELEBAR
Route de l’Altiport
Old world gorgeousness. The Escalope de veau a la creme is probably of the best in the area if not the world, a family recipe handed down for decades and it doesn’t cost you the earth either. Access via the Doron piste, it’s at the base of the Adret chairlift, but
it’s easy to miss so you may have to do a few loops.
4. LE CLOS BERNARD
Route de l’Altiport
This place is in the forest, it’s super tricky to find; take the animal trail from the Loze express chairlift and watch out for the signs down a winding forest trail (or arrive by horse and cart) but both the trail and the place are worth the effort. A stunning spot in the woods with roaring fires and a fairytale feel. Don’t forget your wallet.
5. LA TERRASSE DE L’OURS
BLANC
Rue des Iris, Les Menuires Long running favourite if you’re on the Les Menuires side of the valley. Borrow a hat to keep the sun off and dig into the views. Perfect spot if you’ve been hitting La Masse all morning. Sit back and admire your lines.
DINING
6. COPINA COURCHEVEL
Rue du Marquis, Courchevel Moriond (1650)
Best tapas spot in town. Grab a fist full of cocktails and wash them down with chorizo and bravas. If that sounds up your street then there’s also a sister spot in Meribel.
7. BISTROT MACHET
La Tania
Great lunch or evening spot, they also do a killer hot chocolate. Nice spot that won’t blow your budget and you’ll come away thinking that was a tasty meal.
8. LILIE
Route de Belvedere, Meribel
Great buzz in the evenings, you’ll most likely need to book. Good food, good wine, can’t knock it.
DRINKING
9. LODGE DU VILLAGE (LDV)
21 Chem. de la Duis, Meribel Village
Live music straight off the slopes, popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s the hub of Meribel Village open all year round. And does just as well for lunch or dinner, good food, good price, great atmosphere.
10. LE ROND POINT
Route du Belvedere, Meribel
It’s hard to think of a better place for a sunset boogie and drinky. Yes, it’s famous but it’s famous for a reason and a good one. Also a great spot for a quick burger at lunch. Don’t miss the slide to the loos.
11. BAR 1957
Courcheneige Hotel, Courchevel 1850
Within the hotel, this place is
fancy. It’s the kind of place you go for quiet time drinks as the lounge is so chill you’ll want to put your slippers and smoking jacket on immediately. Though the terrace is the real winner.
12. ROY BAR
Val Thorens
The Roy Bar is a stylish, laidback spot in the centre of Val Thorens, a great post-ski reunion place. Mellow tunes, warming fireplace and relaxed atmosphere - kick back & chill.
IN OTHER NEWS...
3 VALLEYS OPENING
December 7th 2024
You get cheaper lift passes till the 20th December if you fancy an early trip to the Alps.
GRAND PREMIERE
Val Thorens, 23rd & 24th
November 2024
A festive weekend as Val Thorens opens up, expect lively evenings and of course a
WOMEN’S ALPINE SKIING WORLD CUP
Courchevel, 30th January 2025
Catch the women’s night slalom in Courchevel. Elite skiing under the stars.
3 VALLEYS APP
A great place to start exploring the area. Interactive piste map
TERRACES WITH A VIEW
Courchevel:
• La Cave des Creux
• La Bagatelle
• La 1928
• La Soucupe
• Le Cap Horn
Meribel:
and live area information, webcams and weather forecasts.
AJ BELL - 3 VALLEY RALLY
Hosted by the charity Snow Camp (see p16) the 3 Valley Rally is in Val Thorens 2427th April 2025 and they’re currently looking for teams (styaing in the 5* Hotel Fitz Roy) if you’re up for it?
LA ROSIERE LAKE
Courchevel Moriond (1650)
Hidden in the valley below Courchevel Moriond. In the winter the path to the lake is car-free and piste bashed, a great walk in snow boots. You’ll need a couple of hours so don’t set off too late. Head for the morning golden hour & you’ll be rewarded with some stunning pictures.
• Adray Telebar
• La Fruitiere (Folie Douce)
• Le Plan des Mains
• Le Maya
Les Menuires:
• L’Alpage
• Le 2800
• L’Etoile
• Le Setor
St Martin de Belleville:
• L’Eskis
• Le Bouche a Oreille
• Le Corbeleys
• Le Grand Lac
Val Thorens:
• Chez Pepe Nicolas
• Le Chalet de la Marine
• Le Chalet des 2 Lacs
• La Fruitiere (Folie Douce)
Where to ski by ski holiday must haves
Free lifts for little ones
For the spas
Tignes-Val d’Isere
France
Resort height: up to 2,100m
Ski area size: 300km
Whether you stay in Tignes or Val d’Isere
Bang for your buck
Les Breviere
France
Resort height: 2200m
Ski area size: 600km
Les Brevieres is a subresort of Tignes. A beautiful old village with some amazing chalets at amazing prices. The
Les Arcs
France
Resort height: 1600m
Ski area size: 425km
The everyman resort (as some call it) Les Arcs has high altitude, buzzing apres, a huge ski area, great food, tree skiing,
children under 8 ski for free. Which can save families a lot of money. You still need to get little ones a lift pass, you just don’t have to pay for it! Winner. World-class skiing for less.
Saint Gervais
France
Resort height: 850m
Ski area size: 400km
Saint Gervais is an old spa town but the spa here is anything but old. The Thermes de SaintGervais Mont-Blanc are
prices area amazing as it’s lower altitude and on the outskirts of the ski area but still linked by lifts and piste. You get some serious bang for your buck when it comes to accommodation. Worth a look.
Avoriaz
France
Resort height: 1800m
Ski area size: 650km
Avoriaz is completely carfree. To get your luggage to your accommodation you’ll be using a horse and cart or a sled at the
glacier skiing, a doubledecker valley crossing gondola. It’s pretty legendary and open till the end of April most years. The funicular from Bourg St Maurice makes it super easy to get here by train as well. See the train article for more info.
fuelled by the mineral rich Mont Blanc natural thermal waters. Take part in relaxation workshops, explore numerous saunas and steam rooms, or take a dip in the indoor and open-air pools at the foot of the beautiful Bonnant gorge.
very least. It’s the perfect family ski resort with slopes on your doorstep no matter where you stay. The views are unreal. You can access the huge Portes du Soleil ski area from here and Switzerland is just a couple of runs away.
La Plagne
France
Resort height: 1,970m
Ski area size: 425km
La Plagne is the ski resort with the most free lifts in France. You can use a whopping 16 ski lifts without a lift pass. They are
Chamonix
France
Resort height: 1350m
Ski area size: 150km
With a backdrop of the towering Mont Blanc, QC Terme Chamonix covers 3,000sqm with over 30 wellness practices
Champagny en Vanoise
France
Resort height: 1,200m
Ski area size: 425km
A small resort with a lovely family feel. Champagny is connected with the La Plagne
Les Arc 1950
France
Resort height: 1950m
Ski area size: 425km
Arc 1950 was built in a North American style with the pastel building reminiscent of Tremblant in Canada and arguably
Saint Gervais
France
Resort height: 850m
Ski area size: 400km
Flying completely under the radar. Let’s face it, you’ve probably never heard of the place before. But it’s part of
however spread between the villages so depending on where you stay you’ll only be able to access a couple. But children under 5 ski for free as well. So if you are starting the kids skiing super young, you won’t have to fork out for their lift passes.
including bio-saunas, steam baths, whirlpools, Kneipp pathways and Vichy showers. As well as the infinity pool and nearby alpine lake. Surrounded by snow you have breathtaking views of the Bossons Glacier to occupy the eyes.
ski area by a highspeed gondola and direct access to 425km of piste. You’ll find amazing properties and even better prices. Better accommodation and cheaper than neighbouring La Plagne with the same ski area.
the prettiest village in Les Arcs.
The entire village is ski in, ski out and traffic-free.
There’s also a pedestrian lift linking it to Arc 2000 so you have even more choice for eating out and access to the ice rink.
the 400km of piste in the Evasion Mont Blanc, just 1 hour from Geneva and the new Gondola linking Le Fayet to the resort means getting here by train involves zero cars or taxis. Easy train links from Paris or Lyon.
6 Festivals to try in the mountains
COMBINING SKIING WITH MUSIC, YOGA & PRIDE
Festivals are growing in the Alpes. All sorts are cropping up, from ice climbing in Chamonix to comedy in Mayrhofen to Yoga in La Clusaz. Here are a few to look out for.
Rock the Pistes
March 16-22 2025
Portes du Soleil
One of the pioneers of highaltitude music festivals. Hit the slopes in the morning and catch open-air concerts in the afternoon. Headliners this year include Chinese Man, Babyschambles and Caravan Palace.
Good Vibes Week
March 16-20 2025
La Clusaz
Practicing Yoga in the mountains to capture an inner peace of mind. Breathtaking scenery and plenty of breathing. Allowing you to enjoy life at its simplest and take time for yourself in an inspiring natural environment.
Tomorrowland
March 15-22 2025
Alpe d’Huez
From documentaries to captivating live music.
Tomorrowland is packed with things to discover. They’ve collabed with Amazon
Music this year to release a documentary on the global Tomorrowland community. They’ve also set up a foundation and mobile school.
But most people head to Tomorrowland for the Dance/ Electronic music. Tickets went on sale on 28th September this year so bag yours before they sell out.
Rise Festival
December 7-14 2024
Les 2 Alpes
This year is celebrating 10 years of Rise. The lineup’s not fully released but Chase & Status, Gorgon City and Sub Focus have already been announced.
The festival is six nights and seven days of partying and skiing. In case you haven’t heard of Les 2 Alpes, it’s France’s second oldest ski
resort on Europe’s largest skiable glacier with 220km of piste. Not bad eh?
European Snow Pride
March 15-22 2025
Tignes
This is Europe’s biggest gay ski week. Masses of events throughout the week including The Snow Gaymes; a team event in the likes of snow tubbing, drag race and karaoke. With venues in Val Claret and Le Lac the week attracts over 1,000 people each year and this year it’s powered by Scruff.
Snowboxx
March 15-22 2025
Avoriaz
The early bird tickets have already sold out, showing this one is in demand. The Streets headlined last year and the acts seem to be getting bigger every year. Tickets include accommodation and your festival wristband. Snowboxx attracts a younger crowd.
Since 2003, youth charity Snow Camp have been turning young lives around with the power of snowsports - broadening horizons and breaking down barriers for young people who would never have access to skiing, snowboarding or the mountain environment otherwise.
‘turning young lives around with the power of snowsports’
Through their year-long
programme journey delivered at indoor and artificial slopes across the UK plus a life-changing week in the mountains during the winter season, Snow Camp empower young people with life-skills, qualifications, wellbeing support and vocational opportunities; with over 80% annually progressing onto positive destinations including employment, apprenticeships and further education.
Snow Camp directly impact over 1,000 young people annually, with further
expansion planned.
We asked Snow Camp’s Community & Events Director Dan Keeley to explain why winter 24/25 marks such as special moment in the charities history:
“Even after 20 years of delivering our programmes, our team have never been more committed to increasing our impact with young people across the UK.
Last year by example, 63%
of the young people we impacted lived in the 30% most deprived UK postcodes, with over 55% coming from households with an income of less than £7,400! All combined, we know we’re targeting the right young people, and we know our supporters, partners and funders are with us on the journey.
Building on the momentum from our 20th anniversary year, we can’t wait to see what this winter brings, with new regions in our sights, and even more events to bring our amazing community together.”
How can you support Snow Camp’s work this winter?
By entering a team in their flagship alpine fundraising event, the AJ Bell 3 Valley Rally.
Taking place in Val Thorens from the 24th – 27th April 2025, your team of 4 will take on 6 epic snowsports challenges over 2 actionpacked days whilst fundraising for Snow Camp’s work. With
the 5* Hotel Le Fitz Roy as the home of the event, you’ll also be sharing the slopes with winter Olympians Graham Bell and Chemmy Alcott plus some of Snow Camp’s beneficiaries who’s lives you’ll be impacting.
We’re sure you’ll join us in applauding Snow Camp’s invaluable impact and contribution to snowsports and young people across the UK, and we know their team would love to hear from you.
To find out more about Snow Camp and the 3 Valley Rally, contact dan.k@snow-camp. org.uk or visit snow-camp.org. uk/3valleyrally.
Self-catered chalets with a hot tub
BECAUSE
A HOT TUB
Dearest Steaming Sanctuary,
Oh, how my aching muscles yearn for your embrace! After a glorious day conquering the slopes (and maybe a few epic tumbles), the mere thought of sinking into your bubbly bosom sends shivers (of delight, not the chilly kind) down my spine. You, my steaming sweetheart, are the undisputed MVP of this ski holiday.
Forget those five-star restaurants – my heart belongs to evenings spent under a sky ablaze with stars, the only sound the gentle whoosh of jets and the whispered secrets shared between friends (and maybe a cheeky glass of something bubbling). You, my outdoor oasis, transform a simple soak into a full-mind-and-body detox extravaganza.
Who needs fancy spas when you have the majesty of the mountains as your backdrop? Your steaming embrace is the ultimate post-shred stress reliever, melting away fatigue faster than a rogue snowball on a sunny day. You’re more than just a hot tub, you’re a therapist, a masseuse, and a purveyor of pure, unadulterated bliss.
Sure, some might scoff at the idea of “sharing” you with fellow holidaymakers, but let’s be honest, the camaraderie forged in your bubbly sanctuary is a magical thing. Sharing stories of the day’s exploits (and maybe a few embellished tales of epic prowess on the slopes) creates memories that will last a lifetime.
UNDER THE STARS IS WORTH EVERYTHING
So here’s to you, my magnificent mountainside marvel. May our time together be filled with laughter, relaxation, and maybe a few strategically placed wine bottles for that extra touch of après-ski ambience.
Yours eternally (until check out, at least),
A
Ski Chalet Hot Tub Devotee
5 jealousy inducing ski chalets with a hot tub in France
Step out the hot tub and onto the Gondola vibes
St Martin de Belleville
Rooftop bubbling with mountain vistas
Champagny en Vanoise
A mountain facing rooftop hot tub that causes instant insta jealousy. A star gazing hot spot that any ski chalet hottub devotee would be proud, pleased and empowered by.
Bathed in sunlight, this hot tub screams discreet luxury and there’s a sauna to hop in as well. Ski the 3 Valleys by day and soak in the mountain views by night.
Hot tub balcony of tree view dreams
Les Gets
This absolute beauty of a position means you can watch the town town below, admire the tree covered mountains or star gaze your evenings aways under the moonlight.
Dip into the hot tub on your private 20sqm terrace
La Rosiere
In one of La Rosiere’s newest developments, this apartment comes with a private hot tub to admire the vally views.
Hot tub in central Val d’Isere close to the slopes
Val d’Isere
Did we say it’s also outdoor? You could probably tell from the picture. But it’s not an easy ask in Val d’Isere to tick pretty much anyones boxes. It’s even south facing and has a sauna.
EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE WITH YODL
PRIVATE SKI CHALETS & APARTMENTS
Ski accommodation specialists from Yodl share their favourite ski in, ski out properties in the Alps.
So you can experience skiing’s ultimate luxury on your next ski trip; stepping out onto the slopes from your chalet door.
1. Ski in ski out with wellness facilities
Alpe d’Huez, France
From £380 per person based on 8 people on skiyodl.com
Frankie’s favourite
“There’s some great properties in Alpe d’Huez at the moment, especially for larger groups of 8ish people. Take this one with access to a heated swimming pool, gym and ski room that steps out onto the slopes. There are 4 bedrooms so for 8 it can cost less that £380 per person”
2. Ski in ski out family apartments
Alpe d’Huez, France
From £310 per person based on 8 people on skiyodl.com
Katy’s favourite
“Same as Frankie’s this one’s in Alpe d’Huez, the value in some of the properties here at the moment is so good. Amazing sunny skiing. it’s not called the Island of the Sun for nothing! This place has 3 bedrooms, 1 has double bunk beds so great for families sleeping maximum 4 adults
and 4 children. The apartment is in a residence with access to a swimming pool, sauna and hammam and of course, ski in, ski out.”
3. Penthouse apartment in the heart of Tignes Tignes, France
From £435 per person based on 6 people on skiyodl.com
Alex’s favourite
“Tignes is a nice slice of ski in ski out. This apartment is
in the Palafour block which is right on the snow front in Tignes Le Lac where you can catch a lift up either side of the ski area. The property actually sleeps up to 8 but you’d have to use the 2 single sofa beds in the lounge for that which would make it a little cramped, so it’s best for 6.”
You can secure any booking for this winter on skiyodl.com for a 30% deposit right now. And add on any lift passes, equipment or transfers at the time of or after booking.
SCAN ME
CHRISTMAS
& when to catch a Christmas Market Where
Yes, Christmas isn’t far away. It’s never too far from your tongue when talking about ski resorts. Yet skiing for Christmas is not everyone’s go to. Not everyone wants to be away for Christmas Day, but luckily you can still get the Christmas hit and be back home in time for Santa - Enter the Christmas market.
POV: You’re surrounded by snowcapped mountains and twinkling lights, strolling down the cobbled streets of an Alpine village. The air is crisp & fresh with the aromas of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts wafting through the breeze. Here the festive atmosphere is infectious, the magic of Christmas shines bright.
Christmas markets on the continent are fabulous. Christmas markets in a ski resort surrounded by snow are magical. Streets lined with decorative stalls selling local crafts and delicious local specialities.
Kick off your Christmas in style this year with a week or a weekend skiing when the Christmas markets are in full flow.
Chamonix, France
December 18th - January 3rd
Venue - Place du Triangle de l’Amité
Built around the huge Christmas tree in the centre of the market under the watchful eye of Mont Blanc. Chamonix was made for Christmas markets complete with an ice rink.
Megeve, France
Megeve dons its festive attire from the moment the resort opens for winter. A beautiful town gets bedecked with a thousand twinkling lights and the scent of cinnamon fills the air. Don’t miss the Fir Tree Lighting Festival on December 7th 2024 to kick off the winter season. Plus there’s gift making workshops in Santas Chalets from December 22nd - January 3rd.
Kitzbuhel, Austria
November 20th - December 26th
Every Wednesday - Sunday 2-8pm
The cobbled streets and crayolacoloured buildings couldn’t look prettier. Covered in lights and bustling with Christmas, catch the Boys’ Choir from Innsbruck and storytellers in the streets, there’s even specially designed Advent cups for the mulled wine. Ride on the Carousel or catch the St Nicholas Parade that goes through town visiting the Christkindl (Christ child) post office on December 6th.
Cortina, Italy
December 1st onwards
As you’d expect from this gorgeous resort the Christmas market is sophisticated and packed with handcrafted goodies sold from decorative wooden huts straight out of a film set. The markets begin with the opening of the Advent Calendar on the front of the historic town hall building, where a window of the building opens every day to reveal a Christmas art installation.
Zell Am See, Austria
November 20th - December 22nd
Every Wednesday - Sunday 3-9pm
Sat on the shores of Lake Zell with the snow-covered horse-shoe mountain encapsulating the town. This place is made for Christmas and it’s bursting with markets. Don’t miss a trip to Kaprun Castle with its own Christmas market on December 7-8th. Or the market on the lake November 21stDecember 31st.
Les Arcs, France
Les Arcs is somewhat of a family hot spot where Christmas is concerned. If you’re here for Christmas week they truly pull out all the stops with ice caves, Father Christmas parades and apres-ski events. A fantastic Christmas spectacle where you’ll find the French festive traditions of seafood platters, oysters and foie gras. The Christmas market is in Bourg St. Maurice and takes place on December 20th - 22nd.
Hi there, fellow ski adventurers, let the team answer your burning questions about snow!
Where can I book that is guaranteed snow?
Well, I think we both know guaranteeing the weather is the stuff of genies. But if you are looking for snow security there’s plenty to look at besides resort height. Yes, Val Thorens is the highest resort
but other areas have higher slopes and bigger glaciers. Forget elbowing through hordes in Val Thorens and head to Engelberg where the snow record is just as good and the freeriding is unmatched. Les 2 Alpes has become the go-to for those seeking a wild time without splashing out on the Folie Douce clad resorts, it also has the largest skiable glacier in Europe.
When is the best time to ski?
If you can avoid the school holidays then April’s longer days, warmer temperatures, and often lighter crowds make it an ideal time for a getaway. The last two years have seen some of the best snowfall of the season in April and the Instagram updates had us wishing we’d booked another late trip to the slopes.
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The Yodl Search
Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20):
Your curious and versatile nature will thrive in Les Trois Vallées, with its variety of terrain and activities.
Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21):
Your passionate nature will be drawn to the challenging terrain and thrilling off-piste opportunities in Chamonix.
Horoscope your next ski holiday The
How well did you read the paper? (answers on p23)
1. Which lunch spot holds a family recipe for the divine Escalope de veau a la creme?
A) Le Montagnard
B) Adray Telebar
C) Bistro Machet
D) Le Clos Bernard
2. Which resort hosts the European Snow Pride?
A) Alpe d’Huez
B) Les 2 Alpes
C) Tignes
D) Meribel
3. How many Michelin stars does Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc in Courchevel 1850 have?
A) One
B) Two
C) Three
D) Four
Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22):
As a sentimental and nostalgic soul, La Clusaz is the perfect place for you to relax and unwind.
Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21):
Adventurous and free-spirited, Les Deux Alpes is the perfect place for you to explore and discover new things.
Leo (Jul 23 - Aug 22):
With your confident and charismatic personality, Megève is the perfect place for you to show off your style.
Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19):
Your ambitious and disciplined nature will appreciate the challenging terrain of Val d’Isère.
4. Which resort has the most free ski lifts in France (a whopping 16 free lifts)?
A) La Plagne
B) Val d’Isere C) Megeve
D) La Rosiere
5. In what country can you find the only ski in ski out McDonald’s?
A) Austria
B) France
C) Sweden
D) Andorra
6. In which ski area can children up to 8 years old ski for free?
A) Portes du Soleil
B) The Three Valleys
C) Tignes-Val d’Isere
D) Paradiski
7. In which resort was and still is home to the original Folie Douce?
A) Val Thorens
B) Val d’Isere
C) Chamonix
D) Meribel
8. Where are you going to book your next Yodl ski holiday?
A) Tignes
B) Megeve
C) La Plagne
D) Meribel
E) Courchevel
F) Val d’Isere
G) Les Menuires
H) St Martin de Belleville
I) Saint Gervais
J) Les Arcs
K) Alpe d’Huez
L) Les 2 Alpes
M) Chamonix
N) I’m not
Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 19):
As an adventurous spirit, Val d’Isère is the perfect place for you to push your limits and conquer the slopes.
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22):
Your practical and organized nature will appreciate the well-planned layout and efficient facilities of Tignes.
Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18):
Your independent and innovative nature will thrive in Avoriaz, a unique and unconventional resort.
Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20):
Known for your love of luxury, Courchevel is the perfect place for you to indulge.
Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22):
Your harmonious and sociable nature will thrive in Val Thorens, with its vibrant après-ski scene.
Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20):
A dreamy and imaginative soul, hit up La Rosière to escape the bustle and enjoy the beauty of the mountains.
Unscramble the letters to find the lunch spot:
Medium Puzzle #1
XRCSVEEEUDCA
Icons created by Damian Patrignani from Noun Project
LES 2
ALPES
For years Les 2 Alpes has been the resort with the festivals. I think they had a festival a month at its peak.
But its snowsure credentials somehow got overlooked. Forget the crowds in Val Thorens, Les 2 Alpes should be the high altitude hot spot we’re flocking to.
It has the largest skiable
PACKS A PUNCH
glacier in Europe and slopes that reach a lofty 3,600m. That’s the highest slopes in Europe, a full 370m higher than Val Thorens’ highest offering.
The town sits at the bottom of the ski area at 1650m, making every one of the 227km of piste at good altitude.
And to top it all, the apres is
on point, varied and has nonski activities to match - by the bucket load.
There are even 3 free lifts for beginners so you can get your first turns in without forking out for a lift pass.
If you fancy trying Les 2 Alpes for your next ski break skiyodl.com has self-catered chalets & apartments that won’t break the bank.
Photo credit: Pyrene Les 2 Alpes
Photo credit: Pyrene Les 2 Alpes
Photo credit: LukaLeroy
Photo credit: LukaLeroy
Photo credit: LukaLeroy
How well did you read the paper? ANSWERS
1. B. Adray Telebar holds the family recipe for Escalope de veau a la creme
2. C. Tignes hosts the European Snow Pride
3. C. Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc has 3 Michelin Stars
4. A. La Plagne has 16 free ski lifts 5. C. Sweden is home to the only McSki
Tignes-Val d’Isere children up to 8 years
can
free lift pass 7. B. Val d’ISere is home to the original Folie Douce
