Absolute Skiwise

SchoolSkiing 2015/16

01279 647 566 www.absoluteschooltravel.co.uk

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rd annive rsary SCHOO L TOUR S SINCE 19 92

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welcome

MULTI-TRIP SPECIAL DEAL

1000 AVE ££1000 SSAVE

We’ve been organising fantastic school ski trips for more than 20 years since we started out back in 1992. However, this season marks the start of an exciting new era for us at STI Skiwise under our new Absolute Travel brand.

We’re the same experienced and friendly team in the same office, with the same great service – but you’ll notice a new name and a new logo, which we hope you’ll like of course. With more choice and better value than ever before, now’s the perfect time to get the snowball rolling!

Call Martyn and the ski team NOW on 01279 647 566

As school travel specialists, here’s an incredible offer to match our unbeatable service.

Refer us any sports tour, activity trip, music tour, performing arts tour or educational trip from the school and every group could save a bundle.

Subject to the numbers travelling, we can save the school as much as £1,000. Why not talk it over and see who’s planning what in the near future.

Terms and conditions apply – please ask for details.

Contents

Destinations GERMANY FRANCE

P293 C100 M70 Y0 K0 R0 G81 B158

P165 C0 M70 Y89 K0 R235 G106 B41

P368 C60 M0 Y85 K10 R100 G175 B85

AUSTRIA

SWITZERLAND

PROCESS CYAN C100 M0 Y0 K0 R0 G174 B239

J

P1805 C0 M91 Y100 K23 R191 G49 B26

H

V

I

M

S

G

A E B

L

N Q R K P

ITALY

U

C F

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AUSTRIA A Altenmarkt ▲ B Mallnitz/Obervellach ▲ C Niederau/Oberau ▲ D Obertauern ▲ E Radstadt/Eben ▲ F Saalbach ▲ G Wagrain ▲

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

FRANCE H Les Deux Alpes ▲ I Morzine/Avoriaz ▲ SLOVENIA J Villard de Lans ▲

13 14 15

ITALY K Andalo ▲ L Aprica ▲ M Bardonecchia ▲ N Bormio ▲ O Falcade ▲ P Folgaria ▲ Q Folgarida/Dimaro ▲ R Passo Tonale ▲ S Prato Nevoso/Artesina ▲ T Ravascletto ▲ U Sestriere ▲

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

SWITZERLAND V Saas Fee ▲

27

IMPORTANT INFORMATION HOW TO BOOK

28 31

4

WHAT’S TYPICALLY INCLUDED: ▲ Skiwise representative ▲ Executive coach transportation from door to door

DISCOUNTED FAMILY HOLIDAYS FOR GROUP LEADERS

£50

HOLID VOUCHAY ER

▲ Return short sea crossings by ferry or tunnel ▲ 6 nights full board accommodation ▲ Extra dinner on departure day ▲ 6 days lift pass for skiing ▲ 6 days x 4 hours instruction ▲ 6 days ski equipment hire including helmets ▲ Ski travel insurance ▲ Parents’ evening presentation ▲ In house après ski package FLIGHT TRIPS ALSO INCLUDE: ▲ 1 extra night accommodation ▲ Return flights from the UK ▲ Return airport transfers abroad

FREE PLACES & CONCESSIONS:

CLAIM YOUR FREE £50 TRAVEL AGENCY VOUCHER WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR TOUR Book a school trip with us and you’ll be entitled to a £50 holiday voucher to spend with our very own independent travel agency*.

■ ■ ■ ■

Summer family holidays Winter ski and snow Short breaks Fly-drive packages

*Book though Absolute Travel, the independent ABTA Travel Agency. Conditions apply. Please call us for details.

▲ 1:7 free staff place ratio (coach tours) ▲ 1:10 free staff place ratio (flight tours) ▲ Group leader family concessions

CALL 01279 647 566

5

SAFETY ON SCHOOL VISITS

A MAJOR INITIATIVE TO HELP TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS Absolute Travel & Tours (Sports Travel International Ltd) is an Assured Member of the School Travel Forum (STF) and in booking with us you can be secure in the knowledge that we:

▲ Understand and facilitate the needs of educational travel ▲ Have effective Safety Management Systems in place, specifically focused on travelling with young students

▲ Offer fair terms and conditions and the best financial security To ensure our health and safety standards are maintained our systems and procedures are fully audited annually by independent experts.

STF membership is the benchmark for good school tour providers; consequently it is an Awarding Body for the prestigious Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge.

The Outdoor Education Advisors Panel (OEAP) endorses the Quality Badge and requests Local Authorities to recommend the use of Badged Providers and require the minimum of additional paperwork where Quality Badge accreditation is in place.

This means that you can book your trip with confidence, meet your due diligence and reduce the amount of External Provider paperwork necessary.

FREE

PLACES, ASCL COURSES & INSPECTION VISITS Our 1:7 free place ratio for coach tours is already the best around, but we also offer group leader family concessions as an additional perk as well.

There’s free assistance with the planning and preparation of your trip and a free in house aprèsski package too. What’s more, we offer ad hoc informal inspection visits to our resorts throughout the season, which are fully refundable when you book your trip with us. By popular demand another ASCL course is being planned again next winter and more of our free regional ski and sport presentation evenings are also being scheduled.

6

AUSTRIA Accommodation

Altenmarkt

Altenmarkt is situated at the heart of the Sportwelt Amadé ski region. Being at 856m above sea level guarantees skiing from the beginning of December to the end of April. Altenmarkt & Zauchensee are regular venues for the Alpine World Cup finals due to the fantastic variety of slopes available.

You will be staying at the Hotel Ennstalerhof about 10 minutes walking distance from the centre of the village. This comfortably furnished sport hotel is specially designed to cater for youth groups and offers a high standard of accommodation. The hotel boasts its own swimming pool, cinema, disco, gym and table tennis rooms.

Alternatively we can offer the Gasthof Neuhaeusl which is just a short drive from the town centre.

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Superb hotel leisure facilities ▲ Vast ski area ▲ Traditional Austrian village ▲ Fantastic new Aqua park

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 270 Marked runs 860km Village altitude 856m Top station 2686m

Hotel Ennstalerhof

The Skiing

Altenmarkt is a perfect base to access the Ski Amadé region, regarded by most British professional skiers and coaches as some of the best skiing in Europe. There are slopes for all abilities, with the Flachau base station only a 5 minute drive from the hotel. The ski pass covers 29 resorts in total. www.skiamade.com

Also see page 12 for Sportwelt Amadé piste map

7 Accommodation

Mallnitz/Obervellach Mallnitz is not one of Austria’s best known ski resorts but offers some of the highest skiing areas in Carinthia. The small town is perched high up on the Ankogel mountain and represents outstanding value for money.

The luxurious 3 star Hotel Bodner is situated just outside the town and offers a high standard of accommodation with all rooms having private facilities and Satellite TV. There is a cosy bar and wonderful restaurant. The Post Hotel is situated in the small town of Obervellach, close to the ski hire shop. Its proximity enables easy access to the two main ski areas. Facilities include games rooms and disco rooms.

Hotel Bodner

The Skiing

Two good ski areas are only a short coach ride away from the hotel. The Ankogel has a great beginners area while the Mölltaler Glacier reaches over 3000m. Both areas boast well groomed pistes from late November through to the end of April, with the Mölltaler glacier offering skiing all year round!

Post Hotel www.ski-kaernten.at

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Excellent high altitude skiing ▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ Comfortable accommodation ▲ Hot Lunches available ▲ Swimming, Bowling, Tubing

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★ Intermediate ★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 18 Marked runs 60km Village altitude 1153m Top station 2220m

8

AUSTRIA Accommodation

Niederau/Oberau Oberau is situated at 936m above sea level and lies in the centre of the Wildschönau ski area. Our pension is based in Mühltal, a short bus journey to the Auffach ski area with Oberau and Neiderau a five and ten minute bus ride away respectively. Ideal for groups seeking doorstep skiing, the Sporthotel in Niederau is located next to the gondola in the resort. Oberau and Niederau villages both have shops, bars and restaurants but still maintain their family ambience throughout the season.

The Pension Schwaighof with 70 beds offers basic but comfortable accommodation with private facilities in all the bedrooms. The pension is only a few minutes walk from the village of Mühltal. In favourable conditions, advanced groups can ski all the way back to the Schwaighof.

We also offer the Sporthotel Niederau which is ideal for sole occupancy for groups of up to 50 persons. All bedrooms have en-suite facilities.

Pension Schwaighof

The Skiing

This superb ski area offers a variety of skiing for all abilities. Oberau offers excellent slopes for the beginners, and the new gondola link to Alpbach from Auffach now provides an extensive ski area for the more adventurous skiers. www.skijuwel.com

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Great choice for beginners ▲ Excellent après ski ▲ Superb value for money ▲ Doorstep Skiing

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 47 Marked runs 145km Village altitude 782m Top station 2128m

9 Accommodation

The Tauernhof and Felseralm are both set in quiet locations about a mile or so from the centre of the town. With a wide range of leisure facilities including disco room, games rooms, table tennis and TV rooms, indoor climbing wall and saunas, both are ideally suited for school groups. You can even enjoy the 2 ten pin bowling alleys at the Felseralm. Most bedrooms are 4/6 bedded with en-suite facilities.

Obertauern

The village is one of Austria’s highest ski resorts, and with an exceptional snow record offers skiing from the end of November until the beginning of May. Being a purpose built resort there are plenty of bars, shops and restaurants available.

The Tauernhof

Felseralm

The Skiing

There is an excellent selection of beginners’ areas around the resort. Queues are kept to a minimum because of the many access points around the town which the intermediate and advanced skier can take advantage of and which quickly allow them to be on the challenging open runs above the tree line. The well designed lift system helps better skiers complete the circular tour of the resort in quick time. www.obertauern.com/en/

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Highest ski area in Austria ▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ Superb hotel leisure facilities ▲ Therme Amade Aqua Park

SKI FACTS

Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station

★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★ yes 26 100km 1740m 2526m

10

AUSTRIA Accommodation

Radstadt/Eben

Both are attractive and popular towns in the heart of the Sportwelt Amade ski region. The shops and amenities of both are on the doorstep with the lifts only a couple of minutes’ walk in Eben and a short drive from Radstadt.

The fabulous ski possibilities allow you to choose from an incredible variety of nearby resorts including Altenmarkt, Flachau, Wagrain and Zauchensee.

The Skiing

Both towns provide a perfect base to access the extensive Ski Amade region. With 29 resorts covered by the ski pass, you will have a huge range of skiing to suit all ages and abilities. Many groups return to the region year after year.

The Jugendgästehaus Tauernruh is situated in the heart of Radstadt.

The family-run guesthouse has been welcoming British school groups for more than 30 years and is perfectly suited to the younger age groups. With excellent aprèsski, you can also enjoy the TV room, table tennis, table football, disco and small sports hall in your spare time. The Youth Hotel Lindenhof is only a few hundred metres from the nearest ski slopes and lift in Eben. With comfortable en suite accommodation, other facilities include 3 dining rooms, games room, TV/DVD room, table tennis, table football, pool tables, and disco.

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Vast ski area ▲ Friendly family run hotels ▲ Excellent local après ski ▲ Fantastic new Aqua park

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 270 Marked runs 860km Village altitude 800m Top station 2686m

Youth Hotel Linden

hof

www.skiamade.com

Also see page 12 for Sportwelt Amadé piste map

11

HIGHLIGHTS

Accommodation

The Young Generation Buchegg is situated in the centre of the Ski Circus region. Well positioned on the piste of the Westgipfel lift, you’ll enjoy doorstep skiing from here. There’s easy access to the ski lifts and local amenities while accommodation facilities include a cinema, computor room, disco and games room. All hostel bedrooms have private facilities.

Saalbach

Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snow making No of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station

2363 m

Hohe Penhab

★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★ yes 55 200km 1003m 2096m

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Saalbach and its neighbouring resorts of Hinterglemm and Leogang have good snow records. With plenty of snow making facilities, wide tree lined slopes and an interconnecting lift system they offer over 200kms of excellent skiing from early December until late April. Known locally as the ‘Ski Circus’ these fantastic resorts provide an abundance of skiing for all levels and abilities.

SKI FACTS

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Saalbach-Hinterglemm is a pretty, traditional village with typical shops, bars and discos. The extensive circuit of slopes on both sides of the Glemm valley are linked by an efficient lift system. There is plenty of après ski in the area including ice skating and curling in Hinterglemm and the sports centre, swimming pool and ice rink in the nearby lakeside town of Zell Am See.

▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ One of Austria’s top resorts ▲ Skiing for all abilities ▲ Great après ski

rodelbahn

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12

AUSTRIA Accommodation

Pension Oberwimm is situated about 5 minutes walking distance from the centre of the town. This comfortably furnished pension, with private facilities in all rooms, caters ideally for youth groups.

Facilities include games room and indoor basketball court. Further accommodation is also provided at the Pension Striedlhof. Groups have sole occupancy here and all bedrooms have private facilities.

Wagrain

Wagrain is situated in the Sportwelt Amadé ski region in Austria. At 850m, the resort guarantees skiing from December through to April. The picturesque town boasts many shops, restaurants and bars and from here you can ride the gondolas to two separate mountains!

Hotel Oberwimm

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Vast ski area ▲ Walking distance to après ski ▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ Fantastic new Aqua park

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 270 Marked runs 860km Village altitude 850m Top station 2686m

Pension Striedlhof

The Skiing

Enjoy doorstep skiing from your hotel. Wagrain is a perfect base to access the Ski Amadé region and some of the finest skiing in Europe is to be found here.

There are slopes for all abilities with the nearest gondola lift only a 100m walk from the hotel. www.skiamade.com

Also see page 4 for Sportwelt Amadé piste map

FRANCE

13 Accommodation

Les Deux Alpes

The Chalet Saint Benoit is just a 5 minute walk from the foot of the gondola and heart of the village.

All the bedrooms are en-suite, mostly for 6 persons sharing.

There is a games room here with table football and table tennis, television room and a large selfservice restaurant looking out over the glacier of La Muzelle. The Chalet Les Armaillis is situated on the edge of the town but close enough to walk to the gondola in the heart of the resort. Most of the bedrooms here are en-suite.

Les Deux Alpes is a very popular snow-sure resort offering excellent high altitude skiing on the Mont De Lens glacier at over 3200m. From here there are magnificent panoramic views of Mont Blanc, Ventoux and the Ecrins mountain range. The village itself nestles between the steep ski slopes and the ‘Diable’ gondola is a short walk from your chalet.

The Skiing

Fantastic skiing can be found here in one of France’s premier ski resorts. With 220km of piste and the glacier standing at 3200m above sea level, there is a superb variety of slopes to suit all ages and abilities. www.les2alpes.com

HIGHLIGHTS ▲ Glacier skiing ▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ Top premier resort ▲ Excellent après ski

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 59 Marked runs 225km Village altitude 1650m Top station 3568m

14

FRANCE Accommodation

Morzine/Avoriaz

Situated midway between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva these lively alpine villages form a part of the immense traditional ski area ‘Portes du Soleil’. With the neighbouring village of Les Gets there is over 200kms of varied piste to suit skiers of all ages and abilities from Morzine. Groups can now ski Avoriaz too. You’ll be staying in traditional chalet accomodation in these charming Haute-Savoie resorts.

Chalet Les Flocons offers comfortable group accommodation for up to 90 guests in 2-4 person en suite bedrooms. There are several games and television rooms as well as a staff meeting room, basketball court and disco. The chalet is situated just 300m from the centre of Morzine and half a mile to the ski station, linked by the free shuttle service. Alternatively, the chalet ‘Les Chevreuils’, which is situated halfway between Morzine and Avoriaz, gives groups the option of skiing either resort.

Chalet Les Flocons

The Skiing

The huge ‘Portes du Soleil’ is a stunning ski region made up of many separate ski villages in France and over the border into Switzerland. With over 200kms of pistes, the ski area encompassing Morzine and Les Gets will offer you a fantastic week of skiing. The Avoriaz ski pass is available as an alternative or at a supplement to encompass all the ‘Portes du Soleil’ area.

www.morzine.com

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Extensive ski area ▲ Great après ski ▲ Traditional alpine village

SKI FACTS

Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station

★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★ yes 95 220km 1000m 2460m

15 Accommodation

Villard de Lans The beautiful French villages of Villard de Lans and Corrençon stretch out along the foothills of the Grande Moucherolle mountain, standing at 2285m. Villard de Lans is the home club of Olympic 2002 downhill Champion, Carole Montillet, who is thrilled to be able to recommend her local resort to our school groups.

We have 3 hotels in the area, each of which provides a comfortable and friendly base for school groups to explore the region. The hotel Les Girard has 100 beds, all en-suite and is situated 4km outside the village centre. The hotel La Source is only a 5 minute walk from the centre and offers sole occupancy for groups of 40 persons, while for larger groups, hotel Les Mélèzes can accommodate up to 70.

Les Mélèzes

The Skiing

The ski area in Villard and Corrençon is forever growing with investment in new lifts and new slopes being added year on year. Beginners are spoiled for choice here both in Rambins village and the new area in Ribambel.

Intermediates and advanced skiers can access the mountains from 4 separate areas – Les Glovettes, Cote 2000, Clos de la Balme and Corrençon village. www.villarddelans.com

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Traditional French resort ▲ Excellent variety of pistes ▲ Hotels in tranquil location ▲ Superb après ski

SKI FACTS

Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station

★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★ yes 27 125km 1050m 2050m

16

ITALY Accommodation

The 3 star Hotel Splendid is situated in a quiet location but only 250m from the new ski lift and close the village centre. There are 62 rooms all of which have private facilities and balcony.

Other facilities include restaurant, spacious lounge areas, a large bar, TV and games room with table football and video games.

Andalo

This traditional resort is steeped in history and offers a great place for school groups to enjoy an exhilarating ski experience. Located on a plateau between the Brenta and Paganella massif north of Lake Garda, it is easily accessible by road or from the regional airports.

Hotel Splendid

The Skiing

The ski area offers a selection of slopes for all abilities. For the beginners there are the lifts in the village and at the middle station of Prati di Gaggia. Intermediates are well served with a great network of blues and reds which extend across to Fai and Paganella. www.paganella.net

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Traditional resort ▲ Great local leisure facilities ▲ Fantastic scenery ▲ Easy access

SKI FACTS

Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snowmaking Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station

★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ 95% 25 60km 1050m 2125m

17 Accommodation

The 3 star Hotel Bozzi is situated in the centre of the resort at the foot of Mount Palabione and only a short walk from the nearest chair lift. All of the hotel bedrooms have private facilities and other facilities include TV room, a comfortable lounge, bar and restaurant.

▲ Hotel close to ski lifts ▲ Ideal for beginners and intermediates ▲ Superb après ski ▲ Floodlit ice-skating

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★ Intermediate ★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 16 Marked runs 55km Village altitude 1181m Top station 2300m

Aprica

The resort of Aprica is situated in the heart of the Valtellina ski region. With the Palabione mountain towering above, the village still occupies a wonderful sunny position in the valley. Aprica is an excellent addition to our programme and is an ideal base for school groups.

HIGHLIGHTS

Hotel Bozzi

The Skiing

Following the addition of several new lifts, the extended network now enables easier access to the beginners slopes. There is a superb variety of pistes throughout the resort with the beautiful tree lined runs up at Piana de Galli as well as some big wide slopes leading to the Palabione lifts down in the village. www.apricaonline.com

ITALY

HIGHLIGHTS

Accommodation

This large and impressive complex has become a favourite for British schools. Modern en-suite bedrooms provide comfortable accommodation and the catering here is superb. It’s a short walk into the typical Italian village. But with disco rooms, table tennis, games rooms, theatre, swimming pool and Jacuzzi on site you’ll be occupied throughout your stay.

▲ Olympic Village complex close to the lifts ▲ Swimming pool, theatre, disco and games rooms ▲ Leave ski equipment at slope ▲ Great school group atmosphere

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★ Intermediate ★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities Yes Number of lifts 19 Marked runs 120km Village altitude 1312m Top station 2765m

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There are 2 mountains to choose from with an abundance of slopes to cater for all abilities. With the recent improvement of the lift systems there are now faster and more comfortable lifts to choose from to get you around this stylish and up market resort.

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Located at 1312m above sea level the Olympic village in the centre of Bardonecchia was one of the venues for the Turin 2006 Winter Olympics and provides an excellent base for our school groups. The ski lifts are within walking distance, and the ski area offers 120km of varied pistes.

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18

Noleggio s Ski rental Chiesa Church

19 Accommodation

Staying at the comfortable Hotel Nazionale a short walk from the heart of the village, you are also only 700m from the gondola station.

Groups can enjoy free use of the small hotel pool while there’s a sauna, Jacuzzi and turkish bath also available for the staff. There’s a small games room, bar and TV room as well. Lunch can be taken at one of the restaurants on the slopes.

Bormio

Located at 1200m at the base of the Stelvio pass, the famous spa town of Bormio is a popular World Cup ski venue with a rich history and tradition. The restored, partly pedestrianised historic centre reflects an affluent heritage with its churches, chapels, cobbled streets and shops. Apres ski activities can include ice skating, curling, swimming and a Pizza night with bowling available in nearby Livignio.

Hotel Nazionale

The Skiing

A highest peak altitude of 3000m makes Bormio one of the most snow sure resorts in Italy. The longest run is the 14km descent from the top of the Cima Bianca cable car down to the resort. All grades of skiers will flourish in the resort while more advanced skiers will be able to enjoy the Stelvio World Cup downhill course as well.

www.bormio.it

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ High altitude skiing ▲ World Cup venue ▲ Skiing for all abilities ▲ Historic resort and spa town

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★ Intermediate ★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 58 No of lifts 24 Marked runs 50km Village altitude 1225m Top station 3012m

20

ITALY Accommodation

The 3 star Hotel San Giusto is just 500m from the ski lifts. There are 100 bedrooms in the hotel. Facilities here include games rooms, theatre, disco, gym and a small swimming pool. The 3 star Hotel Pineta is situated in the centre of the picturesque village and just a 5 minute bus journey to the slopes.

Falcade

The resort of Falcade is situated in the heart of the 3 Valli Dolomiti ski region and is an excellent resort for schools.

The village is steeped in history with many older buildings giving the resort a lovely traditional feel. There are several local bars, shops and restaurants.

Hotel San Giusto

Hotel Pineta

The Skiing

The 3 resorts of Falcade, Passo San Pellegrino and Moena provide a superb variety of slopes for all abilities. With 100kms of slopes to choose from, our groups are certainly spoilt for choice with long blue and red runs leading down to the three valley bases. www.falcadedolomiti.it

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ High altitude ▲ Ideal for beginners and intermediates ▲ Stunning scenery ▲ Ice Skating, Tubing

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 27 Marked runs 100km Village altitude 1190m Top station 2513m

21 Accommodation

The Hotel Miramonti is one of several hotels we use in Folgaria, just a short transfer to the slopes.

In the small nearby village of Lavarone, with 65 beds the friendly 3 star Hotel Romanda represents an excellent sole occupancy option for our groups. From here you are less than a mile from the nearest lifts and apres ski.

Folgaria

The resort of Folgaria is situated in the highlands of Trentino. The elegant village has style and character and is full of historical interest and charm. The ski lift system has developed over the last few years and provides a large interlinked area to suit all ski abilities.

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Great resort for school groups ▲ Ideal for beginners and intermediates ▲ Superb après ski ▲ Swimming, Bowling, Tubing

SKI FACTS

Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children

★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★

Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 46 Marked runs 100km Village altitude 1179m Top station 2060m Hotel Romanda

The Skiing

With recent new investment and new lift systems, the resort now offers a fantastic range of skiing to cater for all abilities. There are the beautiful tree lined slopes up at Serrada or the big wide open slopes at Fondo Piccolo to choose from.

With more improvements planned, Folgaria is enhancing its reputation as being one of the best resorts for school groups in Italy. www.folgaria.net

22

ITALY Accommodation

The 3 star Hotel San Camillo is well located in a quiet part of the village of Dimaro. The hotel has great facilities with its own swimming pool, large lounge, 2 TV rooms, 2 rooms for disco and entertainments and a taverna pub with music. All bedrooms have private facilities and most are for 4 persons sharing.

Folgarida/Dimaro In the western part of the Trentino, the oasis resorts in the Val di Sole are located between the Dolomite mountain ranges of Brenta and Adamello. This is a superb choice for school ski groups transforming in winter into a paradise for skiers with fantastic scenery, great hotels and warm hospitality.

Hotel San Camillo

The Skiing

This is a truly terrific ski area with an abundance of slopes to suit all grades of skiers. It offers 120km of marked runs thanks to the connection with Marilleva and Madonna di Campiglio. With north and east facing pistes, you should be guaranteed great snow conditions throughout the season.

www.folgarida.it

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Extensive ski area ▲ Glacier skiing ▲ Excellent hotel facilities ▲ Traditional villages

SKI FACTS

Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snowmaking Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station

★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ 90% 22 120km 1300m 2179m

23 Accommodation

Passo Tonale

Passo Tonale is one of Italy’s highest ski resorts standing at over 1800m above sea level. It is a purpose built resort high above the tree line and boasts the spectacular Presena glacier which guarantees snow and allows skiing through the summer too. The village has a good choice of bars and shops and remains a favourite with school groups.

Our accommodation options here include the 3 star Hotel Negritella, within walking distance of the ski lift system. Relax in the TV lounge after a day enjoying the slopes and après-ski. Groups can relax in the TV lounge area. For groups looking for a little more luxury, an upgrade is possible to the 4 star Hotel Piandineve. Here you can enjoy doorstep skiing by day and the disco, health suite, multi-gym and sauna in the evening.

Hotel Piandineve

The Skiing

The resort is excellent for beginners with slopes on both sides of the valley enabling easy and quick progression. The north facing slopes cater predominantly for beginners and intermediates whilst the south facing slopes provide more challenging terrain for the better intermediate and advanced skiers. www.passotonale.it

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ High altitude with stunning scenery ▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ Lively après ski

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 29 Marked runs 120km Village altitude 1883m Top station 3069m

24

ITALY Accommodation

Prato Nevoso/Artesina Prato Nevoso is the ideal resort for beginners and intermediates, with uncrowded slopes and wide long runs. With new links to Artesina and Fabrosa Soprana the three resorts now make up the Mondole ski area with 130kms of piste.

The 3 star Hotel Mondole is a great choice for our school groups travelling to Italy. In a fabulous location in the middle of the village, you’ll enjoy superb views over the slopes and the benefit of doorstep skiing. Comfortable accommodation, good food and an indoor swimming pool make the hotel a popular option. In the neighbouring resort of Artesina, we can also offer doorstep skiing.

The 3 star Hotel Marguareis sits right on the ski slopes so hot lunches are also available.

Hotel Mondole

The Skiing

Beginners are well catered for here with long blue runs gently meandering down.

Artesina is where you’ll find some great red runs for the intermediates. The lift system is very convenient with the closest being next to the hotel. Prato is the home of the Italian snowboard club, therefore the snowpark is rated as one of the best in Italy.

Hotel Marguareis Artesina www.pratonevoso.com

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Great hotel locations ▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ Excellent hotel facilities ▲ Hot Lunches available

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 27 Marked runs 130km Village altitude 1500m Top station 2092m

25 Accommodation

The 3 star Hotel Sportur offers comfortable accommodation and superb facilities include 2 bars, several restaurants and games room. A sauna and gym are available in the hotel annexe.

The nearest gondola is only a short walk away.

Ravascletto

The resort of Ravascletto lies at 950m above sea level and is dwarfed by the Zoncolan mountain which provides skiing up to 2000m. The village is within walking distance from the hotel and is full of charm and character.

Ravascletto is the perfect resort for a school looking for a small but challenging resort for all abilities.

Our students had a great time and the instructors were brilliant in pushing them to become better skiers Bushy Meads School

Hotel Sportur

The Skiing

The resort is an excellent choice for groups with beginners and intermediates. The modern lift system takes you up onto the Zoncolan mountain. From here you can take in the fantastic views of the But and Degano valleys. The Zoncolan regularly hosts national and international alpine skiing championships. www.ravascletto.com

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Opposite the ski lifts ▲ Superb hotel facilities ▲ Spectacular scenery ▲ Arta Terme Thermal Centre ▲ Toboggan run

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★ Intermediate ★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities Yes Number of lifts 12 Marked runs 30km Village altitude 950m Top station 2000m

26

ITALY Accommodation

Sestriere

Hotel Olympic Village

The Hotel Olympic Village is a modern facility with comfortable en-suite bedrooms, built for the Winter Olympics. Facilities here include meeting rooms, games rooms, gym, sauna and disco.

Your ski hire is managed from the hotel making changes very easy throughout the week. From here you can enjoy doorstep skiing.

From the hotel you can ski down to the new gondola and at the end of the day ski straight back to the hotel.

The ski resort of Sestriere is just one of the many including Sauze d’Oulx, Claviere, Sansicario and Montgenevre that make up the fantastic ski area known as the ‘Milky Way’. Home of the 2006 Winter Olympic games, this resort offers a superb variety of skiing for all abilities. At a height of 2035m, excellent snow conditions are guaranteed throughout the ski season.

The Skiing

The beginners meeting area is situated in the centre of Sestriere and from here the slopes spread out in an arc. Mogel fields and long wide runs can be found in places such as Banchetta and Sises. Better skiers can find more difficult runs at the top of Sises and Motta and also within the huge bowl of Amfiteatro. You can upgrade your ski pass to cover all of the ‘Milky Way’ on request. www.sestriere-online.com

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ One of Italy’s top resorts ▲ Vast ‘Milky Way’ ski region ▲ Fantastic après-ski

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★ Snow making facilities yes No of lifts 92 Marked runs 400km Village altitude 2035m Top station 2840m

SWITZERLAND

27 Accommodation

The 3 star Hotel Europa offers 100 beds and all rooms have private facilities. There is also a cozy dining room, bar and restaurant. The sauna and steam baths will help you relax after a busy day skiing. The hotel boasts wonderful panoramic views of the glacier and it’s just a few minutes walk to the village.

Saas Fee

Saas Fee is situated 1800m above sea level and is surrounded by wonderful glacial formations. With skiing at over 3000m this resort offers a fantastic range of skiing for all abilities. The small town is full of charm and character and is a safe and tranquil traffic-free zone.

Hotel Europa

The Skiing

Called ‘the pearl of the Alps’, Saas Fee is ringed by 13 separate peaks of 13,000ft where the snow is permanent throughout the year. There is an abundance of slopes to keep all grades of skier happy throughout their stay. The beginners’ slopes are nestled on the edge of town with the intermediate and advanced slopes reached by gondolas and the funicular railway. www.saas-fee.ch

HIGHLIGHTS

▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ All year round skiing ▲ Charming traffic-free village

SKI FACTS

Advanced ★★★★★ Intermediate ★★★★★ Beginners/Children ★★★★★ Snow making facilities yes Number of lifts 36 Marked runs 100km Village altitude 1800m Top station 3600m

28

IMPORTANT INFORMATION There are many key ingredients to your ski trip and choosing your preferred destination from the previous pages is naturally an important decision. While the specific package inclusions will be outlined in your individual ‘School Ski Trip Proposal’, some of the common elements are highlighted below.

ACCOMMODATION

We have a varied selection of accommodations on offer throughout the brochure, all of which have been visited by our staff or our representatives and checked for their suitability for our groups. These include hotels, pensions, hostels and chalets in many different destinations. Most bedrooms are en-suite although some units may have shared washroom or toilet facilities along the corridor.

As local accommodation classifications vary in different countries, please read the descriptions carefully or ask us for further details before deciding whether a particular destination is right for you and your group. Our packages are normally based on a full board basis. Subject to confirmation this means that you will receive breakfast and dinner daily at your accommodation, from where you will also take a packed lunch each day. An extra dinner is included before you leave at the end of your trip (coach tours only).

TRAVEL

COACH: Your travel arrangements are an important part of your tour, and it is our belief that you should travel in comfort and safety. An executive coach is included in your tour price, for door to door travel throughout the trip. Your coach will typically be equipped with seatbelts, reclining seats, DVD player (or video), stereo, air circulation system, microphone and toilet. Tour drivers are also an important part of the tour, so you should find your drivers to be experienced, friendly and reliable. Many groups request the same drivers time and again. Where coach travel is provided by suppliers in overseas countries, we contract

reputable local companies to handle all the necessary journeys including airport and excursion transfers as stipulated, but while they comply with local regulations, please bear in mind that these may be different to standards here in the UK. FERRY: We use the ferry services of P&O Ferries from Dover to Calais (75–90 minutes) for most of our tour groups. With refurbished and improved vessels, you can eat and drink on board in comfort as you sail across to mainland Europe. We also use the fast and popular Eurotunnel service (35-40minutes from Folkestone to Calais) although a supplement is sometimes required for groups wishing to use this service.

FLIGHTS: As ATOL holders (5675) we are delighted to be able to offer our groups flight-inclusive packages to our destinations. We use a range of different airlines from major national carriers such as British Airways and Lufthansa to the no-frills airlines including Ryanair, easyJet and Jet2. As well as a huge selection from London, there are a number of possibilities from regional airports around the UK. However, although we will always take into consideration your preferred departure airport or travel time, we cannot guarantee this especially as many bookings are accepted in advance of airline schedules and route confirmations being released. Please also bear in mind that there may be very little flexibility in booking seats with a number of these airlines. As such, any requests for passenger name changes after a booking has been received may well be subject to substantial amendment fees as imposed by the airlines and such conditions are outside of our control. Our packages do not allow for the carriage of ski equipment which would need to be booked separately at a supplement. You will be advised of the weight restrictions imposed by your airline, and any surcharges that may be appropriate on confirmation of your flight details, on final payment.

SKI NOTES

SKI TUITION: Our standard ski trip packages all include 4 hours tuition on each of 6 days unless otherwise stated on your proposal and confirmation.

Lessons are provided on the basis of 1 instructor to every 12 pupils. Staff places and/or concessions do not count towards this instructor/pupil ratios. If agreed with the instructors you may, at your own discretion, request to vary the group sizes within your party, to take account of any uneven split of ages and abilities. Extra instructors may be available at a supplementary charge on request. Each 2 hour instruction time allocation may be marginally less as local instructors may require time to transfer to another group, in accordance with local regulations. Our arrangements do not oblige our ski instructors to remain with your group during the lunch break although they may on occasion choose to do so. It is a condition of booking that as party leader, you agree that pupils will ski or snowboard only on marked and patrolled pistes and be supervised at all times while skiing either by your party’s teachers, providing they are competent skiers, or by the appointed ski instructors contracted by us on your behalf.

SKI EQUIPMENT: Our standard ski trip packages all include the hire of skis and boots for 6 days, unless otherwise stated in your proposal and confirmation.

As party leader you accept responsibility for ensuring that all your party is present at the appointed time for the safe fitting and collection of equipment and for the return of the same when appropriate and advised to do so. The condition of equipment should be checked prior to acceptance and again on return and any damages settled with the supplier direct if required. Lost or damaged goods may be covered under insurance, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.

Equipment, including details of sizes required must be ordered in advance to guarantee availability in resort.

Those individuals requiring sizes larger than boot size 11 may wish to give consideration to bringing their own ski boots as the stock of bigger sizes is always extremely limited.

29 HELMETS: For a number of years there has been considerable debate on the subject of whether helmets should be worn for all snowsports (alpine skiing, snow-boarding, snow-blading). Until now, the same authorities have required only those that use snowboards or blades, or where the law of the country so dictates, to wear helmets. Currently, young people under the age of 14 must wear helmets in Italy and in many parts of Austria. The Federation Internationale de Ski (FIS) now strongly recommends that all skiers and snowboarders, regardless of ability and age, use helmets. The AfPE (Association for Physical Education) has recently also advised its members that helmets should be worn. The majority of the members of the Snowsports England Schools and Youth Committee voted to recommend to the governing body that the wearing of helmets should be recommended. As such, our policy is now to include the hire of helmets in all our packages. These will be fit for purpose and correctly fitted by specialist suppliers in resort.

SKI PASSES: Many ski lift companies now require a list of all pupils’ names and dates of birth on school headed paper, to be prepared in advance and brought with you as party leader, if not supplied in advance. Individual photos may also be required. The ski areas covered by lift passes as advised and advertised by us may occasionally be subject to change. Any such change resulting from amendments made by local lift companies or resort authorities is strictly outside our control and we can accept no responsibility for any reduction in ski area caused by any such amendment or decision.

SNOW CONDITIONS: We cannot accept responsibility for snow or weather conditions which may affect skiing, boarding, skating or other such activities during your trip. Should bad weather and local conditions dictate that your ski and/or other contracted activities not be possible, then we will attempt to organise for transfers within the region to accommodate you, subject to regional limitations. You may be covered for piste closure by your insurance, subject to the terms

and conditions of your policy. The decision of your ski school or instructors on the suitability of snow conditions is final and we accept no responsibility for your party whatsoever for any action taken by you, which is not wholly in accordance with these conditions.

HEALTH & SAFETY: You should seek medical advice if you are in any doubt about your fitness to travel and participate in the activities on the trip. For those travelling to high altitude resorts, it is your responsibility, if you deem relevant, to contact your doctor in advance, as individuals may encounter difficulties at high altitude.

Travellers from the UK should travel with an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) – the replacement for the E111. Eligible travellers from the UK are entitled to receive free or reduced-cost medical care in many European countries on production of a valid EHIC card.

Information on health abroad is also available at www.nhs.uk/livewell/travelhealth. Further details on travelling abroad can be obtained by visiting www. gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice which provides important information including health and safety issues.

SKIWISE REPS: A Skiwise rep is included as part of your package and someone will be allocated to your group. The role of the rep is to help you in resort with the organisation of your accommodation, ski and après ski arrangements. The ski rep may travel out with you from the UK, or meet with you on arrival at your accommodation. The rep cannot act as a member of your staff or assume responsibility for your students but will undoubtedly become an invaluable member of the team during your stay. All reps are selected for their suitability in working with school groups.

APRES SKI: Après ski, including but not limited to, swimming, ice-skating, tobogganing and other events or activities that you may wish to take part in during your trip, can often be organised in advance, or prebooked to ensure availability. However, even if paid for or recommended by us, they do not form part of your package and are provided by outside suppliers. As such, participation in these is entirely at your own risk.

DOCUMENTATION & PHOTOS: You will be required to send us various details and documentation in the booking process and between booking and departure and your prompt attention to these is vital to ensuring the smooth running of your trip. A full passenger list is required to insure your party, inclusive of dates of birth and also at the point of booking for flight tour packages. A full list of names and dates of birth should also be supplied on school letterhead. A set of individual passport sized photos is also recommended.

STAYING SAFE & BEHAVIOUR: Group leaders, staff and pupils alike must take reasonable care for their own safety at all times. Being in a foreign environment on a school trip can be very exciting, but any tour brings with it certain risks which you should attempt to minimise. Furthermore, in signing the booking form you are also agreeing to our terms and conditions with reference to the conduct of your group, including but not limited to damages and behaviour. It must always be made absolutely clear to parents that skiing has inherent risks, that falls will happen and that people can get hurt through no fault of their own or anyone else. Perhaps of far greater importance than protective equipment is following the FIS Ski-way Code, ensuring that skiers and boarders are in control and that their speed is limited to their ability and the situation.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: It is vital that everyone in your group travels with adequate cover. This is why our comprehensive ski trip travel insurance is included within your package. The full terms, conditions, and exclusions are incorporated within the certificate.

Further details are shown in our ‘Booking Your Tour’ document, and you can see a full copy of the policy in advance if you wish, which we recommend you forward on to parents.

30

TAKING YOUR SAFETY & SECURITY SERIOUSLY The safety and wellbeing of our clients is a priority. Procedures are in place to make sure that we take every precaution possible to ensure best practice for the preparation, organisation and operation of your trip. ▲ Coach company checks including licence, insurance and safety documentation ▲ Accommodation audit reports and inspections to assess fire, safety, hygiene and suitability ▲ Training, experience and professionalism of our staff and representatives ▲ Accident and emergency procedures and 24 hour assistance ▲ Encouraging you to take a staff inspection visit ▲ Free Before You Go Safety Guide ▲ Fully bonded by ABTA (coach tours) and ATOL (flight tours) for your financial security ▲ School Travel Forum Assured members & Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge holders

FEEDBACK The Skiwise rep Barbara, was by far the best rep we have ever had The Elton High School on a ski trip Good support in all that was required thanks. Info and pre tour paperwork all clear and accurate. The Ennstalerhof has the perfect location for all types of Ashton on Mersey School apres ski. An excellent resort for school skiing The hotel position, food, service, staff and swimming pool were very good.

I must make comment as to how helpful and efficient Tim was in resort ... by far the Saffron Walden CHS best ‘rep’ we have ever worked with The resort was excellent – the best I have been to as a school party.

The resort has very cheap prices and the accomodation and service is The Bankfield School second to none

BONDING, INSURANCE AND WHY YOUR TOUR MONIES ARE SAFE WITH US...

Tour companies are bound by local and European legislation to ensure that your monies paid to us in respect of your tour are fully protected. While our reputation and experience mean that your monies are in very safe hands, you should also carefully read the following sections which confirm that as a company, we have arrangements in place to ensure the financial security of our clients. Please do not travel with a company that is not fully bonded.

Flight-Inclusive Packages

All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays organised by us are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate.

Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate. ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services we offer. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. Our ATOL number is 5675 which you can check at www.atol.org.uk

Coach and land package tours

We are fully bonded for the package holidays organised by us which do not contain a flight element. Our membership of ABTA means that if you are travelling by sea or land or even if you have booked your own flights, your holiday package booked with us will have full financial protection. Note: the flight element is not covered in the event of the failure of the airline with which you have booked your own flights directly. For further details visit www.abta.co.uk.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

We are a partner of the Know Before You Go campaign. KBYG is an ongoing campaign aiming to help everyone to stay safe and healthy abroad. The campaign was launched in 2001 by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to promote these key messages: ▲ Get adequate travel insurance ▲ Check FCO’s country and travel advice ▲ Research your destination – know the local laws and customs ▲ Visit your GP before travelling ▲ Check your passport is in good condition and valid and that you have any visas as may be required ▲ Make copies of important travel documents ▲ Tell someone where you are going and leave emergency contact details with them ▲ Take enough money and access to emergency funds The Foreign and Commonwealth Office provide invaluable information for those travelling abroad and we would encourage everyone to read their country and travel advice. www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

31

HOW TO BOOK

A simple step-by-step guide to booking your trip 1

2

3

Once you have read the brochure, and are interested in one or more of the trips we are offering – please call us to discuss the most suitable arrangements for your group, or to arrange a meeting.

Having decided where and when you wish to travel, and checked with us for availability, we will send you an individual ski trip proposal reconfirming the provisional details for the trip and outlining the package inclusions. You will normally be offered a short option on the reservation subject to dates and destination.

Complete and return the booking form with your first non-refundable deposit payment. The initial deposit required is £80 per person (coach tours) and £100 per person (flight tours). A full passenger list (names per passport) must be

supplied at this stage (flight tours).

4

We shall send you a ski trip Confirmation and Invoice.

5

A second deposit instalment is due 8 weeks after your initial booking.

The amount required at this stage is £100 per person (coach tours) and £150 per person (flight tours). All deposits are strictly non-refundable.

Name change fees for flight tours are subject to the terms of the individual airline.

6

7

You will be sent a Passenger List and Ski Information roster, which needs to be fully and accurately completed.

Your final payment with Passenger List (if not already supplied) and nominated pick up point map (coach groups only) must be with us no later than 10 weeks before your departure date.

8

We will happily organise a Parents Evening at the school. Should this not be possible for any reason, we will send you a full Powerpoint Presentation instead to ensure everything is covered.

9

Your Provisional Tour Details will be sent once your final balance has been received, outlining travel times and accommodation.

10 Your Final Tour Information pack and Itinerary will be sent out to you approximately 7 days before departure.

CONTACT US Absolute Travel & Tours, 10 Chapel Hill, Stansted, Essex, CM24 8AG, England Tel: 01279 647 566 Email: tours@absolutetravel.uk

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