2016-17 Gendronski magazine

2016-2017 Edition

Sun Peaks

Sales at an all-time high

Kicking Horse

The ultimate playground

Heliskiing

The attainable dream

Ski safaris

Enjoy multiple resorts

JAPAN

Cultural discoveries and pristine powder New:

Antarctica backcountry expedition over 50 group departures to choose from “à la carte” packages Many more new on-site representatives this season Come see us at our ski show!

Storm Chasers; last-minute deals Cross-country ski camp at SilverStar Photo: One Ocean Expeditions – Gabe Rogel

Qc Permit

international

Š Blake Jorgenson

regional

local

CANADA

Sunday, November 6, 2016 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

at Théâtre Desjardins | Cégep André-Laurendeau 1111 Lapierre Street, LaSalle Borough, Montréal (Qc) H8N 2J4

SIMON ST-ARNAUD L’ A V E N T U R I E R A L P I N L'ULTIME AVENTURE :

LA NOUVELLE-ZÉLANDE

Viewing at 1:00 p.m.

Viewing at 4:30 p.m.

FREE ADMISSION Offered on-site: • 42 travel conferences • Two ski movies • Several door prizes • Snack and meal options ($) • Free parking

boutique

Reservations required Places are limited 100

67

0

38

0

100

61

43

0

100

81

4

10

0

0

75

0

60

Register at gendronski.com/evenementski/ 100

DL KL AF AZ

100

Nº dossier :

0

Date : 12/07/11 Validation DA/DC : Validation Client

100 100

0

100

0

100

40

0

100

80

30

100

80

0

30

10 Banff 14 Whistler 16 Revelstoke 18 Red Mountain 19 Whitewater 20 Kicking Horse 22 Sun Peaks 24 Big White 26 Panorama 27 Fernie 28 SilverStar 30 Ski safaris 32 Heliskiing 33 Cat-skiing 34 Mont-Sainte-Anne 34 Sutton 35 Tremblant 37 Le Massif Chic-Chocs

46 Breckenridge 47 Steamboat 48 Aspen Snowmass 49 Lake Tahoe 51 Jackson Hole 52 Vermont 53 Big Sky

FRANCE 54 Chamonix 56 Les Arcs & La Plagne 56 Tignes & Val D’Isère 57 3 Vallées

La Grave

SWITZERLAND 58 Verbier 59 Zermatt Grindelwald

AUSTRIA

JAPAN 38 Hakuba Valley 39 Niseko

Chile 40 Valle Nevado 40 Portillo

60 Innsbruck 60 St. Anton & Lech 61 Kitzbühel 61 Sölden 12 Storm Chasers 62 Groups

USA 41 Alaska 42 Salt Lake City 43 Snowbird 44 Deer Valley / Park City 45 Vail

Make sure you register for our newsletter at gendronski.com to receive invitations to our ski events and stay informed on all our specials!

Production

President Bernard Gendron

Editor Monyse Bélisle

Graphic Designer Nadia Papineau

Advertising Sales Monyse Belisle mbelisle@voyagesgendron.com

Translator Annie Booth

Distribution Jean-Michel Gendron jmgendron@voyagesgendron.com

Printing Solisco

LOGO AIRFRANCE-KLM Nº dossier : 2008332E

P296C

Date : 09/02/09

P032C

Validation DA/DC

P280C

Validation Client

FOX

RENT A CAR

P299C

THE BEST MOUNTAINS. 1 EPIC SEASON PASS. INCLUDES ACCESS TO 30 EUROPEAN RESORTS ACROSS AUSTRIA, FRANCE, ITALY, AND SWITZERLAND!

© 2016 Vail Resorts Management Company. Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Our SKi spEcialists Paul Dubrûle

ext.

Monyse Belisle

ext.

Sophie Laplante

ext.

Anik Gélineau

ext.

Sébastien Piché

ext.

Picture this—you get back to your condo, all smiles after a fabulous day of skiing. You jump in the shower and then get into your casual après-ski wear. You open up a cold local beer or uncork the bottle of wine you bought at the alpine village on your way back. You toast your family and friends, in front of the fireplace and the mountain views. Just the idea of heading back to the slopes tomorrow fills you with joy.

Nothing beats the feeling of being on a ski vacation. And, above and beyond a mountain with great snow and amazing vertical stats, Gendron Travel strives to give you the ski experience you have always dreamed of.

Bianca Montpetit

ext.

Tania Pigé

ext.

Janick Robidoux

ext.

For over 25 years, my team and I have helped you enjoy the great outdoors and all the joys of winter in the Americas, Europe and now Japan. Throughout the years, we have steadfastly adapted to the needs of our customers, who are always on the lookout for bigger and better discoveries and adventures. That’s precisely why we’ve added options such as ski touring (skiing with skins) to our line-up. I personally got hooked on this particular climb-and-descend sport on a trip to the Chic-Choc Mountains. In this crazy, fast-paced world, it’s nice to stop every now and then, take in the beauty that surrounds us and just appreciate the moment. People have also been asking us for more vacations that combine skiing with cultural discoveries. A week skiing in Austria would not, for example, be complete without a visit to Vienna much the same way a trip to Utah absolutely has to include a stop in the U.S. National Parks or Las Vegas. My team’s knowledge extends way beyond the info on piste maps— and, adding an excursion is sure to exponentially enrich your vacation experience.

Ski Travel Specialist

France Lefebvre

ext.

Robyn Hawley

ext.

Marie Duvergne

ext.

Luc Bégin

ext.

Ski and Sales Director

Ski Product and Marketing Director

Ski Travel Specialist and Supervisor

Ski Travel Specialist

word from the Director

Ski Travel Specialist

258 304 257 266 269

By Paul Dubrûle, GendronSki Sales Director

So, don’t spend the winter cooped up in the house. There are so many wonderful resorts to discover, so much beautiful powder snow to carve, and so many spectacular panoramas to admire. Don’t wait any longer! Book today!

We hope to hear from you soon. Have a great winter!

Ski Travel Specialist

Ski Travel Specialist

Group and Sales Director’s Assistant

Ski Department Assistant

Ski Department Assistant

Business development

255 311 261 224 243 280 358

On-site Representatives Guillaume Martin-Doire Hakuba, Japan

Yves Gadbois & Claire Donahue Whistler, B.C. Laurent Saulnier & Clara Boiclair Revelstoke, B.C. Jocelyn Billette Kicking Horse, B.C.

Christine Quirion Sun Peaks, B.C.

CONTRIBUTORS Jean-Luc Brassard Special Contributor and Olympic Champion

Mario Daniel Special Contributon and GendronSki Group Leader

Marie Duchesneau Special Contributor and Globe-trotting Skier

Dominic Boucher Special Contributor and Director General of Avalanche Québec

Alexis de Gheldere Special Contributor and Freelance Travel Journalist

Robert Choquette Co-founder and former Editor of Skier Magazine

Claudine Hébert Special Contributor and Journalist

Marilyn Griffiths Special Contributor

Erik Kalacis Director of Sales and Marketing SilverStar Mountain Resort

Caroline Samson Special Contributor and GendronSki Group Leader

Bodie Shandro Certified Pro Instructor at Sun Peaks Resort

Michel Côté Special Contributor and GendronSki Group Leader

Kevin Gasior Valle Nevado Representative and Gendron Group Leader

Sylvie Desmarais Special Contributor

Michel Chevret Chamonix, France

Cameron Chasse Salt Lake City, Utah

Normand & Josiane Legault Verbier, Switzerland

Jonathan Campagna Red Resort, B.C.

Charles Castonguay Big White, B.C.

450-373-8747 | 514-866-8747 | 1-800-561-8747 info@gendronski.com | gendronski.com 1465 Mgr-Langlois Blvd.

Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec J6S 1C2

PROUD partner of

© Blake-Jorgenson

PERSPECTIVE CHANGES HERE 7,748 SKIABLE ACRES

PURPOSE CHANGES HERE 125 MILES OF TRAILS

SKI CHANGES HERE

LIFE CHANGES HERE

SKI THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

MOST VERTICAL IN NORTH AMERICA 30-45 FEET OF ANNUAL SNOWFALL LEGENDARY BACKCOUNTRY TERRAIN GENDRONSKI.COM | 1.800.561.8747 info@gendronski.com • 450.373.8747 • 514.866.8747 • 1465, Mgr Langlois Blvd., Salaberry-de-Valleyfield (QC), Canada J6S1C2

ALBERTA

Banff always spectacular

By Mario Daniel

L

ast winter was my fourth time enjoying a ski vacation in Banff.

That’s right, my fourth time! And, it’s not for a lack of imagination. It just never disappoints!

First off, I really enjoy being in the heart of one of Canada’s most beautiful national parks, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and coming across wild elk as I make my way through downtown Banff. Where else do you get to see that?

The Town of Banff itself boasts an unimaginable number of restaurants, bars and shops of all kinds, all within walking distance from key hotels. And, if your legs are too tired after a long day of intense skiing, you can always hop on the local bus, which gets you around town in a flash and runs from early in the morning until late at night.

As far as skiing goes, you’ll have lots to choose from in Banff since your lift ticket includes access to three resorts. Norquay is the first, and smallest, of the three, and is located just a few short minutes from downtown by bus. Don’t let yourself be fooled by its small

size though—its steep slopes procure a fine challenge, both during the day and at night.

The second is Sunshine, a superb ski resort that provides access to three summits and 100% natural snow. Since there are very few trees here, it is best to ski the day after a storm or when the weather is clear; this mountain has immense fields of snow and benefits from an incredible amount of snowfall every year.

The third and last of Banff’s resorts is Lake Louise which, in my opinion, offers the most out of the three. It has a wide variety of groomers that are perfect for everyone, from less experienced skiers all the way through to professionals. That’s right, professonials! Let’s not forget, after all, that Lake Louise has been part of the Alpine Ski World Cup competition for the last few years. More advanced skiers will definitely want to head over to the back bowls to revel in the untouched natural snow and impressive drop-offs. If you happen to go a few days without a snowfall, and you’re still on the hunt for powder, I’ll let you in on a little secret: take the Ptarmigan Chair and head for the gladed Pika trees. The amount of snow in this backcountry area is absolutely

astounding. It’s a less frequented spot that is sure to provide the challenge you are looking for.

Another great thing about Banff is the long ski seasons—longer than anywhere else in North America, in fact. The town’s inland location also makes it less sensitive to rising temperatures.

Now, you may be wondering about how much a Banff ski vacation might cost you. But, really, it’s much more reasonable than you think.

Keep in mind that winter is off-peak season in Banff, so packages are usually available at a decent price—and, most importantly, in Canadian dollars!

Happy skiing!

Mont Norquay

Beginner 20%

Average snowfall 120” / 300 cm Vertical drop 1,650’ / 503 m Altitude 8,040’ / 2,450 m

Intermediate 36%

Lake Louise Ski Resort

Beginner 25%

Advanced 28% Expert 16%

Average snowfall 179” / 454 cm Vertical drop 3,250’ / 991 m Altitude 8,650’ / 2,637 m

Sunshine Village

© Paul Zizka

10 gendronski 2016-2017

Average snowfall 138” / 350 cm Vertical drop 3,514’ / 1,070 m Altitude 8,954’ / 2,730 m

Intermediate 45% Advanced 30% Beginner 20% Intermediate 55% Advanced 25%

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing (valid for 3 resorts), GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Without flights Inns of Banff *** ......................................................................... $ 1,395 ................. $ 558 Brewster’s Mountain Lodge *** - Breakfast . $ 1,425 ................ $ 605 Hidden Ridge Resort **** - Condo, quad. occ. . $ 1,465 ................. $ 635 HI - Banff Alpine Centre ** - Dormitory ............ $ 1,465 ................. $ 635 Tunnel Mountain Resort *** - Studio ................ $ 1,475 ................. $ 640 Banff Aspen Lodge *** - Breakfast ........................ $ 1,485 ................. $ 650 Elk + Ave ***1/2 .............................................................................. $ 1,525 ................. $ 685 Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa **** .......................... $ 1,535 ................. $ 690 Banff Ptarmigan Inn ***1/2 - Breakfast ............... $ 1,565 ................. $ 715 Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets *** - Studio . $ 1,595 ................. $ 735 Lake Louise Inn *** ............................................................... $ 1,595 ................. $ 735 Banff Rocky Mountain Resort *** - Studio . $ 1,595 ................. $ 735 Banff Park Lodge *** ............................................................ $ 1,655 ................. $ 785 The Fox Hotel & Suites **** - Breakfast ......... $ 1,725 ................. $ 835 Buffalo Mountain Lodge ***** ................................. $ 1,745 ................. $ 850 Moose Hotel & Suites **** ........................................... $ 1,845 ................. $ 930 The Rimrock Resort Hotel **** ............................... $ 1,865 ................. $ 945 Sunshine Mountain Lodge **** - Slopeside .... $ 1,935 ................. $ 995 Skiing included at Sunshine Village only Fairmont - Chateau Lake Louise ***** ........ $ 2,065 .............. $ 1,095 Fairmont - Banff Springs ***** ............................... $ 2,065 .............. $ 1,095 Book by Oct. 31, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

OPTIONS © Reuben Krabbe

top pick

By Janick Robidoux

Oh Banff… such a divine mountain town! I fell in love with this heavenly place the moment I set foot there. I can still see myself on Banff Avenue, eyes filled with wonder as I soaked up views of these magnificent mountains peering out at me from the end of the street. It was my first trip to the Rockies, and I was in absolute awe!

I have since returned on several occasions and taken the time to discover all of Banff’s hidden treasures. While you’re there, you can’t miss Evelyn’s Café & Bar on Banff Avenue, where you can enjoy the best cappuccino around! Or, if you’re in the mood for some great pizza, at a great price, try Pizza Tavern on Bear Street. Once you’re all fuelled up and ready to hit the slopes for that adrenaline high, head over to Delirium Dive at Sunshine. It’s a crazy off-piste free-ride zone I promise you won’t soon forget! After everything is said and done and it’s time to relax, why not head over to the Upper Hot Springs on Sulphur Mountain? Banff is pure magic… for everyone!

For an unforgettable experience, you can enjoy slopeside accommodations by combining a stay at Sunshine Mountain Lodge for a few nights with a stay in the Town of Banff.

You can also opt for a ski safari and combine your stay in Banff with one or several other Western Canadian destinations. Car rental is available. (see page 30)

Cross-country skiing packages available (Banff/Canmore). For more details, contact our ski specialists.

Day trip to Kicking Horse including lift ticket available on request. $ 89 / pers.

© Paul Zizka © Paul Zizka

• Complimentary Full Breakfast Buffet • Two Outdoor Hot Tubs with Fireplace • Convenient Location www.banffaspenlodge.com 1-877-886-8857 Petit déjeuner complet

The sky is clouding over... and it looks like they’re calling for snow! Time to get packing and make your way to one of our snowy destinations.

We admit you have to be a little spontaneous. But, why deny yourself such a great opportunity?

– Bernard Gendron, President of Gendron Travel This new program, which is offered exclusively to Gendron Travel customers, allows you to stay up-to-date on our last-minute promotions when a storm hits one of our destinations. If you can easily take a few days off or turn your weekend into a lastminute ski getaway, then this program is perfect for you. After one of our destinations gets a good accumulation of snow, you will receive an email promoting a short ski getaway, and provide you with details on availability and the special negotiated rate.

Register at

gendronski.com/stormchasers to receive our trip alerts.

Not only will you benefit from highly competitive prices, you’ll also get to enjoy the services of one of our 12 on-site reps!

PRECIOUS MOMENTS $89 SKI AND STAY

• 1 NIGHT • 1 BREAKFAST • 1 ½ DAYS OF WEEKDAY SKIING CERTAIN CONDITIONS APPLY.

STARTING FROM

+ TAX

montsutton.com/skiandstay

N TRAVEL AND

BOOK YOUR SKI VACATION WITH GENDRO

GO INTO THE DRAW TO WIN BACK YOUR SKI TRIP TO BANFF!

For Terms & Conditions visit: www.gendronski.com/en/yourbanff2017

BOOK YOUR 2 FOR 1 SKI RENTALS AT ULTIMATE SPORTS BY DEC 15, 2016

New

HOTEL OPENS SUMMER 2016

Full service spa Renovated rooms

Budget condos with kitchens

Downtown location Breakfast included

Moderate condos with kitchens

Downtown suites Breakfast included

Luxury condos with kitchens

ENJOY COMPLIMENTARY BANFF TRANSIT PASSES DURING YOUR STAY

FREE WI-FI

Full service spa & restaurant Downtown location

Renovated rooms Rooftop hot pool

FREE PARKING

British Columbia

© Whistler Tourism

Whistler the biggest of them all

By Janick Robidoux

N

o matter how you decide to enjoy Whistler, your experience is guaranteed to be an unforgettable one. Whether you choose to hit all the black diamond runs, glide down perfectly groomed pistes, indulge in some fine dining or just kick back and enjoy vacationing with family and friends, Whistler has it all!

The biggest ski resort in North America offers 8,171 acres of terrain, over 200 marked runs, a vertical drop of 1,609 metres, average snowfall of 1,163 cm, 37 lifts including the Peak 2 Peak which connects the summits of Blackcomb and Whistler, and a ski season that runs from November to May, thanks to summer skiing on the glacier. Both the mountain and the

14 gendronski 2016-2017

village have something for everyone. And, if you happen to be skiing with family, note that there are specially reserved zones on the mountain just for you.

With direct flights from all major Canadian cities, Whistler is just a hop, skip and jump away—a mere five hours from Montreal. It would take you the same time to drive to Val D’Or! After landing in Vancouver, Whistler is a short hour and a half away. I would advise against renting a car, though, because everything here has been designed with skiers in mind. So, whatever you want to do can be done on foot, or using the incredibly efficient (and free!) shuttle bus system.

One of my favourite runs at Whistler is Spanky’s Ladder on Blackcomb. This fabulous double black diamond provides the challenge and the breathtaking views I expect from a ski vacation. Just hop on the Glacier Express and you’ll be there in no time. Another great option is Arthur’s Choice, a black diamond run accessible to all. The view of Whistler Valley from here is glorious, the trees are well spaced, the snow is just incredible and the surrounding nature procures a sense of peace with every turn. Just before Arthur’s Choice, you’ll find the Outer Limits, a double black diamond glade run unique for its petrified trees. This sector is a little tighter and has a greater pitch than Arthur. It’s an absolutely magnificent sector easily accessible with the

British Columbia

yves gadbois & claire donahue On-site representatives

Skiing has been a lifetime passion for these snow enthusiasts. After exploring all that America and Europe has to offer, they settled on Whistler as their new home… and this is precisely where they have stayed for the last 23 years, enjoying life working as guides and as part of the mountain operations staff for several resorts. With their vast knowledge of both mountains and extensive experience as guides, Yves and Claire will personally ensure that you enjoy your vacation at Canada’s biggest ski resort to the absolute fullest. Taking you to the farthest hidden reaches of this glorious mountain, they make it their mission to find you the best snow, no matter what the conditions.

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing (valid for 2 resorts), services of our onsite reps, GST and PST included, starting at:

© Whistler Blackcomb

new Crystal Ridge Express. If the delectable aroma of waffles happens to come drifting by while you’re here, don’t worry, you’re not imagining things (just in case you think the altitude is messing with your head!). Chances are you’re somewhere near Crystal Hut, where you can indulge in the best waffles you’ve ever tasted!

Those who prefer early morning skiing can take advantage of the Fresh Tracks option.

For about $ 20, you can make your way up in the gondola before everyone else, enjoy a healthy buffet breakfast at the Roundhouse Lodge and, as soon as the bell rings, you’ll be first in line to hit that fresh powder. I loved it so much, I did it twice in one week.

With my morning skiing over, I headed over to Whistler on the Peak 2 Peak—sheer joy! In addition to the 360-degree panorama, you will also have a clear view of the ski area that is waiting for you, all from the highest possible vantage point in British Columbia! What more could you ask for?

Whistler is, without a doubt, Canada’s chameleon resort—it adapts to everyone!

Whether you’re an expert who wants to ski from morning until night, or a beginner who prefers to end the day with a different activity, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. From fine dining to cozy cafés, pubs of every description, shops of all sorts (each more interesting than the next!) and tons of activities for those who relish the great outdoors as well as those who prefer to take it in smaller doses, Whistler has everything you need. Come experience it for yourself!

Once in Whistler, I stopped in for a quick bite at the Roundhouse Lodge, located at the summit, before tackling Symphony, Sun and Whistler Bowl. These 3 runs are my personal favourites, but I have to say that I am also quite partial to the fantastically impressive Symphony run. Be wary of any strong winds though, as they can completely eliminate all visibility in a few short minutes. It’s really important to remain cautious. However, if you’re enjoying lovely, sunny weather, the view and the skiing are quite simply, well… (words can’t do it justice, but I trust your imagination!)

Whistler

Beginner 18%

Average snowfall 458” / 1,164 cm Vertical drop 5,020’ / 1,530 m Altitude 7,160’ / 2,182 m

Intermediate 55%

Blackcomb

Beginner 15%

Average snowfall 458” / 1,164 cm Vertical drop 5,280’ / 1,609 m Altitude 7,494’ / 2,284 m

Advanced 27%

Intermediate 55% Advanced 30%

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Without flights HI Whistler - Youth hostel, dormitory ............................. $ 1,625................. $ 735 Whistler Peak Lodge ***1/2 - Studio .......................... $ 1,645................. $ 755 Glacier Lodge *** ........................................................................... $ 1,725................. $ 815 Marketplace Lodge *** - Studio ................................... $ 1,725................. $ 815 The Alpenglow *** - Studio ................................................. $ 1,725................. $ 815 Cascade Lodge *** - Studio .............................................. $ 1,785................. $ 860 Tantalus Resort Lodge *** - Condo, quad. occ. . $ 1,835................. $ 895 Aava Whistler Hotel ***1/2 ..................................................... $ 1,865 .............. $ 925 Stoney Creek *** - Studio ...................................................... $ 1,875................. $ 930

The Coast Blackcomb Suites at Whistler **** - Studio, breakfast. .......... $ 1,885 .............. $ 935 Whistler Pinnacle Hotel *** - Studio ........................ $ 1,885 .............. $ 935 The Listel Hotel Whistler *** - Breakfast ............. $ 1,885 .............. $ 935 The Blackcomb Lodge ***1/2 - Studio .................... $ 1,965 .............. $ 995 * Whistler Village Inn & Suites *** - Studio .. $ 1,975 ............ $ 1,005 The Nita Lake Lodge **** - Studio, breakfast . $ 2,055 ............ $ 1,065 The Aspens on Blackcomb *** - Condo ............ $ 2,075 ............ $ 1,085 Delta Whistler Village Suites **** ............................ $ 2,085 ............ $ 1,090 Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa **** ........................... $ 2,285 ............ $ 1,245 Fairmont Chateau Whistler ****1/2 ............................ $ 2,515 ............ $ 1,425 Crystal Lodge Hotel & Suites ***1/2 ....................................................... On request Westin Resort & Spa - Whistler ***** - Studio ....................... On request Book by Nov. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. * Book by Oct. 31, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

OPTIONS Whistler Heliskiing See details on page 32.

PERFECT YOUR TECHNIQUE with Extremely Canadian’s Backcountry Clinic, Steep Clinic, etc. For more details: gendronski.com/whistler

gendronski 2016-2017 15

British Columbia

Revelstoke A true legend

By Alexis de Gheldere

S

ome resorts truly set themselves apart from the rest. Revelstoke is a prime example. When it opened in December 2007, it was clear this resort had gone all out! By providing access to the longest vertical descent in North America, Revelstoke raised the bar for the standard in extreme resort skiing.

All you need to do is ski non-stop down the 1,713-metre drop (if you can, that is!) to understand what I mean. Think about it— that’s three times the vertical drop you get at Tremblant (625 metres)! So, hold on tight and make sure you pack some A5-35 for a good rubdown at night. Trust me, your legs and back will thank you.

There aren’t a whole lot of runs to choose from at Revelstoke, but they are all extremely long ones that tend to stretch towards the sky more than they do the horizon. The higher you go, the tougher the run, starting out with easy greens and intermediate blues and then moving up to difficult (and perhaps even extreme!) blacks. From the highest point accessible using the Stoke lift, all of the runs are black, except for a single blue piste.

But, be warned, this is no ordinary blue run—hence the name: Critical Path.

The advantage of skiing a resort with an unusually long vertical descent is that the snow is always gorgeous at the top, especially in December or March, when temperatures are just above the freezing mark. If you stick to the two top lifts, Ripper and Stoke, you’ll never feel like you’re skiing on a small mountain. The long descent and playground seem infinite, particularly if you enjoy a little off-piste skiing.

It was March when we visited (late March, even) and, because extreme skiing is what we love most, we headed right for the offpiste terrain. Skis on our backs, we walked up the snow stairs, following the previously embedded footsteps, making our way to the North Bowl. The high-mountain landscape unfurled in all the splendour of its alpine beauty, unobscured by vegetation. In the distance, a sea of snow-capped mountains appeared on the horizon, dominated by Mount MacKenize and its 2,461 metres at the heart of the Selkirk Mountain range.

There are tons of different lines to ski in the North Bowl, where the snow is abundant and the pitch is consistent. Although some of the runs here bear names like Drop in, Mania, Discipline and Powder Assault, it is basically a huge amphitheatre where you are free to roam as you please. Note, however, that the Discipline and Powder Assault runs do have specific starting points located between rock walls—for seasoned experts only! Once the North Bowl is behind you, feel free to take off your skis again to climb up to a section of the Greely Bowl. After these mesmerizing descents, you’ll want to make your way back to the North Bowl again and again!

On my next run down, a fellow skier showed me how to access a good portion of the North Bowl without the need for the 20-minute climb. This direct route is certainly not as breathtaking, but it’s also not as long. The Brake Check, Parachute and Unlimited Assets runs had me screaming with joy, and I found myself going back countless times to revel in the boundless snow and crazy pitch that brought all of my senses to life. It just never gets old!

© Royce Sihlis

16 gendronski 2016-2017

Clara BoisclairBoussard & Laurent Saulnier On-site representatives

© Ian Houghton

Young, fit and friendly—such are our two destination reps in Revelstoke, who ski all day and work all night. Clara studied in adventure tourism and is absolutely passionate about the great outdoors.

Laurent, on the other hand, completed a degree in engineering before making his way to this powder paradise. Both know the mountain like the back of their hands, and only have one desire: to share their knowledge and help you discover every inch of it! After several seasons at the resort, the groomed slopes, glades, bowls and hikes to the summit hold no secrets for them. They are also excellent resources if you have questions about the restaurants, bars and activities in Revelstoke. You’ll be won over by their charm the second you meet them!

Revelstoke Mountain Resort Average snowfall 500” / 1,270 cm Vertical drop 5,620’ / 1,713 m Altitude 7,300’ / 2,225 m

Beginner 7% Intermediate 45.5% Advanced 47.5%

OPTIONS Selkirk Tangiers Heliskiing Several packages available. Details on page 32.

FRESH TRACKS a great option if you want to be among the first to hit the groomed slopes or powder in the morning. This special access includes breakfast. © Garrett Grove

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges included), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing, services of our on-site reps, GST and PST included, starting at: Montreal USD

Without flights

Sandman Inn *** ....................................................................................................... $ 1,595 ..........$ 675 The Sutton Place Hotel **** - Studio, parking included . $ 1,765 ..........$ 800 Days Inn and Suites *** - Breakfast .................................................... $ 1,795 ..........$ 825 Best Western Plus ***1/2 - Breakfast .................................................... $ 1,925 ..........$ 925 The Hillcrest Hotel **** ................................................................................. On request Book by Dec. 1, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures. © Ian Houghton

Own a Pro The perfect option if you want to improve your technique and enjoy the best skiing Revelstoke has to offer thanks to a private guide who will help you discover all of the resort’s hidden treasures (max. 6 skiers) approx. $ 105 / pers. / day.

Inside tracks Includes the technical advice of a guide who will take you on a tour of the resort so you can make the most of your stay (minimum 4 skiers). Lunch is included. $ 135 / pers. / day.

ski safari Extending your stay is easy with the Ski Safari formula that lets you add Kicking Horse, Sun Peaks or a selection of other resorts.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

gendronski 2016-2017 17

British Columbia

Red Mountain

Jonathan Campagna On-site representative

My name is Jonathan and I’ve been a ski instructor for over 15 years now. During this time, I’ve been lucky enough to teach in New Zealand, Argentina, Chile and Australia, and I’ve been a group guide at several Western Canadian ski resorts. I’ve spent the last eight seasons at Red Mountain, working as a ski instructor for Canadian Ski Quest. We offer week-long ski camps as well as an 11-week training program for those who wish to become ski and board instructors. I am thrilled to be joining the ranks of Gendron Travel and look forward to seeing you at Red Mountain. © RFlett

By Monyse Bélisle

W

hen I chat with our customers every year at our ski show, they often ask me what the best bargains are, where the best “guaranteed” snow is, and if there are still any resorts that might be considered well-kept secrets. Well, my dear globetrotting skier friends, you will be happy to know that there are still a few mountains out there that haven’t been overexploited.

One of these is Red Mountain Resort, located in southern B.C., in the charming little town of Rossland. Why charming? Simply for the wonderful French and English-speaking residents, community spirit, and its friendly shops and eateries (no big chains here—except for that one Subway restaurant!). The town also boasts several hiking and mountain bike trails. But, most of all, it’s located just a stone’s throw away from Red Mountain Resort.

If you’re looking for resorts to add to your bucket list, you should know that the ski area of this particular destination stretches over four peaks: Red Mountain, Granite Mountain, Grey Mountain (added in 2013) and lastly, Mt. Roberts, which is accessible for off-piste skiing. You can also partake in a little cat-skiing for a mere $10 a run on Mt. Kirkup—an offer you definitely won’t want to

18 gendronski 2016-2017

Red Mountain Resort

Beginner 18%

Average snowfall 300” / 760 cm Vertical drop 2,919’ / 890 m Altitude 6,807’ / 2,075 m

Intermediate 31% Advanced 23% Expert 28%

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges included), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., 5 days of skiing, services of our on-site rep, GST and PST included, starting at:

© Iain Reid

miss out on. The really great thing about this resort is that, once you’re at the top, you can ski down pretty much any side you want. As such, it’s nearly impossible to get lost, since you’ll inevitably always end up at one lift or another. So, a piste map is definitely optional here! (How great is that?) Experts will be well served at Red, where they can explore Buffalo Ridge, which leads to double black diamond runs such as Shoulders, Papoose Bowl and Roots Meadows, to name a few. If you’ve been working out and think you’re in good enough shape to tackle it, opt for the 20 to 30-minute hike up to Mt. Rob ...

Montreal / Ottawa USD

Without flights Village at Red **** - Cabin ........................................... $ 1,795 ............. $ 825 Prestige Mountain Resort *** - Condos ....... $ 1,985 ............. $ 970

Red Robs, The Lofts, Carolyn’s Corner, Copper Chalets, Silvertip, White Wolf Cabins and Creekside **** Slopeside luxury condos - Quad. occ. ............. $ 1,915 ............. $ 915 Slopeside luxury condos - Double occ. ......... $ 2,265 ........... $ 1,185 Ram’s Head Inn *** ....................................................... On request Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

OPTIONS ski Whitewater Lift ticket starting at $ 75 / pers. / day.

big red cat cat-skiing See details on page 33.

British Columbia

© Doug LePage

Whitewater S

Whitewater

Beginner 10%

Average snowfall 480” / 1,219 cm Vertical drop 2,044’ / 623 m Altitude 6,700’ / 2,042 m

Intermediate 32% Advanced 47% expert 11%

By Paul Dubrûle

everal seasons ago, I discovered a place where time stands still, where the quality of the snow is much more important than dressing fashionably, and where the lifts are rather slow (which affords you plenty of time to chat with the locals), where the cafeteria serves the best ski-hill food in Canada. In short, I discovered a place where the only thing that really matters is skiing. Welcome to Whitewater, British Columbia.

Thanks to a microclimate, this resort, located near the City of Nelson, gets an average of 12 metres of snow per winter. So, if you hear the locals talk about being waist-deep in snow, they aren’t lying! It’s also a bit colder in this area, which means the powder is extremely light. Long overlooked, Whitewater is now attracting more and more attention because of its unique nature and the diversity of its terrain. It’s also a mountain where off-piste skiing is easy to access—but, of course, you still have to be well equipped if you decide

to ski out of bounds. To be frank, it kind of reminds me of Jay Peak before they invested huge amounts in improving their slopeside facilities.

Whitewater is also one of those rare ski resorts that has no accommodations. However, that really doesn’t matter when you can stay in the vibrant city of Nelson, a short 25-minute drive away. You are sure to be charmed by Nelson’s artistic, somewhat hippy-ish and communityoriented vibe. Nearby are the Ainswhorth hot springs, an absolute must for soothing those aching muscles after an intense day of powder skiing.

I can still remember everyone’s reaction the first time we skied this mountain. We couldn’t believe we hadn’t been there before— Jean-Luc Brassard more so than any of us!

So, don’t regret waiting too long for your first visit to Whitewater the way we did. Trust me, you have to ski it to believe it!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges included), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., 5 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD

Without flights

Best Western Plus Baker Street Inn – Nelson ***1/2 ............................ $ 1,895 .............................. $ 900 Prestige Inn Lakeside *** ............................ $ 1,895 .............................. $ 900 Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

OPTION Ski Red MOUNTAIN Resort lift ticket $ 81 / pers. / day (if booked by Nov. 15, 2016)

gendronski 2016-2017 19

British Columbia

Kicking Horse that provide a unique experience. Quaint, comfortable, authentic and luxurious all perfectly describe these cozy lodgings.

My love for this B.C. resort extends far beyond the mountain, however. The town of Golden has its own unique flair that I absolutely love.

When it’s time to head out for a drink or some down time, the tourists and locals (the latter’s outdoorsy lumberjack style making them easy to recognize) come together, and a great time is had by all. It’s the perfect opportunity to get them to share a few tips and suggestions about the area, and the resort.

So, if you love mountains with that little extra edge, you’re sure to fall head over heels for Kicking Horse!

© 2014 Dave Best

By Paul Dubrûle

I

t’s been 15 years since the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort opened its doors, offering skiers one of the longest vertical drops in North America. To mark the opening at the time, the Gendron Travel team had planned a familiarization trip with group organizers and journalists. I still recall the look of amazement on their faces when they reached the summit. Everyone was so impressed with how big the area was, and with the view of the five surrounding national parks. For me, this marked the beginning of my love affair with this particular resort.

Whenever I visit Kicking Horse, it feels like coming home. Needless to say, the resort has changed and grown over the years, but my favourite go-to spots are always there, waiting. One of the reasons I love this mountain so much is the abundance of expert terrain. Even if you had the courage to tackle each and every run, it would be impossible to do it in a single week! There’s also the Terminator Peak sector which, since being

20 gendronski 2016-2017

added, has greatly contributed to the resort’s development. From there, you can access the Super Bowl and the Crazy Legs run. These two alone are worth the trip. But, if you take the gondola to the top, you can also try the It’s a Ten run, which is a favourite among intermediate skiers. As the name suggests, this particular piste is a smooth 10 kilometers stretch from top to bottom.

© Kari Medig

Kicking Horse is also known for its great accommodations. In addition to the usual slopeside condos and popular hotels in town, you’ll also find an array of boutique hotels

© Trent Bona 2014

Jocelyn Billette On-site representative

A skier since the age of 6, Jocelyn has always had an unconditional love for snow sports, or any type of extreme sport for that matter, whether it be rugby, motocross and even rodeo competitions.

Having spent every winter of his youth skiing at Owl’s Head, Sutton and Jay Peak, Jocelyn became as talented on a snowboard as he is on skis. He later had the opportunity to ski Salt Lake City and Banff, which sparked a love for Western resorts. This winter, he sets up camp at Kicking Horse where he looks forward to sharing his love of snow sports with all of you.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Average snowfall 295” / 750 cm Vertical drop 4,133’ / 1,260 m Altitude 8,033’ / 2,450 m

Beginner 20% Intermediate 20% Advanced 45% Expert 15%

© Trent Bona 2014

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges included), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 6 days of skiing, services of our on-site rep, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Without flights Ramada Limited Golden *** - Breakfast .................................................. $ 1,575 ......................... $ 720 Best Western Mountainview Inn *** ......................................................... $ 1,595 ......................... $ 735 Glacier Mountaineer Lodge **** .................................................................... $ 1,615 ......................... $ 759 Palliser Lodge Resort **** ...................................................................................... $ 1,655 ......................... $ 789 Copper Horse Lodge **** - Breakfast .......................................................... $ 1,955 ...................... $ 1,015 Winston Western Lodge **** - Breakfast ................................................ $ 2,035 ...................... $ 1,075

Vagabond Lodge **** - Breakfast & hot lunch .................................... $ 2,185 ...................... $ 1,190 * Days Inn Golden ** ..................................................................................................... On request Gendron Exclusive: 6th day of skiing free when booked by Nov. 15, 2016 Book by Nov. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. * Book by Nov. 1, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

© Antoine Caron Cabana

gendronski 2016-2017 21

British Columbia

Sun peaks The often-overlooked giant

By Alexis de Gheldere

W

hen people think about Western Canada, the first place that usually comes to mind is Whistler-Blackcomb.

We’ve been there, we know it, we love it (it’s incredible!). Next in line might be classics like Banff, Jasper, Fernie, Revelstoke, Kicking Horse, and other similar resorts. If you’re lucky, you might even have had the chance to explore the far end of the Powder Highway at Red Mountain or Whitewater (two absolute gems!). But, there is yet another enormous resort tucked away in the middle of the province, a 45-minute drive from Kamloops, that is all to often overlooked—Sun Peaks! One single statistic should convince you, however: Sun Peaks is the second largest ski area in Canada after Whistler.

Standing slopeside, at the heart of the village, you’ll be able to ascertain the immensity of the place for yourself—endless pistes and summits as far as the eye can see! You won’t know which way to look! So, don’t waste a

22 gendronski 2016-2017

second more. Hop on a lift and get ready to tackle this unbelievably huge playground!

Just a few metres up on the lift, if you peer off in the distance, you’ll see a school (elementary and high school) on the slopes. Students hop on the Poma lift, with their backpacks in tow, and head to class. At recess, they enjoy a bit of skiing as part of their four-day-a-week program, and also get to hit the slopes one full day every week. What a dream! Looking around, you’ll also notice a lot of young people and families at Sun Peaks due to the large number of intermediate and easy runs.

Luckily for us, the lift continues towards much more challenging terrain. After getting off the Sunburst, we headed to the Crystal triple chairlift, which takes you to the Sacred Line or Headwalls pistes that lead to the Distributor and four other difficult runs, including the aptly named Intimidator. At the summit of the Crystal lift or the West Bowl T-Bar, you can take off your skis for a short and not-toosteep 20-minute hike up, where you’ll be well rewarded with the Gil’s Zone sector and its intermediate off-piste skiing, including a few more intense areas. This is where you’ll find the best snow on the resort, especially when it hasn’t snowed in a few days.

All of this takes place on Tod Mountain, the resort’s main slope. Next to it is Sundance Mountain, with a slightly lower elevation.

It offers mostly intermediate runs, ideal for

those who are learning to ski or those who want to perfect their style. The school we mentioned earlier is actually located on this particular slope. On the opposite site sits Mt. Morrissey which, although comparable to Sundance in calibre, also boasts a sub-sector with a half-dozen difficult or very difficult runs.

At the bottom of the slopes, in the village, the street is an ocean of white. Skiers make their way from one sector to another between the rows of shops and restaurants. The atmosphere is laid back, but is clearly made for families more than it is for ski bums. As the sun sets on Sun Peaks, I daydream about moving here with my family so the kids can attend the school on the slopes and we can all enjoy an alpine way of life.

Christine Quirion On-site representative

Sun Peaks Resort

Beginner 10%

Average snowfall 237” / 602 cm Vertical drop 2,894’ / 882 m Altitude 7,060’ / 2,152 m

Intermediate 58% Advanced 32%

Christine is absolutely passionate about teaching downhill skiing. Along with her spouse, who has Level 4 certification with the CSIA, and their 4 children, the family has found that Sun Peaks resort is the perfect place for them to share their common passion. This alpine village is friendly and inviting, and provides access to a unique school for children from 5 to 17, located in the heart of the ski area.

Every morning, the very first skiers to hit the slopes at Sun Peaks are kids, just like Christine and Luc’s, who are on their way to school. Having earned a Level Packages 3 certification with the CSIA, Christine One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, is a teacher at Sun Peaks’ ski school.

7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days Thanks to her experience and knowledge, of skiing, services of our on-site representative, GST and PST included, Christine is equipped to help you discover starting at: the specific areas of this ski area suited

Montreal / Ottawa USD to your abilities. The variety of terrain and Without flights Toronto the abundance of snow at Sun Peaks 1/2 Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Hotel & Suites *** .......................... $ 1,495 ........... $ 595 help guarantee you will have an amazing Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Center **** ........ $ 1,645 ........... $ 710 vacation, where every day is a new Sun Peaks Lodge ***1/2 ........................................................................................ $ 1,660 ........... $ 720 adventure!

Hearthstone Lodge *** - Studio .................................................................. $ 1,695 ........... $ 750 Crystal Forest *** - Condo, quad. occ. ..................................................... $ 1,725 ........... $ 770 Trail’s Edge / Trapper’s Landing **** - Condo, quad. occ. ........ $ 1,865 ........... $ 880 Kookaburra Lodge **** - Condo, quad. occ. .................................... $ 2,065 ......... $ 1,035 Many Ski Safaris are available, combining Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Center **** - Private house .............................................. $ 2,465 ......... $ 1,340 Whistler, SilverStar or Reveltoke. See details on Coast Sundance Lodge *** ....................................................................................... On request page 30.

OPTIONS

Book by Nov. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Flight from Kelowna available. Price on request.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

Canada’s Second Largest Ski Area

SUN PEAKS RESORT 4,270 Acres of Terrain 237” Average Snowfall

PMS 445 PMS 577

1-866-714-8404 cahiltyhotel.com

Extend your stay and enjoy the thalassotherapy installations at the Sparkling Hill Resort.

British Columbia

Charles Castonguay On-site representative

© Kieran Barrett / Big White Ski Resort

Big White

The very best of the Okanagan

When my spouse asked me to spend a month out in Western Canada last year, I had no idea it would turn into a three-month stay. Big White was our destination of choice, and it wasn’t long before we fell in love with the place, choosing to make it our permanent home. The quality of the snow at Big White is simply amazing. Plus, the resort is so easy to access from the Kelowna airport. The ski village also boasts incredible accommodations, most of which are located slopeside. As a member of the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance for 35 years and an absolute travel enthusiast, I have also had the chance to ski most of the other resorts in Western America and Canada.

I am also an alpine hiking fanatic—an interest I got to enjoy professionally when working as a guide at Tremblant. In addition to this, I’ve had the opportunity to hike the Aletsch Glacier and complete the Chamonix-Zermatt Haute Route.

I look forward to meeting you and helping you discover this increasingly popular destination.

By Robert Choquette and Marilyn Griffiths It was quite cold when we left our home back east to make our way across the country. So, of course, the mild breeze that greeted us as we stepped out of the plane in Kelowna was a welcome surprise! Big White resort, above the Okanagan Valley, is about an hour away from Kelowna. This glorious region enjoys a microclimate favouring abundant snowfall— generally over seven metres per year—and is renown for its light, dry powder.

If you’re new to Big White, you should definitely take the free guided tour offered by the resort’s customer service. It’s the perfect way to familiarize yourself with the ski area’s different sectors and get a few tips on how best to make your way around the mountain.

Even though the tour skipped over the expert areas, we still had the chance to ski a series of perfectly groomed runs with varying fall lines.

Night skiing was in full swing when we arrived at the resort at the end of the afternoon. Adults, kids, skiers and boarders were enthusiastically tearing up the illuminated slopes. No one seemed ready to wrap things up for the day—or maybe they were all just latecomers like us.

Fresh back from our tour, we headed right for The Cliff, at the very top of the resort. The trees in this sector, better known as snow ghosts, are completely covered with snow and ice, giving them the appearance of eerie-looking figures. Big White has such a fabulous array of runs to choose from, and a ski area that is interesting to explore. Tree-lined groomers weave above and around the village while the backcountry sector is mostly concentrated on the back side of the mountain.

Like most accommodations in Big White, our condo was located slopeside. And, although we had our own kitchen to cook in, we opted for an evening out that first night. Big White has always been family-oriented, and the majority of restaurants in town are clearly a reflection of that. The Kettle Valley Steakhouse & Wine Bar proved to be the perfect choice for us. The salmon—paired with a lovely Okanagan wine—was simply exquisite.

24 gendronski 2016-2017

As splendid as the skiing is at Big White, there are also lots of other outdoor activities for you to choose from: skating, sledding, snowshoeing, ice climbing, dog sledding, etc.

Of course, after a long day on the slopes, you may just want to kick back for a little après-ski enjoyment at Snowshoe Sam’s. Whatever you choose, you are sure to enjoy!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., 6 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal USD Ottawa Without flights White Crystal Inn *** ................................................................ $ 1,665 ........ $ 725 Inn at Big White *** .................................................................. $ 1,685 ........ $ 740 Chateau Big White *** ........................................................... $ 1,695 ........ $ 750 Sundance Resort at Big White *** - Studio ..... $ 1,885 ........ $ 895 Stonebridge Lodge *** - Condo, quad. occ. ...... $ 2,035 ..... $ 1,010 Stonegate Resort **** - Condo, quad. occ. ........ $ 2,175 ..... $ 1,120 Condos 1 to 4-bedroom ................................................. On request Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures.

Gendron Exclusive: 6th day of skiing free. Valid all season.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

7th night free promotion applicable all season. (excluding Dec. 27 to Jan. 2, 2017). Applies to certain condo units only.

Big white ski Resort

Beginner 18%

Average snowfall 294” / 747 cm Vertical drop 2,550’ / 777 m Altitude 7,606’ / 2,318 m

Intermediate 54% Advanced 22% EXPERT 6%

British Columbia

Panorama Peak Performance

By Marilyn Griffiths and Robert Choquette

W

e pulled into Panorama Mountain Village, near Invermere, after an easy three-and-a-half hour highway drive from Calgary’s airport. The sun had just set when we checked in at our slopeside condo in the upper village. Here, all lodges and townhomes feature full kitchens and fireplaces. But, rather than settle in, we headed out for drinks and dinner at Monticola, a casual Italian bar and eatery steps from the lifts. If you go, make sure you ask the bartender for an Italian Gun Fight, his own delicious concoction.

Panorama is one of those resorts where life is simple. With its well-appointed compact pedestrian village, you really don’t need a car.

There’s a good mix of restaurants, pubs and cafés for you to choose from. And, of course, the free access to the amazing slopeside hot pools—which is precisely what we took advantage of after dinner. Nothing like a relaxing soak under a starry mountain sky.

The next morning, we were treated to kneedeep powder under perfect blue skies thanks to an abundant overnight snowfall. Panorama resort features huge verticals, extensive groomed terrain, excellent learning slopes and, yes, spectacular scenery. But, what our guide Jason had in store for us was a drop into

26 gendronski 2016-2017

Taynton Bowl, Panorama’s natural backcountry terrain, accessed by traversing a ridge road at the very top of the mountain.

Now reachable by chairlift, this former heliskiing terrain is avalanche-controlled and patrolled. Jason took us down a local favourite named Donny B’s. Was my comfort zone challenged? You bet! Steep chutes, bumps, deep powder, trees. It took us about an hour to negotiate the descent, but we all arrived back at the village in one piece.

On this particular day, we booked an early dinner at Elkhorn Cabin, high on Panorama’s slopes. It’s a cozy log cabin, with two large communal tables, a tiny bar and panoramic views. We sat and sipped our drinks as the sun disappeared and the sky turned deep red over the distant peaks. The menu here is Swiss inspired, with an abundance of raclette and fondue. By the time our dinner was over, the night sky was dotted with bright stars.

Everyone was issued a headlamp before we followed Ray, our host and now our guide.

“We’ll go slow. Stay in single file, one behind the other. No passing.” We carefully snaked down to the top of Discovery chair, where we surrendered our headlamps and joined Panorama’s night skiing crowd enjoying the traditionally illuminated slopes above the village.

20%

Beginner

Panorama Mountain Resort

55%

Intermediate

25%

Advanced

Average snowfall 197” / 500 cm Vertical drop 4,019’ / 1,225 m Altitude 7,792’ / 2,375 m

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges included), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ, 5 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at: Upper Village

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Without flights Pine Inn ** ................................................................................... $ 1,385 ............... $ 575 Ski Tip and Tamarack **** - Studio ............ $ 1,475 ............... $ 645

Panorama Springs, Summit, 1000 Peaks or Taynton Lodge ****1/2 - Studio ............................ $ 1,555 ............... $ 705 Book by Nov. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

OPTION r.k. heliski Powder Adventures see details on page 30.

SKI Kicking Horse on Wednesdays including lift ticket and transportation: $ 110 / pers.

British Columbia

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges included), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ, 6 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Without flights Timberline Lodges *** - Condo, quad. occ. ..... $ 1,495 ......... $ 660 Slopeside Lodge ***1/2 ........................................................ $ 1,565 ......... $ 715 Park Place Lodge *** ............................................................ $ 1,575 ......... $ 720 * Polar Peak Lodges *** - Condo, occ. 6* ............ $ 1,815 ......... $ 905 Cornerstone Lodge **** - Condo ............................. $ 1,825 ......... $ 915 * Snow Creek Lodge **** - Studio ............................. $ 1,975 ....... $ 1,030 Lizard Creek Lodge ****1/2 - Studio ....................... $ 2,045 ....... $ 1,085 Bear Paw Lodges **** - Condo .................................. $ 2,295 ....... $ 1,275

Best Western Plus Fernie Mountain Lodge **** .......................................................................... On request Gendron Exclusive: 6th day of skiing free when booked by Nov. 15, 2016 * Book by Oct 31, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. * Shared minivan Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

30%

Beginner

40%

Intermediate

30%

Advanced

Fernie Alpine Resort Average snowfall 437” / 1,110 cm Vertical drop 3,550’ / 1,082 m Altitude 7,050’ / 2,149 m

© 2011 Henry Georgi

FERNIE

Powder Paradise

By Robert Choquette and Marilyn Griffiths

F

ernie Alpine Resort, a 3.5-hour drive from Calgary Airport, has a reputation for powder. And that was precisely what we experienced the last time we were there. It snowed all night, enticing us to grab a quick bite to eat in our studio kitchen (most visitors to Fernie choose a studio or condo with kitchen so they have the option of eating in) before catching the first ride up to the top of Cedar Bowl. This was easy since the lift was right outside the Snow Creek Lodge, the property where we elected to stay on this trip. The upper slopes were blanketed with just the right amount of snow for our first powder day of the season.

After a few long and very rewarding runs, we headed for a 10:30 a.m. pit stop at the Lost Boys Café, the on-mountain meeting spot where locals gather for coffee and gossip over a fresh pastry or lunch. With the sun now poking through the clouds, it was time to head

back out to explore the four remaining alpine bowls with all their exciting cruisers, glades, steeps, chutes and bumps.

At Fernie, there’s no reason to feel intimidated if you prefer groomed cruisers. The resort is designed so almost everyone beyond beginner level can enjoy the Lizard Range upper bowls by maintaining at least one groomed run that spills down from top to bottom in every one of their five lift-accessed bowls. As well, the terrain just above the village is immaculately groomed with a good mix of meandering forest-lined trails and gentle wide-open slopes.

Anyone wanting to enhance their Fernie experience should give the ski school a try.

It’s well equipped to give Easterners tips on handling the steep and deep as well as offering a unique guided first tracks program.

© 2012 Henry Georgi

With fading daylight and the lifts now closed, we shared a pitcher of icy beer and a plate of heaping hot nachos at The Griz, the resort’s original bar, before heading into the town of Fernie, five kilometres away. Fernie is a thriving historic mining town where locals work and play, and is packed with shops, lively bars, cafés, and a wide variety of dining options. Definitely the classic skitown nightlife atmosphere. Our choice for the evening was The Livery, a newly refurbished establishment, elegant yet comfortable, known for its welcoming staff and varied menu. It proved to be a wonderful finish to an already fantastic day!

gendronski 2016-2017 27

British Columbia

SilverStar

A small town on a big mountain

By Erik Kalacis

W

hen you arrive at the Kelowna International Airport via Air Canada or WestJet, you might just feel that you are on a wine tour instead of a ski vacation! In fact, the heart of B.C.’s famous Okanagan wine country also happens to be the gateway to one of Canada’s top ski areas, SilverStar Mountain Resort.

The Okanagan’s summer climate is ideal for wine making, as the hundreds of vineyards scattered throughout the region clearly attest to. In the winter, however, the weather is perfect for producing the dry champagne powder snow that SilverStar Mountain is renowned for. SilverStar boasts reliable powder and packed powder snow conditions year after year, ideal for incredible Nordic and alpine skiing and snowboarding.

Named after a historic mining claim, SilverStar is an easy 55-minute drive north of Kelowna through the town of Vernon, which has a population of about 40,000 and an abundance of shopping options. After driving 20 minutes up from Vernon into the Monashee Mountain range, you’ll arrive at a small town unlike any other–colourful SilverStar Mountain Village. At an elevation of 1,609 metres, this Victorian-style village is conveniently located mid-mountain on the front side of the ski area, with a wide variety of true ski-in/out lodging options.

chairlift line-up! True ski-out convenience, and amazing snow conditions with a variety of magnificently groomed runs or powder stashes are right at your doorstep!

SilverStar Mountain is the 3rd largest ski area in B.C. With 3,282 acres of skiable terrain and 131 runs spread across four mountain faces, the variety of terrain is second to none. Long, perfectly groomed cruisers, steep powderfilled chutes, long winch-cat groomed black diamond runs, spacious glades, terrain park and more, keep all levels of skiers and boarders entertained. It’s a haven for skiers and snowboarders looking for a big mountain experience away from the line-ups. And that’s what makes SilverStar so unique—a small town on a big mountain with all the terrain you need and no crowds.

You can also enjoy access to Canada’s largest daily-groomed cross-country trail network featuring 105 kilometers of world-class Nordic trails shared with Sovereign Lake. Or explore a magical 16-kilometers network of snowshoe trails through forests of giant trees. Play ice hockey or enjoy a romantic skate on a frozen mountain pond. Laugh out loud over and over again as you speed downhill on tubes at Tube Town Adventure Park. Or play a friendly game at Pinheads Bowling Alley. Enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride dinner tour to The Wild Horseman’s Cabin. Or take a snowcat ride under the stars to Paradise Camp for

dinner. Even savour a glass (or two!) of famous B.C. Okanagan wine, paired with a gourmet meal! The options are practically limitless.

SilverStar Mountain is truly a special place, unlike any other resort in B.C.

15%

Beginner

40%

Intermediate

35%

Advanced

10%

EXPERT

SilverStar Mountain Resort Average snowfall 276” / 700 cm Vertical drop 2,500’ / 760 m Altitude 6,280’ / 1,915 m

The vibrant colours of the architecture are bound to be one of the first things you notice and remember about SilverStar. Themed after an early 1900s mining town, the bars, restaurants and shops that line the charming main street are where you’ll find long-time residents and local characters that help give SilverStar its warm, homey feel. With tons of personality, it’s filled with friendly, helpful people who are eager to make you feel welcome, and endless activities to make every day more fun than the last.

No need for a car here! After breakfast in your condo or at one of our cafés, your day starts with a ski run down to the Comet high-speed 6-pack chairlift—rather than a

28 gendronski 2016-2017

© Blake Jorgenson Photography Ltd

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., 7 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD

Without flights Chilcoot Lodge *** ............................................................. $ 1,735 ........................... $ 780 Fire Light at the Pond **** - Studio ............ $ 1,765 ........................... $ 800 Snowbird Lodge **** - Studio ............................. $ 1,935 ........................... $ 930 Gendron Exclusive: 7th day of skiing free when booked by Nov. 30, 2016 Book by Nov. 30, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

OPTIONS Cross-country skiing camps offered this Winter (2.5 or 5 days) contact us for more details.

Many Ski Safaris are available, combining Whistler, Sun Peaks or Revelstoke. See details on page 30.

Extend your stay and enjoy the thalassotherapy installations at the Sparkling Hill Resort. Š Blake Jorgenson Photography Ltd

Exit 58 autoroute 15 North

British Columbia

© Doug Le Page

Ski Safaris

By Sophie Laplante

A

ski safari is a little something like a tasting menu at a high-end restaurant—all the best the menu has to offer, but in smaller quantities. The goal is to ski several resorts in the same trip so you get as much mountain enjoyment as possible while also exploring as many different areas as you can.

You’ll want to start off by choosing the particular region you wish to explore and pick a few ski resorts within it. This kind of trip is ideal for those visiting Western Canada or the Western U.S.. Make sure the distance between each of the places you want to visit is reasonable, keeping in mind that winter driving might require a bit more time. Planning to ski a different resort every day is generally a bad idea since you might end up spending more time on the road than on your skis. Expect to spend two or three days at every resort so you can really make the most of it. GendronSki currently has several destination reps in Western Canada—at Revelstoke, Kicking Horse and Sun Peaks. Why not take advantage and plan your itinerary accordingly? Their great tips are sure to help you quickly discover the best sectors on the mountain, and the best spots to visit in town.

A ski safari is also a golden opportunity to test your abilities.

For example, you might not think that you have the skills required to spend a whole week at Kicking Horse. No problem! You can stay in Banff, hit the slopes at Sunshine and Lake Louise and use the shuttle service to make your way to Kicking Horse for a day. You might also want to warm up your legs at Sun Peaks and then make your way over to Revelstoke, renowned for having the longest vertical descent of any ski resort in North America. Or, why not try something different and reserve a stay at Red Mountain or Whitewater?

Whenever I organize this kind of trip for my clients, I always choose hotels over other types of accommodation.

It’s generally more practical than having to drag your food and other stuff around from one place to the next. For those who can, I suggest integrating a day of cat-skiing or heliskiing. More and more companies are now offering oneday packages, which makes it easier to add this type of skiing to your itinerary.

Skiers absolutely love ski safaris because it allows them to return to the resorts they know and love while trying new ones at the same time. Why restrict yourself to one place when it’s so easy to discover and enjoy so many new ones?

30 gendronski 2016-2017

OUR PACKAGES… in British Columbia

Prices “starting at” include round trip airfare based on a January 14 to 21, 2017 stay, accommodations in double occupancy, compact car rental for the duration of your stay (taxes and surcharges included), services of our on-site reps and lift tickets as indicated.

Promotional rates are only applicable on packages reserved before Nov. 15, 2016.

NEW THIS SEASON SAFARI RED MOUNTAIN | WHITEWATER Day 1: Flight to Kelowna and accommodations in WhiteWater Days 2 & 3: Skiing and accommodations in WhiteWater Day 4: Skiing at WhiteWater and accommodations at Red Mountain Days 5, 6 & 7: Skiing and accommodations at Red Mountain Day 8: Return flight

From Montreal or Ottawa:

$ 1,975 / pers. in double occ.

Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures. $ 965 USD without flights.

SAFARI BIG WHITE | SilverStar Day 1: Flight to Kelowna and accommodations in SilverStar Days 2 & 3: Skiing and accommodations in SilverStar Day 4: Skiing at SilverStar and accommodations in Big White Days 5, 6 & 7: Skiing and accommodations in Big White Day 8: Skiing and accommodations at Sparkling Hill Resort in Vernon.

Day 9: Return flight

From Montreal or Ottawa:

$ 2,265 / pers. in double occ.

Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures. $ 1,185 USD without flights.

SAFARI FERNIE | KICKING HORSE Day 1: Flight to Calgary and accommodations in Fernie Days 2 & 3: Skiing and accommodations in Fernie Day 4: Skiing at Fernie and accommodations in Golden.

Days 5, 6 & 7: Skiing at Kicking Horse and accommodations in Golden Day 8: Return flight

From Montreal, Ottawa or Toronto: $ 815 USD without flights.

$ 1,695 / pers. in double occ.

Kicking Horse

Revelstoke Sun Peaks

Silver Star

Whistler Big White

Panorama

Whitewater

Fernie

Red Mountain

SAFARI SUN PEAKS | SILVERSTAR | BIG WHITE Day 1: Flight to Kelowna and accommodations at Sun Peaks Days 2 & 3: Skiing and accommodations at Sun Peaks Day 4: Skiing at SilverStar and accommodations at Big White Days 5, 6 & 7: Skiing and accommodations at Big White Day 8: Return flight

From Montreal or Ottawa:

© Voyages Gendron

$ 1,855 / pers. in double occ.

Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures. $ 870 USD without flights.

SAFARI REVELSTOKE | KICKING HORSE Day 1: Flight to Kelowna and accommodations in Revelstoke Days 2 & 3: Skiing and accommodations in Revelstoke Day 4: Skiing at Revelstoke and accommodations in Golden Days 5, 6 & 7: Skiing at Kicking Horse and accommodations in Golden Day 8: Return flight

From Montreal or Ottawa:

$ 1,735 / pers. in double occ.

© Kari Medig

© Doug Le Page

Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures. $ 780 USD without flights.

SAFARI RED MOUNTAIN | WHITEWATER | REVELSTOKE Day 1: Flight to Kelowna and accommodations at Red Mountain Resort Days 2 & 3: Skiing and accommodations at Red Mountain Resort Day 4: Skiing at Whitewater and accommodations at Red Mountain Resort Days 5, 6 & 7: Skiing and accommodations in Revelstoke Day 8: Return flight

From Montreal or Ottawa:

$ 1,845 / pers. in double occ.

Reduction of $ 30 for Toronto departures. $ 865 USD without flights.

© Blake Jorgenson Photography Ltd

SAFARI FERNIE | PANORAMA | KICKING HORSE Day 1: Flight to Calgary and accommodations in Fernie Day 2: Skiing and accommodations in Fernie Day 3: Skiing at Fernie and accommodations in Panorama Day 4: Skiing and accommodations in Panorama Day 5: Skiing at Panorama and accommodations in Golden Days 6 & 7: Skiing at Kicking Horse and accommodations in Golden Day 8: Return flight

From Montreal, Ottawa or Toronto:

$ 1,645 / pers. in double occ.

$ 775 USD without flights. © GrantGunderson.com

gendronski 2016-2017 31

hEliskiing

By Marie Duchesneau

E

very winter, my life consists of serving some of the happiest customers you’ve ever seen—donning ski boots and smiles almost permanently etched on their faces! So, what exactly is it that I’m so fortunate to do for a living? It’s quite simple, really. I sell happiness to skiers… in the form of heliskiing!

Heliskiing is said to be the ultimate experience for any seasoned ski enthusiast. As cliché as it might sound, it’s absolutely true.

After all, who hasn’t dreamed of seemingly endless powder, of an untouched forest, of tearing up a glacier on a beautifully sunny day, of taking a helicopter to the top of mountain, of a real ski guide, or feeling like you’re alone in the world as you take in the views of the most spectacular mountains in the country?

Heliskiing was long a luxury only the elite could afford. A typical package generally included a week-long stay in a high-end mountain inn, and the total bill was generally quite exorbitant. Of course, packages like this are still available, for those who can afford it. However, there are now several more affordable options to choose from, which are generally better suited to the average person’s budget. In fact, you can now reserve single-day packages, with or without accommodations.

That means you can plan a week at a resort such as Whistler, Revelstoke or Panorama and add a day of heliskiing without having to re-finance your home.

If you’re wondering what the best time of the season is for heliskiing, there truly is no right or wrong answer. Early in the season, the abundant snowfall often results in lots of backcountry skiing. February is the busiest month, so you have to reserve early. If you’re going at this time, you’ll tend to hop back and forth between the alpine sector and snow-covered forests. If you go in the spring, chances are you’ll be skiing on glaciers. But, since every winter is different, it’s hard to predict what to expect.

Although powder skiing may seem easy at first glance, it does require a certain amount of agility and high level of physical fitness. Wide skis are always included in your package, but you’ll definitely want to warm up on the slopes for a few days before going on this ultimate ski run if you want your legs to keep up.

Life is too short, so don’t wait another minute—book your heliskiing adventure today! You can’t put a price on spending an unforgettable day in the mountains with your family or friends. Be warned though… once you try it, you’ll want to do it again and again!

32 gendronski 2016-2017

© Selkirk Tangiers

Selkirk Tangiers

Starting at:

Playground: Canadian Rockies, Monashee Sector and Selkirk Packages: Single-day and Multi-day

/ pers. / 3 run + taxes

Whistler Heli-Skiing

Starting at:

Playground: Coastal Mountains Packages: 3 to 6 descents per day

/ pers. / day + taxes

R.K. Heliski

Starting at:

Playground: Canadian Rockies, Purcell Sector Packages: 3 to 5 descents per day

/ pers. / day + taxes

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Whistler, British Columbia

Panorama, British Columbia

$ 905 CAD $ 695 USD $ 989 CAD $ 760 USD $ 845 CAD $ 650 USD

Chugach Powder Guides Girdwood, Alaska, USA

Starting at:

Playground: Girdwood / Alyeska, Seard and Pacific Coast Packages: Single-day and Multi-day

USD / pers. / day + taxes

Last Frontier Heliskiing

Starting at:

Terrace / Smithers, British Columbia Playground: Coastal Mountains Packages: 4 to 7-day packages available at Ripley Creek or Bell 2 Lodge

TLH Heliskiing

Gold Bridge, British Columbia (4 hours from Whistler)

$ 1,375

$ 6,200 CAD $ 4,769 USD

/ pers. / 4 days + taxes

Starting at:

$ 5,570 CAD $ 4,285 USD

Playground: Coastal Mountains Packages: 3, 4, 5 and 7-day packages available for private groups

/ pers. / 3 days + taxes

Great Canadian Heli-Skiing

Starting at:

Playground: Canadian Rockies, Purcell Sector Packages: 2 to 6-day packages available

/ pers. / 2 days + taxes

Purcell Heli-skiing

Starting at:

Playground: Canadian Rockies, Purcell Sector Packages: Single-day and Multi-day

/ pers. / day + taxes

Golden, British Columbia

Kicking Horse, British Columbia

$ 4,295 CAD $ 3,305 USD $ 1,209 CAD $ 930 USD

High Mountain Heli-Skiing Teton Village, Wyoming, USA

Playground: American Rockies Packages: Single-day and Multi-day For descriptions and available dates, please contact our specialists.

Starting at:

$ 1,350

USD / pers. / day + taxes

catskiing F

By Caroline Samson

or many skiers, heliskiing is the absolute ultimate experience. I have to agree that being flown to the highest peaks of a mountain so you can carve up relentless virgin slopes of pure, immaculate snow while someone captures every moment on film is an amazing experience you will never forget!

That being said, cat-skiing is a great alternative. And, although the peaks aren’t quite as high, you still get to lay the first tracks on that glorious virgin snow. A little bit less extreme and not as widely known, cat-skiing should nonetheless be on every carving aficionado’s bucket list.

Heliskiing and cat-skiing are indeed very different. But, in both cases, the end result is ungroomed, off-piste terrain skiers typically get all to themselves. Guides do everything in their power to choose sectors that have the best snow conditions and where everyone is comfortable. They also work very hard to ensure their powderhound customers go home happy. (I personally had a smile on my face from start to finish… and then some!)

Cat-skiing, for its part, is more accessible both in terms of budget— since prices for a day or two of cat-skiing are significantly lower than they are for heliskiing—but also in terms of the vehicle used to get skiers to the top! Those who don’t particularly like flying are generally more comfortable being in a vehicle that stays on the ground! Boarding and disembarking is also a little less rushed when it comes to cat-skiing.

Personally, I love both of these sports. But, what I particularly enjoy about cat-skiing are the fabulous carving my friends and I get to enjoy together, on fabulous terrain, as challenging or laid-back as we can manage and as our mood dictates. In between runs, we can still have a bite together, listen to music, tell our stories and laugh at our less-successful descents. Then, make our way back up and start all over again! It doesn’t get any better than this!

Monashee Powder Snowcats

Starting at:

Coldstream (near Kelowna), British Columbia monashee powder snowcats

Playground: Canadian Rockies, Monashee Sector Packages: 2, 3 or 4-day packages available

$ 650 CAD $ 500 USD

/ pers. / day + taxes

Chugach Powder Guides Girdwood, Alaska, USA

Playground: Girdwood / Alyeska, Seard and Pacific Coast Packages: Single-day “Stand by” or Multi-day

Powder Mountain Catskiing

On request

Starting at:

$ 549 CAD $ 425 USD

Whistler, British Columbia

Playground: Coastal Mountains Packages: Single-day

/ pers. / day + taxes

Big Red CatS

Starting at:

Red Mountain, British Columbia Playground: Canadian Rockies, Kootenay Sector Packages: Single-day

$ 449 CAD $ 345 USD

/ pers. / day + taxes

For descriptions and available dates, please contact our specialists. © kalacis

gendronski 2016-2017 33

QuEbec

Mont-Sainte-Anne

By Caroline Samson

S

ince I don’t get to go to Mont-SainteAnne as often as I’d like to, I’m always thrilled when the opportunity arises.

My friends and I only manage to get a few ski days in every winter, and it’s just not enough. So, when we do get around to skiing, I like to make the most of it. That’s why I head to Mont-Sainte-Anne. This mountain has everything we love: narrow, ungroomed pistes as well as wide impeccably groomed boulevards, extensive glades, ISF-calibre trails, long green and blue descents for laidback skiing while admiring the landscape,

not to mention several runs that are certainly some of the most beautiful in Quebec, starting with the Crête and the others in its sectors, which provide an unbelievable view of the St. Lawrence and Île d’Orléans.

tons of accommodations to choose from, great restaurants around the corner and plenty of runs for a fun-filled weekend, long weekend or even a week-long stay during the Holidays or Spring Break!

One of the best things about Mont-Ste-Anne is its configuration. Many of its sectors have a consistent regular slope—once you start going down, you practically don’t stop until you arrive at the lifts. There are no false flats, so you won’t need to pole in order to keep moving. You’ll go non-stop, from the top to the bottom of the run.

Packages

Another advantage is that trails are divided into sides that get very different sun exposure.

The North Side and West Side don’t get too much sun. That means beautiful snow until late in the season, which is really good news since Ste-Anne typically stays open until late April—much to the joy of spring ski enthusiasts.

While it’s possible to do a day trip from southern Quebec to enjoy some skiing here, you’ll find that it’s over in a flash. So, why not hang around for a few days? There are

backcountry paradise is transformed into one of the most delightful carving playgrounds. That being said, even if Sutton is recognized for the variety and quantity of its glades— and all the fun skiers have tearing them up—there is so much more to this amazing resort: its meandering runs of varying widths, weaving through perfectly spaced trees, are perfect for letting loose in fresh powder.

It is often said that Sutton is skiing at its absolute purest. Indeed, one of the particularly great things about Sutton is the fact that runs are not systematically groomed. Mogul hounds, and those who love their terrain a little rugged and irregular— not to mention the intense focus it requires—will be well served on this mountain. The glades at Sutton are also as pure and raw as it gets. Of course, there is also plenty for those who prefer to carve wide, groomed slopes, as the maintenance crew

sutton

© Charles Trudeau

By Caroline Samson

W

hen the forecast calls for abundant snowfall in the south of the Belle Province, I just want to throw my skis on and head straight for Sutton. After mounds of snow have accumulated, this

34

gendronski 2016-2017

TRANSPORTATION NOT INCLUDED

2 nights, based on a Jan. 13, 2017 stay in double occ. and 2 days of skiing (1 day at Le Massif and 1 day at the MontSainte-Anne),, GST and PST included, starting at: MONT-SAINTE-ANNE USD Château Mont-Sainte-Anne **** ........................ $ 345................ $ 265 QUEBEC CITY Hôtel Manoir Victoria **** .......................................... $ 325................ $ 250 Fairmont Le Château Frontenac ***** ....... $ 395................ $ 305 Grand Hôtel Times **** - Breakfast ............ On request CHARLEVOIX Loft Bellevue ***** - Quad. occ. .............................. $ 225................ $ 175 La Charlevoix *** - Occ. 8 ............................................. $ 255................ $ 195 La Bellevue ***** - Occ. 8 ............................................. $ 265................ $ 205 Packages up to 30 days and combined stays available on request.

Mont-sainte-anne Average snowfall 190” / 480 cm Vertical drop 2,050’ / 625 m Altitude 2,625’ / 800 m

Beginner 21% Intermediate 46% Advanced 20% EXPERT 13%

works tirelessly to keep several of the main runs impeccable.

In keeping with its pure, natural side, Sutton also has a traditionally welcoming feel. Both the staff and the mountain’s regulars have managed to maintain the warm and friendly quality of the resort over the years. A typical day might go a little something like this: several exciting runs, complete with a warm greeting from the lift workers with every ride up, a stop at the top for a cup of hot chocolate or midday lunch with friends, tons more amazing descents and, once the lifts close for the day, some après-ski fun at Le Tucker with a cool band, friends and a couple of drinks.

Feel free to add an extra hot chocolate here and there, as needed. And the best part of it all is that you can start over again the next day!

MONT Sutton Average snowfall 166” / 422 cm Vertical drop 1,509’ / 460 m Altitude 3,156’ / 962 m

Packages

Beginner 25% Intermediate 30% Advanced 18% EXPERT 27%

TRANSPORTATION NOT INCLUDED

2 nights, based on a Jan. 13, 2017 stay in double occ. (unless otherwise specified) and 2 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at: USD Hotel Horizon *** ...................................................................... $ 335 ............. $ 259

QUEBEC

tremblant

21%

Beginner

Mont-Tremblant

32%

Intermediate

47%

Advanced

Average snowfall 163” / 413 cm Vertical drop 2,116’ / 645 m Altitude 2,871’ / 875 m

© 2014AVTSMT

side, during the Holidays and on Saturday mornings, around 10:00 a.m., the line-up for the Versant Sud gondola is likely to be a lot longer.

By Caroline Samson

W

ith the different sides and sectors of its mountain, its quaint pedestrian village, its alternate activities and variety of restaurants, Tremblant has everything you need for a great ski vacation.

Repeatedly ranked one of the best ski destinations in North America, Tremblant also has a sublime atmosphere that I especially love in the spring, at Christmastime, or during any of the countless events it holds throughout the year.

That being said, the main reason we all go to Tremblant is to hit the slopes—and, with plenty of options for everyone, it’s certainly a joy to do. Officially, Tremblant has four sides, but I would actually say it has six distinct sectors: Versant Soleil with its long descents; the sector surrounding Flying Mile with its parks and crazy pitch; the often lessfrequented Edge, which is simply fabulous after a heavy snowfall and where you are sure to have a blast weaving in and out of the trees; the varied and therefore extremely popular Versant Sud, with its magnificent lake views; Versant Nord for its abundance of possibilities; and, lastly, the Expo sector, where my friends and I spend half of our winter weekends!

Naysayers will often argue that Tremblant is too crowded on the weekends. My counter argument, and one that applies to practically any ski resort, is the following: get there early and, if possible, meet up with friends who ski the mountain regularly because they will know exactly where to go and what time to arrive in order to make the most of your day.

Keep in mind that, at Tremblant, much like anywhere else, Sundays are the quietest, especially in the afternoon. On the flip

Sunny late afternoons are just as magnificent at Tremblant. In January, when the sun sets on the mountains to the west, ending the day by slowly winding down the slopes from Le Manitou cottage towards the base of Versant Sud, with Galarneau a kaleidoscope of colours in the background, is pure heaven. In March and April, when the end of the day is upon us, we tend to head over to Place Saint-Bernard instead—which is not too shabby either, if I do say so myself.

Packages TRANSPORTATION NOT INCLUDED 2 nights, based on a Jan. 13, 2017 stay in double occ. and 2 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at: USD Place Saint-Bernard *** - Condo, quad. occ. ................ $ 285 ... $ 220 Homewood Suites

by Hilton **** - Studio, breakfast. buffet ................................ $ 295 ... $ 225 Residence Inn by Marriott Mont Tremblant *** - Breakfast buffet .................................. $ 295 ... $ 225 Holiday Inn Express & Suites **** - Breakfast ....... $ 315 ... $ 245 Le Sommet des neiges **** - Condo, quad. occ. .. $ 345 ... $ 265 Westin Resort & Spa Tremblant **** .............................. $ 415 ... $ 320 Fairmont Tremblant ***** ................................................................ $ 525 ... $ 405 Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

My TOP PICKS For each of Tremblant’s sectors, I have my favourite runs— the Expo, the Windigo, the Ryan and the Érik Guay. Every time I go, I can’t wait to tear them up! I also have my favourite combos.

For example, my friends and I like to start by making our way towards the area under the Duncan chairlift. We always stay on the right side, close to the trees, and then weave over to Devil’s River and Boiling Kettle. If there is a fresh layer of lovely new snow, we arrive at the bottom with the widest of smiles, warmed up and ready for the next run!

2015AVTSMT

gendronski 2016-2017 35

ALL-INCLUSIVE IS THE WAY TO SKI

AND THE ALPS ARE THE PLACE TO SKI!

DISCOVER CLUB MED’S 20 ALL-INCLUSIVE SKI GETAWAYS.

Valleyfield: 450 373-8747 Montreal: 514 866-8747 Canada and United States: 1 800 561-8747

PACKAGE INCLUDES: - LIFT TICKETS - SKI LESSONS WITH CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS - LOCALLY INSPIRED GOURMET CUISINE

-

FULL OPEN BAR CHILDREN’S CLUBS FROM 4 YRS. APRÈS-SKI ACTIVITIES AND MUCH MORE

Escape à la

QuEbec

Le Massif Look no further

By Mario Daniel

A

ll too often, in our quest for perfection, we fail to see what’s right there, in our very own backyard.

That’s exactly what happened to me last winter when I was trying to decide on a destination for a three-day skiing getaway with friends. I started by checking out several of the New England resorts but, honestly, the idea of paying that extra 30% pretty much turned me off. In the end, I opted to stay in Quebec and head for Charlevoix— more specifically, Le Massif. It was the best decision I could have made!

which were still bursting at the seams with snow.

By day’s end, we were exhausted and it was time for some well-deserved après-ski drinks. The bar was packed as traditional chansonniers entertained, swaying the crowd to sing along. We had such a great time!

Although I have been going on day trips to Le Massif regularly for years, I think that staying there for a few days really allowed me to discover and enjoy everything this resort has to offer.

Our very first morning there, upon stepping out of the hotel, we had the pleasure of discovering that our car was covered in over 40 cm of fresh snow. As you can well imagine, we had an absolute blast that particular day… when we got to the mountain all we could see, other than a few snowcat tracks, was a blanket of pure, untouched powder covering practically every inch of the place. Let’s just say that a vertical drop of 770 metres in pure powder is quite extraordinary, not to mention a great workout for the legs!

After carving our fair share of tracks on the main pistes, we alternated between mogul runs and backcountry areas,

The next day, we took advantage of the perfect, sunny weather to explore Le Massif from a different angle—almost every run, except for a few expert trails, had been groomed, allowing us to do a complete tour of the mountain and enjoy all of its spectacular, larger-thanlife vistas.

On Day 3, to finish things off in style, we were hit with another 20 centimetres of snow. It just doesn’t get any better than this! Just goes to prove what I was saying earlier… you really don’t need to look any further than your own backyard!

Packages TRANSPORTATION NOT INCLUDED 15%

Beginner

30%

Intermediate

22%

Advanced

35%

EXPERT

Le MASSIF Average snowfall 254” / 645 cm Vertical drop 2,526’ / 770 m Altitude 2,644’ / 806 m

2 nights, based on a Jan. 13, 2017 stay in double occ. and 2 days of skiing at Le Massif , GST and PST included, starting at: CHARLEVOIX USD Loft Bellevue ***** - Quad. occ. .................. $ 225 .................. $ 175 La Charlevoix *** - Occ. 8 ................................. $ 255 .................. $ 195 La Bellevue ***** - Occ. 8 ................................. $ 265 .................. $ 205 Hôtel Le Germain Charlevoix **** ....... $ 395 .................. $ 305 Packages up to 30 days and combined stays available on request.

© Benjamin Gagnon

gendronski 2016-2017 37

JAPAN

Hakuba Valley

Guillaume Martin-Doire

By Paul Dubrûle

W

hen one thinks of snow and winter sports, Asia isn’t usually the first place that comes to mind. Yet, oddly enough, Japan is actually one of the fastest growing ski destinations in the world! Last December, I was catapulted to the other end of the globe, right into one of the most unique ski experiences I have ever had. I spent an incredibly unforgettable week in Hakuba Valley. Although I knew that one could ski in Japan—I too had seen it while watching the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics—I really had no idea there were so many options to choose from!

On-site representative

My passion for skiing began on the icy trails of Quebec’s ski resorts during family outings. As a teenager, my thirst for adventure and fresh snow took me to the forests of Mont Tremblant, Le Massif and Jay Peak. In my early twenties, my desire for skiing even bigger mountains led me to discover Whistler, where I spent five years skiing the kind of terrain and powder you only see in the movies. It was during this time that I understood just how contagious my love for the sport could actually be. I made the move from snowmaker to instructor, doing everything I could to share my passion with others. At the time, rumours were going around about a new powder paradise. I saw videos filmed in Japan showing forests of birch trees covered in thick blankets of white, and skiers peeking through clouds of powder with every turn. This quickly became my ultimate dream destination! I spent a season working as a backcountry skiing/cat-skiing guide in Niseko, and it was the most unforgettable winter of my life!

I am always happy to find myself back in Japan, listening to skiers scream with joy as they make their way downhill!

During my vacation, I stayed in Hakuba Valley, an authentically rural spot in the heart of the Japanese Alps. There are a dozen or so resorts in this area including Happo-one, Tsugaike Kogen, Cortina and Hakuba 47-Hakuba Goryu. The first two of these are pretty centrally located while the other two are a bit more off the beaten path, although still accessible by shuttle.

Despite what many people might think, snow is far from being on the verge of extinction in Japan. In fact, it snows all the time here, and the place has even earned a reputation for its legendary powder. So, make sure you pack your powder skis if you don’t want to disappear under all that snow! During my trip to Japan, I spent a day ski touring (using climbing skins). If you plan on making this part of your trip, I highly recommend using the services of a guide.

From experience, I can say that it will help you move out of your comfort zone and explore your surroundings a little more.

As far as accommodations go, I stayed at a fabulous hotel where breakfast and dinner were included as part of my package— something of an all-inclusive formula, you could say. As a result, I got to indulge in delectable sushi, © Jean-Luc Brassard okomomiyaki (Japanese crepes) and soba noodles. I also took a notto-be-missed dip in an onsen (hot springs). These thermal water sources (where nudity is de rigueur) are the perfect place to relax those tired muscles after a day of tearing up the slopes.

Before heading back home, I made a pit stop in Tokyo where I spent two days enjoying yet another change of scenery. There is just so much to see here, and always something going on… day and night! I couldn’t have picked a better way to wrap up my first Asian vacation.

In short, skiing in Japan is a unique experience that delights all of the senses.

To think that, after 30 years of travelling and skiing around the world, I thought I had seen it all… until I made my way to the Land of the Rising Sun, and discovered all of its unexpected wonders.

38 gendronski 2016-2017

© Jean-Luc Brassard

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing (valid for 10 resorts), services of our on-site rep, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal

USD

Without flights

Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba (Cortina) *** - Breakfast ............................. $ 2,985 ...................... $ 1,525 Hakuba Mominoki ****1/2 - Breakfast ....................................................... $ 2,995 ...................... $ 1,530 Hotel Green Plaza Hakuba (Cortina) *** - Breakfast & dinner ............................................... $ 3,345 ...................... $ 1,800 Hakuba Tokyu Hotel **** - Breakfast ......................................................... $ 3,495 ...................... $ 1,915 Hakuba Tokyu Hotel **** - Breakfast & dinner ................................. $ 3,975 ...................... $ 2,285 La Neige Higashikan ***1/2 .............................................................................. On request Book by Nov. 1, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Reduction of $ 40 for Toronto departures.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

Take advantage of your stay in Japan to visit, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima or even extend your stay to explore even more!

JAPAN

Niseko

By Jean-Luc Brassard

N

iseko is surely no longer the best-kept secret in the world.

With its abundance of snow all winter long, averaging one metre per week, this magnificent mountain obviously attracts more than its fair share of powder hounds from around the globe.

The popularity of the resort has brought many advantages including improvements to the lift infrastructure, more restaurant options, and an openness to foreign languages—which, needless to say, has made life that much easier for us tourists!

But, with so many visitors, you may be wondering if Niseko still has fresh snow to enjoy. I’m happy to say that this vast four-resort mountain has tons to satisfy skiers of every level, including some easy-to-access secret spots that are sure to captivate even the most discerning of experts.

One of the high points of any trip to Niseko is decidedly that moment when you find yourself at the very summit of the mountain, where no lift can take you. After a short hike, when the weather cooperates—and when the patrollers allow—you can take in the spectacular views of the Sea of Japan on one side while, on the other, Mount Yotei, which happens to be an active volcano. After an intense photo-snapping session inspired by the beauty of your surroundings, you are ready to tackle your choice of two skiable slopes. Best of all, after your one-kilometre powder descent, both of these trails end at the base of the lifts, in sectors on complete opposite sides!

You’ll want to start over again and again, especially when the weather is cooperating. After all, if Niseko has this much snow, you’ll understand that it also gets its share of snow storms. Contrary to our low-pressure systems, which move quite slowly, those in northern Japan move incredibly fast. In a three-hour timeframe, you can easily experience sun, cloud, violent winds and… 20 cm of fresh snow! That being said, temperatures are generally milder when compared to our Canadian winters, although the strong Siberian winds responsible for the abundant snow here can sometimes leave the most hardened winter sport enthusiasts feeling a chill.

Japan is obviously not the easiest destination to get to. But, it is guaranteed to be a unique escape. So, make sure you extend your stay long enough to discover all that this pristine, safe and very welcoming country has to offer. Sayonara!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada or Japan Airlines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., 5 days of skiing, meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

Hilton Niseko Village *** - 2 meals per day ........................................ On request Alpen Hotel *** ..................................................................................................................... On request Vale Hotel ..................................................................................................................................... On request Gran Hirafu Niseko .......................................................................................................... On request Combine stays with other ski resorts. Available on request.

gendronski 2016-2017 39

CHILE

Valle Nevado

F

or me, skiing is about experiences, passion, discovery, exploration and crossing another spectacular destination off of your bucket list.

Simply put—skiers love to ski! So, why restrict this pleasure to winter alone? I can’t think of a better way to spend my summer vacation than by making powder turns in Valle Nevado, Chile and experiencing the culture of South America. Valle Nevado is an iconic mountain ski mecca perched high in the stunning El Plomo foothills of the Andes, just 59 km from the capital, Santiago.

Every North-American skier dreams of ripping big lines in the summer. And, Valle Nevado makes it all possible. There is something truly special about carrying your skis and boots through the airport in the August heat. You are bound to get your fair

share of strange looks, but it really doesn’t matter. After all, you know something special is about to happen. You’re about to live the ski experience of a lifetime. Valle Nevado is accessible via direct flights from Toronto to Santiago and there is no time difference for you to adjust to. On the 11:00 p.m. flight, you’ll be checked in and cranking turns the very next day.

The prestigious international resort offers up the most modern ski facilities in the Southern hemisphere and features South America’s only gondola. The terrain is interlinked with the ski resorts of La Parva and El Colorado, bringing total skiable acreage to a massive 7,000 acres! That is just slightly smaller than mega resorts like Whistler/Blackcomb and slightly larger than Vail, Colorado. All guests staying on a 7-night package will receive a day at each of the interlinked areas. Valle Nevado wins hands down on both expanse and

portillo

By Kevin Gasior

diversity. The vast Andean terrain offers wellgroomed trails for skiers and snowboarders of all levels and, for powder hounds, glorious offpiste and backcountry touring. The mountain setting is quite simply magnificent.

Destination skiers and riders will immediately feel at home in this uncrowded yet totally modern resort, styled to appeal to the North-American market. Driving into Valle Nevado is like driving into a small ski village, with three hotels, a number of small condominium buildings, a selection of shops and all of the other amenities offered by any world-class ski destination. In addition, you get the views of the Andes Mountains and the most spectacular sunsets on the planet.

Valle Nevado, with its bars and restaurants, generates a vibe like no other South-American ski resort. I think you’ll agree as you kick back in the giant heated outdoor pool, overlooking paradise with a glass of Chile’s famous wine or a Pisco Sour in hand.

No crowds, amazing powder and perfectly groomed cruisers, plus excellent NorthAmerican style accommodations give Valle Nevado, Chile the clear advantage that committed skiers have long been searching for. Make this the season that Chile comes off of your bucket list. It may very well become your annual summer tradition.

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Delta Air Lines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation at the resort in double occ., meal plan and ski days as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at: VALLE NEVADO - 6 DAYS OF SKIING Hôtel Tres Puntas *** - 2 meals per day .................................... On request Hôtel Puerta del Sol **** - 2 meals per day ....................... On request Hôtel Valle Nevado ***** - 2 meals per day .......................... On request FARELLONES - SKIING NOT INCLUDED La Cornisa *** - 2 meals per day ......................................................... On request Chalet Valluga *** - 2 meals per day ........................................... On request

OPTIONS Additional nights at Novotel Santiago Vitacura **** in Santiago available.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Delta Air Lines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation at the resort in double occ., meal plan and ski days as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

PORTILLO - 7 DAYS OF SKIING Octagon Lodge ** - Full board ............................................................................. On request Hôtel Portillo **** - Full board ............................................................................... On request Stay longer and visit Santiago, its wineries or the Atacama Desert.

OPTIONS Additional nights at Novotel Santiago Vitacura **** in Santiago available. Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

© Morten

40 gendronski 2016-2017

ALASKA

Alaska

1,200 metres in altitude. So, even if some effort is needed to enjoy that untouched slope, you won’t be affected by altitude sickness.

It goes without saying that a trip to Alaska would not be complete without a heliskiing or cat-skiing excursion with the guides from Chugach Powders. This team of professionals will not only pick you up at the hotel door, they will also take the time to explain everything you need to know about this incredible experience you’ve so often seen gracing the covers of ski magazines. These guides will make you feel like a star for a day, capturing you on camera and in pictures.

an experienced skiers paradise

By Claudine Hébert

To finish off, if you are looking to celebrate these memorable days into the night at popular spots like the Girdwood or Double Musky restaurant, don’t worry about getting to bed too late! Skiing near the Arctic Circle has its advantages—the lifts don’t open until 10:30 in the morning. Cheers to sleeping in, and fabulous skiing!

Beginner 11%

Alyeska Resort Average snowfall 669” / 1,700 cm Vertical drop 3,200’ / 975 m Altitude 3,939’ / 1,201 m

M

ost of the Canadians who make their way to Alaska do so aboard a cruise liner or caravan-style. There are really only a handful of diehards who dare visit the Last Frontier in the middle of winter with skis in tow.

One thing’s for sure, Alaska isn’t exactly around the corner. To boot, it’s far from being the most impressive of ski destinations. You can forget all about those quaint pedestrian villages, shops and all the rest. And yet, it’s one of those places that skiers dream about.

Before, during… and even after they visit.

Panoramas that will forever remain etched in your memory are those you will experience at the Alyeska ski resort, located less than

45 minutes from Anchorage, along the shores of Turnagain Arm. Even with the faintest rays of the winter sun, the sparkling reflection of the crystal waters (with the second highest tides in North America) dominates this landscape of snow and ice.

Intermediate 52%

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Delta Air Lines, airport transfers, 7 nights ‘accommodation in double occ., 5 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal USD

You should note, however, that these spectacular views are reserved for experienced skiers only. At Alyeska, 90% of the 1,400 acres of terrain is intended for intermediate and expert skiers. In fact, when snowfall is abundant—it was once 16 metres in a single season!—this mountain becomes sheer paradise for backcountry enthusiasts.

And here, there’s no reason to exert yourself reaching those perfect spots. Most of the backcountry sectors are available using the various lifts. They are also all located under

Advanced 37%

Without flights

The Hotel Alyeska ***** ........................ $ 2,565 ................ $ 1,295 Reduction of $ 305 for Ottawa departures.

Reduction of $ 285 for Toronto departures.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

OPTIONS Chugach Powder Guides Cat-skiing: see details on page 33.

Heliskiing: see details on page 32.

AlAskA is the lAst greAt winter plAyground.

©ralphkristopher

here, snow is meAsured in feet And mountAins rise from the seA. mAke us your Adventure bAse cAmp this winter.

stAy At the luxurious hotel AlyeskA And indulge At seven glAciers, our AwArd-winning mountAin-top restAurAnt Accessed viA the AlyeskA AeriAl trAm.

800-880-3880 AlyeskAresort.com gendronski 2016-2017 41

UTAH

Salt lake city The BEST snow in the world…

By Caroline Samson

W

hen skiers are looking to take that first big ski trip and don’t quite know where to go, people are quick to recommend Western Canada or Salt Lake City. Why Salt Lake? Quite simply because it’s one of those destinations where you’re practically guaranteed to be treated to mounds and mounds of snow—of the absolute best quality, I might add. You see, contrary to what you might think, not all snow is created equal. Utah prides itself on having the absolute BEST snow in the world, and I can attest that, indeed, you’ll encounter the driest and lightest powder you have ever seen on the Wasatch Mountains, stretching along the eastern side of Salt Lake City. Best of all, Utah gets tons of this light champagne powder all the time!

Equally as fabulous is the fact that the Wasatch Mountains are home to several internationally renowned resorts. Some, like Snowbird and Snowbasin , boast a vertical drop of close to 1,000 metres. As you can guess, this is the perfect spot for carving long groomers, and for trying out the runs used during the downhill skiing event at the 2002 Olympic Games. Any of the resorts here is worth the trip, even if you just visit one. You can easily keep yourself busy for a

whole week at Park City or Alta/Snowbird.

With such an abundance of powder, you can just imagine the incredible array of resorts available to you within a radius of a dozen or so kilometres.

Leaving for that first ski vacation is always very exciting… and somewhat nerve-racking.

You might be unsure about your ability to ski at big resorts or to ski such huge powder. But, rest assured, the resorts in Utah (much like any other big resort) have runs for different levels, from beginner to expert, as well as maintenance teams busy grooming the pistes every day. Anyone can find trails that appeal to them, and are sure to have fun skiing. As an added bonus, if you aren’t very comfortable skiing ungroomed snow, this might be the best opportunity to learn. That’s because, in addition to being the BEST snow in the world, Utah’s fresh powder is also one of the easiest to ski!

Of course, Utah isn’t only for first-time ski vacationers. Just ask our Gendron Travel team members. They know countless customers who regularly visit Utah, discovering new sectors and some new favourite runs every single time. Most of them have two or three resorts that they always enjoy going back to.

Perhaps it’s time for you to discover yours!

Cameron Chasse On-site representative

First, a few things about me: I’m a graduate of the University of Utah with a major in Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Management as well as a minor in French. While studying, I played hockey for the university and skied in my free time. I learned French in Belgium where I spent the summers of 2013 and 2015. But, most importantly—I absolutely LOVE snow and ice. Snow for skiing, and ice for hockey (not the other way around!).

I moved to Utah from New Hampshire when I was 19 years old to work at Alta Ski Area. It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on the Wasatch Mountains and its fluffy snow. I know all of the resorts in Utah, but Alta and Snowbird I know like the back of my hand. No matter what the conditions are, I’ll find you the best snow there is.

SKI TICKET OPTIONS GENDRON ski ticket Our exclusive GENDRON TRAVEL ski pass, gives you access to 7 ski areas daily (no transfers included): Alta • Snowbasin • Brighton • Snowbird • Deer Valley • Solitude • Powder Mountain*

SKI CITY ticket The SKI CITY ticket gives you access to 4 ski areas including the mountain shuttle at set times and set pick-up locations: Alta • Brighton • Snowbird • Solitude © Simon Evans

42 gendronski 2016-2017

© Garrett Grove 2009

UTAH

Snowbird’s champagne powder!

By Claudine Hébert

A

nyone who gets a taste of Utah’s superb champagne powder remembers it for a lifetime. After all, who could ever forget those amazingly light snowflakes, as sparkly as champagne bubbles, floating through the mountains of Little Cottonwood Canyon? And when you experience it on the slopes of Snowbird resort, with the biggest vertical drop in all of Utah, it’s pure magic!

You just need to experience a few descents in Peruvian Gulch, Mineral Basin and Gad Valley—three incredible steep and deep sectors—and you’ll be hooked! And the only way to feed that addiction is to come back year after year!

Albeit, last season’s 7.5 metres of snow accumulation weren’t too impressive. But, we’ll chalk it up to some weird fluke and pray to the Snow Gods that the resort gets the usual 10, 11, 12 (and sometimes even 14!) metres it has regularly gotten over the last 10 years.

We should warn you that, when at Snowbird, you’re likely to hear the sound of a howitzer going off. But, there’s nothing to fear! When all this white gold dropping from the sky is combined with a vertical drop of close to 1,000 metres, there can be a risk of avalanche. So, the staff at Snowbird is always sure to fire its artillery on snow days. They do everything they can to ensure that skiers and boarders can safely have hours and hours of fun on the slopes. Still, guests staying at slopeside accommodations might be surprised the first time they are woken up by the loud shots and shaking walls!

Note that Snowbird, located less than 30 minutes away from Salt Lake City, is also a neighbour to Alta—Utah’s “other” legendary mountain.

These two sister resorts have been connected by lift for years. Sadly, this 2-for-1 bonus is not available to boarders since snowboarding continues to be banned at Alta. So, for the time being, it remains exclusively a skier’s paradise!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada based on January 21 to 28, 2017 departures, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges payable on site), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 4 SKI CITY ski tickets and 1 GENDRON SKI ticket, GST and PST included, starting at: Montreal / Ottawa USD

SALT LAKE CITY - ACCESS TO 7 resorts GENDRON TICKET Without flights Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel **** ........................................................................................... $ 1,778 ..................... $ 875 Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City-Downtown **** ........................................................ $ 1,825 ..................... $ 915 Crystal Inn Downtown Salt Lake City *** - Breakfast .......................................... $ 1,845 ..................... $ 930 Little America **** .......................................................................................................................................... $ 1,890 ..................... $ 965 Red Lion Hotel Salt Lake Downtown *** ......................................................................... $ 1,930 ..................... $ 995 DoubleTree Suites by Hilton *** .................................................................................................. $ 2,015 .................. $ 1,060 Hilton Salt Lake City Center **** ................................................................................................ $ 2,355 .................. $ 1,325 Metropolitan Inn Dowtown **** ............................................................................................... On request Condos and townhouses - 2 to 5 bedrooms ....................................................... On request

SNOWBIRD - ACCESS TO 4 resorts SKI CITY TICKET The Inn **** - Studio ...................................................................................................................................... $ 2,445 ..................

Iron Blosam Lodge **** .......................................................................................................................... $ 2,830 ..................

The Lodge at Snowbird **** - Studio ...................................................................................... $ 3,095 ..................

Cliff Lodge & Spa ***** ............................................................................................................................ $ 3,495 ..................

$ 1,395 $ 1,689 $ 1,895 $ 2,195

Supplement of $ 65 for Toronto departures.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

I’ve spent years floating through Utah’s powder, soaring down its steeps, carving across its corduroy.

But when my daughter flew by me for the first time, yelping with joy in the clear mountain air, I really understood why they call it.

THE GREATESTSNOW ON EARTH

®

I’m Jill and this is my Greatest.

FIND YOUR GREATEST AT SKIUTAH.COM

MOTHER OF TWO

Jill Layfield BACKCOUNTRY.COM CEO

UTAH LOCAL

gendronski 2016-2017 43

Colorado

Deer Valley & Park City So many reasons to go!

By Robert Choquette and Marilyn Griffiths

L

ocated less than an hour’s drive from the Salt Lake City airport, Park City and Deer Valley ski resorts are so easy to access, you’ll be able to hit the slopes the minute you get there.

Much effort was put into restoring the buildings and spotlighting the historical character of Park City. Main Street in the Old Town district of Park City is lined with restaurants, bars, shops and art galleries, and the downtown core is buzzing with activity from morning until night. You can access all the action using the aptly named triple-chair Town Lift or one of two runs that will take you right into town.

Visitors have access to a range of accommodations and can choose to stay slopeside, in Park City Canyons Village, or even in the Old Town district of Park City. Yet another great option to consider is Deer Valley. And, regardless of where you stay, access to the slopes is easy and public transportation is free and efficient.

We started our week in Park City with a free guided tour of its namesake mountain resort and then headed over for a run down Jupiter Bowl to work up an appetite before lunch.

The terrain is definitely quite challenging, but the snow cover is abundant and wonderful.

Halfway down, we stopped in at Sommet House for a well-deserved break.

Since merging with neighbouring Canyons, Park City is now considered the biggest ski

resort in the U.S. And, thanks to the new Quicksilver gondola connecting the two, it’s impossible to resist exploring all that this vast skiable area has to offer. Despite being pressed for time, we managed to make our way to the top of the Ninety-Nine 90 peak, the highest point of the resort, before deciding to head back. It was starting to get late—in fact, we had just enough time to go down the double black Charlie Brown (this resort is known for its offpiste skiing) and catch the last gondola back to the Park City side. What a day!

Another great resort to consider when visiting the area is Deer Valley. Despite being Park City’s neighbour, Deer Valley could not be more different. While Park City is laid-back and fun, Deer Valley is rather upscale and appeals more to a clientele that likes getting extra special treatment. Of course, you can always choose to stay in Park City and still try out some skiing at Deer Valley, or vice versa.

We personally really liked the atmosphere at Deer Valley. Runs were impeccably groomed, and there was tons of expert terrain. One can definitely cover a lot of ground in one day here. The resort limits daily ticket sales to avoid overcrowding on lifts and runs.

And, oddly enough, snowboarding is still prohibited. This ski area is made up of three summits and a vast amphitheatre. At Deer Valley, most of the runs follow the fall line and the network of lifts is highly efficient.

Needless to say, we had a great day!

© Vail Resorts

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada based on a February 4 to 11, 2017 departure, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 4 days of skiing at Park City Resort and 1 day at Deer Valley, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD

Without flights

DoubleTree by Hilton Park City – The Yarrow ***- Breakfast .......................... $ 2,765.............. $ 1,635 Park City Peaks Hotel *** - Breakfast .......................... $ 3,095.............. $ 1,895 The Lodge at Mountain Village *** - Condo ....... $ 3,295.............. $ 2,045 Silver King Hotel **** - Studio ............................................. $ 3,385.............. $ 2,115 The Chateau Deer Valley ****1/2 - Breakfast ......... $ 3,955.............. $ 2,555 ** Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley ***** - Breakfast ................................................................. $ 4,815.............. $ 3,215 * Marriott Park City **** - Breakfast ..................................................... On request Main & SKY ***** ................................................................................................ On request Hotel Park City ***** ....................................................................................... On request Zermatt Hotel *** ................................................................................................ On request Luxury Condos and homes at Deer Valley - 2 to 5-bedroom ........................................................... On request* * Book by Dec. 1, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. * Including 3 GENDRON SKI TICKETs and 2 days of skiing at Park City Resort Reduction of $ 35 for Toronto departures.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

Let Crystal Inn delight you with our unexpected quality and award-winning guest service.

Oversized guestrooms - 25% larger than most Complimentary hot buffet breakfast Complimentary hi-speed wireless internet Complimentary airport shuttle Indoor swimming pool and hot tub

We look forward to seeing you.

www.crystalinns.com

Salt Lake City, UT 44 gendronski 2016-2017

230 West 500 South, 84103 801-328-4466

Colorado

all my discoveries and favourite things about the trip. What stood out the most for me about this particular ski vacation is the fact that, in Vail, the skiing is always extraordinary, the food alone is worth the trip, and the accommodations are unbeatable. You simply can’t go wrong!

vail

By Monyse Bélisle

S

ometimes I find it hard to believe that I’m paid to go skiing, visit hotels, try new restaurants and attend conferences in the most beautiful winter destinations. But, of course, someone has to sacrifice their time to make sure our customers can enjoy the best vacations possible, right? Okay, I know—I have the best job ever! This year, I finished the season off in Vail, accompanied by my colleague and friend, Paul Dubrûle.

After attending several meetings during the negotiations conference, we finally got to take a break and test out the product for ourselves.

Paul went off on his own to ski the back bowls of Blue Sky Basin, which provides access to mainly expert terrain. No doubt he had a few scares while skiing those steep couloirs and zigzagging through the glades. I, on the other hand (being a little more conservative), decided to stick with the groomed slopes. And, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to do it—after all, Vail has more groomed runs than

© Jack Affleck / Vail Resorts

anywhere in the world! It’s impossible to get bored here or even ski the same run twice in a day. After a full morning, we met up for lunch in one of the resort restaurants. Surprisingly, there were lots of healthy options to choose from, which is rare for an American resort.

At the end of the day, we headed over to Garfinkel’s bar—one of my favourites—for a little après-ski enjoyment. As I headed back to our slopeside condo afterwards, I stopped in at a few shops along the way.

18%

Beginner

29%

Intermediate

53%

Advanced

Average snowfall 346” / 879 cm Vertical drop 3,450’ / 1,052 m Altitude 11,570’ / 3,527 m

18%

Beginner

BEAVER CREEK

29%

Intermediate

53%

Advanced

VAIL MOUNTAIN RESORT

Average snowfall 310” / 787 cm Vertical drop 4,040’ / 1,231 m Altitude 11,440’ / 3,488 m

Packages One week including round trip airfare with American Airlines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing (valid for: Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge or Keystone), GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal USD

without flights

The next day, we decided to start the day off like the locals and have our breakfast at the Little Dinner. Everything was fresh, fast, and delicious—good fuel for our second day on the mountain. We also made sure we were well hydrated since the altitude was having quite an effect on us. Once at the summit, we were still amazed by the vast expanse of the area and the variety of terrain. To end this second glorious day on a fine note, we indulged in the best ribs in town at the Bully Ranch. It’s a place I always love going back to. Paul will tell you that it’s an absolute necessity during any trip to Vail.

Vail Racquet Club *** - Condo, quad. occ. ...... $ 2,425 ............ $ 1,460 Evergreen Lodge *** - Breakfast ............................... $ 2,785 ............ $ 1,735 * Vail’s Mountain Haus at Covered Bridge **** - Breakfast ................................. $ 3,195 ............ $ 2,050 Antlers at Vail *** - Studio ................................................ $ 3,445 ............ $ 2,245 ** Tivoli Lodge **** - Breakfast ........................................... $ 3,715 ............ $ 2,450 *** The Lodge at Vail **** - Breakfast .......................... $ 4,465 ............ $ 3,025 The Sebastian Vail ***** - Breakfast .................... $ 5,095 ............ $ 3,515 Manor Vail Lodge ***1/2 - Breakfast .......................................................... On request Vail Marriott Mountain Resort & Spa **** - Breakfast ..... On request Condos: Vail 21, Enzian, The Landmark Condominiums and Vantage Point - 2 to 4-bedroom condos ................................................. On request

Riding the shuttle bus back to the Denver Airport at the trip’s end, I was already bursting with excitement at the idea of telling the Gendron team about my stay, and sharing

Direct flights from Montreal or Toronto to Denver with Air Canada or Delta Air Lines available on request.

* Book by Nov. 16, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. ** Book by Oct. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. *** Book by Oct. 31, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Supplement of $ 210 for Ottawa despartures (Delta Air Lines).

Reduction of $ 185 for Toronto departures (Delta Air Lines).

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

Combined stays with Breckenridge, Aspen Snowmass or Steamboat available on request.

gendronski 2016-2017 45

Colorado

Breckenridge © Jeff Andrew / Vail Resorts

14%

Beginner

31%

Intermediate

55%

Advanced

Average snowfall 350” / 889 cm Vertical drop 3,398’ / 1,036 m Altitude 12,998’ / 3,962 m

19%

Beginner

ARAPAHOE BASIN

43%

Intermediate

38%

Advanced

Average snowfall 350” / 889 cm Vertical drop 2,270’ / 692 m Altitude 13,050’ / 3,978 m

19%

Beginner

KEYSTONE

32%

Intermediate

49%

Advanced

BRECKENRIDGE

Average snowfall 235” / 597 cm Vertical drop 3,128’ / 953 m Altitude 12,408’ / 3,782 m

© Aaron Dodds 2014

By Paul Dubrûle

C

olorado ski resorts have a firmly established reputation. They are often described as chic, superiorquality destinations that boast an abundance of snow as well as mountain villages and incredible skiing for every level.

Breckenridge, of course, offers all of this—but it has a very cool and historic vibe to it as well. Why cool? For starters, it was the first ski resort in Colorado to allow snowboarding way back in the 80s. Since then, Breckenridge has become the reference for snowparks and extreme sports. It has also undergone the

biggest ski area expansion in North America in the last decade. And, why historic? Simply because this Western-style town features 350 historical and cultural sites, making it a key historic district in the State of Colorado. Pretty impressive, if you ask me!

Breckenridge is also known for its four peaks—8 and 10 for experts, and 7 and 9 for intermediate skiers. You should also know that it’s one of the highest resorts in the country. I can still remember taking the Imperial Express SuperChair on my first visit.

The landscape took my breath away—literally!

And, because I always love a good challenge, I decided to hike the rest of the way to reach the summit at 3,963 metres. Good thing I was hydrated! From there, I skied some incredible lines in the Imperial Bowl and down George’s Thumb. There was tons of snow and it was perfectly steep. I really enjoyed Peak 10 for its international-calibre backcountry. But, if all this seems a little too extreme for your taste, don’t worry. Breckenridge is also a very family-friendly resort adapted to the needs of intermediate skiers. You are free to effortlessly glide down the velvety satin pistes and simply admire the beauty of your surroundings.

After a full day of skiing, make sure you still have enough energy to explore the streets

46 gendronski 2016-2017

of this vibrant and charming tourist town.

There are so many amazing restaurants, you wouldn’t have time to try them all in a week if you tried. You’ll want to spend at least one evening of après-ski time in one of Colorado’s oldest bars, the Gold Pan Saloon. This place is a real institution!

Colorado clearly has the perfect recipe for the best ski vacation. And, if that wasn’t enough already, you can even take a shuttle bus from Breckenridge to Keystone or Vail. They’ve really thought of everything here!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with American Airlines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing (valid for: Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge or Keystone), GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal USD

Without flights Mountain Thunder Lodge **** - Condo, quad. occ. ..... $ 2,485 .... $ 1,505 The Village at Breckenridge Resort *** - Studio ......... $ 2,895 .... $ 1,820 The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Breckenridge **** . $ 3,215 .... $ 2,065 One Ski Hill Place **** - Condo, quad. occ. ................... $ 3,345 .... $ 2,165 Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center ***1/2 ....... On request Reduction of $ 185 for Toronto departures.

Supplement of $ 210 for Ottawa departures (Delta Air Lines).

Direct flight from Montreal or Toronto to Denver with Air Canada or Delta Air Lines available on request.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

Packages combined with Aspen/Snowmass or Steamboat available on request.

Colorado

STeamboat Small town, big mountain and always SO SPECIAL

By Monyse Bélisle

W

hen you vacation in Steamboat, you’ll get much more than you bargained for; with a real town, and a mountain averaging 883 cm of Champagne Powder® snow that covers the six peaks towering over it. The snow adventures that await you will be legendary—groomed cruisers, bumps, steeps, terrain parks, open meadows and the best tree skiing and riding on the planet. The town offers 100+ restaurants and bars, three craft breweries, three full-service supermarkets, hot springs, night skiing and for those who just never get enough, cross-country skiing can also add to your alpine skiing week, and access is available almost right from downtown.

Most Steamboat hotels and condominiums offer guests private shuttle service throughout Steamboat Springs, and many offer on-demand transportation service as well. The city also has a comprehensive system of FREE transportation between the ski area and downtown as well as lodging, dining, shopping and entertainment locations.

A big bonus is also that children 12 and under ski and rent free when parents/grandparents purchase lift tickets and/or rent equipment for 5 days or more. The resort also offers a Kid’s Vacation Center, and is one of the premier kids’ facilities in the U.S. aimed not only at teaching skiing and snowboarding, but teaching kids in particular. The programs are truly designed around taking care of children aged 6 months to 6 years in a safe, nurturing and fun environment. The resort also offers a kids-only ski & snowboard zone with its own surface lift and lots of fun terrain features.

Accommodations at Steamboat include a wide range of hotels and condominiums, ranging from 5-star luxury residences to humble lodges, along with plenty of ski-in/ ski-out options. I just can’t wait to go back!

Steamboat Average snowfall 349” / 886 cm Vertical drop 3,668’ / 1,118 m Altitude 10,577’ / 3,224 m

Beginner 14% Intermediate 42% Advanced 44%

Packages One week including round trip airfare with American Airlines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal USD

Wihtout flights Holiday Inn Steamboat Springs *** ........................ $ 2,175 ....... $ 1,175 The Steamboat Grand ****1/2 - Breakfast, Studio .. $ 2,185 ....... $ 1,185 The Ptarmigan Inn *** ............................................................... $ 2,445 ....... $ 1,385 Trappeur’s Lodge *** - Condo ........................................... $ 2,635 ....... $ 1,535 Sheraton Steamboat Resort ****1/2 - Breakfast .... $ 2,635 ....... $ 1,535 Torian Plum Condominiums ***1/2 - Condo ...... $ 3,355 ....... $ 2,085 Reduction of $ 140 for Toronto departures.

Direct flight from Montreal or Toronto to Denver with Air Canada or Delta Air Lines available on request.

Packages without flights of up to 30 days and combined stays available on request

gendronski 2016-2017 47

Colorado

Aspen Snowmass ©Photographer Dan Bayer

Four amazing mountains

By Robert Choquette and Marilyn Griffiths

I

t’s been a couple of years since we last skied Aspen and, as we sit in the shuttle van speeding along the highway from Denver airport, we’re excited to reacquaint with one of our favorite areas. It’s the consummate all-American ski destination, with four amazing ski mountains, all on one lift ticket—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. And, the free regular shuttle service makes it a breeze to hop from one to the next.

SKI 30 - PERFECTION IS WORTH THE JOURNEY

SKI 30 is back by popular demand! With a minimum stay of seven nights at a participating property, this exclusive product gives you all the reason you need to extend your stay and savour some of North America's finest terrain. In addition, receive 10% off food at ASC on-mountain dining restaurants. SKI 30 allows you to enjoy unlimited skiing and riding for 30 consecutive days.

The Gant, in the heart of historic downtown Aspen, with its plethora of upscale shops, restaurants and bars, is where we’ve often stayed, but this time we’re headed slopeside in Snowmass at the Timberline. The higher altitude takes a little getting used to—we’re breathing pretty hard just unpacking! But, drinking lots of water makes it easier for us to adjust.

Since we’re staying here, we easily catch the first chair up the Village Express, the starting point to access Snowmass, the largest of the EXCLUSIVE TO GENDRON SKI four ski areas. Snowmass is where everyone, Lift tickets Canadian dollars at par regardless of their ability, will find exactly Valid - Jan 1, 2017 - Apr 2, 2017; applicable only on adult lift tickets (18—64) and what they want. Skiing with the family? must be booked 7 days prior to arrival.

Head for Elk Camp region with its gentle, undulating slopes that meander around islands of evergreens. Looking for highPackages speed cruisers? Then Big Burn is definitely One week including round trip airfare with American Airlines to Aspen, your territory. The whole area is wide open airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as and made just for you. More of the steep and indicated, 5 days of skiing (valid for 4 resorts), GST and PST included, deep type? Try Hanging Valley and Cirque starting at: with its chutes, bumps, couloirs and out-of Montreal USD bounds-like steeps. You’ll find everything ASPEN Toronto Without flights you’re looking for, and so much more. Today, Aspen Mountain Lodge *** - Breakfast ................. $ 2,365........ $ 1,255 we spend much of the morning high speed Molly Gibson Lodge *** - Breakfast ............................ $ 2,645........ $ 1,465 *** Aspen Meadows Resort ***1/2 - Breakfast .......... $ 2,715........ $ 1,525 cruising the Burn. As usual, the snow is Hotel Aspen *** - Breakfast ................................................... $ 2,745........ $ 1,545 *** soft and dry. As our legs start to throb (the The Gant **** - Condo, quad. occ. .................................... $ 2,755........ $ 1,555 * altitude is about 3,600 meters), we head a The Aspen Square Condominium little lower for lunch over at Elk Camp’s 1/2 Valid Jan 1, 2017 to Apr 2, 2017 - Book by October 15, 2016

mid area. We could spend all week here, but there are so many other areas just waiting to be explored.

Aspen Highlands is not at all glitzy. It is a favourite among locals, strong skiers, and those simply looking for something different. In addition to the many liftaccessed slopes, you can also enjoy snowcat access to the entrance of Highland Bowl.

Should you choose the latter, however, keep in mind that you will have to hike about 45 minutes.

Buttermilk, with its jumps and snowparks and super easy runs is, obviously, extremely popular with the younger set.

Aspen Mountain is the one right in the heart of Aspen. It’s popular with intermediate and strong skiers alike. The base slopes are pretty steep, funnel and can sometimes be icy, so downloading on the gondola is always an option. There are no green runs here.

Aspen is our choice for today. Great skiing up top and almost never crowded, we take more than our fill and now must decide whether to eat on mountain at the summit—with the great views—or go into town to choose from a variety of eateries. Since we’re still in ski boots, we opt for the Sundeck restaurant at the summit. Come evening, we make our way into town and enjoy a fabulous meal at La Hosteria.

18%

Beginner

ASPEN HIGHLANDS

30%

Intermediate

16%

Advanced

Average snowfall 300” / 762 cm Vertical drop 3,635’ / 1,108 m Altitude 11,675’ / 3,559 m

36%

Expert

7%

Beginner

55%

Intermediate

Hotel *** - Condo, quad. occ. ............................................. $ 3,095........ $ 1,815 ** Hotel Jerome ****1/2 ................................................................ On request Condos 1 to 3-bedroom: Château Chaumont/Domont, Durant, Fifth Avenue or Silverglo..................................................................... On request

38%

Advanced

Average snowfall 300” / 762 cm Vertical drop 4,406’ / 1,345 m Altitude 12,510’ / 3,813 m

0%

Beginner

ASPEN MOUNTAIN

48%

Intermediate

SNOWMASS The Stonebridge Inn *** ......................................................... $ 2,195........ $ 1,125 * The Crestwood *** - Studio ................................................... $ 2,475 ...... $ 1,335 Timberline Condominiums *** - Studio ................ $ 2,575........ $ 1,415 *

52%

Advanced

Average snowfall 300” / 762 cm Vertical drop 3,267’ / 996 m Altitude 11,212’ / 3,418 m

35%

Beginner

BUTTERMILK

39%

Intermediate

26%

Advanced

Average snowfall 300” / 762 cm Vertical drop 2,030’ / 618 m Altitude 9,842’ / 3,000 m

* Book by Oct. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. ** Book by Nov. 1, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. *** Book by Nov. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Supplement of $ 125 for Ottawa departures (Delta Air Lines).

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

48 gendronski 2016-2017

©Photographer Dan Bayer

SNOWMASS

Wonderful California and

Lake Tahoe ’s delightful powder

Colorado

ALPINE MEADOWS

25%

Beginner

40%

Intermediate

35%

Advanced

Average snowfall 450” / 1,143 cm Vertical drop 1,802’ / 549 m Altitude 8,637’ / 2,633 m

20%

Beginner

HEAVENLY

45%

Intermediate

35%

Advanced

Average snowfall 365” / 927 cm Vertical drop 3,500’ / 1,067 m Altitude 10,067’ / 3,068 m

25%

Beginner

NORTHSTAR-AT-TAHOE

50%

Intermediate

25%

Advanced

Average snowfall 350” / 889 cm Vertical drop 2,280’ / 695 m Altitude 8,610’ / 2,624 m

25%

Beginner

SQUAW VALLEY USA

45%

Intermediate

30%

Advanced

Average snowfall 450” / 1,143 cm Vertical drop 2,850’ / 869 m Altitude 9,050’ / 2,758 m

15%

Beginner

KIRKWOOD

50%

Intermediate

35%

Advanced

Average snowfall 600” / 1,524 cm Vertical drop 2,000’ / 610 m Altitude 9,800’ / 2,987 m

© Rachid Dahnoun

By Claudine Hébert

S

ome people associate California with the music of the Beach Boys, for others it is Napa Valley or perhaps the gorgeous sunsets in San Francisco Bay. For expert skiers, though, the Golden State is first and foremost connected with a fabulous ski destination: Lake Tahoe.

Split between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is surrounded by 15 or so ski resorts tucked away in the Sierra Nevada Mountains: Northstar-at-Tahoe, Sierra-atTahoe, Homewood, Heavenly and Kirkwood, not to mention Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadow. The latter two are neighbour resorts and lift tickets provide access to both, but you will have to drive from one to the other in order to take advantage.

As long as El Nina hasn’t stirred up any trouble, Lake Tahoe is always bursting at the seams with winter snow. As such, it’s always a good idea to have (or rent) large powder skis so you can truly enjoy that incredibly light white California gold.

The peak of Squaw Valley, over 2,700 metres high, averages about 11 metres of snowfall per season. This bounty of snowflakes is perfect for fearless skiers and boarders eager to tackle the Palisades—a wall of a dozen or so couloirs with a 65-degree incline, making it one of the five most dangerous sectors among North-American resorts.

For the less daring, the KT-22 sector is equally exciting. On snow days, skiers start lining up three hours before the lift opens so they can be the first to lay down their tracks.

For those of you who aren’t early birds, but still want a taste of Squaw Valley’s fresh powder, there is a way—stay at one of the condos at the Squaw Creek Resort a few steps away from the triple lift that takes you to the summit of the Snow King sector. Reserved for experts only, this colossal playground brimming with giant Ponderosa pines doesn’t attract families staying at the hotel. As such, it is virtually empty on snow mornings. Until the KT-22 gang arrives, that is!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with United Airlines, compact car rental (local taxes and surcharges payable on site), 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan and ski days as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal USD Toronto Whitout flights Ski at Alpine Meadows or Squaw Valley only Squaw Valley Lodge **** - Studio ............................................. $ 2,265 ......... $ 1,175 * Resort at Squaw Creek ****1/2 - Breakfast ....................... $ 2,795 ......... $ 1,585 * The Village at Squaw Valley **** - Quad. occ. ............ $ 2,615 ......... $ 1,445

SQUAW VALLEY

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE Ski at Heavenly, Kirkwood or Northstar-at-Tahoe

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino ****............................................................................................ $ 2,320 ......... $ 1,219 * Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel **** - Breakfast ........................ $ 2,155 ......... $ 1,115 Forest Suites Resort *** - Breakfast ......................................... $ 2,265 ......... $ 1,175 MontBleu Resort *** ................................................................................................ On request The Landings Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe **** ....................... On request Marriott Grand Residence Club, Lake Tahoe ****...................... On request * Book by Oct. 10, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Additional nights in Reno available on request ($).

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

gendronski 2016-2017 49

REACH NEW HEIGHTS. Let Air Canada fly you to ski destinations around the world.

Experience our award-winning service and earn Aeroplan® Miles on every flight.

®Aeroplan is a registered trademark of Aimia Canada Inc. ®Aeroplan and the Aeroplan logo are registered trademarks of Aimia Canada Inc.

wyoming Jackson Hole Mountain

10%

Beginner

40%

Intermediate

50%

Advanced

Average snowfall 459” / 1,166 cm Vertical drop 4,139’ / 1,262 m Altitude 10,450’ / 3,185 m

15%

Beginner

Snow King Mountain

25%

Intermediate

60%

Advanced

Average snowfall 312” / 792 cm Vertical drop 1,571’ / 479 m Altitude 7,808’ / 2,380 m

10%

Beginner

Grand Targhee Resort

70%

Intermediate

20%

Advanced

Average snowfall 500” / 1,270 cm Vertical drop 2,400’ / 731 m Altitude 9,830’ / 3,108 m

© Bryce Cody

Mystical Jackson Hole

By Janick Robidoux

L

T:10.375 in

B:11.375 in

S:9.875 in

egendary Jackson Hole! If you’re in the mood for a cowboy-style vacation, then this is it! This resort boasts 133 runs between 1,923 and 3,185 metres in altitude (50% ranked expert level, 40% intermediate and 10% beginner), a vertical drop of 1,262 metres and 1,012 hectares of skiable terrain, not to mention an annual average snowfall of 1,166 cm per year—pure bliss!

Every sector is as exciting as the next, with nice, steady slopes at every turn. The wide variety of terrain—natural snow trails, perfectly groomed slopes, countless wideopen glades (and some narrower ones too)—is sure to make every avid skier feel like a kid in a candy store.

If I had to pick a favourite, it would definitely be the area accessed via the Sublette Chair and the Big Red tram, which carries up to 100 people at a time to the very top of this heavenly mountain! From there, you can access the Rendezvous and Cheyenne bowls, the magnificent wide-open glades of the Bivouac run and, of course, the added challenge of the Alta chutes. For a good morning warm-up, the Rendezvous trail provides exquisite corduroy that is the envy of any mountain run!

If you’re familiar with Jackson Hole, you’ve no doubt heard about the Hobacks—and its fabulously challenging terrain. Take heed, however, if the surface is only partially snow covered. In the latter case, I would highly recommend that you wait until after 11:00 a.m. to give the surface some time to soften.

The highlight of my week (although there were so many to choose from) had to be the

hike from Casper Bowl to the Crags, where we got to revel in tons of light, virgin powder.

The half-hour climb is more than worth the effort! Once you get to the top, the 360-degree view will absolutely take your breath away, and you’ll quickly forget about the sweat and strain it took to get there. Pick a sunny day to ensure the best possible view!

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Jackson Hole added a brand-new lift that provides access to a whole new sector offering 200 acres of additional terrain. The Teton chair opens up to superb glades that were previously only accessible by hiking. Adrenaline junkies will definitely want to head to Corbett’s Couloir.

Words can’t do this amazing trail justice, so I’ll just let you experience for yourself!

Accommodation-wise, I recommend that you find lodgings in town and take the free hotel shuttle to the mountain. Enjoy the short 20-minute ride there, coffee in hand, to relax before embarking on the day’s fabulous ski adventure! Take the time to walk the wooden streets of the marvellous cowboy town, and don’t forget to stop in at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. We guarantee you’ll have a wild time!

If you decide to leave your skis at home to save on airline transportation costs, you can easily rent a pair in town and bring them back or exchange them at the mountain, or vice-versa. The service is unbeatable, and they have a vast selection of ski equipment to choose from.

Want to ensure you experience the nature of Wyoming while you’re there? No problem!

You are bound to see elk by the dozen in this part of the country, not to mention tons of moose!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Delta Air Lines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal USD

Whitout flights The 49er Inn & Suites *** - Breakfast .......................... $ 1,515 ....... $ 740 * Cowboy Village Resort *** - Breakfast ........................ $ 1,595 ....... $ 805 * The Lodge at Jackson Hole *** - Breakfast ............... $ 1,815 ....... $ 975 Snake River Lodge ****1/2 - Breakfast .......................... $ 2,095 ..... $ 1,185 * The Inn at Jackson Hole *** - Breakfast .................. $ 2,095 ..... $ 1,185

Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa ***** - Studio ........................................................................... $ 2,695 ..... $ 1,645 Hotel Terra **** ....................................................................................... $ 2,715 ..... $ 1,665 Grand View Lodge **** - Condo ...................................................... On request Snow King Resort *** ................................................................................. On request The Wort Hotel **** - Breakfast ......................................................... On request The White Buffalo Club **** ............................................................... On request Hotel Terra Residences **** - Deluxe private residences .................................................................................................... On request Teton Village/Aspens condos *** ................................................ On request * Condos and townhomes - 1 to 8 bedrooms ...................... On request * * Book by Oct. 10, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Book by Nov. 30, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. * AT PAR PROMOTION applicable up to Dec. 1, 2016. Certain restrictions apply.

Packages with or without flights of up to 30 day and combined stays with Big Sky available on request

OPTIONS High Mountain Heliskiing, see details on page 32.

Day trip to Grand Targhee including lift ticket and transportation from Jackson Hole. $ 165 / pers.

gendronski 2016-2017 51

vermont

vermont ’s finest

By Claudine Hébert

A

fter a generous snowfall covers the north-eastern U.S. in a blanket of gorgeous white snow, who needs to head out West?

Vermont’s enormous ski resorts are clearly the next best thing!

Jay Peak: Just ask anyone who has been skiing Jay Peak for years. This immense playground, 25% of which is backcountry terrain, is the closest you can get to skiing the Rockies. Steep, narrow glades, and some of the most impressive snowfall quantities in the eastern portion of the continent— combined, these two elements make this legendary northern Vermont mountain a leading destination for hard-core skiers. Plus, when your legs have had enough for the day, the indoor pool and water slides are a fun option. The best part is that it is all offered at par, including accommodations, when you reserve with Gendron Travel.

Stowe: A second great option in this neck of the woods is Stowe. This fabulous resort, traced down the slopes of the highest peak in Vermont, is a real leg and thigh burner. Here, you’ll descend a vertical drop of 650 metres, non-stop, with practically no false flats. Over 80% of the terrain is intended for experienced skiers, and even the so-called beginner runs, located on the Spruce Peak side, are a treat for powder hounds on stormy days. Other than the extreme nature of this resort, another

52 gendronski 2016-2017

great thing about Stowe is the variety of accommodations available—from budgetfriendly to luxurious—and the incredible selection of restaurants in the surrounding area. It is truly one of the most complete ski resorts in Vermont.

BURKE: In Lyndonville, the Burke resort is the place to be. This mountain, with a vertical drop of nearly 600 metres, introduced a brand-new hotel last fall, making it another slopeside accommodation option in Vermont.

That’s great news for skiers and boarders who frequent this resort where 80% of the runs are considered of advanced or expert calibre.

KILLINGTON: Last, but not least, is the Killington resort, with its arsenal of 1,700 snow canons coming to the rescue of adrenaline junkies. This incredibly vast sixpeak resort, nicknamed “The Beast”, regularly opens its lifts earlier than anyone else in New England. It is also the resort (not counting Mont Saint-Sauveur) that most often has the longest season this side of North America.

Another significant advantage of staying in Killington is the great choice of ski options available to you within a 30-minute radius, by car. In fact, there are two other pretty big mountains providing close to 600 metres of vertical drop—Pico and Okemo—that make it quite appealing to extend your stay in southern Vermont. You are sure to enjoy some unforgettable descents, great for when you want to recount your crazy skiing exploits back at the condo!

Jay Peak Average snowfall 377” / 950 cm Vertical drop 2,153’ / 656 m Altitude 3,968’ / 1,209 m

KILLINGTON Average snowfall 250” / 635 cm Vertical drop 4,241’ / 957 m Altitude 10,067’ / 1,293 m

STOWE Average snowfall 314” / 797 cm Vertical drop 2,360’ / 719 m Altitude 4,395’ / 1,340 m

Beginner 20% Intermediate 40% Advanced 40% Beginner 20% Intermediate 40% Advanced 40% Beginner 16% Intermediate 55% Advanced 29%

Packages WITHOUT TRANSPORTATION JAY PEAK 1 night accommodation in double occ., based on a January 14, 2017 stay and 2 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at: USD Stateside Hotel *** ............................................................................. $ 295... $ 225 Village Condos **** - Quad. occ. ......................................... $ 315.... $ 245 The Tram Haus Lodge **** - Studio .............................. $ 315... $ 245 Hotel Jay **** - Access to waterpark included ....... $ 335... $ 260

KILLINGTON 3 nights’ accommodation in double occ., based on January 13, 2017 and 2 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at: Pinnacle Condominiums *** ................................................. $ 875... $ 675 Killington Grand Resort Hotel **** ................................ $ 915... $ 705 STOWE 2 nights’ accommodation in double occ., based on January 13, 2017 and 2 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at: Golden Eagle Resort *** ............................................................. $ 579... $ 445 Stowe Mountain Lodge **** - Studio, breakfast ... $ 875... $ 675 Trapp Family Lodge **** ..................................................... On request Sugarbush Price on request.

Additional nights and ski tickets available on request ($).

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

MONTANA

Big Sky

By Caroline Samson

T

his particular ski resort is one of the world’s best-kept secrets. I never really understood why this amazing mountain remains so overlooked.

The only plausible explanation seems to be the presence of another fabulous mountain on the outskirts of the area’s major metropolitan hub. Bridger Bowl Ski Area, located a few kilometres from Bozeman, seems to be the favourite among locals. So, while they flock to this closer resort to save themselves the longer drive, Big Sky is left to everyone else.

Lucky us!

Photos of Big Sky typically feature Lone Peak which, as its name suggests, is a single isolated—and absolutely spectacular— mountain peak. As you approach this glorious structure, your legs will start to tingle with anticipation as you imagine yourself carving your way down its surface—and with good reason! At Moonlight Basin, the resort adjacent to Big Sky, you’ll have access to an unbelievable variety of runs, amazing turns, an insane vertical drop as well as acres upon acres of superb terrain and breathtaking views stretching as far as the eye can see (and, by the way—even if don’t plan on skiing Lone Peak, you should definitely make your way up to enjoy the view).

© Mark Davidson

course, some fine steeps, glades, chutes and bowls that you’ll have almost all to yourself.

After winning me over with its great skiing, Big Sky conquered me with its quaint restaurants, both on the mountain and at the base. Take note: for a simple lunch on the slopes, the Shedhorn Grill is always a good bet—and a good place to run into some locals who might have a tip or two to share about the best spots to ski, and where you might find some fresh snow.

In fact, you’re sure to appreciate the friendly, warm ways of the locals pretty much anywhere you go in Big Sky: from the staff at the resort to hotels, bars, restaurants, shops, as well as the people and skiers of the place.

I’ve never felt so welcome at a ski resort. It’s like the locals want you to share their love of the mountain, to appreciate it like they do.

Clearly, it works, because I LOVE the place!

Packages One week including round trip airfare with United Airlines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 5 days of skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Whitout flights The Lodge at Big Sky *** - Breakfast ................. $ 2,555 ....................... $ 1,405 Stillwater Condominiums *** - Studio .............. $ 2,595 ....................... $ 1,435 The Huntley Lodge *** - Breakfast ......................... $ 2,655 ....................... $ 1,480 Summit at Big Sky **** - Studio, breakfast. .. $ 2,895 ....................... $ 1,665

Shoshone Condominium Hotel ***

- Condo - quad. occ., breakfast. ........................................... $ 3,085 ....................... $ 1,815 Big Horn Condominiums *** ...................................... $ 3,585 ....................... $ 2,195 Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

© Glenniss Indreland

After the first few runs at Big Sky and Moonlight Basin, I was already quite taken with Lone Peak and its countless options of skiable terrain. There are marvellous green runs to start off the day on smooth corduroy, blues and blacks to get things moving and, of

big sky resort

Beginner 15%

Average snowfall 400” / 1,016 cm Vertical drop 4,350’ / 1,326 m Altitude 11,166’ / 3,403 m

Intermediate 25% Advanced 42% EXPERT 18%

© Lonnie Ball

gendronski 2016-2017 53

ALASKA

Chamonix

By Richard Dubreuil

I

t was 1979 when I made my way to Chamonix for a hockey tournament and set my luggage down in this picturesque town for the very first time. It was love at first sight—the people, the place, I simply adored everything about it! And, since that first visit, I’ve been back every single winter to enjoy some skiing there.

Long reserved for the elite of downhill and backcountry skiing, Chamonix has opened up over the years, making its immense terrain more accessible to the public and partnering with other resorts. A skiing package now provides access to Verbier (Switzerland), Courmayeur (Italy) and, more recently, Megève (France), a posh resort sought after by intermediate skiers.

When you first set foot in the Chamonix Valley, you instantly feel that special energy no other place in the world can offer. A superb blend of modernity and the unique treasures of the past, this ski destination is unlike any other you will explore (note that you may find a guide much more useful than a piste map in these parts). One of the must-see attractions is the most famous glacier in the Alps: Vallée Blanche. Just hop on the Aiguille du midi cable car (3,842 m) to access this dizzying run that will take you down over 20 km. Over 85% of Gendron Travel customers who skied Chamonix have tried this spectacular descent. In fact, it’s become so popular that an average of 5,000 to 6,000 people are said to make their way down this absolutely wonderful trail every single day! In such a vast resort, there is clearly an incredible abundance of snow. But, if you’re out of spots to lay down some fresh, new tracks—no worries! Just head over to the Italian side in Courmayeur. As luck would have it, it seems like the Italians prefer parading around in their trendy ski outfits to tearing up the slopes. As an added bonus, you will be treated to some heavenly culinary delights in the mountain restaurants on this particular side of Mont Blanc. Only a short 20-minute shuttle ride away, you’d be crazy to pass it up.

Located 85 km from the Geneva airport, Chamonix is the most accessible French resort around, which is great when all you want to do is ski, ski, and ski some more! There is also a great variety of accommodations to choose from. From inns to villas, you are sure to find something within your budget. Foodies will definitely want to stop in at Le Bivouac restaurant to indulge in some Savoyard specialties. Tourists, locals as well as professional skiers and boarders flock to this place. Oh, and while you’re there, please say “Hi!” to Jean-Guy and Chris (the restaurant’s owners) for me!

Throughout the years, I’ve become close friends with many wonderful people in Chamonix, made incredible memories while skiing its mountains, and shared my love for this little corner of France with countless people I know. Chamonix has truly become my home away from home, and I hope you get the chance to experience it for yourself this winter. You are sure to be welcomed with open arms!

© Pascal Pellet-Doyen

54 gendronski 2016-2017

Éditorial

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 6 days of consecutive skiing (Mont Blanc Unlimited Pass), GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Without flights Résidence MAEVA La Rivière / Aiglons ** - Studio .................... $ 1,955 ......... $ 650 Résidence MAEVA Le Chamois Blanc ** - Occ. 4, apt. ............ $ 1,985 ......... $ 670 Résidence P&V - PREMIUM La Ginabelle **** - Occ. 4, apt. ........ $ 2,015 ......... $ 695 La Pointe d’Isabelle *** ................................................................................................. $ 2,395 ......... $ 985 Résidence Quartz Mont-Blanc ***** - Occ. 4, apt. ......................... $ 2,435 ...... $ 1,020 Hôtel Croix Blanche *** - Breakfast .................................................................. $ 2,635 ...... $ 1,170 Le Morgane - Chamonix **** - Breakfast .............................................. $ 2,745 ...... $ 1,255 * Hôtel Alpina *** - 2 meals per day ..................................................................... $ 2,895 ...... $ 1,370 Park Hôtel Suisse & Spa **** - Breakfast .............................................. $ 3,085 ...... $ 1,515 Hôtel Le Prieuré *** - 2 meals per day .......................................................... $ 3,095 ...... $ 1,525 Mercure Chamonix ***- 2 meals per day ................................................. $ 3,195 ...... $ 1,605 Hôtel Mont-Blanc Chamonix ***** - Breakfast ............................................. On request Club Med Chamonix Mont-Blanc – All inclusive ....................... On request Rental cottages or apartments ....................................................................................... On request*

Michel Chevret On-site representative

© Monica Dalmassso

Michel Chevret may be new to the Gendron Travel team, but he has been a lover of the French Alps for a long, long time. After 10 years spent working at Mont Blanc, Michel is recognized for his interpersonal skills, professionalism and passion for skiing.

A seasoned ski monitor, Michel is your best ally when it comes to discovering the mountain, finding the best runs and ensuring your stay is a memorable one. As Gendron Travel’s rep for Chamonix, he is eager to greet Quebecers and share his passion for skiing and the French Alps.

* Book by Oct. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Book by Nov. 30, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages without flights available on request.

Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, Vienna or more available on request. * Transfers by taxi to your cottages or apartment are not included (to/from the Chamonix train station).

© Monica Dalmassso

W

NE

www.montblancnaturalresort.com

!

gendronski 2016-2017 55

FRANCE

Tignes & Val d’isère Packages

One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation and one night in Lyon in double occ., meal plan as indicated, 6 days of consecutive skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa USD

TIGNES Toronto Without flights Odalys Résidence Le Rond Point des Pistes ** - Studio .. $ 1,875 ............ $ 785 Odalys Résidence Le Hameau du Borsat - Studio ............. $ 1,935 ............ $ 830 Résidences Village Montana **** - Quad. occ. ......................... $ 1,965 ............ $ 855 * Hôtel Diva *** - 2 meals per day ................................................................... $ 2,695 .......... $ 1,415 Résidence P&V - PREMIUM L’Écrin des Neiges **** - Apartment ....................................................... $ 2,655 .......... $ 1,385 Odalys Appart’hôtel Chalet Alpina - 2 meals per day .......... $ 2,695 .......... $ 1,415 Hôtel Village Montana *** - 2 meals per day ............................... $ 3,065 ........ $ 1,700 * Hôtel Les Suites du Montana **** - 2 meals per day ...... $ 3,815 ........ $ 2,275 * - All inclusive ............................. On request Club Med Tignes Val Claret VAL D’ISÈRE Odalys - Les Hauts du Rogoney *** - Studio ............................ $ 2,055 ............ $ 925 Résidence Alpina Lodge **** - Studio ................................................ $ 2,065 ............ $ 930 Résidence P&V - Les Chalets de Solaise **** - Studio .$ 2,195 .......... $ 1,030 Les Chalets du Jardin Alpin *** - Apartment ............................... $ 2,469 .......... $ 1,240 Hôtel La Tovière *** ................................................................................................... $ 2,615 .......... $ 1,355 Hôtel Kandahar *** - Breakfast ...................................................................... $ 2,885 .......... $ 1,560 Hôtel Christiania ***** - Breakfast ............................................................. $ 3,095 .......... $ 1,725 Le Samovar Hotel Chalets **** - Breakfast .................................................. On request - All inclusive ................................................. On request Club Med Val d’Isère *Book by Oct. 31, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request Combine your stay with other European resorts.

Les Arcs & La Plagne Packages SKIING NOT INCLUDED One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation and one night in Lyon in double occ., meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at: Montreal / Ottawa USD

LA PLAGNE Toronto Without flights Résidence P&V - Les Chalets des Arolles ** - Studio ..... $ 1,595 ........................ $ 545 Résidence P&V - PREMIUM Les Hauts Bois **** - Apt.. ........................................................................... $ 1,895 ........................ $ 800 Hôtel Le Terra Nova *** - 2 meals per day ...................................... $ 1,965 ........................ $ 855 - All inclusive (skiing included) .......... On request Club Med Aime La Plagne - All inclusive (skiing included)...... On request Club Med La Plagne 2100

LES ARCS Chalet Altitude 2000 *** - Quad. occ. .............................................. $ 1,665 ........................ $ 625 Résidence Maeva Charmettoger *** - Studio .............................. $ 1,695 ........................ $ 635 Résidence P&V - PREMIUM Les Alpages de Chantel **** - Studio .......................................... $ 1,765 ........................ $ 700 Hôtel Le Golf *** - Breakfast ....................................................................... $ 1,895 ........................ $ 800 * Hôtels & Altitude Hôtel La Cachette (Arcs 1600) *** - 2 meals per day ......................................................... $ 1,965 ........................ $ 855 Taj-I Mah Hôtel ***** - Breakfast .................................................................................................... On request - All inclusive (skiing included) .................................... On request Club Med Arcs Extrême * Book by Oct. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages of up to 30 days (with or without flights) and combined stays available on request.

Combine your stay with other European resorts. © www.TristanShu.com

56 gendronski 2016-2017

FRANCE

© C.Cattin / OT Val Thorens

Packages One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation at the resort and one night in Lyon in double occ., meal plan and 6 days of consecutive skiing, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa

USD

MÉRIBEL Toronto Without flights Résidence P&V - Les Sentiers du Tueda **** - Studio .................................................. $ 1,995 ................ $ 875 Résidence P&V - PREMIUM Les Fermes de Méribel **** - Apt., quad. occ. .... $ 1,995 ................ $ 875 Le Mérilys *** - Quad. occ. .................................................................................................................................... $ 2,295 .............. $ 1,105 L’Éterlou *** - Breakfast ............................................................................................................................................. $ 2,865 .............. $ 1,545 La Chaudanne **** - Breakfast ....................................................................................................................... $ 3,075 .............. $ 1,705 Le Kaila ***** - Breakfast ........................................................................................................................................ $ 4,039 .............. $ 2,450 - All inclusive ............................................................................ On request Club Med Méribel Le Chalet - All inclusive ............................................................................... On request Club Med Méribel l’Antarès BRIDES-LES-BAINS Hôtel La Vanoise ** - 2 meals per day ................................................................................................... $ 2,115 ................ $ 970 *** Golf Hôtel *** 1/2 - Breakfast ................................................................................................................................ $ 2,115 ................ $ 970 *** Hôtel Amélie *** - 2 meals per day ............................................................................................................ $ 2,195 .............. $ 1,030 *** Résidence Cybèle *** - Studio ....................................................................................................................................... On request Mercure Grand Hôtel des Thermes **** - Breakfast .......................................................................... On request

© B. Longo / OT Val Thorens

les 3 Vallées

LES MENUIRES Hôtel Le Menuire *** 1/2 - 2 meals per day ....................................................................................... $ 1,995 ................ $ 875 Résidence P&V - PREMIUM Les Alpages de Reberty **** - Studio, quad. occ. ... $ 2,095 ................ $ 955 Le Chalet du Mont Vallon Spa Resort ***** - Apartment ............................................ $ 2,235 .............. $ 1,060 **** Les Chalets du Soleil *** 1/2 ............................................................................................................................ $ 2,265 .............. $ 1,085 * Hôtel Les Bruyères *** - Breakfast .............................................................................................................. $ 2,285 .............. $ 1,100 * Résidence P&V - Les Valmonts *** - Studio, quad. occ. ................................................... $ 2,415 .............. $ 1,200 Kaya Chalet Hôtel **** - Breakfast ............................................................................................................. $ 2,475 .............. $ 1,245 * Résidence P&V - Aconit **** - Apartment ......................................................................................................... On request VAL THORENS Odalys Résidence Tourotel *** - Studio ............................................................................................. $ 1,895 ................ $ 800 Odalys Résidence Le Valset *** - Studio .......................................................................................... $ 2,075 ................ $ 940 Résidence Le Cheval Blanc *** - Apartment ................................................................................ $ 2,115 ................ $ 970 ** Résidence Montana Plein Sud **** - Apt. 2 bdr., quad. occ. ........................................ $ 2,229 .............. $ 1,055 ** Résidence P&V Le Tikal **** - Apartment .......................................................................................... $ 2,265 .............. $ 1,085 Résidence L’Oxalys **** - Apartment ...................................................................................................... $ 2,285 .............. $ 1,100 ** Chalets de Rosaël ***1/2 - Apartment ...................................................................................................... $ 2,430 .............. $ 1,215 * Chalet Altitude Val Thorens *** - Apartment .................................................................................. $ 2,775 .............. $ 1,475 Hôtel des Trois Vallées **** - 2 meals per day ........................................................................... $ 2,935 .............. $ 1,600 Hôtel Koh-I-Nor ***** - Breakfast ................................................................................................................. $ 3,159 .............. $ 1,775 Fahrenheit Seven ***** - 2 meals per day ....................................................................................................... On request - All inclusive .......................................................... On request Club Med Val Thorens Sensations * Book by Oct. 15, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. ** Book by Oct. 31, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. *** Book by Nov. 1, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices. **** Book by Nov. 30, 2016 to take advantage of these promotional prices.

Packages with or without flights available on request.

Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, Vienna or more available on request.

gendronski 2016-2017 57

FRANCE

normand & josiane legault On-site representatives

Verbier

By Caroline Samson

E

ver since I was a little girl, I had always dreamed of skiing in Switzerland. I used to watch the World Cup on T.V. and think that was the one and only place true place in the world where you could enjoy some real skiing. My dreams came true several years later... and, when I finally made it to a Swiss mountaintop, I was lucky enough to be in Verbier with a bunch of my Swiss friends who knew the area inside and out. I was completed mesmerized. It was so much more than I had ever dreamed of.

Anyone as fascinated with mountains as I am has to agree that being in the heart of the Alps is pure bliss. Not only for the skiing itself, but for the breathtaking views as well—endless peaks, larger than life. And then there’s the sheer fact that Verbier, which is part of the Les 4 Vallées ski area, is incredibly immense.

A seemingly endless array of runs and tons of off-piste terrain, complemented by superb mountain restaurants and quaint villages scattered throughout the base of the slopes.

And then, of course, there are the vast open spaces where you are free to carve turns as wide or as short as you like.

58 gendronski 2016-2017

Since our retirement in 2005, Verbier has been our winter home every year from December to April. Both of us work for the Swiss Ski and Snowboard School in Verbier where we guide countless skier-visitors, many of whom make their way back year after year. We are always thrilled to see our fellow Quebecers discover Verbier, and that’s why we are so happy to be part of Gendron Travel’s dynamic team of destination reps.

© Yves Garneau

The best part of it all is that it’s in Switzerland— efficient, polite Switzerland, where the lifts are of exceptional quality and incredibly fast, where the signage and piste maps are easy to understand and where everyone is always more than happy to help you find your way or suggest a run you might enjoy.

In sunny weather, head to the open, highaltitude sectors. You’ll literally feel on top of the world in these immense snowfields. Enjoy it—because there’s certainly nothing like this back home!

As an added bonus, the town of Verbier is as quaint as can be, with its pedestrian streets and log cabin buildings. In addition to the tiny bakeries, adorable cafés, quaint tearooms and a collection or restaurants and hotels, you’ll also find numerous exclusive, high-end boutiques (Watch out, though, or you could easily make a serious dent in your budget!).

One week including round trip airfare with Air Canada, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

When it comes to sports, Verbier is a favoured location for major freeride, mountain biking and ultra-trail competitions: it is truly a sporting hub, and a year-round gathering spot for athletes.

Let’s not forget that Verbier is, first and foremost, all about skiing at its absolute best, offering magnificent runs for every skill level and taste, meandering greens, wide open blues and reds, and black sectors where you definitely want to hold on to your hat (or ski helmet!) and go down one turn at a time.

Packages SKIING NOT INCLUDED

Montreal / Ottawa USD Toronto Without flights Hôtel de la Poste *** - 2 meals per day ...... $ 2,829 ........... $ 1,310 Getroz (Le Châble) *** .................................................................. On request Nevaï Hôtel **** - Breakfast .................................................... On request Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, Vienna or more available on request.

MY Top pick On a clear day, the top of Mont Fort is a mustsee, whether you plan to ski down or not. The 360-degree view of the mountains and Verbier is nothing short of spectacular. You are bound to feel the effects of high altitude, though. After all, you are at 3,330 metres! So, make sure you take it slow. And, if you’re in the mood for a break and a savoury treat (you deserve it, don’t you?), stop in at the Igloo bar or at Cabane du Mont Fort. These refuges, where you can also grab a bite to eat, are sure to incite you to come back with luggage and skins it tow so you can really explore this little piece of heaven!

switzerland

Packages SKIING NOT INCLUDED One week including round trip airfare with Swiss Airlines, airport transfers by train, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., and meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa* USD Toronto Without flights Hôtel Tasherhof *** - Breakfast ........................... $ 1,995 ................. $ 715 Apparthotel Hemizeus *** - Studio ............. $ 2,115 ................. $ 805 Hôtel City Garni *** - Breakfast ........................... $ 2,215 ................. $ 885 Hôtel La Couronne *** - Breakfast ............... $ 2,375 ............... $ 1,005 Hôtel Ambassador **** - Breakfast ............. $ 2,765 ............... $ 1,305 Alpenhof Hôtel **** - 2 meals per day .............................. On request Hotel Admiral*** - Breakfast ............................................................... On request Hotel Chesa Valese **** - Breakfast ................................... On request La Bohème Appartementhaus ***** - Apt. ........... On request * Flight with Air Canada for Ottawa departures.

Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, Vienna or more available on request

Zermatt Picture Perfect

By Robert Choquette and Marilyn Griffiths

W

e’ve always enjoyed travelling by train in Europe. It’s efficient, fast, and comfortable. So, when heading for Zermatt, there was no question how we’d get there from Zurich. And, even if we had wanted to drive, this little Swiss town happens to be a car-free zone. This means that, regardless of whether you take public transportation or drive your own vehicle, you

must switch over to a train or taxi once you get to Täsch in order to make your way that last five kilometers up into a semi-pedestrian world (we’ll call it “semi” because of the prevalence of golf-cart-like vehicles buzzing around!).

By far the best-known ski destination in Switzerland, this picturesque town is

© Kurt Müller

dominated by the iconic, snowcapped Matterhorn looming above. It doesn’t matter whether you’re at the terrace of one of Zermatt’s numerous cafés and restaurants or if you’re on the slopes, the Matterhorn is right there in full view. Just like the postcard.

Our hotel rep was there at the train station with a miniscule electric vehicle to take us, and our bags, to our lodgings. Since we’d reserved our high-performance skis online, we didn’t have to worry about travelling with bulky ski bags. While our luggage rode, we chose to walk; a chance to take in our surroundings.

Upscale boutiques, cafés and bars line Bahnhofstrasse, Zermatt’s main street, but we headed down narrow side streets to seep in the more traditional atmosphere.

Of the three distinct ski areas surrounding Zermatt, for our first day on the slopes, we decided to head for the central area, the Gornergrat. It’s served by a cog railway, taking about half an hour to reach the top.

The terrain is not as extensive as the other areas, but its open snowfields are well worth it even if simply for the spectacular view of the glacier that’s visible from here. There’s also a good chance you’ll spot the resident wild mountain sheep too.

Every on-slope day should definitely include a lunch stop at an on-mountain restaurant.

Sprinkled throughout the region, these

© Michael Portmann

individual establishments have a long history of providing good food to hungry guests.

Blatten is a prime example of a long-standing traditional alpine restaurant that has been welcoming visitors since 1850.

The Sunnegga, Zermatt’s second area, has the quickest slope access via a high-speed underground funicular. It’s the area to head to in bad weather since there are plenty of treelined runs to aid visibility.

On one particular morning of our trip, it dawned a perfect bluebird day. Just right for the third and largest area, the Klein Matterhorn. Here a cable car scoops skiers to the area around the Matterhorn itself. It’s at the highest altitude, has the most extensive terrain and the snow is often best here. We skied right across the top, out of Switzerland and headed down around the back of the Matterhorn into Cervinia, for a little lunch— Italian style. The trick here is to get back to Switzerland before the lifts close. On our way down, we skied into Hennue Stall, probably the most lively on-slope après-ski stop. Too tired to dance, we finished our pint, put our skis on and headed back to the hotel for dinner. We were early to bed, hoping also to be early to rise! After all, every day is a new adventure in this idyllic Swiss town!

gendronski 2016-2017 59

AUSTRIA

© Andreatta Helga

Innsbruck your best home base for a week-long ski safari

By Michel Côté

I

nnsbruck, located at the heart of Tyrol, is one of the most strategic locations for discovering all that Western Austria has to offer in terms of exceptional skiing.

From Innsbruck, you can make your way to the resorts of the Stubai Glacier as well as those of Kitzbühel, St. Anton, Axamer Lizum and Kühtai, to name but a few. The first few times I visited Austria (between 2003 and 2006), I opted for ski safaris that allowed me to explore the area and choose the specific ski destinations I liked best. And, I have gone back almost every year since!

Packages SKIING NOT INCLUDED One week including round trip airfare with Lufthansa, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa* USD

Whitout flights

Hôtel Innsbruck **** - Breakfast ....................................................... $ 1,925 ............

Hôtel Alpinpark **** - Breakfast ........................................................ $ 1,995 ............

Hôtel Central **** - Breakfast ............................................................... $ 2,025 ............

Hôtel Grauer Bär **** - Breakfast ................................................... $ 2,095 ............

Hôtel Romantic Schwarzer Adler **** - Breakfast .... $ 2,125 ............

$ 615 $ 665 $ 690 $ 745 $ 765

* Flight with Air Canada for Ottawa departures.

Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, Vienna or more available on request.

For complete editorial on each destination, visit gendronski.com

Packages SKIING NOT INCLUDED One week including round trip airfare with Swiss International Air Lines, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at: LECH

Montreal / Ottawa*

USD

Whitout flights

Hôtel Felsenhof *** - Breakfast .................................... $ 2,165 ............... $ 845 Alpenhotel (St. Christoph) **** - 2 meals per day .............................................................................. $ 2,925 ............ $ 1,430

St. Anton & Lech

© TVB St.Anton am Arlberg / Burger Wolfgang

60 gendronski 2016-2017

ST. ANTON Pension Kirchplatz *** - Breakfast ............................ $ 2,119 ............... $ 810 Hôtel Karl Schrawz **** - 2 meals per day ...... $ 2,595 ............ $ 1,175 Hôtel Arlberg **** - 2 meals per day ...................... $ 2,615 ............ $ 1,190 Hôtel Kertess **** - 2 meals per day ..................... $ 2,885 ............ $ 1,400 Sporthotel **** - 2 meals per day .............................. $ 3,555 ............ $ 1,915 Hôtel Banyan **** - Breakfast ................................... On request Post Hotel **** - 2 meals per day ......................... On request * Flight with Air Canada for Ottawa departures.

Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, and Vienna or more available on request.

For complete editorial on each destination, visit gendronski.com

AUSTRIA

© Rudi Wyhlidal

Packages SKIING NOT INCLUDED One week including round trip airfare with Lufthansa, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa* USD

Without flights Hôtel Alpina **** - 2 meals per day ............................... $ 2,685 ......................... $ 1,195

SÖlden

Hotel Soelderhof und Dependance *** - 2 meals per day ................................. $ 2,715 ......................... $ 1,220 Hôtel Tyrol ***1/2 - 2 meals per day .................................. $ 2,815 ......................... $ 1,295 Hôtel Erhart **** - 2 meals per day ................................. $ 2,835 ......................... $ 1,315 * Flight with Air Canada for Ottawa departures.

Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, Vienna or more available on request. © Rudi Wyhlidal

For complete editorial on each destination, visit gendronski.com

Kitzbühel © Michael Werlberger

Packages SKIING NOT INCLUDED One week including round trip airfare with Lufthansa, airport transfers, 7 nights’ accommodation in double occ., meal plan as indicated, GST and PST included, starting at:

Montreal / Ottawa* USD

Without flights Hotel Resch *** - Breakfast .............................................................. $ 2,565 .................. $ 1,105 Hotel Tiefenbrunner **** - 2 meals per day .................. $ 2,685 .................. $ 1,195 Q! Hotel Maria Theresia **** - 2 meals per day ...... $ 2,855 .................. $ 1,325 Goldener Greif **** - Breakfast ..................................................... $ 3,395 .................. $ 1,745 Supplement of $ 100 for Toronto departures. * Flight with Air Canada for Ottawa departures.

Packages of up to 30 days and stays combined with other ski resorts or discovery stays in Zurich, Geneva, Vienna or more available on request.

For complete editorial on each destination, visit gendronski.com © Michael Werlberger

gendronski 2016-2017 61

GROUPS

MORe than 50 group depatures available on gendronski.com JAPAN

JAPAN

JAPAN

ACCOMPANIED BY

ACCOMPANIED BY

Guillaume Martin-Doire

Hakuba Valley ACCOMPANIED BY

Hakuba Valley

Jean-Luc Brassard

Niseko

9 days / 7 nights / 5 days of skiing

GREEN PLAZA HOTEL 3*, CORTINA AREA

$ 2,795 / pers. in double occ.

January 19 to 29, 2017

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing: 2 days at Cortina and 3 days at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

$ 4,895 / pers. in double occ.

• 1 night accommodation at Keio Plaza 4*, downtown

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

62 gendronski 2016-2017

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal): Airlines

$ 3,395 / pers. in double occ.

representative and Gendronski group leader

11 days / 9 nights / 6 days of skiing

• Round trip flight to Tokyo and Sapporo with Japan

TOKYU HOTEL 4*, HAPPO ONE AREA

• Taxes

GREEN PLAZA HOTEL 3*, CORTINA AREA Japanese-Western Standard Room

$ 2,795 / pers. in double occ.

Japanese-Western Standard Room

• Round trip flight to Tokyo with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation in 3* or 4* hotels • 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners • Ski package according to selected hotel • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Guillaume Martin-Doire, our on-site

January 26 to February 3, 2017 February 2 to 10, 2017 9 days / 7 nights / 5 days of skiing

January 19 to 27, 2017

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal):

Guillaume Martin-Doire

© Voyages Gendron

Tokyo

• 7 nights’ accommodation at Hilton Niseko Village 4* in Niseko | Whirlpool, spa treatments ($), restaurant ($) and coffee ($) • 8 breakfasts • 1 night accommodation at Radisson Hotel Narita 4* close to Tokyo airport • 6 days of skiing, 5 at Niseko United (interconnected stations: Annupuri, Niseko Village and Grand Hirafu) and 1 at Rutsusu Resort including transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Jean-Luc Brassard, Gendronski group leader • Taxes

Japanese-Western Duplex Room

$ 2,995 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing: 2 days at Cortina and 3 days at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

TOKYU HOTEL 4*, HAPPO ONE AREA

$ 3,395 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal): • Round trip flight to Tokyo with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation in 3* or 4* hotels • 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners • Ski package according to selected hotel • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Guillaume Martin-Doire, our on-site representative and Gendronski group leader

• Taxes

NOT INCLUDED: Client’s contribution to the Indemnity Fund of $1 per $1,000 and luggage fees may vary depending on chosen airline and are payable at the airport.

MORe than 50 group depatures available on gendronski.com ITALY

JAPAN

FRANCE

© Jean-Luc Brassard

ACCOMPANIED BY

Guillaume Martin-Doire © Dimo Design

© Pascal Pellet-Doyen

ACCOMPANIED BY

ALBERTO BISCARO

Hakuba Valley

ACCOMPANIED BY

Janick Robidoux

February 9 to 17, 2017

Val gardena February 3 to 13, 2017 11 days / 9 nights / 6 days of skiing

$ 3,095 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal): • Round trip flight to Venice with Air France • 7 nights’ accommodation at Hôtel Cir 3*, ski-in/ski-out • 2 nights’ accommodation in Venice, Mestre sector • 9 breakfasts and 7 dinners • 6 days of skiing in Val Gardena • All transfers except to Venice • Welcome cocktail • Services of Alberto Biscaro, our on-site representative and Gendronski group leader

• Taxes

NOT INCLUDED: Local taxes payable on site.

9 days / 7 nights / 5 days of skiing

CHAMONIX

GREEN PLAZA HOTEL 3*, CORTINA AREA Japanese-Western Standard Room

$ 2,795 / pers. in double occ.

Japanese-Western Duplex Room

$ 2,995 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing: 2 days at Cortina and 3 days at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

TOKYU HOTEL 4*, HAPPO ONE AREA

$ 3,395 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal):

• Round trip flight to Tokyo with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation in 3* or 4* hotels • 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners • Ski package according to selected hotel • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Guillaume Martin-Doire, our on-site

February 10 to 18, 2017 9 days / 7 nights / 6 days of skiing

$ 2,695 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal): • Round trip direct flight to Geneva with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation at Hotel Pointe Isabelle 3* • 7 breakfasts • 6 days of skiing, including 5 in Chamonix Valley and 1 in Courmayeur in Italy

• Public transportation to the mountains • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Janick Robidoux, Gendronski group leader • Services of Michel Chevret, our on-site representative • Taxes NOT INCLUDED: Local taxes payable on site.

representative and Gendronski group leader

• Taxes

NOT INCLUDED: Client’s contribution to the Indemnity Fund of $1 per $1,000 and luggage fees may vary depending on chosen airline and are payable at the airport.

gendronski 2016-2017 63

GROUPS

MORe than 50 group depatures available on gendronski.com JAPAN

JAPAN

Alberta

ACCOMPANIED BY

Guillaume Martin-Doire © Jean-Luc Brassard

© Dan Evans Photography

Hakuba Valley

ACCOMPANIED BY

Guillaume Martin-Doire

ACCOMPANIED BY

KEVIN GASIOR

February 23 to March 3, 2017

Hakuba Valley

9 days / 7 nights / 5 days of skiing

banff

GREEN PLAZA HOTEL 3*, CORTINA AREA Japanese-Western Standard Room

$ 2,795 / pers. in double occ.

February 16 to 24, 2017

Japanese-Western Duplex Room

9 days / 7 nights / 5 days of skiing

$ 2,995 / pers. in double occ.

$ 3,395 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal): • Round trip flight to Tokyo with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation at the Tokyu Hotel 4* • 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners • 5 days of skiing at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

• Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Guillaume Martin-Doire, our on-site representative and Gendronski group leader

• Taxes

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing: 2 days at Cortina and 3 days at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

TOKYU HOTEL 4*, HAPPO ONE AREA

$ 3,395 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES: • 5 days of skiing at one of the following ski resorts: Sanosaka, Goryu, Hakuba 47, Happo-One, Iwatake, Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba Norikura, Hakuba Cortina, Jiigatake or Kashimayari

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal): • Round trip flight to Tokyo with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation in 3* or 4* hotels • 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners • Ski package according to selected hotel • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Guillaume Martin-Doire, our on-site

February 25 to March 4, 2017 8 days / 7 nights / 5 days of skiing

$ 1,845 / pers. in double occ.

1-bedroom suite $ 2,045 / pers. in double occ.

Hotel room

Children $ 1,175 / 13-17 years old $ 975 / 6-12 years old $ 850 / 0-6 years old

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal): • Round trip direct flight to Calgary with Air Canada

• 7 nights’ accommodation at The Fox Hotel & Suites 4* (Jacuzzi, sauna, bar, restaurant and more)

• 7 breakfasts • 5 days of skiing at Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay

• Free shuttle service between the hotel and ski resorts • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Kevin Gasior, Gendronski group leader • Taxes *Supplement of $ 50 for Ottawa departures.

representative and Gendronski group leader • Taxes

64 gendronski 2016-2017

NOT INCLUDED: Client’s contribution to the Indemnity Fund of $1 per $1,000 and luggage fees may vary depending on chosen airline and are payable at the airport.

MORe than 50 group depatures available on gendronski.com france

Alberta

© www.patriklindqvist.com

© Chris Moseley

ACCOMPANIED BY

KEVIN GASIOR

banff

March 17 to 25, 2017 9 days / 7 nights / 6 days of skiing

$ 1,895 / pers. in double occ.

1-bedroom suite $ 2,095 / pers. in double occ.

/ pers. in double occ.

Book by Nov. 20, 2016.

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal):

• Round trip direct flight to Calgary with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation at The Fox Hotel & Suites 4* (Jacuzzi, sauna, bar, restaurant and more)

• 7 breakfasts • 5 days of skiing at Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay

• Free shuttle service between the hotel and the ski resorts • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Kevin Gasior, Gendronski group leader • Taxes

ACCOMPANIED BY

Brigitte Trottier

TIGNES

CHAMONIX

8 days / 7 nights / 5 days of skiing

Children $ 1,175 / 13-17 years old $ 975 / 6-12 years old $ 850 / 0-6 years old

© andyparant.com

ACCOMPANIED BY

ROBERT LEGAULT & RENÉ CLAVEAU

March 3 to 10, 2017 Hotel room

france

$ 2,595

March 18 to 26, 2017 9 days / 7 nights / 6 days of skiing

$ 3,395 / pers. in double occ.

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal):

INCLUDES (from Toronto or Montreal):

• Round trip direct flight to Geneva and return flight from

• Round trip direct flight to Geneva with Air Canada • 7 nights’ accommodation at Hotel Pointe Isabelle 3* • 7 breakfasts • 6 days of skiing, including 5 in Chamonix Valley and

• 7 nights’ accommodation at Club Med Tignes • Full board (except lunch on first day) • Access to sport facilities in the Village, entertainment,

1 in Courmayeur in Italy

• Public transportation to the mountains • Airport transfers • Welcome cocktail • Services of Robert Legault & René Claveau, Gendronski group leaders

• Services of Michel Chevret, our on-site representative • Taxes

Lyon with Air Canada

Club Med evenings, open bar

• Group ski lessons offered from Monday to Friday. Free skiing on the 6th day.

• 6 days of skiing in the Tignes and Val d’Isère domain • Airport transfer • Private welcome cocktail • Services of Brigitte Trottier, Gendronski group leader • Club Med membership fee • Taxes

NOT INCLUDED: Local taxes payable on site.

NOT INCLUDED: Client’s contribution to the Indemnity Fund of $1 per $1,000 and luggage fees may vary depending on chosen airline and are payable at the airport.

gendronski 2016-2017 65

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Please read the following general conditions carefully and make sure you understand them completely before making a reservation. We reserve the right to make changes after publication in order to correct errors or omissions, or for any other reason beyond our control.

Updates : voyagesgendron.com/en/about/ conditions/

PACKAGE PRICES Prices on our Web site and in our Ski magazine are quoted in Canadian dollars and are based on availability at the time of reservation. Prices are “starting from,” per person in double occupancy, in Canadian dollars, including GST and PST, are guaranteed for reservations made between September 1 and December 1, 2016 and are based on the January 14 to 21, 2017 travel period except for Chile (prices based on June 2017) and Europe (priced based on the January 13 to 21 travel period). Exceptions may occur when early-booking reductions are mentioned, then, the noted date prevails. (In the case of early-booking specials, the stated price prevails). Flights included as part of our packages are in Economy class. Prices do not include: • Contribution to the Indemnity Fund of $1 per $1,000 (for Quebec customers only) • Parking space • Travel insurance • Car rental insurance and local taxes • Gratuities • Additional ski passes • Weekend flight supplements, if applicable • Baggage fees (if applicable) • Luggage fees are not included in the price of our packages. Costs may vary depending on chosen airline and are payable at the airport. • Car rental insurance, taxes and surcharges applicable are not included and are payable at destination only.

and, lastly, car rental insurance. Customers who are already insured through their credit card, their group work insurance, or through any other form of personal insurance are responsible for understanding the conditions of their existing contract and shall not hold Gendron Travel responsible in any way for any aspect of their travel insurance. Customers are invited to consult their travel agent for more information on travel insurance. Please note that some insurance policies do not cover some extreme sports incidents. The client is responsible for validating this information with their insurer and ensuring they have adequate insurance coverage for their trip. It is the client’s responsibility to validate prior to their departure with insurer.

CANCELLATION FEES 45 days or more before departure: total deposit. Less than 45 days before departure: total cost of package, including all taxes.

CUSTOMER’S RESPONSIBILITY The customer is responsible for informing the travel agent of any condition (physical, health, pregnancy, etc.) that may restrict their ability to travel in any way whatsoever as stipulated in Article 28 of the LPC.

INCREASE IN PRICE AND COSTS

We recommend that you reserve your stay at least 45 days before your chosen departure date. A security deposit of 25% (not including insurance) is required upon reservation. For payments made by cheque, no reservation will be confirmed until the cheque has cleared and we have received the full deposit. Please note that cheques will not be accepted in the case of reservations for departures taking place within 30 days or less. To guarantee the price of your flight, you must pay the air travel portion in full upon reservation.

For certain products such as heliskiing and cat-skiing, deposits required may be higher than our standard 25%. Our agents will inform you when providing a quote.

In the event of an increase in taxes, royalties or other fees authorized by a recognized public authority, the indicated prices are subject to change. Gendron Travel reserves the right to increase fees and prices as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate, fuel costs, taxes and other applicable fees. Should the price increase following a fuel surcharge imposed by the carrier or an increase in the exchange rate (if the exchange rate applicable 45 days before provision of services has increased more than 5% since the date of contract signing; and/or if the increase in price, without taking the QST and GST into consideration, is equal to or higher than 7% of the price of services), the customer may cancel said services (with full and immediate refund of services) or opt for a substitute offer of similar services; if the price of these similar services is higher than those originally reserved, the customer will be required to pay for the price difference. No price increase may occur within 30 days before provision of services. Any price reduction resulting from a promotion of a decision made by Gendron Travel applies to new reservations only. For the most recent prices, please contact one of our travel consultants. No changes will be brought to previously made reservations.

FINAL PAYMENT

RESPONSIBILITY

RESERVATIONS/SECURITY DEPOSIT

The balance of the payment must be received at least 45 days before your departure date, otherwise Gendron Travel reserves the right to cancel said reservation without prior notification and without any possible legal recourse, and will retain a cancellation fee. For reservations made 45 days or less before the departure date, payment must be made in full at the time of reservation. For Aspen, Colorado or any Club Med packages, the final payment is due 60 days before the departure date. Heliskiing and cat-skiing packages must be paid in full at reservation. For Chile, a 50% deposit on the land portion and full payment of the flights is required at reservation.

CREDIT CARD PAYMENT By providing a credit card number to a travel agent, either verbally or in writing, the customer agrees to respect the present terms and conditions and authorizes that a security deposit and/or the purchase transaction be charged to said credit card. Gendron Travel may require written confirmation from the customer stating that this credit card can be used without the customer’s signature.

UNUSED SERVICES No refunds will be provided for services that are unused or cancelled after your departure or as a result of circumstances beyond our control.

TRAVEL INSURANCE Gendron Travel strongly recommends that its customers purchase travel insurance when reserving their trip, most notably insurance covering trip cancellation, damages and baggage loss as well as insurance covering medical and hospitalization costs abroad

Gendron Travel is responsible for offering all of the services described on its Web site and in the present magazine. If, for any reason whatsoever, the stipulated services cannot be offered, Gendron Travel will offer the customer services of a comparable nature. Gendron Travel reserves the right to cancel or modify a trip at any time. The passenger waives all claims of any nature or any kind against Gendron Travel for loss, theft, accidents or damage. Gendron Travel will not be held liable for the closing of facilities, strikes, bankruptcies, political crises, terrorist attacks, bad weather, the quality of services provided by suppliers or overselling by the latter, the traveler’s failure to obtain all necessary travel documents, flight delays or any other circumstance or condition beyond Gendron Travel’s control that may prevent the normal and anticipated activities of the trip.

RESERVATION CHANGES Fees will apply for any changes made (room type, hotel, car rental, lift tickets and transfers). Fees are as follows: more than 45 days before travel start date, modification fees are $25 per person or any amount charged by the hotel, carrier or any other supplier involved in your reservation if said amount is higher than $25 per person. 45 days or less before your departure date, Gendron Travel reserves the right to refuse certain changes. Generally speaking, fees will always be charged for any changes made. Name or date changes will be considered a cancellation (please refer to the paragraph on Cancellation Fees for more information).

GUIDED GROUP TRIPS If the minimum number of passengers required for any of the group trips advertised in this magazine is not attained, Gendron Travel reserves the right to cancel

the trip. If, however, the customer would still like to take the trip on his own, the package cost may be higher or lower depending on the new price in effect at that particular time. If the trip is to be cancelled for the reasons stated above and the customer chooses not to travel on his own, he will be reimbursed in full.

PASSPORT A valid Canadian passport is your only proof of Canadian citizenship and is required any time you travel outside of the country. Some countries require that your passport be valid for 6 months beyond your date of entry.

FLIGHTS AND AIR CARRIERS Changes: Flights are conducted in accordance with the applicable tariff of the air carrier and pursuant to the regulations set out by the Canadian Transportation Agency. Consolidations and changes in the published schedule, aircraft type, days of operation, air carrier providing air transportation and flight itinerary may be undertaken at any time and without prior notice, in accordance with the air carrier’s tariff. Schedule check and connecting flights: Flight schedules, even when provided on a ticket, are tentative and are therefore subject to change without notice. Changes may occur for a number of reasons, often beyond the control of the air carrier or Gendron Travel. Any customer who has purchased a package or flight with Gendron Travel is entirely responsible for verifying his flight schedule directly with the air carrier in the 24-hour period immediately prior to the departure and return date.

Connecting flights are reserved at the customer’s risk and customers are entirely responsible for ensuring that they have adequate time to reach and board their connecting flight. Gendron Travel will not be held liable for any changes made to flight schedules or missed flight connections, including any incidental or consequential damages or any other additional fees (most notably loss of revenue or salary, loss of vacation days or any other fees) incurred as a result of the foregoing.

Airport Check-in: Gendron Travel recommends that customers arrive at the air carrier airport check-in counter at least three (3) hours before their scheduled departure time, failing which their reservation may be cancelled and their seat may be assigned to another customer, with no right of recourse. Baggage: Air carriers set individual rules and regulations regarding baggage number, weight and size. Customers are responsible for consulting their travel agent or air carrier for information on the applicable restrictions and applicable fees for their particular air carrier. Other air carrier conditions and limitations of liability: The limits of the air carrier’s liability with relation to the loss of and damage to baggage is established by the provisions of the Montreal Convention or the Warsaw Convention, depending on the case, by the applicable tariffs of the air carrier, as well as the contract appearing on the passenger ticket, the boarding pass and baggage check receipt, and any government regulations. Once submitted to and approved by the federal authorities, any amendment or change to the air carrier’s general terms and conditions of carriage are effective immediately, without additional public notification. Plane tickets that remain unused, in whole or in part, on the indicated dates, will not be honored for a subsequent flight or reimbursed. Seat assignment: Unless already pre-assigned, aircraft seating is assigned by staff at the air carrier’s airport check-in counter.

Certain fees not included as part of the package price may be charged directly by the air carrier.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS A valid Canadian passport is your only proof of Canadian citizenship and is required any time you travel outside of the country. Some countries require that your passport be valid for 6 months beyond your date of entry. Switzerland requires 3-month validity after your date of return (this policy is also applicable when transferring in Geneva for a French destination).

It is the customer’s responsibility to obtain, at his own cost, all documents required by relevant government authorities and to adhere to all applicable laws.

Certain countries can require that a visa be obtained from the Embassy (at the customer’s cost). A parent travelling alone with a child under the age of 18 may be required to show written notarized consent

signed by the other parent authorizing said travel.

The customer is responsible for asking his travel agent about all required travel documents and ensuring that he has them in his possession before his departure.

The carrier and any competent authority may refuse to allow the customer to board if he does not have all of the required documents in his possession. In this case, the customer has no recourse and will not be reimbursed. Gendron Travel will not be held liable for the information or assistance provided by any of its employees with regards to required travel documents or compliance with the law in this respect, regardless of whether this information was provided verbally, in writing or by any other means. The customer may also be refused entry into a country even if he has all of the required travel documents in his possession.

Gendron Travel will in no way be held liable for the consequences suffered by any customer who does not possess the required documents or who fails to comply with any given applicable law. It is essential that you verify all of the travel documents you have received in order to ensure that they correspond exactly to the reservations you have made. Should you notice an error in any document you receive, or should you have any questions pertaining to your departure or your trip, please consult your travel agent. Departure tax and tourist card: Depending on your destination, you may be required to pay a departure tax and/or tourist card immediately on site.

IDENTITY PROTECTION Protecting our customers’ identity is a priority for us at Gendron Travel. We only request information needed for customer files and for ensuring good communication and ease of operations. We do not sell our customer databases or share any personal information whatsoever without prior consent. We also have security systems used to protect all of the personal information contained within our computer system.

COMMENTS AND CLAIMS Gendron Travel will attempt to resolve any problems you encounter during your stay if we are advised of said problem. Please contact your destination representative or travel consultant as soon as possible so we can process your request (by email or phone). If the problem in question cannot be resolved on site, please provide us with all necessary details as quickly as possible after returning from your trip. All complaints must be provided to your consultant in writing to ensure they are processed in a timely manner.

SPECIAL REQUESTS FOR YOUR HOTEL STAY Special requests such as room location and bed size preference must be communicated at the time of reservation. Gendron Travel will forward your request to the hotel but cannot guarantee that it will be honored.

Gendron Travel will not be held liable if certain requests are not respected.

GIFT CERTIFICATES/TRAVEL CREDITS Want to give one as a gift? Nothing could be easier.

Simply contact one of our travel agents. To use a gift certificate or travel voucher, simply provide the original copy when making your reservation so that your travel agent can include it in your customer file. No reservation or price reduction will be applied unless your travel agent has the original gift certificate or travel voucher in hand. Gift certificates are nontransferable and have no cash value. Travel vouchers (unless otherwise indicated) are applicable for Gendron Travel’s exclusive packages (skiing, golfing, biking and *sun destinations). They are not applicable to group departures and are nontransferable and have no cash value. *Sun destinations: Air Transat Vacations, Nolitours, TMR, Sunwing or other wholesalers independent from Gendron Travel are excluded.

PARKING AT THE AIRPORT We offer our customers preferential rates when parking at Montreal-Trudeau airport’s AeroParc and airport Multi-level parking spaces for the duration of their stay, for every room booked. Certain conditions apply (minimum package cost required). Visit our Web site at www.gendronski.com for more information. A parking voucher will be included as part of the travel documents given to you by your travel agent. Gendron Travel holds a license delivered by the Province of Quebec.

THEY’RE LYING.

photo by Abby Dell Photography

(IT’S NOT A ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE).

2500+ Acres 142+ Runs 10 Lifts 30+ Feet of Legendary Powder

2800+ Acres 129+ Runs 1 Gondola & 3 Lifts 24+ Feet of Champagne Powder

ONCE IS NOT ENOUGH, NO MATTER WHAT THE SAY. Save up to 23% if you book by November 15 2016.