Club Med – The ups and downs of Valmorel

Posted on May 23, 2013 by Alice Howard

Recently I was fortunate enough to sample the delights of the Club Med concept in one of their newest and smartest properties – a luxury hotel in Valmorel

A little known and fairly limited ski area I was unsure of what to expect, both from a ski holiday in Valmorel and also the hotel. Having never experienced the Club Med ‘concept’ before I was a little apprehensive but this anxiety melted away the moment our taxi pulled up to the hotel.

Valmorel Club Med Resort, France

One thing you can say for a Club Med ski holidays is that their service is impeccable (if a little unexpected given my previous experience of French customer service). Three members of staff greeted our taxi with beaming smiles and directed us into the smart and stylishly furnished lobby area. Once checked in to our room, which was lovely; clean, well designed and spacious, we went to explore the pool and spa area and sorted our ski hire in the onsite ski room (all equally spotless, well designed and welcoming). Everything about a Club Med ski holiday is well thought out, high quality and above all convenient.

Having settled in we headed down to the bar area for a pre-dinner drink. There is a range of cocktails on offer as well as beer and wine – all included in your holiday price, so it would be silly not to indulge, a recurring theme for the holiday and one that may have led to some extreme holiday excess! Expect to come away from a Club Med holiday with your jeans a little tighter!

Club Med Resort Valmorel (main lobby), France

To accompany your unlimited drinks there is a snack buffet area allowing you to collect a sample of nibbles – this was one of my favourite parts of the evening; mini squares of pizza, cheese croquettes, a range of nuts, crackers and crisps, cold meats and olives, a veritable plethora of pre-dinner nibbles. This accompanied by the pleasant (if slightly cheesy) live music on stage set the scene for what was to be a fantastic week punctuated by great skiing, delicious buffet dinners, slightly too much wine and cocktails and a constant stream of overly enthusiastic, often bizarre but always entertaining, evening shows in the bar.

Following drinks we were to experience the main event … dinner. What I can only describe as the most impressive and varied buffet I have ever encountered was laid out. We were led through to one of the four dining rooms, each elegantly designed in the theme of the seasons, where a waiter ensured we had our preferred wine. Then the extraordinarily difficult task of browsing the buffet and deciding what, out of the overabundance of culinary delights laid out in front of us, we would choose. All of the dishes are expertly prepared and thoroughly delicious without exception; to start there was a choice of warm chicken gizzard salad, duck liver pate on brioche, steak tartare, roasted vegetable stack with grilled parmesan crisps, warm crayfish salad, fresh prawns, oysters and scallops as well as a fantastic salad bar and a huge area of freshly baked and interesting breads! This truly was the most impressive spread I have ever experienced.

Main courses were equally impressive, from perfectly cooked duck breast to boeuf bourguignon, tartiflette (and other mountain specialities), various pasta dishes, steak, grilled fish and a huge assortment of vegetable side dishes. Dessert was a mouth-watering selection of freshly prepared pastries and puddings all beautifully presented. To accompany this there was a selection of excellent ice creams and fresh fruit– there was even a chocolate fountain! And of course (being in France) an exceptional selection of delicious cheeses to round off the meal. I was unbelievably impressed by the choice and quality of the food on offer and dinner was certainly something to look forward after a day exploring the delightful, if slightly limited, ski area.

Club Med Resort Valmorel (langoustine - yum!)

The Grand Domain of Valmorel is not huge, it extends over to St Francois and Longchamp with about 150km of pisted runs, all gentle, long and ‘cruisey’ – ideal for confidence boosting and great for families and beginners. There is also scope for some excellent off piste and although fairly low altitude we had excellent conditions and even great powder conditions – not bad for the second week in April!

All in all I could not fault Club Med. The food was excellent, the staff enthusiastic, helpful and friendly. The entertainment though not to everyone’s taste is great for families and dare I say it the dancing and singing becomes slightly infectious!

Although I did not take advantage of the lessons included in the package speaking to other guests they were extremely impressed with these and enjoyed the social aspect it brought to the holiday.

Alice Howard in Valmorel, France

All of the children staying at the hotel (and there were plenty of them) seemed to be kept adequately amused and entertained by the various kids clubs on offer ensuring that there was never a surfeit of bored and irritating children running around. This really is a great family ski holiday destination.

I would thoroughly recommend Club Med for a family, beginners or anyone who is looking to enjoy a really convenient ski-in / ski-out holiday with a full programme of activities, in a smart environment with excellent levels of food and service. Overall a winner – if you don’t mind the cheesy entertainment and hordes of children.

If you are considering a Club Med holiday and need any help or advice please do not hesitate to contact us on 0207 801 1080 or send us an email. Club Med have a wide range of luxury ‘resorts’ across the Alps

What’s in a name?

Posted on March 6, 2013 by Lucy Ogden

Here at Alpine Answers we spend so much time talking about the efficiency of lift systems and the size of ski areas, not to mention the snow conditions (they’ve been phenomenal for the second season running, since you ask), that occasionally all the magical hidden extras and treasures that every given resort has to offer get forgotten. We all know there are resorts which look more ‘chocolate box’ or more ‘purpose built’ than others but what about what actually goes on within that exterior view, whatever that might be?

Meribel ski resort view of village

To cover all resorts would be impossible since there is more on offer in each resort than any holiday maker would normally imagine. Therefore, by way of giving an example of the vast opportunities on offer in most resorts, I’m going to use Meribel as an example. Before we begin I should confess that I’m obsessed with Meribel. It was my home for a large portion of 2011 and 2012 and before that a beacon of much loved childhood memories. Having made this disclaimer let’s continue this virtual tour, whilst remembering that similar opportunities mentioned here are on offer in numerous resorts across the beautiful mountain ranges of Europe and North America.

So, let’s start somewhere delicious. Skiing holidays are one of the few times you can get away with eating that larger portion (or at least pretend you can) so why not make the best of it? For evening meals in the Morel area head to the Petit Onion where your bill will be served in a locked treasure box whilst finding the key requires you to dive through a bowl of sweeties to retrieve it. Chez Kiki serves beef that taught me the true meaning of the words ‘steak that melts in your mouth.’ Meat doesn’t melt in your mouth, I thought. Well, it does at Chez Kiki. These restaurants are a little more pricy than some but really worth the extra. They’re also convenient for anyone who is really suffering the effects of a hard day’s skiing and has been rendered unable to make the five minute walk down into the centre of town. On a Monday the Petit Onion is closed for food as it houses a live band and serves solely as a bar. However, it’s still worth a visit and also it’s the only place in Meribel to serve Guinness!

Rond Point Bar and Restaurant Meribel

For anyone with less weary legs I would recommend taking the short walk into town via the shortcuts running between all the chalets. It makes for a mini adventure, a more scenic view and occasionally a perfect way to try out the grip on your snow boots. Make your way to La Fromagerie for the most delicious and authentic Savoyard experience. Walking into the restaurant is rather like getting hit by a wall of cheese since the fumes from the food would give any fondue and raclette mecca a run for its money. However, you’ll soon not notice it and, believe me, the food is good enough to excuse almost anything. The fumes might, however, give your legs an added wobble by the time you get up to leave. If it doesn’t then I recommend you continue your evening’s entertainment in La Poste cocktail bar just down the street. French, stylish and brimming full of inventive liquid treats all guaranteed to come with added leg wobble when consumed in multiples. Well, you are on holiday after all!

If you’ve found yourself in town but have already had your fill of French skiing faire then head to Evos at the bottom of the town. Offering a wide range of good food in a friendly atmosphere it’s a safe option for everyone. On a Sunday Evos have an all you can eat ‘buffet’ (dishes are brought you your table) which has a different theme every week eg. Chinese, Thai, Indian. It’s also a really good option for breakfast since it’s so close to the Chaudanne area which operates as the main lift hub.

For those looking for lunch munch (or just an excuse to sit down for a bit) then Meribel is packaged with surprisingly good value gems. The Rond Point (‘Ronnie’ as it is affectionately known) is on the run down to the Chaudanne from the Courchevel side of the valley and before this much loved venue heats up the slopes with its après scene, it runs a full lunch service on their sun trap of a terrace. Tanning and tartiflette? Why not?!

Rond Point Bar and Restaurant Meribel

If you’ve been exploring the Mont Vallon area or are heading over to Val Thorens then you’ll likely find yourself in Mottaret. You won’t fail to miss the buzzing cafe scene that appears mysteriously quickly just before midday. Post-lunch the crowd disperses quickly enough to make you wonder if it was ever there in the first place. Consequently it becomes a rather tranquil patch for a spot of mid afternoon people watching (and you thought those ski googles were just for keeping out the sun’s rays.) Midday or mid afternoon you’d be a fool to miss out on a Mountain Burger. It’s sure to provide lots of energy (although we’re probably good enough friends now to admit that what I really mean is that it’s not exactly health food) but at €6 you can afford to eat as much or as little of this feast as you fancy.

Lucy skiing in Meribel - Mont Vallon

Now moving on to evening activities that, shock horror, don’t involve food, I recommend heading to an ice hockey game in the Olympic Centre. It’s roughly €4 a ticket and, unless there’s a big tournament happening, Wednesday is match day. In all honestly the Meribel team aren’t going to be winning any big championships but that doesn’t normally stop the crowd from making lots of encouraging noise. If you don’t warm up your hands by flapping and clapping then a Vin Chaud is €3. Moving next door, the bowling alley is open every evening and buying a game also buys every player an array of glow sticks and accessories, making this activity somewhat of a unique disco experience.

Now I know I said that the aim of this read wasn’t to impart knowledge of skiing but it is my job and old habits die hard. So….head to the Altiport area, which is on the Courchevel side of the valley, for real beginners. You can do the Actimel Challenge ski cross run which is essentially a really mini ski cross complete with tunnels and skittles. Then, you can ski through the trees on the Animal run and find all the animal statues hidden in the trees. In my experience this is a skill unique to children but I’ll blame that on their more suitable eye level to save face. Following this you can ski the Golf run down to Meribel Village. This run is good for basic intermediates but is also a really lovely run for everyone. You can ski down to the Lodge Du Village (LDV) in Meribel Village which is good for lunch as it has a great terrace that acts as the perfect sun trap. You could also head to the LDV for a lively après scene and live music on Tuesdays.

Lodge du Village in Meribel Village

The thing is, I really have only just scratched the surface in this blog. It really is best if you go and experience it all for yourself and discover all the gems that this blog is too short to tell you about. Please do telephone us here at Alpine Answers and we can help you find your perfect chalet in Meribel or an alternative resort where similar treats lay in store.

Weekend adrenaline rush in Engelberg

Posted on February 22, 2013 by Earl Knudsen

Wow, what a gem of a resort. Having never been before but having heard so much I was intrigued. I was also a little sceptical as Simon in the office dislocated his shoulder skiing in Engelberg and consequently did not give it a glowing report.

Arranging a ski weekend in Engelberg could not be easier as flights to Zurich are plentiful and my SWISS flight went without a glitch. The two friends I was meeting up with had about a 45 minute delay so I got to experience Zurich airport, which is actually very impressive. Plenty of shops and restaurants to keep oneself busy for an hour or so. We picked up a car and the short transfer time of 1 hour 20 minutes makes Engelberg, one of the shortest transfer destinations from a major airport.

How much snow?

It was not love at first sight as we arrived in sub zero temperatures, in fact, none of us were too keen to get out and ask someone where to find our hotel. The long and short of it is that Engelberg is not that big so eventually we found THE SCHWEIZERHOF; how could we miss it as it was right in the centre of the resort next to the Bahnhof! With the resort totally covered in snow and snow continuing to fall on our arrival we all knew we were in for a good weekend of powder.

The very friendly Hotel Schweizerhof

The next day after a hearty breakfast we got our skis and walked the seven minutes to the Titlis Gondola with the snow still falling. Please note we could have also hopped on the local bus for a four minute ride to the lift. OK, the visibility was not great but with so much snow around we were on a mission. After the two stage Gondola we hopped onto the cable car and arrived at 2428 metres which is actually not that high and with the final Rotair cable car still to take we decided we would start our weekend on skis at this point. The snow under ski was amazing and within a short time we found our perfect pitch to go crazy in the POW! The Laubersgrat area was perfect with powder up to our thighs on either side of the piste, we were soon getting in the groove. The visibility remained poor for most of the morning but after a spot of lunch every skier’s dream came true – a “bluebird” afternoon was in stall for us. We jumped on the Rotair Cable car, which is quite unique in that it revolves round as it ascends to 3028 metres. Now the heart was pumping as the views were amazing of the Steinberg glacier below us. We could see plenty of skiers and boarders in paradise skiing thigh deep powder. However, without a guide we were not going to tackle the glacier so instead we skied a safer itinerary route which was just as amazing. Having skied hard all day our end run was the famous bowl called the Laub. This is 1400 metres of off-piste North facing powder with a perfect pitch – a real thigh burner but we were in heaven! My tip on reaching the bottom of the Laub is not to walk out but take the taxi ride back. For 2 Swiss francs I can assure you it’s worth it. Day one was over and I was a spent force.

The Gondola Titlis mountain

Days two and three were just as inspiring, as we went over to the Jochpass area and found plenty of excellent off-piste terrain. Wherever you look you’ll find tracks as this is an off-piste paradise given the right conditions. We just happened to be in the right place at the right time as I cannot remember skiing in such light and deep powder – just truly amazing! Next time I go I will be fitter and I’ll book a guide, well if I am being more realistic maybe I’ll just book the guide.

Bluebird day in Engelberg - Top of the Laub

The resort of Engelberg is situated in a box canyon as the Americans like to call it, and is typical in style of many Swiss resorts. The larger buildings being quite square and austere, mixed in with traditional wooden mazots, make for an interesting combination. Getting around can generally be done on foot although the local bus service is frequent and reliable. There are plenty of good hotels and I can highly recommend the Hotel Schwiezerhof where we stayed. They offer a great breakfast; and the rooms are large, comfortable and clean. There is a small bar and lounge to relax in as well as a small wellness area. The hotel restaurant which we did not try does local fondues, so next time I will give it a go.

No - that is not a grey beard - it's ice. Well, perhaps not all of it is ice.

Please note as we only skied for 2 ½ days we did not have time to try the Brunni side of the resort. This is the family and beginner ski area, so don’t let the fact that I have recommended Engelberg to powder hounds put you off, there is something for everyone.

Use an Independent Operator – Notice the Difference!

Posted on December 13, 2012 by Sophia Phillips

Looking for a catered ski chalet with fabulous food and attentive chalet hosts? Then book a chalet run by an independent operator and notice the difference!

Check-in lines that almost stretch from one Gatwick terminal to the other at 4am, shared transfers with 50 people and a resort rep with a less than subtle goggle tan. Does this sound familiar? If so, chances are you have probably booked a catered ski chalet package deal at some stage with a mass market tour operator. Now, don’t get me wrong – these deals do offer fantastic value for money and are very hassle free given that you can organise your entire ski holiday in one phone call. Although, for nearly the same price you could book a catered chalet with an independent operator. Why make the switch you may wonder? Well, the main difference is a more personalised experience in a number of ways. For example, independent operators only look after a handful of chalets (not 50+) and tend to have a more stringent recruitment process and are consequently able to be more selective with the staff they choose. Additionally, they have more flexibility when it comes to catering and dietary requirements and are not bound by the same set menu every week of the season. Other extras often included are return airport transfers or a ski guide and driver service which are usually just for your chalet – not shared services across multiple chalets and guests.

Nearly all independent operators do not offer flights but we can buy those for you and we can also arrange private taxi transfers to meet those flights. Using our ATOL license you will be financially protected – really there is no better way to travel than by scheduled flight and private transfer.

Here are my top picks for chalets run by small independent companies who always go the extra mile for their guests…

1. Chalet Sapin de Reberty – Reberty (Three Valleys).

Chalet Sapin de Reberty, Reberty (Three Valleys ski area)

If you are in search of a chalet which will serve top notch food, do not look any further than Chalet Sapin de Reberty. Head chef Max has previously worked for the esteemed Noma restaurant in Copenhagen which has won ‘No. 1 Restaurant in the World’ for the past three years running. Prices start from £576 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board.

2. Chalet Gentiane – Les Gets (Portes du Soleil)

Chalet Gentiane, Les Gets (Portes du Soleil ski area)

Sleeping up to 16 people, the Gentiane is one of the most comfortable chalets in Les Gets. It is a big hit for large groups of young professionals – especially given that it offers guests unlimited wine and beer throughout their stay. With a high staff to guest ratio, the owners go out of their way to ensure guests have an enjoyable and relaxing ski holiday. Prices start from £580 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board.

3. Chalet Bouquetin – Morzine (Portes du Soleil).

Chalet Bouquetin, Morzine (Portes du Soleil ski area)

Not only is Chalet Bouquetin one of the newest chalets in Morzine this season, it also comes with complementary transfers from Geneva when you book the chalet for sole occupancy. Complete with a wake up drink each morning, your own ski guide, driver service, wine cellar and fabulous wellness facilities including a hot tub and sauna, the Bouquetin has everything you want from a catered ski chalet holiday. Prices start from £675 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board, including transfers from Geneva.

4. Chalet Jardin d’Angele – Courchevel 1300 (Three Valleys)

Chalet Jardin d'Angele, Courchevel 1300 (Three Valleys ski area)

Provided you are not too fussed on nightlife, Chalet Jardin d’Angele is ideal for groups wishing to ski in a world class resort without the price tag commonly associated with catered chalets in the Courchevel region. Prices start from £699 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board, including transfers from Geneva.

5. Chalet Mautalent – Flaine Morillon (Grand Massif)

Chalet Mautalent, Flaine Morillon (Grand Massif ski area)

Despite the fact Chalet Mautalent is a little way from the piste, the spacious chalet and amazing food definitely make it worth your while. With an owner who has trained at the Fat Duck and Chez Bruce in London, you are in for an absolute culinary treat staying here for the week! Prices start from £499 per person for a 7 night stay in a twin room on catered chalet board, including transfers from Geneva.

If you would like to discuss any of the above suggestions or are interested to learn more about other independently run properties, please do not hesitate to contact me on +44 (0)20 7801 1080.

Skiing doesn’t have to be the main event…

Posted on November 30, 2012 by Anna Sampson

Anna explores the off-slope events worth watching in 2012/13.

Snowbombing in Mayrhofen may not be entirely your scene but I can’t help thinking
a ski holiday is always enhanced when there is something fun going on in resort. Stumbling across a live concert or downhill race is always a happy coincidence but why not book your holiday to coincide with your favourite act or ski hero?

This year’s winter events calendar could see you crooning along to ‘Lady in Red’ with the legend that is Chris de Burgh (Zermatt Unplugged), or gasping in awe as you experience the sights and sounds of thundering polo pony hooves at the world class competitions in Kitzbuhel or St Moritz!

Take at look at the Alpine Answers hot pick of events for the 2012/2013 winter season:

DECEMBER 2012
What: Andros Trophy
When: 08th – 09th December 2012 (Val Thorens, France)
When: 21st – 22nd December 2012 (Alpe d’Huez, France)

Think ‘Top Gear on ice’, the Andros Trophy is fast adrenaline packed rally racing on ice. It is the world’s premier ice racing championships and attracts star drivers from motorsport’s past and present, such as F1 World Champions Alain Prost, Jacques Villeneuve and 1996 Monaco GP winner Olivier Panis.

The Trophy speeds off on the 8th December in Val Thorens, which is perfect for high, early season skiing and revs up the resort of Alpe d’Huez on the 21^st December.

Andros Trophy - Ice driving Championships - Val Thorens

Where to stay:

There is a huge array of catered chalets in Val Thorens, including the lovely Chalet Phoenix with its access to indoor spa facilities. Or for something more luxurious try one of the quality hotels in Val Thorens such as the Hotel Fitz Roy ****.

If you are feeling the pinch with Christmas approaching then the catered chalets of Alpe d’Huez represent great value for money. If you are feeling a bit flash then the Chalet Hotel Sarrene has amazing wellness facilities and is also in a ski in ski out location!

JANUARY 2013
What: Snow Polo World Cup
When: 18th – 20th January 2013 (Kitzbuhel, Austria)

Set against the stunning mountain backdrop of Kitzbühel this free event is a feat of action-packed equestrian elegance and is the world’s largest polo tournament on snow. Whether you are a polo enthusiast or not you can’t help but admire the stunning polo ponies galloping across the snow-topped Münichauer Wiese at top speed. The event boasts international culinary delights and many evening shows and parties which further enhance Kitzbuhel’s already vibrant nightlife.

The social highlight is Saturday’s VIP polo players’ party with tickets available at the Kitzbuhel Tourist office, so get out that fur and dust off those dancing shoes – it’s time to party, Austrian Polo style!

Snow Polo World Cup - Kitzbuhel

Where to stay:

Accommodation here is probably cheaper than St Moritz but it’s still not for those watching their purse strings. Our recommended hotels in Kitzbuhel include the stunning Hotel Kitzhof **** and the extravagant luxurious Hotel Weisses Rossl ***** with its fantastic spa and wellness facilities.

FEBRUARY 2013
What: Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup
When: 23^rd – 25^th February 2013 (Meribel, France)

Renowned for its social après ski scene and brilliant chalets, Meribel is not just about over indulging. This season Meribel will host the fast paced Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup including downhill and super-combined events, featuring the best women skiers from around the world.

This awe inspiring event is one for the entire family. Marvel at the top speeds reached by the girls as they hurtle down the challenging courses with their rolls, high speed turns and steep terrain. Rub shoulders with the likes of American, Lindsey Vonn, and our own, Chemmy Alcott, who is hoping to return to form this season, even with a piece of metal in her leg!

After all the excitement of the races why not treat yourself to a drink and a dance in your ski boots at Meribel’s new Folie Douce bar.

Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup - Meribel

Where to stay:

Our recommendation for chalets in Meribel include the luxury Chalet Du Vallon in Meribel Village with state of the art entertainment room, the well priced Chalet Serpolet with games room and hot tub and the boutique Chalet Hotel Parc Alpin with indoor pool. For the height of luxury the brand new Hotel Kaila ***** will be the top pick of the Meribel hotels.

MARCH 2013
What: The Winter X-Games
When: 20th – 22nd March 2013 (Tignes Val Claret, France)

Not for the feint hearted this event is the highlight of the extreme winter sports calendar. You may not have your trousers hanging around your knees or be surgically attached to a neon beanie but you are sure to be impressed with the adrenaline fuelled, gravity defying, feats these athletes produce. The competition draws the biggest names in freestyle skiing and snowboarding to compete for the title of X-Games champion. Of course there is plenty of music and après ski fun on the side. What’s more you get all this action and excitement for free!

The Winter X-Games - Tignes

Where to stay:

The catered chalets in Tignes cover a wide range of budgets and standards providing something for everyone. From the cheap and cheerful Chalet Tavaillons, good for groups as it sleeps up to 24, to the comfortable Chalet Annapurna 2 with its indoor Jacuzzi. Our top recommendation for a lovely hotel in Tignes is the Hotel Village Montana **** but for those saving for a rainy day the highly social Alpaka Lodge is brilliant, especially appealing to a younger crowd.

APRIL 2013
What: Zermatt Unplugged
When: 09th – 13th April 2013 (Zermatt, Switzerland)

Set underneath the breathtaking backdrop of the Matterhorn Mountain and its iconic peak is the Zermatt Unplugged music festival. This unique and charming festival is a yearly spring-skiing feature and is one of the hottest tickets on the Zermatt calendar. In the past artists and bands such as Chris de Burgh, Alanis Morissette, Amy MacDonald and Lionel Richie have performed. Set in several marquees, club stages and on various mountain venues the festival is dedicated mainly to acoustic music.

What’s not to love? Live music, fantastic on-mountain dining and one of the most stunning ski resorts in the world! Reserve your tickets early!

Zermatt Unplugged - Acoustic Music Festival - Zermatt

Where to stay:

Chalets in Zermatt generally adhere to the modern Swiss mountain style of decor and architecture – chic and stylish with lots of glass, stainless steel and use of rarefied alpine light. Release your inner rock star and stay at the uber trendy Heinz Julen Loft (Robbie Williams stayed here) or go for the more economical and well located option of Chalet Genepy. Situated on the main high street, Zermatt’s Hotel Mont Cervin Palace ***** and the ever impressive Zermatterhof Hotel ***** will ensure you are well pampered, while the Alex Schlosshotel **** is always a firm favourite with our clients.

Feeling inspired? Or need more information? I would be delighted to have my knowledge put to the test. Feel free to give myself or one of our friendly team a call on: 020 7801 1080 or drop us an e-mail on ski@alpineanswers.co.uk.