Ski trips to France & skiing tips

Easter Skiing in France

2012-01-24T17:40:00.002Z

With the huge amounts of snow in the Alps looking set to continue, there couldn’t be a better time to book an Easter ski holiday. With the Easter holidays spread over two weeks skiing at Easter is one of the better value for money choices for a family skiing holiday. Peak Retreats have some great deals for Easter skiing holidays especially for those looking to ski 31st march making it even more affordable. March ski deals available include;

Up to £100 off luxury ski apartments in Samoens, Les Carroz, Peisey, La Rosiere and Sainte Foy for the first Easter ski week, 31st march, due to last minute cancellations.

Sainte-Foy – Les Fermes de Sainte Foy, Save £100 on 4 bedroom apartment sleeping 10. Les Fermes de Sainte Foy is a luxury self-catering residence located at the foot of the ski slopes close to the shops.

Samoens – La Reine des Pres, Save £100 on 3 bedroom apartment sleeping 8. Luxury La Reine des Pres residence is made up of 80 self catering apartments. It is located 400m from the main cable car and 450m from the village centre.

La Rosiere – Les Cimes Blanches, Save £50 on 2 bedroom apartment sleeping 6. Recently built Les Cimes Blanches is a luxury self catering residence located close to the ski slopes, only 10 minutes from the ski school and Eucherts chairlift. The centre of La Rosiere is 900m away.

February Half Term ski deals

2011-12-21T11:13:00.008Z

Enjoy February half term skiing in a beautiful ski chalet with a log fire or ski-in ski-out ski apartment and less queues on the slopes in a charming French resort. Half term skiing is a chance for the whole family to get away and enjoy the glorious sunshine and snow covered mountains.

Every season we have some great February ski early booking deals available for quality self-catered ski apartments. For most residences we have half term skiing early booking discounts on selected properties throughout the French Alps for cheap half term ski holidays.

Peak Retreats features residence La Reine de Pres in Samoens which is ideally located within walking distance of the Grand Massif Express cable car. Samoens is an ideal family location for half term skiing, as there are plenty of activities available and something for everyone. All the family can enjoy the facilities La Reine des Pres has to offer including the free indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and fitness room.

If you are looking for accommodation that will have room for larger families, then Peak Retreats offers a typical mountain style residence in Oz en Oisans, located in the centre of the village. The Chalet des Neiges apartments sleep up to 14 people in cosy, snug apartments, which give access to a private indoor heated swimming pool and sauna.

Peak Retreats also offers some beautiful accommodation in Peisey Vallandry in the Paradiski area. L’Oree des Cimes is a luxury residence located in the heart of the Vallandry village, offering doorstep skiing which is excellent for the little ones who don’t want to carry their skis too far to the nearest ski lift.

Half term skiing holidays don’t have to be expensive; we can offer a wide variety of apartments, chalets and hotels at varying budgets to suit your requirements. Visit the Peak Retreats website now and see what is on offer for February skiing.

Serre Chevalier France

2011-11-23T12:41:00.007Z

The resort of Serre Chevalier is idyllically located in a sunny south-facing valley, at the foot of the most beautiful peaks in the Ecrins National Park. Amongst the Serre Chevalier resort, three beautiful towns; Briancon, Chantemerle and Monetier les Bains provide 250km of piste and are highly rated for their snow record, skiing conditions and scenery.

At 1326m, officially Europe’s highest town, Briancon is best suited for intermediate and beginner skiers and is the perfect location, with plenty of choice for snowboarders and cross-country skiers as well.

Peak Retreats features residence Aigle Bleu in Briancon, which is ideally located right by the cable car, giving access to the whole ski area and just a short walk away from the bustling resort centre. For a little relaxation, guests can enjoy free access to the sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room after a long day skiing and explore the variety of restaurants and bars Briancon has to offer.

Chantemerle, also part of the Serre Chevalier resort, is a mixture of modern and traditional and offers a good selection of mini supermarkets, restaurants, bars and nightlife. After a long day of skiing, relax in one of the two residences which Peak Retreats has to offer. Choose from Le Hameau du Rocher Blanc, a luxury residence with an ideal location, close to the slopes and lifts, or Residence l’Adret, the new luxury residence which combines traditional architecture with high standard modern facilities.

Further up the resort is the beautiful village of Monetier les Bains where you can find the natural hot baths that have been bubbling away since the dawn of time. It is a great way to relax and recover after a long day of skiing.

Have a look at our Serre Chevalier accommodation today and other activities that the resort has to offer!

December Ski Deals for Family Skiing

2011-10-28T16:31:00.002+01:00

Peak Retreats are offering a fantastic pre-Christmas ski deal for skiing 17th December week. Choose from Fri-Fri, Sat-Sat or Fri-Sat (8 nights for the price of 7) and be back home in time for Christmas!

Skiing 17 December is a great time to have your December skiing holiday, the accommodation is cheaper and the slopes will be quieter than the following week providing a great choice for your family ski holiday.

This one-off December ski deal applies to a selection of our 4 star luxury residences and includes 10% off the package price, free kids ski and boot hire*, free residence undercover parking* and a free massage* (* conditions apply).

Choose from La Reine des Pres in Samoens – a family favourite perfect for skiing with children and ideally located between the lifts and the village centre or Les Cimes Blanches in La Rosiere close to the slopes with stunning views over the Tarentaise Valley. Or if either of these don’t take your fancy why not enjoy the convenience of Le Village de Lessy in Le Grand Bornand – located in the centre of Chinaillon close to the slopes or the brand new Les Chalets de Flambeau in the lesser-known resort of Val Cenis – perfect for beginners and those a bit wobbly on their skis.

This pre-christmas ski deal can only be booked before 15/11/11 so hurry and book your December skiing holiday now!

Christmas Ski Resorts – Some great choices for Christmas skiing holidays

2011-10-21T15:18:00.007+01:00

Skiing at Christmas is a great way to enjoy the festive period! Not only can you spend the week on the slopes but you can get into the spirit with a guaranteed white Christmas, enjoy a turkey dinner in your self-catering apartment (or a fondue if you’d prefer) and take part in many other winter activities such as dog sledging, outdoor ice skating, snow shoeing and even skidoo.

We’ve put together a list of ski resorts for Christmas which offer great skiing, activities and an all-round Christmas experience for your skiing holiday.

Samoens
Samoens is a family favourite offering great skiing for all levels in the extensive Grand Massif ski area. It is an ideal resort in which to spend your Christmas skiing holiday, with a traditional village feel and pretty village centre it has plenty of Christmas charm. The Christmas village is open in Samoens from 19/12-24/12 with a Christmas market, waffles, hot wine and of course Father Christmas. As well as the usual winter activities, there is a fireworks display on Christmas Eve. Stay in 4* luxury La Reine des Pres residence located between the village centre and ski lifts so you can have the best of both worlds.

Megeve
Megeve is one of the most chic resorts in the French Alps and one of the best for non-skiers. Although purpose built it is an enchanting town in a beautiful setting complete with narrow cobbled streets, horse-drawn sleighs, weekly market and open ice rink as well as plenty of designer shops! The highlight of the Christmas activities taking part in Megeve is the Swarovski Christmas Tree. The 30ft tree covered in Swarovski crystals is illuminated on the 10th December and stays up for pretty much the whole season. Spend the week in brand new Lune d’Argent apartments only 20 minutes walk from the ski lifts and resort centre.

La Rosiere
One of Peak Retreats new resorts for this year, La Rosiere, is another great choice for Xmas in the snow. La Rosiere is the only Savoyard resort to offer an international ski area sharing Espace San Bernardo with Italy. As well as a fantastic family atmosphere and friendly ambience, Christmas magic week is taking place from 17/12-25/12 making La Rosiere a perfect place to ski at Christmas. 4* luxury Les Cimes Blanches residence is a great place to stay, close to the ski slopes and only 900m from the resort centre.

Peak Retreats offer Christmas holidays from 17/12-24/12 and 24/12-31/12 and have plenty of ski deals for Christmas. We feature a range of self-catering chalets if you want to spend your Christmas ski holiday with family or in a group.

Peak Retreats wins Best Ski Company Award Third Year in a Row

2011-10-10T10:33:00.004+01:00

Peak Retreats were proud to be announced “Best Ski Company” at the Guardian and Observer Travel Awards 2011, winning the award for a third consecutive year.

“Proving that small is beautiful for the third year in a row is Peak Retreats which takes its guests off the beaten piste to hidden resorts and villages offering an authentic Alpine experience” The Guardian, 2011.

Thousands of readers took part in the survey in which they were asked to rate the service they had received, this was then translated into a percentage. Peak Retreats won the category with an overall score of 98.4% with 100% being truly excellent.

Peak Retreats celebrate their 10th anniversary next year and have spent the last decade helping thousands of British skiers discover the real France is lesser-known resorts not featured by bigger operators. The programme has grown over the last ten years with the 45th resort – Les Contamines - being added this year to accompany the established favourites of Samoens, Valloire and Vaujany. Specialising in the French Alps, the small knowledgeable team gain a first-hand experience of the featured resorts and are able to offer holidays to suit client’s needs exactly along with a personal and dedicated service.

Photo L-R; John Mulholland, Peak Retreats Managing Director Xavier Schouller and Mariella Frostrup.

Val Cenis Les Chalets de Flambeau 4-star ski apartments

2011-09-29T13:04:00.002+01:00

Les Chalets de Flambeau ski apartments are brand new for Winter 2011/12. They are located in the ski resort of Val Cenis in the Maurienne Valley. Residence Les Chalets de Flambeau is one of the nicest Val Cenis apartments and provides luxury accommodation at a great price.

Val Cenis is a pretty traditional village which is lived in all year round, it is made up of two villages Lanslebourg and Landslevillard, Les Chalets du Flambeau is located between the two villages at the foot of the slopes close to the nearest chairlift. The scenery around Val Cenis is fantastic as it borders the Parc National de la Vanoise. Val Cenis skiing is a great choice for beginners, with the neighbouring resort of Termignon it offers a total of 125km of pistes. It is much quieter than the bigger, more well-known resorts so you do not need to queue as long at the ski lifts (which is a blessing at half-term). Val Cenis ski resort is a great value for money resort, the in-resort prices are much cheaper than the more well-known resorts so you save on shopping and eating out as well as lift passes and ski school.

There are plenty of off-piste activities in Val Cenis to keep you busy off the slopes, including; dog sledging, tobogganing and the new snake gliss – riding down the piste in a chain of sledges like a snake. If you would prefer to relax a bit after a day’s skiing you can take advantage of the leisure centre in Chalets de Flambeau. Enjoy the private indoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room and if you feel like being completely pampered treat yourself to a massage in the Spa and Beauty centre.

Ski Geneva - Ski Resorts near Geneva

2011-09-20T10:38:00.002+01:00

Peak Retreats offer a number of ski areas near geneva including the Grand Massif, Aravis, Mont Blanc and Portes du Soleil. Geneva is a great choice of airport to fly to for your skiing holiday as many UK airports operate flights here with plenty of budget airlines meaning you can get a cheap flight to geneva. It is also perfect if you are going for a short ski break as we offer many ski resorts within only an hour of Geneva so you can be on the slopes quicker and spend as much of your weekend skiing as possible! Peak Retreats can also book your private ski transfer from Geneva, you will be picked up from Geneva airport as soon as you arrive and taken straight to your accommodation – with no stops on the way.

If you want to ski near geneva below is a list of some of the ski resorts near geneva, for all of these it takes 1 hour or less from the airport in Geneva to ski resorts.

Grand Massif – Samoens, Morillon, Les Carroz and Sixt Fer a Cheval
Aravis – Grand Bornand and La Clusaz
Portes du Soleil – Les Gets
Mont Blanc – Argentiere, Chamonix, Le Houches, Combloux and Notre-Dame de Bellecombe

There is a wide range of accommodation available in Geneva ski resorts including large self-catering chalets, self-catering apartments from budget to luxury and hotels perfect for your short ski break or ski weekend.

Les Gets – Portes du Soleil

2011-08-17T11:03:00.002+01:00

Les Gets is a popular choice with Peak Retreats clients. In 10/11 ski season it was rated amongst the top 10 resorts that clients would recommend to a friend. It is easy to see why; Les Gets is part of the Portes du Soleil ski area which offers 650km of pistes, optimal snow fall and above average sunshine. It shares this extensive ski area with the ski resorts of Morzine, Avoriaz and Chatel.

Les Gets ski resort is a traditional style village which over time has been developed into a ski resort. It has great facilities for families and is a good choice for beginner or intermediate skiers. It also has a lively night life for those wanting it, with a wide selection of restaurants and bars.

Finally, it is easily accessed from either Calais or Geneva and is one of the closest resorts to both locations which Peak Retreats feature.

Peak Retreats have a fantastic selection of accommodation in Les Gets including the brand new 4* Les Fermes Emiguy apartments. Fermes Emiguy has an indoor heated pool and is only 300m from the centre of Les Gets resort and 450m from the nearest gondola.

Other Les Gets accommodation includes a range of handpicked chalets. All Peak Retreats Les Gets chalets are privately owned so have a very homely feel to them and all the mod cons you could need. They are a great choice for larger families or skiing groups.

Les Gets hotels on offer include the 3* Hotel Ours Blanc which is located 100m from the main gondola or the 4* Hotel Le Labrador, nestled away in a quiet location only 300m from the resort centre and close to the slopes.

Have a look at our latest Les Gets ski deals and book your les gets skiing holiday now.

Les Deux Alpes

2011-07-23T12:32:00.002+01:00

Les Deux Alpes is one of the biggest and most renowned resorts in the French Alps. It is home to the biggest glacier in Europe which is even skiable during the summer. Deux Alpes reaches 3600m making it one of the highest resorts in the French Alps and due to this and its glacier it has one of the best snow records.

Les Deux Alpes offers skiing for all levels and is one of the best choices for groups with mixed skiing abilities. It is only one hour from Grenoble airport making it easy to get to. Les 2 Alpes also has a fantastic mix of après ski offering a variety of bars, clubs, restaurants and shops.

The pretty village of Venosc is worth a visit. It is only an 8 minute gondola ride from Les Deux Alps. Here you can walk along the cobbled streets and look around the art and craft shops. Peak Retreats also feature self-catering ski chalets in Venosc if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Les 2 Alps.

Accommodation in Les Deux Alpes includes;

Le Cortina luxury 4 star self-catering apartments

Friendly Hotel Cote Brune situated in the heart of the resort with skiing to the door

A selection of private self-catering chalets including Leslie Alpen

New for 2012 skiing

2011-06-20T12:21:00.002+01:00

Peak Retreats are offering two new resorts for ski holidays 2012, Megeve and La Rosiere.
La Rosiere is located in the Tarentaise valley on the Italian border so you can ski La Thuile in Italy. La Rosiere is a great choice for families and offers excellent skiing for beginners. Peak Retreats are offering La Rosiere apartments Cimes Blanches. Les Cimes Blanches is a luxury residence close to the ski slopes and ski school. It also has fantastic spa facilities including an indoor heated pool.

As well as these two new resorts, many new self-catering ski apartments and hotels are being offered for 2012 ski season.

Ski apartments (which are all brand new for Winter 2011/12) include;
Les Grandes Alpes La Clusaz – Grandes Alpes La Clusaz is close to the village centre, lifts and slopes and has an indoor heated pool, sauna and Jacuzzi.

L’Oree des Neiges, Peisey Vallandry – Oree des Neiges is located within walking distance of Vallandry centre. These luxury apartments offer doorstep skiing and a leisure centre with indoor heated pool.

Les Fermes Emiguy Les Gets – Fermes Emiguy is situated close to the resort centre and gondola. Les Fermes Emiguy also has an indoor heated pool and leisure facilities.

Les Chalets de Flambeau, Val Cenis – luxury apartments at the foot of the slopes. Chalets de Flambeau MGM apartments also have a leisure centre with indoor heated pool.

Also new for skiing holidays 2012 are; Residence l’Aigle Bleu in Briancon (Serre-Chevalier), Chalet Grange apartments in Samoens, Alpen Les Gets, L’Etoile des Cimes in Sainte Foy, Hotel Monte Bianco St Gervais and Anova Hotel Montgenevre.

Sainte Foy Review

2011-05-25T11:24:00.007+01:00

This year for our annual ski holiday we decided on the resort of Sainte Foy Tarentaise, we chose Ste Foy as it had great reviews especially for families. As we were travelling with two first time skiiers and our 3 year old this resort seemed to fit the bill.

We travelled on the Eurotunnel with a free flexi plus upgrade which was fantastic, we arrived at the terminal in Folkestone earlier than our prebooked crossing and had time to stop at the flexi-plus lounge and pick up a packed lunch and a cup of coffee before boarding an earlier crossing. The packed lunch was great and certainly kept us going for the day.

Normally we would book an overnight hotel in somewhere like Troyes or Dijon however this time we took the decision of making the journey in one hit. The reason for this decision was there was the option of staying for one night in an apartment at Le Coeur d’Or in Bourg St Maurice, which is just at the foot of the road leading up to La Rosiere, Tignes and Sainte Foy. Although it was a long drive, shared between 2 drivers it really wasn’t too bad and the best thing was we had arrived in the French Alps. We went out for a pizza in the evening and enjoyed a well-deserved glass of wine.

After a relaxing night’s sleep, we went into the centre of Bourg Saint Maurice and had a lovely chilled out late breakfast before stopping at the Intermarche supermarket and stocking up on supplies.

The journey up to Sainte Foy only took about 15 minutes and so we arrived fairly early, however we were able to collect all our ski equipment and the beginners were able to try out the nursery slope as the ‘magic carpet’ lift was free. After a while we were able to check in and we were happy to discover we had been allocated an apartment overlooking the nursery slope.

The actual resort of Sainte Foy Tarentaise is pretty small and the activities and entertainment offered is fairly limited. If you are used to resorts with a lot of night time activity then Saint Foy probably isn’t the best for you. There are a couple of bars and restaurants in the resort, a mini-market and bakery all within walking distance of the residence.

The residence Les Fermes de Sainte Foy is fairly large and impressive, with a lovely swimming pool and spa area. The ski hire shop is located in the residence too which is even better for transporting your equipment. You couldn’t wish for a more centrally located residence. Both the lift pass office and the ESF ski school meeting points were all just a short walk away.

We decided to pre-book some spa treatments which were amazing. The 6 hour package was split between four of us meaning we had an hour and a half each for treatments. We all decided to have a half hour massage and then an hour hot stone massage.

We were able to leave our apartment each morning and be at the Grand Plan chair lift within a matter of minutes. In fact from our apartment balcony we could see the lift departure point. The short ascent to the foot of the L’Arpettaz chair lift meant you were left with either the choice of a gentle green, blue or red run back to the village centre. Otherwise you could take L’Arpettaz lift to more challenging red and black runs. The ski domain at St Foy is admittedly small but with it fairly quiet – no queing for lifts was required. What really impressed us was whatever run you decided to come back down to the village they all ended up in the same place.

All in all we had an excellent holiday in Saint Foy and will certainly be returning, the more traditional style buildings, calmer ambience and well situated accommodation all led this holiday to being a great success.

By Richard, Team Member Peak Retreats

Holidays to French Riviera, Provence with Cote d’Azur Collection

2011-05-11T12:28:00.003+01:00

Peak Retreats are proud to announce the launch of their new sister company Cote d’Azur Collection. Cote d’Azur Collection specialise in great value holidays and short breaks to the French Riviera and Provence. Their portfolio consists of popular holiday destinations in the south of France such as; Monaco, St Tropez, Marseille and Avignon.

All accommodation featured is of a 3 or 4 star standard and varies from beach apartments which are no further than 500m from the nearest beach to club resorts offering a variety of on-site activities and entertainment. They also offer a range of private villas with pools to suit larger groups looking for total relaxation and independence. All accommodation is available in a package with Eurotunnel or ferry, it is also possible to book accommodation only should this be preferred.

Annecy

2011-04-15T11:47:00.009+01:00

Annecy is a superb destination for summer holidays, it offers a bit of everything from relaxing on the pretty lake Annecy to walking or hiking in the nearby Semnoz mountains. Since Annecy is a town there are plenty of things that you can do, many activities are available on the lake such as boat excursions, pedalo’s, windsurfers and more. There is a vast array of shops, restaurants and bars as well as a cinema and museums. There are even three golf courses in Annecy to keep golf enthusiasts busy. Annecy is easy to get to being only 50km from Geneva airport and one of the closest resorts to Calais and the other ferry ports from the U.K. Peak Retreats feature a wide range of Annecy accommodation including apartments with pools, hotels and a villa near the lake. Some top choices of accommodation in Annecy are. Le Birdie Apartments Residence Le Birdie is located in the small village of Giez only 25km south of Annecy and 5km from the lake. It is situated in the heart of one of the most famous golf courses in the region. Le Birdie has indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Imperial Palace Annecy L'Imperial Palace Annecy is located on the shore of Lake Annecy with stunning views of the lake and is one of the most prestigious hotels in Annecy. Hotel Imperial Annecy is surrounded by wooded gardens and only 15 minutes walk from Annecy centre. Palace de Menthon Hotel Le Palace de Menthon is located in Menthon Saint Bernard in a beautiful park surrounded by gardens. The hotel was built in the 1930s and retains a neoclassical architecture; it has an indoor pool with views over the lake and a private port.

Mountain Holidays – Summer in the French Alps

2011-03-18T17:01:00.002Z

The French Alps are a great destination for summer holidays offering pretty mountain landscapes, crowd free resorts and a chance to experience the ‘real’ France. There are plenty of activities available; walking, mountain biking, paragliding or even summer skiing on a skiable glacier in either Tignes or Les Deux Alpes!

Peak Retreats offer many French Alps resorts for summer alpine holidays such as the popular mountain biking resort of Les Gets, family favourite Valloire and beautiful French lake destinations such as Evian on Lake Geneva and Lake Annecy. You can stay in a friendly family run hotel, self-catering alpine apartment or a summer chalet. Alpine Summer holidays in the French mountains are a great choice for family summer holidays and fantastic value for money with prices starting from as little as £130pp including a ferry crossing. There are many early booking offers and cheap deals available if you book early so you really can find a bargain.

Easter Skiing

2011-02-15T16:06:00.003Z

April can be a good time to go on your skiing holiday. It is sunnier and warmer than other months and the longer days give you more hours of sunshine. The snow in April can also be very good if you pick the right resort.

With Easter falling in April this year it is a great time to go skiing, especially with young children as the warmer weather makes it more comfortable. So why not plan an Easter family skiing holiday! Easter skiing is quieter compared to other peak dates such as Christmas, New Year and February half term. Also, Easter ski accommodation prices do not increase as much as other peak dates, especially with Easter being later this year so you can take advantage of some great April ski deals and get a bargain on your Easter ski apartment. There are also deals available on lift passes and ski school is cheaper in many resorts than at the beginning of the year making skiing at Easter cheaper all-round.

Family Skiing Holidays France

2011-01-21T11:43:00.002Z

If you are looking for a family friendly ski resort it is best to go for a compact resort where everything is close at hand. Resorts where there are activities other than skiing available are a bonus to give children other things to do.

When skiing with kids it is important to choose accommodation close to the slopes so they do not need to walk far with their skis and boots. Ski in ski out accommodation is best but another option is to choose ski accommodation which has a bus that stops outside to take you to the ski lifts.

Most of the ski resorts that Peak Retreats feature are suitable for skiing with children but there are a few which we would especially recommend as the best ski resorts for children. For example;

Aussois, Maurienne Valley
A charming, traditional resort which offers excellent value for money and a wide choice of non-skiing activities. Stay at Les Flocons d’Argent.

Morillon 1100, Grand Massif
Also known as Les Esserts, this is a purpose built pedestrian resort offering a small selection of restaurants, bars and shops. Stay in ski-in ski-out Le Buet.

Oz en Oisans, Alpe d’Huez
Although purpose built Oz is an attractive resort with a traditional atmosphere. It is a quiet alternative to Alpe d’Huez and traffic free making it perfect for children. Stay at ski-in ski-out Le Chalets des Neiges.

There are many other resorts that we would recommend for a family ski holiday. See our website for more ideas.

Cheap Three Valleys Skiing in Orelle

2010-12-22T10:38:00.002Z

A cheaper option if looking to ski in the Three Vallees is to stay in the resort of Orelle, located in the Maurienne Valley. Orelle is a very small resort divided into 10 hamlets, from one of these hamlets, Francoz, you can take the 3 Vallees Express gondola to Val Thorens which takes 30 minutes!

As Orelle is a very small resort the amenities are limited but there are big advantages of staying in this resort if you plan to ski in the 3 Valleys ski area. It is very cheap compared to the Trois Vallees for groceries and meals out and accommodation in Orelle also costs far less than Three Valleys ski accommodation. Another benefit with Orelle being smaller and quieter is that there are less crowds than in 3 Vallees resorts so you spend less time queuing for the lifts and can start skiing sooner!

One point to note is that due to the necessary use of a red slope to get from Orelle to Val Thorens, Orelle is not recommended for beginners.

Where to stay?
Le Hameau des Eaux d’Orelle is located half a mile from the gondola taking you to Val Thorens. There is a free resort shuttle bus which runs to the gondola from the residence every 15 minutes. Hameau des Eaux Orelle benefits from an indoor heated swimming pool with sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room.

Ski Holiday to France Insurance Importance

2010-12-02T13:56:00.002Z

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have found that many British skiers do not have adequate winter sports insurance and have now launched a campaign on ski safety and the importance of having the correct insurance cover.

It is very important to make sure that you have the appropriate insurance before going skiing and to check that you are covered for everything you plan to take part in. For example, if you want to ski off-piste many insurance policies do not cover this.

If you do not have adequate insurance and injure yourself while skiing you may have to face huge medical expenses! For example, a spinal injury in France could cost £6,400 (FCO, 2010) and could be even more if injured in a remote location.

Alcohol is another safety issue. There are a lot of skiing incidents as a direct result of alcohol and if you do have, or are involved in, an accident while under the influence of alcohol your insurance may not cover this.

It is one of Peak Retreats booking conditions that all travelling have adequate winter sports insurance and we have some great insurance policies on offer. Up to 10 days insurance including winter sports is £34 for an adult or £68 for a family of 2 adults and up to 4 children. We also offer annual insurance e.g. annual Europe including up to 17 days of winter sports cover £53 for an adult or £106 for a family.

Annecy 2018 bid - Ski Accommodation near Annecy

2010-11-26T13:16:00.002Z

Annecy and Savoie Mont Blanc are bidding to host the 2018 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Events would be taking place in two main areas – Annecy and Chamonix Mont Blanc (picture right; Edgar Grospiron, CEO of Annecy 2018 and football legend David Ginola).

Chamonix is just over 1 hour away from Annecy with good transport links by train and, if driving, motorway most of the way. The alpine skiing would be held here, amongst other events. Peak Retreats feature some lovely hotels in Chamonix, such as the Mercure which is located right in the centre of Chamonix. There is also a 4* MGM residence of self-catering ski apartments located in the centre called La Ginabelle. This sought after residence has an indoor heated pool, fitness centre, sauna, steam room and beauty salon.

If you don’t want to stay in Chamonix itself we have some great ski apartments located in pretty villages a little further down the Chamonix Valley. For example, Le Hameau de Pierre Blanche in the family favourite of Les Houches or L’Ours Bleu in unspoilt Vallorcine.

(Picture Above Left; La Ginabelle apartments, Chamonix, Above Right; Hotel Au Coeur du Village, La Clusaz)

Events will also be held in the Aravis mountains in the resorts of Le Grand Bornand and La Clusaz, both less than an hour from Annecy. Le Grand Bornand would host the biathlon and La Clusaz the cross-country skiing and ski jumping. We offer beautiful 4* MGM apartments in Le Grand Bornand, Le Village de Lessy. Village de Lessy is located in the centre of Chinaillon, close to the slopes and has the added benefit of leisure facilities with an indoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and even a spa and beauty centre. If you are after even more luxury, there is a brand new 5* hotel in La Clusaz, Au Coeur du Village. This hotel enjoys an excellent south-facing location in the heart of the village with direct access to the slopes.

Late New Year Ski Availability

2010-11-15T12:54:00.002Z

Peak Retreats still have some ski apartments and alpine hotels available for New Year week. There are even some last minute skiing deals available! Resorts with availability include; Morillon in the Grand Massif, La Tania in the Three Valleys and Peisey which links up to Les Arcs. There is also availability in many lesser known great value ski resorts. Just have a look on our website!

Examples of New Year Offers are below;

La Combe in Aussois (Maurienne Valley) from £194pp based on 4 people sharing a 2 bedroom apartment for 7 nights from 26/12/10. This price includes a Eurotunnel crossing for one car.

Les Fermes de Sainte-Foy in Sainte Foy Tarentaise from £426pp based on 8 people sharing a 4 bedroom apartment for 7 nights from 26/12/10. This price is for accommodation only but airport transfers can also be booked.

Cybele in Brides les Bains from £313pp based on 2 people sharing a studio for 7 nights from 26/12/10. The price is inclusive of a Eurotunnel crossing.

For Christmas week there are apartments, chalets and hotels still available and some Christmas ski deals including 8 days for the price of 7 in many residences.

Peak Retreats wins Best Ski Company Award

2010-10-13T11:24:00.007+01:00

For the second year running, Peak Retreats are proud to have won the prestigious Best Ski Company award in the annual Guardian Travel Awards. Again we beat some tough competition from the larger UK tour operators to win with a satisfaction rating of 98.7%, 100% being truly excellent. We even beat our winning score of 97.9% from last year.

"For the second year, Peak Retreats, which looks beyond the big resorts and takes its guests to smaller, more authentic French villages, wins the day". - Guardian, 2010

Picture from left: Gemma Bowes (Guardian Travel Editor), MD Xavier Schouller and TV Newsreader & presenter Huw Edwards

We pride ourselves on being a niche ski operator who help British skiers discover the real France. We feature smaller, more traditional French resorts which link up to large skiing areas. These resorts, as well as being pretty and less commercialised, are cheaper with queue-free high speed cable cars to the major ski areas. Another key to success has been in providing the new generation of more spacious comfortable self catering accommodation, with the majority of apartment residences having indoor pools and leisure facilities.

Samoens Wine & Ski

2010-09-17T10:32:00.006+01:00

Enjoy a VIP week long ski holiday with Peak Retreats this January. The wine and ski week combines wine tasting with gastronomic dinners and, of course, skiing! During the week there will be five wine workshops and tastings as well as three gourmet dinners, one of which will be at the Neige et Roc hotel. Skiing will be at your own leisure but a full day with a ski guide is included giving you a chance to explore the extensive Grand Massif ski area and discover the other resorts of Les Carroz, Flaine and Morillon.

The price of this one off week is £149 per person and can be combined with a week's stay at one of our many self-catered ski apartments or alpine chalets in Samoens. For example, the luxury MGM La Reine des Pres residence which is conveniently located between the village centre and ski lifts. The residence also has a spa and beauty care centre so you can experience even more luxury! We have an early booking offer of 10% off at La Reine des Pres if booked before 31st October.

The wine and ski week will be taking place on 15/01/11. Book early to avoid disappointment as there are limited places available.

Bargain Ski Resorts & Budget Skiing

2010-08-19T17:23:00.003+01:00

Peak Retreats offer some great bargain ski resorts where you can still find good skiing. These smaller French ski resorts are all traditional villages which haven't been hit by mass tourism giving you a chance to experience the "real" France. Due to the smaller skiing area they are best suited to beginners skiing as intermediate skiers and experts may find the area too small.

In these ski resorts you don't only save money on ski accommodation but the lift passes and ski school are cheaper so you save on skiing! You will also save money on eating out and food shopping making your whole skiing trip cheaper. These resorts are ideal for family skiing holidays as most of the ski accommodation we feature is close to the slopes and everything in the village is nearby.

(Top Right: La Norma, Middle: Aussois, Bottom Right: Termignon)

Some examples of budget ski resorts are Aussois, Termignon and La Norma in the Maurienne Valley.

2010/11 Ski Season

2010-07-15T11:10:00.004+01:00

Bookings are now open for skiing 10-11 and there are some great early booking ski deals available. There are many new accommodations available for this skiing season including 4 star MGM apartments Chalet des Dolines (artists impression left) in Montgenevre and Le Hameau du Beaufortain in Les Saisies. Peak Retreats are also now featuring La Tania (picture below right) in the Three Vallees with two self-catering residences available.

Many changes are also taking place in the ski resorts. In Val Cenis there is a new chairlift opening as well as a speed ski track which will allow most levels of skiers to test their speed in a secure environment. There is also a free ski bus operating between Val Cenis and Termignon, Bramas, Sollieres-Sardieres and Bonneval.

In Serre-Chevalier there is a new 6 seater chairlift running between Villeneuve and Monetier-les-Bains and more snowmaking facilities in Chantemerle. There is also a winter/summer luge piste opening in Montgenevre which will be France's longest at 1,400m.

Peak Retreats and Ski Collection do Commuter Challenge

2010-05-21T11:29:00.013+01:00

From 17th May to 22nd May, Peak Retreats and Ski Collection have been taking part in the BIG Green Commuter Challenge. This challenge is organised by Portsmouth City Council and aims to encourage businesses in Portsmouth to spend a week commuting by more fuel efficient sustainable transport which will help to reduce emissions and congestion.

There were a variety of ways that people got to work including cycling, walking, taking the Gosport ferry, car sharing and using the public bus service.

(Above: those who cycled. From left; Marion, Valerie, Cindy, Xavier and Hayley. Left: those who walked, car shared or took public transport. From left: Nathalie, Jenny, Marie-Anne, Steve, Holly, Charlotte and Angie)

Others who participated in the Challenge but are not on the photos are Emilie, Gemma and Olivier who both worked from home for a total carbon neutral contribution.

Valloire, France

2010-05-10T12:01:00.012+01:00

Valloire ski resort is an excellent choice if you want a resort with a traditional feel and plenty of facilities. It is well suited to families and the skiing area is a good choice for beginners and intermediates. There is a varied choice of Valloire accommodation with both hotels and apartments, a good choice being the Grand Hotel de valloire which is located right next to the main lifts to Valloires ski area.

Valloire is also a lovely place to visit in the summer. New for summer 2010 in Valloire is the 1 euro multipass! This offers free access to the ice rink, swimming pool and cable car for the duration of your stay. The multipass can be purchased for 1 euro per day if you are staying at an accommodation in Valloire which offers it. With the multipass you can also benefit from reductions in many of the activities available in valloire such as tennis, golf, mountain bike rental, bowling, paragliding, climbing and heritage guided tours.

For more information about Valloire in Winter or Summer and photos of valloire see www.valloire.co.uk.

Latest Snow for December skiing in France

2009-12-02T17:18:00.003Z

It’s good news once again in France where more resorts are opening after good snowfalls across the country’s ski areas.

Lans en Vercors and Collet d'Allevard are opening their ski lifts today as a result and La Clusaz it’s Nordic ski area "Les Confins"

Many more plan to open this weekend, at least partially, including Meribel, Alpe d'Huez, the Grands Montets at Chamonix, Montgenèvre, Les Arcs Bourg-St Maurice and probably Courchevel 1850, Le Grand Bornand and La Clusaz (only this weekend and just the "Massif de Balme").

Val Thorens, which is already open, has reported 40cm of fresh snow and has one of the deepest bases in the country with a metre of snow lying.

http://www.skiinfo.co.uk/ has issued hundreds of powder alarms in the past 72 hours as resorts across the Alps report big and on-going snowfalls. Hundreds of resorts are now planning to open for the coming weekend across the continent with superb conditions, although freeriders are warned to beware of high avalanche risk off piste in many locations.

Looking to enjoy a great New Year snow break ? - check some last minute New Year Ski Availability. Peak Retreats still have a few apartments left for the week from 26/12 to 02/01 in resorts like Saint-Martin de Belleville in the Three Valleys but also a few more like Peisey-Vallandry(Les Arcs/Paradiski), Sainte-Foy Tarentaise, Les Houches near Chamonix and Serre Chevalier.

New Year Ski Availability in France

2009-11-30T09:36:00.004Z

Looking for a New Year snow break - check some last minute New Year Ski Availability. There are still a few apartments left for the week from 2612 to 02/01 in resorts like Saint-Martin de Belleville in the Three Valleys but also a few more like Peisey-Vallandry(Les Arcs/Paradiski), Sainte-Foy Tarentaise, Les Houches near Chamonix and Serre Chevalier. A few examples below:

Prices below include Eurotunnel crossing for one car with Free FlexiPlus upgrade (FlexiPlus tickets cost £398 with Eurotunnel). Peak dates travel supplements apply & are not included.

Grand Bornand (Aravis)
Le Village de Lessy (apts)
Indoor pool, sleeps 8
£2871 per apartment

Saint-Martin de Belleville (3 Valleys)
Les Chalets du Gypse (apartments)
Ski-in Ski-out, sleeps 8
£3960 per apartment

Peisey-Vallandry(Les Arcs/Paradiski)
L'Arollaie (apartments)
Nr gondola, sleeps 8
£2321 per apartment

Peisey-Vallandry(Les Arcs/Paradiski)
Oree des Cimes (apts)
Indoor pool, sleeps 6
No current offer
£2367 per apartment

Sainte-Foy (Tarentaise)
Les Fermes de Sainte-Foy (apts)
Next to slopes, sleeps 6
No current offer
£2229 per apartment

Les Houches (Mont Blanc)
Le Hameau de Pierre Blanche (apts)
Indoor pool, sleeps 6
£1991 per apartment

Serre Chevalier (Oisans)
Le Hameau du Rocher Blanc (apts)
Indoor pool, sleeps 6
£2048 per apartment

Alternatively there is still availability for Christmas Ski in resorts with good snow record. There are more offers from 19/12, you can arrive on 18/12 at no extra cost at a number of ski residences featured by Peak Retreas for instance.

Grand Massif, France

2009-09-30T15:56:00.004+01:00

The Grand Massif is often not as well known as the nearby Portes du Soleil ski area although both are large ski areas - amongst the largests in France in fact (265km for the Grand Massif ski area and 650km for the Portes du Soleil ski area although it is not really comparable since the latter is not quite as well integrated as the former). Both ski areas are the closest major ski areas to Calais and both can be reached from Geneva airport in just under an hour.

We have a preference for the Grand Massif, Flaine ski area because it has generally a better snow record than the Portes du Soleil. Most years Flaine is in the top 4 French resorts for snow depth! We also think it interlinks better between the various resorts: Samoens, Les Carroz, Morillon, Flaine and Sixt-fer-à-Cheval. Les Gets and Morzine are fully integrated of course but access to Avoriaz is not as easy as access to Flaine from the other resorts.

Vaujany, France

2009-09-30T15:44:00.002+01:00

The French Alps resort Vaujany is still a favourite for those who want to ski the famous Grande Rousses ski area and who want to avoid staying in the larger and busy resort of Alpe d'Huez . The other alternative is of course Oz-en-Oisans which is also on the same ski area and which offers superb ski-in ski-out accommodation.

Peak Retreats do offer a good selection of Vaujany apartments and prices are very reasonable.

Summer Ski in France

2009-09-30T15:08:00.004+01:00

Whilst it was another successful season of Summer Ski in France it clear that not all glaciers all over Europe will remain open for ever. A number have already closed but both Les Deux Alpes glacier and Tignes glacier will continue to be safe bets.

In fact the Grand Motte glacier at Tignes has just re-opened last Saturday, and is now due to stay open through to mid-May next year. As reported by Skiinfo.co.uk there’s currently nearly 500m of skiable vertical open between 3000 and 3456m high with the slopes open open from 8.30am to 5.30pm and reached in 7 minutes by the resort’s underground funicular. A one day adult pass is €32, children from 5 to 13 years old pay €26. There’s 20cm (eight inches) of snow on the glacier.

Across the Atlantic it has been skiing in North America too, although unfortunately Timeberline ski area on Mt Hood in Oregon has been unable to re-open as planned last weekend due to a lack of snow.

For more information on Summer Skiing in Europe visit SummerSki.co.uk

Les Deux Alpes France or Les 2 Alpes Ski

2009-07-18T14:51:00.004+01:00

Having been to Les Deux Alpes France

for family holidays since I was a kid I always enjoy going back to Les 2 Alps as is it otherwise called.

Les Deux Alps is one of those modern resorts where there is always plenty of sunshine and a Southern Alps feel. Because of its glacier and its altitude you are guaranteed you will always be able to enjoy skiing in Duex Alpes. I also like to go there in August when you can Summer Ski on proper snow - see summer glacier below.
More info on Summer Ski in France

My favourite hotel is Hotel Cote Brune in Les Deux Alpes

which was totally refurbished recently. It's amazing how it is classed as just two star. That said the French star rating system is only based on technical elements like the number of sqm in the reception area so it bears no correlation with comfort. Cote Brune even beats a certain four star hotel also found in the resort anytime in my view!

I have also stayed at the best self-catering apartment residences in the resort:
Residence Alba in Les Deux Alpes

and
Residence Le Cortina in Les Deux Alpes

For Winter 2009/2010 the resort have introduced a new exciting idea. For a reasonable cost you can be taken to the nearby ski resort of Alpe d'Huez by helicopter in the morning and brought back in the afternoon.

Whether you want to enjoy skiing and other outdoor activities in winter or in the height of the summer Les Deux Alpes holidays

is definitely one I would recommned.

Sainte Foy Tarentaise - Les Fermes de Ste Foy

2009-07-18T14:22:00.005+01:00

As one resort very popular with Peak Retreats clients Sainte Foy Tarentaise

is the little gem everyone talks about in the well known Tarentaise Valley. Surrounded by its famous and more commercialised neighbours Val D'Isere, Tignes, Les Arcs, La Rosiere it is renowned for its more quiet ski slopes. Ste Foy is on our view the perfect family ski resort in France. Les Fermes de Sainte Foy, the recent MGM built Residence is located in the heart of the resort and right by the slopes. During our regular visits to the resorts we simply haven't found better than les Fermes de Ste Foy. The MGM built residence has high spec apartments, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, spa ...
We recently looked at another new residence there recently but the location is simply no match to Les Fermes de Ste Foy.

More info on Residence Les Fermes de Sainte Foy in Ste Foy Tarentaise

More info on Sainte Foy Ski

Les Carroz Flaine Grand Massif Ski - Les Chalets de Jouvence

2009-07-18T13:10:00.005+01:00

Above left Residence CGH Les Chalets de Jouvence during construction with slope and lift in the foreground

For those interested in a ski holiday in Les Carroz Flaine France

the brand new MGM built Residence Les Chalets de Jouvence is located in probably one the best location one can find in Les Carroz d'Araches. It is right on the slopes next to the Figaro drag lift and you can ski back to the residence.
We have visited it several times since the spring and work is going well so it should be ready for opening in mid-December .
Les Chalets de Jouvence will have high spec MGM apartments, swimming pool, spa ...

More info on Residence Les Chalets de Jouvence Les Carroz

More info on Les Carroz d'araches Ski

Above Residence Les Chalets de Jouvence during construction with slopes on both sides

Samoens Skiing Residence La Reine des Pres

2009-07-18T12:40:00.005+01:00

For those looking for a ski holiday in Samoens France

the brand new MGM built Residence La Reine des Pres is located in probably the best location one can find in Samoens. It is within walking distance of the heart of the village and yet within a short walking distance of the Grand massif Express lift.
We have visited it 4 times since the spring and work is going extremely well so it should all be ready for the December opening.
It will have high spec MGM apartments, swimming pool, spa ...

More info on Residence La Reine des Pres Samoens

More info on Samoen Ski

Tour de France in Le Grand Bornand French Alps

2009-04-27T12:28:00.002+01:00

This year the famous Tour de France will be in Le Grand Bornand in the French Alps.

On 22/07/09, stage 17 starts in Bourg-Saint-Maurice and finishes in Le Grand-Bornand with some gruelling climbs as it is Le Tour’s densest mountain stage with five passes which all count towards the best-climber classification.

More info on http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/summer/tour-de-france.htm

and
http://www.letour.fr/2009/TDF/COURSE/us/1700/etape_par_etape.html

I have stayed in some really good MGM apartments in Le Grand Bornand Chinaillon see Le Village de Lessy on http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/summer/le-grand-bornand.htm

Summer prices are really low!

New Montgenevre Ski Apartments

2008-10-18T15:59:00.006+01:00

Montgenevre, France

We really enjoyed our visit to Montgenèvre on the Franco-Italian boarder. The resort large ski area (part of the massive Milky Way) is not only really snowsure but it also offers something for every level. The village also has a nice feel to it. For this reason we decided to start offering ski holidays to Montgenevre .

Another reason for adding Montgenevre skiing to our portfolio is that work on the brand new 4-star ski apartment residence Le Hameau des Airelles was started in early 2008. Delivery is for December 2008. The residence is very well located.

We last visited Le Hameau des Airelles in August 2008 and everything was well underway as you can see from the above. An artist illustration shows the entire development below.

For information on skiing in Montgenevre visit the Peak Retreats website.

Ski February half-term holiday cancellation

2008-01-07T10:24:00.000Z

Due to last minute cancellations for feb half-term skiing Peak Retreats has the following last minute skiing availability:

February half-term ski in Les Gets (Portes du Soleil), France, luxury self-catering chalet sleeping up to 17. £365 pp based on 15. Includes Eurotunnel for 3 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 9. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/ski/half-term-skiing-deals.htm).

February half-term skiing in Les Gets (Portes du Soleil), France, luxury self-catering chalet sleeping up to 10. £353 pp based on 10. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/default.cfm/loadindex.312).

Feb half-term ski in Les Gets (Portes du Soleil), France, self-catering chalet sleeping up to 8. £409 pp based on 8. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/ski/half-term-skiing-deals.htm).

February half-term ski in Samoens (Grand Massif/Flaine), France, luxury self-catering chalet sleeping up to 12. £327 pp based on 10. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/ski/half-term-skiing-deals.htm).

Feb half-term ski in Samoens (Grand Massif/Flaine), France, luxury self-catering chalet sleeping up to 12. £271 pp based on 10. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/default.cfm/loadindex.312).

February half-term skiing in Samoens (Grand Massif/Flaine), France, luxury self-catering chalet sleeping up to 12. £271 pp based on 10. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/ski/half-term-skiing-deals.htm).

February half-term skiing in Les Deux Alpes, France, luxury self-catering apartment sleeping up to 10. £298 pp based on 10. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/ski/half-term-skiing-deals.htm).

February half-term skiing in Serre-Chevalier, France, luxury self-catering apartment sleeping up to 8. £244 pp based on 8. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/ski/half-term-skiing-deals.htm).

February half-term skiing in Saint-Martin de Belleville (3 Valleys), France, luxury self-catering apartment sleeping up to 10. £389 pp based on 8. Includes Eurotunnel for 2 cars with Free Flexi-Plus upgrade. 7 nights, departs February 16. Peak Retreats (0844 576 0170, http://www.peakretreats.co.uk/).

Nr Serre-Poncon, Southern Alps in Summer - Domaine de l'Adoux

2007-10-31T11:00:00.000Z

Two of the directors stayed at the Domaine de l’Adoux in St Jean Montclar near the Serre-Ponçon lake between 21-28 July 2007.
There was two couples and 5 children aged 2-10 in the party. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the holiday in this undiscovered part of the French Alps.

St Jean Montclar is in the Provence Alpes Cote d’Azur region. It is in a mountain area but is only 10 mins drive from the nearest beach on the Serre-Poncon lake. The heart of Provence is not far further south and therefore there is a definite Provencal flavour.

Day-1
We took a no-frills flight from Bournemouth to Marseille and met with our friends there.
Would highly recommend Bournemouth for anyone wishing to fly from the south of England. Tiny airport, very easy to get to, parking right by terminal, no walking involved once in terminal, quick boarding and disembarking (10 mins from plane to taxi outside right at end of July!)
From Marseille it took us 2 ½ hour to drive to St Jean Montclar (mostly motorway via Dignes).
Stop for refreshment at Les Mées to view the “Penitents des Mées”. These are truly spectacular natural geological wonders.

Domaine de l’Adoux was taken over in 2005 by a couple who were originally from that area and had previously managed a hotel in St Jean Montclar but had then moved to the Haute-Savoie region to manage well known resorts’ tourist offices. This is how we became friends with Alain & Odile and then decided to try out for ourselves their new venture.
The place was given a total make-over and we all thought it was very well done.

What did we think of Domaine de l’Adoux?

- Set in a large and charming woodland.
- No other constructions around –as can be seen on photo above
- Superb views from the bedrooms –see below

- Very spacious bedrooms. The interconnecting rooms we had were very spacious and great for a family

- Pleasant restaurant although we ate out on the large terrace every day – both for lunch and in the evening

- Good fresh food, nothing too complicated. We initially thought that the full-board formula would be a bit much but in fact we enjoyed coming back for lunch and if you are away all day you get a packed lunch instead.
- A nice selection of reasonably priced wine – particularly liked the Cassis (Blanc)
- The theme evenings (Italian, Country Dancing) were great fun
- The bar is well stocked and has nice comfortable seating although it was pretty quiet on most nights.
- The pool area is pleasant and has lots of sun loungers plus a small inflatable paddling pools for tiny ones.
- We felt it was safe for the kids to run around and build huts in the large woodland park.
- Had a few games of tennis when it was not too hot.
- Great kids club (although French focussed) – and included in price
- A good choice of activities organised, including guided hiking days included in the price
- Family run by a friendly and helpful couple (and their children!). A great team working

The minuses
- Very French – pretty much all the clients were French or French speaking so the kids club for instance is geared for this.
- Under 4 are not catered for in the kids club
- St Jean Montclar centre (10 mins walk) is not the most attractive resort (because purpose built) but there are lots of nice little villages around.

The resort of St Jean Montclar 1330m (Tourist Office website http://www.montclar.com/en/)
A few shops, bars and a few restaurants although we never used these apart from the Pharmacy (no need for it)
Chair lifts operate in summer and give access to some great walks around small altitude lakes
Very friendly resort run crèche (very cheap)
Heated outdoor pool
Nice traditional market with genuine local produce on Sundays

Day-2

Went to St Jean Montclar for the market and tourist office presentation welcome drink
The kids enjoyed the play area and watching the ponies
Barbeque lunch back at the hotel on the terrace
Afternoon at the beach on Serre-Poncon lake
10 mins drive from the Domaine de l’Adoux
Enjoyed sunbathing and swimming. Water was at 23c which felt a bit cold at first as it was quite hot outside but it is in fact quite warm. None of the kids (included the 2 ½ year old) hesitated for a second though. There was a small safe shallow area which was marked by floating ropes and also a lifeguard on duty.

Day-3

Spent morning in small traditional village of Seyne-les-Alpes – less than 10 mins drive away. Afternoon relaxing at the hotel. Table tennis, tennis, swimming pool
Kids at club all day

Day-4

Went on a day hike around some of the mountain lakes.
This was organised by the hotel and the guide was great at showing all the wildlife (saw marmottes) and plants, insects, rocks…
All kind of clients were with us – young, older, fit, unfit and the emphasis was clearly on enjoyment of the scenery and setting rather than a sporting challenge.
Back at the hotel the ladies had a “beauty” session with the beautician at the hotel
Men had a few aperitifs outside the bar and then took the kids to the pool
Kids with club all day– went to Accrobranche which is a type of adventure park in the tree canopy. All thought it was great fun!

Day-5

Morning at St Vincent les Forts
Amazing scenery as the village overlooks the Serre-Poncon lake – see photo below

Afternoon – donkey trip with the kids organised in conjunction with the kids club
There is a special itinerary in a forest on the mountain side. The kids ride the donkeys with the parents leading them (actually not as easy as one thinks!).

In the evening, massage at the hotel for the ladies – men had more aperitifs…
After dinner surprise night cap and chocolate bananas prepared in big open fire in the forest nearby - organised by the hotel

Day-6

Trip around Serre-Poncon lake to see some of the villages. Stops included the famous Demoiselles Coiffées rocks.
Went to Savines-le-Lac and took the La Carline boat trip – see photo below

This is the best way to see the lake

Kids insisted on going to the pool, like every evening
Special Italian evening diner with live entertainment

Day-7

Went to visit Barcelonnette (40 mins away) (http://www.barcelonnette.com/). A pretty little town with great outdoor restaurants on a typically French square. Discovered some great interior decorating shops.

Went for a short hike in Ubaye valley (see photos on http://www.ubaye.com/photographes) and up to the scenic setting of the old Abbaye de Laverq (http://www.haut-vernet.com/refugelaverq.html) where one of the hotel hikes started from. It is at the foot of the two Séolanes with GR 56 hike itineraries. The “Eaux Tortes” are of particular interest (photo on http://www.haut-vernet.com/laverq009.html).

Finished with a country dancing evening which was great fun.

Kids Club (Split into two groups 4-7 and 8-12 , 13-15 also normally available) July-August only
The kids did a number of activities with the club which included
Acrobranche
Donkey ride
Treasure hunt
Wildlife discovery trip

We could have clearly done a lot more hiking as we particularly enjoy this, and there was in fact a different hike organised by the hotel nearly each day – with different levels of difficulty but we wanted to tour the area so we simply did not get the time.

We would recommend this kind of holiday for nature lovers, couples in search of a peaceful setting (in June and September) and francophile families with kids in July-August.

One final little tip – do make sure you have a car with Air Conditioning – it was pretty hot all the time we were there although the altitude of the resort did mean a nice cooling breeze.

Valloire, France skiing & snowboarding trip

2007-04-24T17:28:00.000+01:00

Having spent a couple of days in Valloire in Summer, I decided to spend a whole week in Valloire in winter, with my husband Dave, at the end of March to try out the snow.

We managed to get a great deal on flights from Stansted to Turin and hired a car the other side. The motorways and dual carriageways in Italy and France are extremely good and we only got lost once, and even that was inside the airport car park! It only took a little over 2 hours to get the Valloire. We arrived at about 15.00, which was ideal and gave us plenty of time to enjoy a relaxing glass of wine, collect our ski hire, lift passes and ski school cards before checking into our apartment.

Moulin Benjamin chair lift, opposite the Chalets du Galibier residence.

I would highly recommend Les Chalet du Galibier. The residence can be found in the Les Verneys Hamlet and is right opposite the Moulin Benjamin chair lift. It is made up of 2 residences, composed of 5 large chalets in each. The apartments are spacious and nicely furnished. The indoor swimming pool (free), sauna and steam rooms (payable) are great to unwind in after a day on the slopes. There is a pool table and hot drinks machine in the main reception area (payable). The residence has a very friendly and relaxed feel to it. You can even borrow indoor games from reception to play in the evening. Bread and pastries can be delivered to the reception for you, you just have to place your order by 19:00 the night before then it will be ready for collection after 08:15. There is a mini supermarket opposite the residence and a great take-away pizza place that also does paninis, cold drinks and mulled wine. They open every day from 17.00 – 20.00 approx and at busy times it is best to order in advance. You pay for it there and then and tell them what time you will be back to collect it.

Finding Les Chalets du Galibier in Valloire is very easy, but beware that the resort centre is on a one-way system. You come in on the Route du Télégraphe, take the second exit at the small roundabout, pass the Grand Hotel de Valloire on your right and continue straight on. Pass the Baroque church on your left and when you get to the top of the hill turn left, continue straight on and take the first exit at the roundabout that has a wooden cow in the middle of it. Over the bridge and again straight on, you will then see the residence on your right hand side. There is parking right outside the residence. You can either park here free of charge all week or there are two underground car parks that are payable.

Although it is 1km to the centre, this is quite an easy walk and only took us 5 minutes max to reach the beginning of Valloire centre (slightly longer coming home, as it is slightly up hill, but nothing too strenuous). There is also a free ski bus that stops right outside the residence every 15 minutes from 08:00 – 20:00 every day. There are lots of shops including 2 supermarkets, bakeries, butchers, newsagents and some lovely gift and craft shops. There is an excellent choice of restaurants which are very good value, including Le Don Camillo (top part of the centre), Bistrot Chez Fred (main strip), La Maison d’Angeline (near the church) and various Creperies and Pizza places dotted about. My husband is sport mad and was a little worried that he would not get to see the England football matches or the cricket whilst we were there. He needn’t have worried as on our first night we discovered a sports bar just passed the Tourist Office and opposite the church that is run by an English company and has all the Sky TV Sports Channels - needless to say he was made up!

Valloire, a charming traditional village

Considering the overall snow conditions this season, the snow was very good at the top of the Cret de la Brive and La Sétaz cable cars and also is Valmeinier. There are slopes to suit all abilities and the half-pipe and Snow Park looked great for the snowboarders. On the other side towards, Moulin Benjamin and Les Verneys we found it to be quite icy. The Crey du Quart sector was totally green, rather than the expected white, which was really unlucky for the people who own a bar half way up, it was all locked up as nobody could reach it! The lower slopes by the gondolas were kept exclusively through artificial snow. Although we didn’t have any children with us, we could see that the kid’s facilities were very good. There are 5 kindergartens, an adventure park, bowling alley, ice rink, inflatable play park and much more. We had both skied before but not for a while and this time my husband wanted to try snowboarding so we both went with the Valloire ESF ski school. There was a meeting point for skiers right opposite Les Chalets du Galibier, but the snowboarders meet in the centre, next to Le Cret de la Brive cable car so we both started from there (just jumping on the free ski bus each morning). The Instructors were very professional and friendly. I had to stop on the Tuesday due to problems with my knees but Dave carried on until the end of the week and made amazing progress – especially considering at the beginning of the week he didn’t even know how to put a snowboard on! At the top of the Cret de la Brive cable car, there is a decked area with deck chairs and hot drinks and snacks machines. It was lovely sitting there with a book, a cup of hot chocolate and taking in the fresh air and beautiful views.

Dave, now a snowboarding expert, Gemma on a drag lift pose

It snowed a couple of times during the week but the main down fall was Friday night – the night before we were due to leave at 05.00 in the morning – typical! As expected, the main road was totally clear and fully gritted, however the small road of the car park was not. Out came the snow chains that we had hired with the car, unfortunately with no instructions! We only had a few metres to drive up hill to the main road but it took us nearly an hour in the freezing cold trying various different ways of rocking the car – we can laugh about it now but we warned!

Gemma from Peak Retreats, Ski and Lake & Mountains Holidays to the French Alps

La Grave, La Meije, the off-piste mecca in France

2007-04-24T10:24:00.000+01:00

As only half an hour drive from Serre Che where we were staying earlier in March we decided not to miss the fresh dump of snow. Together with co-director Olivier from Ski Collection we made our way to La Grave where we met first thing at the Snowlegend Rossignol test centre by the main Telepherique lift. Didi who heads the respectable Snowlegend guide company suggested we try the new Rossignol Bandit B Squad which turned out to be a good choice. Packed-up our ARVA (avalanche transceivers), snow shovel and avalanche probe, a useful GPS (have the Etrex Summit from Garmin which works very well) and other essentials and walked across the road to the main telepherique de la Meije. With a clear blue sky, the views of La Meige above La Grave were just out of this world. It was a Friday and there was no queuing at all, which is good as it can get fairly busy at weekends, especially since the telepherique de la Meije does not have a massive capacity.

The Telepherique de la Meige with the majestic summit in the background

We went all the way up to 3200m and then a very short walk and two lifts up to 3550m (11,600 ft) on the Glacier de la Girose. The view from that point is just awesome. There are two easy blue type of slopes on the glacier that even low intermediate would enjoy. We started outside this area in perfect powder conditions. After that we continued on various itineraries on the edge of the Vallons de Chancel and across to the Vallons de la Meije. All fairly gentle stuff. Up the telepherique again and then Didi then took us to some more serious couloirs where the snow was untouched. We did not venture into some of the 50+ degree couloirs but it was challenging enough for us...

Lunch at the Refuge des Ruilans at 3200m was the other treat of the day. Amazing panoramic views, delicious food, massive portions and low prices! Hard to start again after that but we still had quite a few hours and couloirs to do. Won't bore you with names but Rama down to St Christophe on the other side looked really good but we didn't have quite enough time to do the 4,600 ft of vertical drop. We then finished through the trees down at P1 where conditions weren't as good as higher-up.

Xavier with La Meije in background , Sunset on La Meije

Photos of sunset over La Meije from back at a bar in La Grave village by Olivier!

Before leaving I went to say hello to Philippe who manages the excellent Les Chalets de la Meije which is right by the cable car and Rossignol test centre featured by Peak Retreats.

My only recommendation if you want to have a go is to get a decent guide as it's basically all off-piste (recommend Snowlegend). There is really something for all levels from confident red piste skiers to top world experts. The Valley of Death as it is also known has its share of fatalaties every year including freeride world chamions calibre guys so just don't over do it. Otherwise for those interested in this kind of stuff more generally Cicerone publish some very good guides (can particularly recommend Snow, Avalanche and Alpine Ski mountaineering).

Serre-Chevalier, France Skiing trip

2007-04-10T13:55:00.000+01:00

Spent a whole week in Serre-Chevalier, Chantemerle at the beginning of March.

Ski area is much improved since we last visited. The few new 6 pack chair lifts have made a massive difference to fluidity and ease of access to various parts of ski area. Snow was very good apart from the very bottom ('Easy' Black Luc Alphand slope in particular) which got slushy in afternoon (nothing unusual). They have a fair number of snow cannons and all the lower slopes were kept exclusively through artificial snow. Best snow/runs were towards top of Monetier so larger Grand Serre Che lift pass is a must for anyone above low intermediate level. Briancon side was pretty awful so bet avoid unless there is a lot more snowfall (Prorel chair lift leading from Chantemerle side to top of Briancon has two excellent slopes though).

Chantemerle is probably the best village within Serre Chevalier as in middle of ski area so you can ski in Chantemerle, towards Villeneuve and Monetier to the right and Briancon to the left
It's highly functional with everything right by main lift: kiddies ski kindergarten, nursery, ski school office, shops, lift pass office, ski school meeting point, our Sport 2000 shop (the later has direct access to the slopes and a dedicated ski locker where they keep all your ski gear - you can literally ski back to the shop - shop is brand new and very well equipped and is owned by famous French downhill ski champion Luc Alphand (you will see his name plastered everywhere throughout the resort and ski area!) - this is the best ski shop arrangement I have ever come across). Shop entrance is just behind group of skiers below.

Anouk at the bottom of the Luc Alphand slope and in front of the Sport2000 shop

Nursery is right by slopes/main lift and well managed (had a little one there and they speak English). It has direct access to the ski kindergarten so kiddies over 3 can do a mixture of both.

We had 3 children with us (two of whom were at the ESF ski school) and one 2 year old at nursery and we all really had a great time.

Residence Le Hameau du Rocher Blanc

The residence is brand new and opened back in December 2006. Location is very good only 250m (3 mins walk - flat) from main lift and central square.
The apartments bear the MGM trademark and are top quality, nicely furnished and stylish. The leisure area is large and wasn't busy despite being the last week of the French school holidays. Pool is large and heated to 30c, 2 good size hammams plus 2 saunas and really large fitness with quality equipment. Did not have to pay for any of these but it could change.
Restaurants and shops very close by including the excellent Le Petit Chalet restaurant which is 50m from residence. Le Tryptique by main lift is good too so is Le Loup Blanc by the slopes.

The large pool area viewed from the gym

Le Hameau du Rocher Blanc is very easy to find, at the entrance of Chantemerle (coming from Grenoble side). As you see the Chantemerle road sign (before overhead colour lit sign saying Bienvenue) turn right into a large car park area. You can then see the residence right in front of you. Drive into underground car park entrance and park at far end (parking is free). Reception is at that end. Once you have checked in you will be able to park alongside your apartment block entrance to offload your bags. You can then park back in the free section of the underground car park (suggest level -1).
If you want more information on Le Hameau du Rocher Blanc just visit the Peak Retreats website.

Xavier, Peak Retreats Ski and Lakes & Mountains Holidays to the French Alps

Earning a living doing what you love

2007-04-10T13:25:00.000+01:00

I started a ski and lakes & mountains business to the French Alps with my co-director Nathalie for one and only reason - we just love the stuff.
Of course we work hard to make it all work but we still take great pleasure in going out there. We love the Alps both in winter and in summer.
I am not even originally from the mountains. I always lived by the sea but I started going to the Alps from the age of 5. That's when I first learned to ski. My parents then took us to the mountains two to three times a year, year after year. I now try to go out there whenever I can. It's not all play but I like to try the product and that means doing a bit skiing. Yes life is tough but somebody has got to do it! Otherwise I love just being in the mountains. Clean fresh air, breathtaking scenery, unspoilt villages, and true relaxation.

Each trip is a new experience and with some of my Peak Retreats colleagues we will try to share some of these with you.

Xavier Peak Retreats French Alps Ski and Lakes & Mountains holidays