Where to Après Ski in the Courchevel Valley

/in , , /by

Looking for the ultimate après-ski experience in Courchevel? From lively mountain bars to cosy hotel lounges, here’s your guide to the best places for après-ski in Courchevel, tailored for anyone enjoying a holiday in La Tania and seeking some post-slope entertainment.

La Folie Douce

Location: situated at the mid-station of the Saulire Express,  Méribel

You’ll hear the beats before you see the party! La Folie Douce is an iconic après-ski spot, perched on the mountainside at the mid station of the Saulire Express, in Méribel. Famous for its high-energy parties, this venue combines live DJs, open-air clubbing, and daily shows against the stunning mountain backdrop. It’s an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Courchevel.

Seasonaire Hangouts

Locations: Le Pelican and Le Schuss in Courchevel 1650, Ski Lodge and La Taiga in La Tania

If you want to discover where the locals and seasonaires unwind, check out Le Pelican and Le Schuss in Courchevel 1650. Le Pelican, offers live music three times a week. In La Tania, Ski Lodge is a favourite among seasonaires, offering a lively atmosphere, live music, and a generous dose of toffee vodka. Discover an alternative to the traditional Ski Lodge experience at La Taiga. Located just a 2-minute walk from the slopes in the village centre, right across from the bus stop, this bar and restaurant offer a perfect setting to enjoy a cocktail and immerse yourself in the après-ski music scene.  Tuesday après ski sessions with Freddy Wilkens are not to be missed!

Other Après Ski Highlights

Locations: Fire & Ice in Courchevel 1650, Grrizzly & Co in Courchevel 1850, Le Planté de Bâton in Courchevel 1850,  Le Tremplin in Courchevel 1850, Copina Cocktails & Tapas in Courchevel Moriond 1650, The Gatekeeper in Courchevel 1850, Bar Le Caterail in Courchevel 1550

For a relaxed and enjoyable après-ski experience, Fire & Ice in Courchevel 1650 offers stone-baked pizza during happy hour. Grrizzly & Co (Courcheneige) provides a laid-back beach bar vibe, Le Tremplin in Courchevel 1850, Copina Cocktails & Tapas in Courchevel Moriond 1650, The Gatekeeper, and Bar Le Caterail offer diverse atmospheres and drinks to suit every taste.

Experience après-ski with an 80’s vibe at Le Planté de Bâton, open daily at the foot of the slopes in Courchevel 1850. This casual bar caters to a younger crowd or those young at heart, offering fantastic music, vibrant lights, and a groovy atmosphere. Situated by the main lift hub, you won’t miss Le Planté de Bâton as it fills the air with remixed 80s tunes.

VIP Slopeside Après Ski

Locations: Various, including Caphorn, Chaled de Pierres in Courchevel 1850

For those seeking a more refined après-ski experience, several slopeside venues offer VIP spots right on the slopes. Places like Caphorn, Chalet de Pierres, and Bagatelle transform from upscale restaurants to lively parties in the afternoon sun.

And For Later…

If you’re seeking entertainment into the late hours, Courchevel boasts numerous bars and clubs that keep their doors open well into the early morning, ensuring you can continue the fun long after the sun sets.

Bar Madame at Hotel La Sivolière

Location: Hotel La Sivolière, Courchevel 1850

For an upscale après-ski experience, head to Bar Madame at Hotel La Sivolière in Courchevel 1850. Located piste-side, this refined lounge offers an exclusive atmosphere with signature cocktails, and DJ. Bar Madame bids farewell at midnight. An added perk for non-residents is the complimentary chauffeur service to explore more of Courchevel or return to your accommodation.

Les Caves de Courchevel

Location: Courchevel 1850 Centre, La Croisette

This glamorous nightclub opens from midnight onwards, providing a lively setting for those who love to dance the night away. With its glitz and glamour, Les Caves is the perfect grand finale to your evening. Explore this vibrant nightclub scene and keep the party going during your luxury ski holiday in Courchevel 1850.

Something more Low Key

Funky Fox

Location: Courchevel Moriond

The venue keeps the energy alive every night with a mix of local bands and DJs.  Funky Fox stays open until 02:00.

L’Elephant

Location: Le Praz

With a relaxed and pub-like vibe, L’Elephant in Le Praz offers a chilled atmosphere that extends into the late hours. Open until 02:00, this spot features live music at least twice a week, making it the ideal place to enjoy the evening with a laid-back ambiance.

Ski Lodge

Location: La Tania

Cap off your evening in La Tania with a visit to the Ski Lodge. This popular spot, offers dancing and themed nights that unfold throughout the season. Let the music and lively ambiance carry you into the night at the Ski Lodge.

Whether you fancy a laid-back evening or a lively night out, the diverse options in Courchevel cater to all tastes and budgets, ensuring a memorable end to your day on the slopes. If you have a favourite place we’ve missed, let us know!

 

 

The Best Food to Eat in the French Alps

/in , , /by

Embarking on a ski holiday in the French Alps not only promises exhilarating slopes and breathtaking landscapes but also a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds. The alpine regions are renowned for their hearty and flavourful dishes, each bite a celebration of local ingredients and mountain traditions. In this guide, we’ll explore some must-try foods that will elevate your ski holiday to a gastronomic experience.

1. Raclette: A Cheese Lover’s Dream

Let’s start with raclette, a semi-firm, salted cheese made from cow’s milk. Served at the table using a warm grill, the melted cheese is scraped onto small potatoes, gherkins, pickled onions, and dried meats. The creamy texture and distinctive aroma make raclette a quintessential Alpine dish. For an authentic experience, indulge in this savoury delight at a mountainside chalet with panoramic views.

2. Tartiflette: The Comforting Gratin

A simple yet indulgent gratin, tartiflette combines potatoes, reblochon cheese, bacon lardons, cream, white wine, and onions. The result is a heavenly mix of flavours that warms the soul after a day on the slopes.

3. Fondue Savoyarde: A Cheesy Affair

Fondue Savoyarde is a communal experience, bringing together a selection of local cheeses, garlic, and white wine. Dip crusty bread into the velvety melted cheese, creating a symphony of flavours. The conviviality of sharing a fondue pot with friends or family enhances the overall après-ski atmosphere.  According to French customs, if you drop a piece of bread into the fondue pot, the other guests may give you a challenge to take up!

4. Crozets and Croziflette: Little Pasta Shells with a Twist

Crozets, small pasta shells from the Tarentaise Valley, are versatile and feature in various alpine recipes. One standout dish is croziflette, a creative twist on tartiflette where crozets replace potatoes.

5. Le Farçon: A Sweet and Savory Fusion

Le farçon, a distinctive Alpine dish, ingredients include, bacon, onions, prunes, raisins, potatoes, and cream. This sweet and savoury fusion creates a symphony of flavours.

6. Diots: Savory Sausages with a Twist

Diots, Savoyard sausages, come in natural or smoked variations. Traditionally cooked in wine with onions, diots are often served with crozets or polenta. The hearty and satisfying nature of diots makes them a perfect choice after a day filled with skiing adventures.

7. Tarte aux Myrtilles: Sweet Bliss

For those with a sweet tooth, tarte aux myrtilles, or blueberry tart, is a popular dessert in the French Alps. Bursting with ripe, juicy berries, this delectable treat captures the essence of alpine summers. Pair it with genepy ice cream for a delightful conclusion to your alpine feast.

8. Brioche de Saint-Genix: A Sugary Indulgence

Originating from Saint-Genix-sur-Guiers in Savoie, this sugary delight, similar to brioche, features red-coloured pralines and sugar. Perfect with tea or coffee, the brioche de Saint-Genix offers a sweet energy boost, ideal for replenishing after an exhilarating day on the slopes.

9. Gateau de Savoie: A Light and Airy Treat

From Chambery comes gateau de Savoie, a light and airy cake made with flour, corn, sugar, and eggs. Served with a sprinkle of icing sugar and a dollop of apple jam, this delectable dessert is a delightful way to conclude your alpine culinary journey.

10. Le Genepi: A Herbal Liqueur Finale

Wrap up your culinary adventure with le genepi, a traditional herbal liqueur made from the alpine plant of the same name. Served as a digestif, this unique beverage offers a strong herbal taste reminiscent of chamomile or feverfew, providing a fitting conclusion to your alpine feast.

In conclusion, a ski holiday in the French Alps is not just about conquering slopes; it’s also about discovery the local dishes! From gooey cheeses to savoury gratins and sweet delights, the alpine region’s diverse and flavourful dishes are an integral part of the mountain experience. So, gear up, hit the slopes, and savour the alpine delights that await you. Bon appétit!

Top Tips for Skiing With Children

/in , , /by

Top Tips for Skiing with Kids

Embarking on a family ski holiday can be a thrilling adventure, but ensuring it runs smoothly with children in tow can pose unique challenges. Here are our top tips to make your skiing experience with kids a resounding success:

1. Don’t Start Them Too Young

Most ski resorts offer fantastic crèche facilities and snow play areas, ideal for younger children who adore the snow but may not be ready for their first turns on skis. The enchanting mountain environment offers a magical experience for the whole family, whether everyone is skiing together or engaging in activities like tobogganing and building snowmen at the end of the day. Formal ski instruction usually begins around the ages of four or five, allowing children a gentle introduction to skiing. ESF in La Tania have a Piou Piou Club for Children from 3 years, where they can discover snow and skiing in complete safety and in a fun environment.

2. Book Ski Lessons in Advance

Research and book ski lessons in advance, considering ski schools near your accommodation. Look for schools offering instruction in English, and consider reputable options like New Generation in La Tania. Half-day or full-day lessons provide flexibility, allowing you to arrange childcare, explore after-ski clubs, or regroup for lunch. Pack snacks in your children’s coat pockets to maintain energy levels throughout the day.

3. Holiday in Multi-Family Groups

Consider joining forces with friends or family with children of similar ages for a joint mountain adventure. Booking an entire  self-catered ski chalet, provides lots of flexibility and an informal environment for everyone to relax in. Enrolling children in the same ski classes fosters camaraderie, and adults can opt for a private instructor or a guide to explore the mountain together.

4. Choose the Right Ski Resort

Make an informed decision when selecting a ski resort. Families with younger children may prefer a relaxed atmosphere with off-slope activities like tobogganing and swimming. Ensure the resort has gentle, beginner-friendly pistes and reputable English-speaking ski schools for those new to the snow.

5. Choose a Property with Childcare

For very young children, arrange childcare during your skiing holiday. Opt for professional childcare services or local crèches. This ensures your child is well taken care of, allowing you to enjoy the slopes or après-ski activities.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Skiing Experience:

Gear Preparation:

  • Invest in a quality child-sized ski helmet for safety.
  • Purchase a kid-sized balaclava for full head cover, warmth, and easy helmet use.
  • Lay out all gear on the morning of skiing and dress children in their base layer, then get dressed yourselves, and then as quickly as possible dress your children and head outside as soon as you can.  This avoids them getting too hot and bothered and hopefully there will be minimal whinging and once outside they will be distracted by the snow and hopefully excited to get on their skis!

Skiing Essentials:

  • Sign up for ski school initially for a positive introduction.
  • Invest in quality mittens and socks for warmth and comfort.

Fun on the Slopes:

  • Start without poles for young children learning to ski.
  • Bring games into the skiing experience, like I-spy on chair lifts.
  • Always protect children’s eyes and skin with goggles and sunscreen.

Dining Tips:

  • Plan an early lunch to avoid cold and hungry children.
  • Make reservations for mountain dining if required.
  • Pack snacks for a mid- morning and afternoon energy boosts.

Skiing with kids can be a fantastic experience with proper planning and consideration of their unique needs. These tips aim to ensure a memorable and enjoyable family ski holiday.

What’s on in Courchevel over Christmas and New Year

/in , , /by

As the holiday season approaches, Courchevel will soon be all aglow with festive cheer, making it the perfect destination for families and groups staying in La Tania. When the streets come alive with twinkling lights, it’s a clear sign that Christmas is just around the corner. Courchevel transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with Christmas markets, fantastic après-ski activities, and mulled wine events.

A Week of Enchantment

In Courchevel, Christmas means enchantment. It’s a week filled with parades, opportunities to meet Santa and his musicians, creative workshops, and treasure hunts. There are also dazzling dance spectacles and so much more to keep the whole family entertained.

For detailed event information, please check the website link HERE

Canadian Après-ski in La Tania

Event Date: Tuesday, December 19, 2023, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Get a taste of Canadian traditions with maple syrup tastings! Experience savouring the sweet nectar from their iconic maple trees along with hot beverages.

Audi FIS Ski World Cup – Women’s Slalom

Event Date: Thursday, December 21, 2023, starting at 4:00 PM

On Thursday, December 21, 2023, the world’s top female skiers will gather at the Émile-Allais stadium for a thrilling night slalom competition. The event schedule includes:

  • 4:00 PM: Partner Village at the finish area
  • 5:45 PM: Slalom 1st run
  • 8:45 PM: Slalom 2nd run
  • 9:30 PM: Flower ceremony, prize-giving at the finish area, and a festive evening with the La Folie Douce Courchevel team and a grand fireworks display.

Noël à Courchevel on December 24

Experience a warm and festive atmosphere on December 24 in Courchevel 1850.  The schedule includes:

  • 4:00 PM: The Grand Elf Snack
  • 4:30 PM: Christmas Songs by Christmas Diamonds
  • 5:00 PM: The festivities begin!
  • 5:15 PM: The grand Christmas torchlight descent
  • 5:30 PM: Santa’s grand arrival

Santa’s Visit to La Tania on December 25

Event Date: Monday, December 25, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

On Christmas Day, the magical visit of Santa Claus continues, and this time in La Tania. The day’s activities include:

  • 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Meet Santa Claus in the La Tania village
  • 3:00 PM: Toys and elves join Santa Claus
  • 4:00 PM: Hot drinks
  • 5:00 PM: Torchlight descent with L’ESF La Tania
  • 5:30 PM: Christmas fireworks

La Grande Boom du Nouvel An in Le Praz on December 27

Event Date: Wednesday, December 27, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

A fantastic family disco where music will get you dancing, there will be friendly mascots, and delicious snacks.

Rock Concert on December 30 in La Tania

Event Date: Saturday, December 30, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Enjoy a rock concert at après-ski in La Tania, complete with complimentary hot drinks.

New Year’s Eve in Courchevel: The Grand Celebration

Event Date: Sunday, December 31, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM

New Year’s Eve in Courchevel is one of the grandest celebrations in the Alps. The evening features artists, musicians, performers, and a majestic fireworks display to ring in the New Year.

The New Year’s Eve 2023 program includes:

  • 4 DJs, 25 performers throughout the night
  • 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM: Live DJ & Saxophonist performance
  • 10:30 PM: Explosive DJ performance by “Guillaume Gam” & “Emilie DLF”
  • 11:30 PM: Show by La Folie Douce
  • Midnight: The much-anticipated fireworks display
  • 12:30 AM: The party continues

Courchevel’s New Year’s celebration is not to be missed, and it promises to be an unforgettable night for families and groups staying in La Tania.

To get to Courchevel 1850 you can take the bus from La Tania to Le Praz and then take the free gondola up to Courchevel 1850.

With an array of magical events, enchanting moments, and festive celebrations waiting for you in La Tania and the surrounding Courchevel area, there’s no better time to plan your winter getaway. Create unforgettable memories with your family and friends amidst the stunning Alpine scenery and the heartwarming holiday spirit.

Book your holiday in La Tania this December and immerse yourself in the winter wonderland of Courchevel. The Alps are calling, and the festive spirit awaits!

Get in touch for more information and on how to book.

See you there!

Top Tips for a Succesful Self Catered Chalet Holiday

/in , , /by

Achieving a successful self-catered chalet holiday requires attention to both the small and big details. Arriving at your chalet in a picturesque snow-covered destination will kickstart your vacation splendidly, but it’s equally vital to consider aspects like evening meals,grocery shopping and keeping on top of the cleaning. To ensure your self-catered chalet holiday is a resounding success, we’ve compiled a list of essential tips and tricks to guide you.

Know Your Facilities Understanding the facilities available in your self-catering accommodation is crucial. Details like your kitchen setup (hob, microwave, electric oven, and fridge-freezer) and the availability of crockery, utensils, and cooking equipment can make your trip more convenient. Our chalets are well equipped with all the essentials to prepare and cook meals. We can send you a list of what’s in the kitchen if required.

Pack Your Favorites/Essentials Bringing your favorite home comforts, such as tea, coffee, chocolate, spices, and seasonings, can enhance your self-catering experience. Not only does this save you money, but it also ensures you have what you need without buying full packets of these items locally. If you’re driving to the mountains, this is especially advantageous as you can bring as many home comforts as you like.

Visit a supermarket en route or Order in advanceIf you’ve opted for a car rental from the airport, make a pit stop at a supermarket en route. Moutiers boasts sizable options like Carrefour or Super U, where prices are friendlier compared to those in the resort, and variety is in abundance. For those with a private transfer, check with your driver if it’s possible to make a quick grocery run. Alternatively, you can opt for our shopping service. Place your order online, and we’ll have it collected and neatly stowed in your chalet before your arrival.

Have A Rota The best self-catering ski holidays are enjoyed as a group. Take turns at cooking – that way everyone has a couple of nights off and mealtimes are fun and sociable. With everyone chipping in on the housework, it feels less of a chore.

Plan Your First Meals Preparing your initial meals is the final task you’d want to tackle upon reaching your destination and checking in. Particularly during a winter ski holiday when there’s a plethora of other arrangements to manage, like obtaining lift passes, organizing ski equipment rentals, and potentially scheduling ski lessons,(although we can take care of a lot of this for you) the first few hours in the resort can be quite hectic. To streamline the process and avoid any last-minute inconveniences, we suggest devising a plan for your first evening and the following morning’s breakfast. This could involve dining at a restaurant in the village, having takeaway or preparing a simple pasta dish, while ensuring the next day begins with freshly delivered croissants or your preferred breakfast cereal. Planning ahead is the key to a smooth start to your self-catered chalet holiday.

Consider a Food Delivery ServiceThrough Huski, you can choose from a variety of beautifully prepared dishes suitable for the whole family, including traditional French favorites and locally made Alpine dishes. Huski caters to dietary requirements, offering vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. You can order a welcome pack, a 3-day package, or individual dishes.

Midway Cleaning for Your Chalet When you first arrive, you will find a beautifully clean chalet, with the beds made and fireplace ready to be lit. Nevertheless, we’re well aware that maintaining the chalet’s cleanliness throughout the week can sometimes feel like a burdensome task, especially if you’re part of a large group or a family with little ones. That’s why we offer a convenient mid-stay cleaning service, which you can easliy book before your arrival. There is a charge for this service.

Ready to book your self-catering holiday in La Tania? You can request a quote from us or book online. If you have questions or need assistance please call us on +44(0)208 1337665.