Summer Activities to Get Ski Fit for the Winter

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Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the anticipation of the upcoming ski season. It’s the perfect time to not only plan your winter getaway but also focus on getting in shape for the slopes.

In this blog, we will provide you with valuable tips on summer activities that will keep you in shape, improve your skiing performance, and enhance your overall enjoyment on the slopes.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent summer activity, as it provides a full-body workout while focusing on key muscle groups used in skiing. Regular cycling sessions help build leg strength, improve cardiovascular endurance, and enhance balance and coordination. Whether you prefer road cycling or mountain biking, hitting the trails or exploring scenic routes will contribute to your skiing fitness and keep you in top form for the winter.

Hiking and Trail Running

Hiking and trail running are superb summer activities that offer a range of benefits for ski fitness. These outdoor pursuits enhance cardiovascular endurance, strengthen leg muscles, and improve overall stamina. Find local hiking trails or explore national parks to challenge yourself on varying terrains. The uneven surfaces and inclines will mimic the conditions you encounter while skiing, preparing your muscles and cardiovascular system for the slopes.

Strength and Conditioning Training

Engaging in strength and conditioning exercises during the summer can greatly enhance your skiing performance. Incorporate exercises that focus on building leg and core strength, such as squats, lunges, and planks. Additionally, include exercises that target balance, such as single-leg exercises or stability ball work. These workouts will help you maintain muscle tone, improve stability, and reduce the risk of injuries on the slopes.

Water Sports

Activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking engage multiple muscle groups, improve cardiovascular endurance, and enhance core strength. These water-based exercises also promote balance and coordination, skills that directly transfer to your skiing technique.

Yoga and Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are fantastic practices to incorporate into your summer routine to improve flexibility, balance, and body awareness. These disciplines focus on strengthening the core, improving stability, and enhancing overall body alignment. Regular yoga or Pilates sessions will help you develop better posture, refine your balance on the slopes, and reduce the risk of muscle imbalances and injuries.

Rollerblading or Skateboarding

Rollerblading or skateboarding are excellent activities for improving balance, coordination, and leg strength—attributes that are vital for skiing. These sports engage similar muscle groups and help refine your proprioception, or sense of body position. By rollerblading or skateboarding, you’ll improve your ability to make quick adjustments and maintain stability, resulting in more precise movements while skiing.

By staying fit over the summer, you’ll set yourself up for an unforgettable ski holiday. So, put on your hiking boots, hop on your bike, make a splash in the water, or roll out your yoga mat—it’s time to embrace a summer of adventure and prepare for an exceptional ski season! Take action today and enjoy the benefits of a fulfilling summer and a successful winter on the slopes.

 

How to store your ski equipment over summer

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The lifts shut in the Three Valleys yesterday (8 May). Sadly, all good things must come to an end, but at least we get to do it all over again in a little over 7 months time. While 7 months isn’t long to wait, it is a long time for equipment to be packed away, gathering dust (or mould). So, if you’re about to pack your ski kit away for the summer season, here are our top tips for storing your ski equipment over the summer break to keep it in great shape.

1. Make sure all clothing is clean and dry. 

This might sound obvious, but all it takes is a little moisture in your jacket, or a rogue chocolate in your pocket, for your ski clothing to gather mould over the summer and attract little critters. To make sure this doesn’t happen, check all your pockets carefully and leave it to air fully before you pack it away. And, if you decide it needs a bit of a clean, make sure you wash it on a cool wash, and consider adding some water proofing treatment to make sure you stay dry on the slopes next year.

2. Prep your skis for a summer in storage

Firstly, you’ll want to make sure your skis are clean and dry to prevent rust. On the flipside, your ski bases can quickly dry out over the summer, especially if it gets particularly warm. To prolong the life of your skis, either make sure they’ve been recently waxed, or better still, add a summer storage wax – essentially, applying a thick layer of wax without scraping any off. You can either get this done in a ski or snowsports shop, or your local decathlon. Or, if you’re super keen, do it yourself at home using a bar of wax and an old iron. Skis are best stored somewhere cool and dry. It’s also best practice to loosen your ski bindings a few turns, to take the tension off.

3. Clean and dry your ski boots

Ski boots are an important investment for your skiing enjoyment, so you’ll want to look after them to keep them in great shape. Before you pack ski boots away for the summer, make sure the outer shells are clean and dry. And remove the liners and footbeds and dry them out fully. 

Once everything is clean and dry, put the liners and footbeds back into the shell, making sure the tongue is positioned straight and do the buckles up loosely. To ensure that no moisture is allowed to build up you can add one of the little packets you get when you buy new clothing. Or, a herbal tea bag is a great alternative – with the added benefit of a lovely smell!

4. Ensure your avalanche safety pack is ready for storage

If you ski off piste and have an avalanche safety pack, you’ll want to ensure this is stored well too. As with the other kit, make sure everything is clean and dry. And remove the batteries from your transceiver.

 

So there you have it, our top tips to keep your ski gear and ski clothing in the best shape over summer, ready to hit the slopes again next winter.

Best ways to pamper yourself in Courchevel

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Not everyone comes to Courchevel to ski. Some are non-skiers, some might be injured and some people just want to relax in a stunning setting. Whatever the reason, if you have non-skiers in your party, or you fancy a pamper day when the weather closes in, in our latest blog we share some of the best options to pamper yourself in Courchevel.

Enjoy one of the local spas

 

Aquamotion (Courchevel Village)

Courchevel’s Aquamotion, is a ginormous glass-domed aquatic centre, with a large swimming pool, heated outdoor pool, slide area and diving pool, as well as – more importantly for the focus of this blog – a large adult-only spa area. Consisting of an indoor and outdoor pool, salt cave, 3 saunas, 2 steam rooms and an experience shower area, it’s the perfect setting to while away a few hours, to feel truly relaxed and pampered. It’s open daily from 10am-8.30pm, extending to 10pm one night per week (currently Tuesday). Treatments are available too if you want a real pampering.

Sixth Senses Spa (Courchevel 1850)

Open from 10am-9pm the Sixth Senses spa offers an indoor pool with relaxation area, an outdoor hot tub, sauna, steam room and vitality area with foot bath therapy and an experience shower. They also offer a wide range of treatments, if you fancy the full works, ranging from a hot oil massage to a lymphatic facial or a detox body wrap. 

Book a massage or beauty treatment in the comfort of your chalet

For the ultimate treat, without having to step outside, book a beauty or massage therapist to visit you in the chalet. Whether you want your hair cut or styled, a manicure, pedicure, deep tissue massage or a facial, there are a whole host of treatments available to you in Courchevel. We’d be happy to recommend some reputable options if you drop us a line.

Enjoy the chalet hot tub

If you’re lucky enough to be staying at a chalet or hotel with a hot tub, there are worse ways to relax at the end of the day than lounging in the hot tub. Soaking in the hot tub can help relax tired muscles, relieve stress and improve sleep – perfect for skiers and non-skiers alike. Both of Ski Dazzle’s chalets are equipped with a hot tub, so you can pamper yourself without leaving leaving the comfort of your chalet.

Book a private chef

Booking a private chef may not be the first thought which springs to mind when you think of pampering yourself. But who doesn’t love being cooked for? And surely the idea of restaurant-quality food enjoyed in the comfort of your chalet sounds appealing? Especially when it means you don’t need to worry about the shopping or washing up after. There are lots of options for private chefs who will come to your chalet in Courchevel, offering bespoke options to meet your budget and dietary requirements. Get in touch if you’d like any recommendations.

 

So there you have it, our list of some of the best ways to pamper yourself while on holiday in Courchevel. And if you haven’t booked your stay in Courchevel yet, we have two beautiful self-catered chalets available in La Tania, complete with hot tubs and all the amenities you’d need for a relaxing ski break.

Best après-ski spots in Courchevel and La Tania

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With longer days and spring well and truly in the air, our minds turn to long afternoons on a sun terrace at the end of a great day on the slopes. Après-ski (or après) is an integral part of any ski holiday, and there are plenty of spots to unwind and have fun within Courchevel and La Tania. So, if you’re heading our way this winter, you might be interested in our latest blog, as we take a closer look at some of the best après-ski spots in Courchevel and La Tania.

Le Pelican, Courchevel Moriond

Just a few minutes from the foot of the piste in Courchevel Moriond, Le Pelican offers live music at après three times a week. Previously the Boulotte, but now under new ownership, Le Pelican is a cosy and intimate spot to enjoy relaxed drinks and good music after a day on the slopes. 

L’Elephant, Courchevel Le Praz

Hidden amid the cobbled streets on Le Praz, The Elephant is a lively sports bar and restaurant which hosts live music at après and late night several times a week. They also have a dart board, pool table and table football table to keep you (or the kids) entertained, and show all the major sporting events if sport is your thing.

Le Peupliers, Courchevel Le Praz

If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, Le Peupliers hotel, just opposite the lake in Le Praz, is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine or beer in the sun. They’ve lots of outdoor seating – perfect for when the sun is shining – as well as a cosy indoor lounge, complete with comfy seating and a log fire.

La Folie Douce, on the slopes, Méribel

 

Just over in the neighbouring valley of Méribel, La Folie Douce is a popular après-ski spot, and easily accessible from Courchevel and La Tania via the top of Saulire or the Col de la Loze. It’s always a lively party at the Folie, with pumping tunes, cabaret dancers, table dancing and champagne often sprayed over the crowd. The party starts just after lunch and continues until the lifts close. Just make sure you check the last lift times so you don’t get stuck in the wrong valley.

Pub Le Ski Lodge, La Tania

Pub Le Ski Lodge is a lively spot at the foot of the piste in La Tania, popular with holiday makers and seasonnaires alike. They have live music at après three times a week, which is usually packed to the rafters with people keen to let off steam and dance the evening away. They also have a large sun terrace, and on late spring days the party often spills outside.

La Taiga, La Tania

Situated on the main road in La Tania, La Taiga describes itself as a cocktail lounge bar, and offer a daily happy hour from 5-7pm. It’s a little more upmarket than their sister bar – Pub Le Ski Lodge – and they usually have live music at après twice a week, as well as late night live music (from 10pm). And, if you dance up an appetite, there’s also a restaurant upstairs.

Le Bouc Blanc, top of the La Tania bubble

Located at the top of the La Tania bubble, with stunning views and a large sun terrace, Le Bouc Blanc is a great spot to enjoy a late afternoon on your way home if you’re staying in La Tania. During the spring months, Le Bouc Blanc offer live music to enjoy as the sun sets over the mountain. 

In conclusion, whether you are looking for a lively party atmosphere or a cosy and relaxed bar, these resorts have something for everyone. So, be sure to check out these après-ski spots on your next visit to Courchevel or La Tania. And do let us know if there’s somewhere we’ve missed that should have made the list.

Skiing with children: top tips for the perfect family ski holiday

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Skiing with children can be amazing – seeing their faces light up when they start to pick up speed as they point down hill is incredible. But, if we’re honest, it’s not always a walk in the park. There are lots of things to consider and prep and it can seem overwhelming for the uninitiated. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a run down of our top tips for the perfect family ski holiday, gained from many years of skiing with children, and helping our guests enjoy skiing with theirs.

1. Book ski lessons

One of the first things you need to organise on a family ski holiday (after the accommodation and the travel) is ski lessons for your children. Getting the right ski school is paramount to your child’s enjoyment, and therefore the success of your ski holiday – so do your research, and make sure you choose a school who caters for children and demonstrates a strong level of care. Availability is limited in peak weeks so we’d advise you to book early to avoid disappointment. And, tempting though it might be to save a bit of cash and try to teach them yourselves, take it from us – it will end in misery. Or worse still, injury.

2. Pack accordingly

What you need to take will somewhat depend a little on the time of year you go – you’ll need to pack a lot more thick warm clothing for Christmas weeks than a balmy Easter visit for example. However, you should pack for all eventualities. Blazing sunshine can soon turn to thick snow storms in the mountains. At the very least, you’ll want a couple of sets of thermals, mid layers, ski jacket, ski pants (or salopettes), gloves, goggles, hat and a face covering. As well a high factor sun cream, and clothes for off the slopes. We’ve put together a ski packing list for children to help ensure you cover all the bases.

3. Make sure they’re well fueled and hydrated

Skiing is hungry work and your little ones will quickly tire or become dehydrated if they don’t have the right snacks at hand. Make sure that your child / children eat a decent breakfast, including plenty of liquids. And give them a snack to take with them in their pocket and some money for a drink as they will likely stop for a drink during their lesson.

4. Get prepared the night before

The mornings can get a little hectic as you’re trying to get everyone up, fed and out, making sure you take everything with you for a day on the slopes. Make your life easier by getting everything laid out the night before, with a pile of kit ready for each person, including everything they’ll need for the day.

5. Remember all the essentials

Before you make the trek up to the slopes and leave the comfort of your chalet, hotel or apartment, you’ll want to make sure you’re all set. Make sure that:

  • Everyone is appropriately dressed with several layers
  • All uncovered skin and lips are covered is high factor sun tan lotion, with more in your pocket to reapply throughout the day
  • You have snacks, drinks and money
  • Everyone has their lift pass
  • Everyone knows the plan for the day – for example where you’re meeting for lunch and when, or who’s going to be collecting them from ski lessons

6. Dry everything out daily

Your child will likely be wearing many of the same items, including ski pants, jackets, gloves and boots throughout the week. These can quickly get damp, either through wet conditions or with sweat when it’s warm or they’re working hard, so it’s important that they are hung up somewhere warm overnight to ensure they dry out fully before your little one puts them on again the following day.

So there you have it, our top tips for skiing with children to help you enjoy the perfect family ski holiday. And, if you’ve not booked yours yet, we’ve still got availability for this winter, so get in touch to discuss your next family adventure.

5 top tips for beginner skiers

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There’s nothing quite like a great day on the slopes – the sun on your face, the wind in your hair and hopefully semi gracious turns as you descend the mountain. The reality, though, is it takes a little work to get there. And everyone has to be a beginner skier once. If you’ve never skied before and you’re considering giving it a go this winter, here are our tried and tested 5 top tips for beginner skiers.

1. Take ski lessons

As tempting as it may be to go it on your own or have a friend or family member teach you to ski, it rarely ends well. A bit like learning to drive, taking a lesson from a loved one often ends in tears – the last thing you want when on holiday. Plus, just because they can ski doesn’t mean they can teach. At best, you’ll pick up bad habits. At worst, you could end up injured or lose confidence. 

Getting ski lessons is the best investment you can make on a ski holiday. And if you’re pondering between a private lesson and groups, we’d recommend the latter – unless you can afford to invest in privates all week. Many great ski schools offer small group beginner lessons, which will give you a little positive reinforcement each day to help you develop skills and build confidence throughout the week.

2. Get ski fit

Yawn. We get it. Ski fitness isn’t the holiday prep anybody wants to be doing. But a little time spent increasing your cardiovascular fitness through aerobic exercise (like cycling, hiking or running) and increasing your leg strength (through lower body exercises like squats and lunges) will pay dividends on the mountain. You’ll be more comfortable while skiing, and less sore afterwards, both of which will make your holiday all the more enjoyable.

3. Don’t overdo it

Learning to ski can be tiring. You will be moving your body in ways it’s not used to and likely picking yourself up from time to time, all of which can tire you out – especially when you’re keen to make the most of your week on the slopes. So, give yourself some grace. If you need a late start or to finish early one day to rest and recover – do it. Listen to your body, and don’t overdo it. Most ski accidents happen when people are tired – so don’t be tempted to follow your friends down “just one more” when you’re already feeling pooped. There’s no shame in taking a bubble down or finishing a little earlier than the rest.

4. Stay fueled and hydrated

Moving your body repeatedly at altitude will burn calories, raise your temperature, and cause you to sweat. To prevent injury and keep your body working optimally, ensure that you have snacks at hand to keep you fueled throughout the day and some liquids (of the non-alcoholic variety) to keep you well hydrated.

5. Layer up

The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so you’ll want to ensure you’ve got sufficient clothing to keep you warm. However, linked to the previous tip, your body will heat up when you exert energy – so you don’t want to struggle under a big thick jacket. The best advice for beginner skiers – or for any skiers, for that matter – is to layer up. Wearing several thinner layers – ideally made from wicking fabrics like merino wool which draw sweat away from the skin – will allow you to add or remove layers as the situation demands, keeping you warm and comfortable in the snow, sun or shade. 

So there you have it. Our top tips for beginner skiers – to help you make the most of your first ski holiday. While learning to ski isn’t always easy – it’s a worthy investment for the enjoyment of future holidays with family or friends in the mountains.

Top tips for a self-drive ski holiday

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Self-drive ski holidays have seen a resurgence in recent years, in part due to concerns over Covid. But there are many more reasons to consider a self-drive ski holiday than the reduced contact. Driving gives you flexibility into when to arrive, where to go and what to pack – removing luggage allowance woes. During peak weeks it is likely cheaper. And, assuming there are a few of you sharing, it offers a lower carbon option than taking a plane. It can also be a more relaxing way to travel – taking out the worries of travel delays.

So, if you’re considering driving to the Alps this winter here’s our top tips for a self-drive ski holiday.

1. Make sure your car is ready

Safety first, one of the key things to prepare as your holiday approaches is your vehicle. As well as making sure your car is a good working order you’ll need to prepare for driving in the mountains. Ideally your car will have winter or snow tyres. But, regardless of your tyres, you will also need snow chains – a legal requirement and a godsend if it’s snowy during your visit.

You’ll also need to make sure you have all the requirements for driving in Europe. In addition to the required paperwork (driving licence, proof of your insurance, MOT certificate, and car log book), you’ll need:

Reflective jackets (there must be one for each passenger and be kept within the cabin of the car)
Warning triangle
Headlamp beam deflectors, or your beams manually adjusted if possible with your car
UK car sticker (if you don’t have a GB Euro number plate)
First aid kit

2. Plan your route

Depending on your time and reasons for driving, you’ll want to plan your route accordingly.

If you’re looking for the quickest route, toll roads are your friend. The roads in France are generally pretty clear, but driving through the night will help you reach resort in super fast time, often buying you an extra day skiing too. This can also help when travelling with children who get bored on long journeys.

If you want to make the most of the journey then plan a night stopover enroute. There are lots of beautiful towns enroute to the Alps including Reims, Troyes and Beaune – where you can enjoy a nice meal and glass of wine during an overnight stay – or even a long lunch. And make sure you fill up on petrol while in town to avoid the higher prices on the motorways.

3. Bring snacks and store cupboard staples

Make the most of the extra luggage room by bringing some creature comforts with you. Whether that’s your favourite spices and condiments if you’re self-catering, or your not-to-be-without teabags. You don’t need to worry about luggage allowance, or liquid restrictions when driving! Just be sure to check the latest rules regarding what foods you are allowed to bring into France from another country.

And, if you’re going to be self-catering, you might even want to consider a slow cooker so you can have hearty meals ready after a day on the slopes!

4. Fill up on shopping before you reach resort

Supermarkets often charge a premium in-resort and options can be limited. One of the other benefits to self-driving is that you have the option to fill up with supplies at a supermarket down the mountain. If you’re coming to Courchevel, La Tania or Méribel, the best option is the Super U which can be found just after you turn off the dual carriageway, on the way up to resort.

Likewise, you might want to plan a shop on the way home too for presents or treats for when you get back home. Just make sure you check custom restrictions on alcohol, but you can bring back all your favourite local cheeses as long as it is for personal use.

5. Check the forecast

Now you’re all set, and your holiday is just days away….

As a final preparation, be sure to check the forecast. If heavy snow is forecast you might want to time your travel accordingly, including allowing extra time, or, if you’re arriving on the busiest changeover day (Saturday), trying to arrive earlier in the day, when most of the traffic will be heading down the hill.

So there you have it, our top tips for a self-drive ski holiday. And, if you haven’t booked your holiday yet, we have two lovely self-catered ski chalets, just metres from the piste in La Tania. Get in touch today to discuss your holiday requirements.

La Tania: Why it’s the perfect resort for your family ski holiday

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Recently a friend got in touch to ask about my advice on a ski holiday. It comes with the territory living in the Alps – you become a walking ski holiday encyclopaedia (remember when those were even a thing?). She was looking for a resort that would work for their family – it was to be the first ski holiday for their youngest.

Immediately, I knew La Tania was the perfect setting. Admittedly, I may be biased, but it struck me that with the new redesigned beginner area at the foot of the resort, it really is the full package for families.

So if you’re planning your next ski holiday, and there will be kids in the mix, here’s a few reasons why La Tania is the perfect resort for families, and why it should be at the top of your list.

  1. La Tania has a great beginner area at the foot of resort. Complete with magic carpet it’s a great place for your little ones (or big kids) to learn. One of the great things about this area is that you don’t need a lift pass. So, for the first day or two beginners will likely be fine here, saving a few pennies on the price of your lift pass. It’s also been vastly improved this year, with the main piste diverted around the area, so you don’t have to worry about faster skiers flying by.
  2. Part of the Courchevel valley and the interconnected Three Valleys ski area, La Tania offers something for all levels of skier. Coming back to resort you have a green, blue (arguably one of the best blues in Courchevel – the infamous Folyeres!) and red to choose from. But hop on a couple of lifts and you have endless terrain to explore, around Courchevel, Méribel and Val Thorens – leaving everyone in your party happy. 
  3. Courchevel has a reputation for being a bit pricey. But the great thing about La Tania is that you can find most things a little cheaper than on some of the higher levels – from affordable mountain lunches at the Bouc Blanc, to that all-important hot chocolate to finish your day. Plus, the restaurants in La Tania are really family friendly.
  4. There are lots of great ski schools in La Tania, which offer a range of different options for children and adults. From small group kids lessons delivered in English, to private coaching, you’ll find something to suit all your families needs. You can read more about the ski schools we recommend here.
  5. Travelling with kids can be tricky. And keeping the travel as painless as possible is critical for a happy family trip. Thankfully, La Tania is only 2 hours and half  hours from Geneva or Lyon airport, and 90 minutes from Chambery – so before you know it you’ll be in-resort, chivvied along to the melody of Peppa pig.
  6. The centre of resort is car-free and small enough to watch your little ones sledge as you enjoy a vin chaud at the end of the day. It’s also a really pretty tree-lined resort, which makes it all feel that much more magical.
  7. Lastly, if your party includes tiny ones that aren’t ready to hit the slopes yet, or you fancy a full day’s adventure, there’s a number of childcare options available. There’s a great and affordable creche right next to the bottom of the lift, or you can organise a private nanny to look after your children in your chalet.

So there you have it, seven great reasons why La Tania makes for the perfect family ski holiday. See you there next year?

Your guide to multi-generational ski holidays

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A family ski holiday can be hugely rewarding. Watching your child’s face light up as they point down the slopes is an amazing feeling for any parent. And once they’ve got pizza and fries nailed, and are picking up speed, you’re on a roll.

That said, taking children skiing isn’t always easy. There are a lot of moving parts to think of: getting everyone ready and out the door on time, and carting around multiple sets of ski gear with only two arms. Usually, Mum and Dad want to ski too. And, adorable though they are, children can impact on your slope time.

If you’re pondering a family ski holiday and weighing up the challenges and the benefits, have you considered bringing the grandparents along for the ride? There are so many benefits to a multi-generational ski holiday, that it should definitely be on your radar. 

So whether you’re thinking about taking your grandchildren skiing, or would like to invite your parents along with you and your family, read on for our tips on multi-generational ski holidays.

Why to take a multi-generational ski holiday

Firstly, in case you’re still pondering on whether it’s an option for your next ski holidays, here’s a few reasons why multi-generational ski holidays are becoming increasingly popular.

  1. It’s not just the parents who love watching your little one having new experiences. A multi-generational ski holiday offers grandparents the opportunity to watch their grandchild(ren) try something new or improve their skills.
  2. As great as it is watching the little ones ski, the parents, and grandparents will likely want to get out and have a blast too. By having the wider family on hand you can take turns on childcare duties giving everyone some time to get out and explore the mountains.
  3. Ski resorts are great places to visit – with plenty to see and do. So whether your party includes non-skiers, or you’re just looking for activities to entertain the children (or big kids) on poor weather days, your options are endless: from sledging to swimming, to bowling and ice skating. And let’s not forget the endless options for hot chocolate supping!!

 

How to get the most from your multi-generational ski holiday

  1. Like with any ski holiday, everyone will have different wants and needs from their break. Aside from enjoying fun with your little ones, some will want to ski hard, others enjoy a bit of après, while others will just enjoy want to relax with a book by the fire, or in the sun. Make sure you know what’s important to all your party and plan accordingly so everyone gets what they need from a break away.
  2. Pick your resort carefully. You’ll want somewhere that has plenty of activity options available for all ages, including adventures for skiers and non-skiers. Plus, if you’ve got beginners, you might want to consider a resort with free lifts on the nursery slopes for beginners. With a free beginner area and magic carpet at the foot of the resort, and the whole of the Three Valleys on your door step, La Tania is an affordable and great location for skiers of all ages and abilities.
  3. Chalet holidays are a great option for multi generational ski holidays. With private bedrooms as well as a shared living space, you can enjoy time as a family, with space to retreat for a moment’s peace. Plus, you can all eat together in the evening without needing to worry about getting a babysitter in.
  4. Skiing is exhausting at any age, and kids are no exception. Remember that your little ones will get tired quickly, so factor in lots of breaks, and be sure to bring snacks to keep them fuelled. If you’ve got activities planned, you might want to schedule them earlier in the day, before they run out of steam.
  5. Tempting though it can be to try and teach your little ones to take their first steps on skis, ski lessons are worth their weight in gold. Your child will come on much faster with a professional teaching them the ropes. Plus, you’ll get a few hours to enjoy a slide too.
  6. Don’t miss out on lift pass deals. From family discounts, to free passes for kids and seniors (over 75 in Courchevel), there are often options available to keep costs down.
  7. If some of your party are non-skiers, or are spending the day with the kids and you want to meet up for a mountain lunch look for restaurant options that are easily accessible for pedestrians and skiers alike. In Courchevel either the Bouc Blanc in La Tania, or the Bel Air in 1650 are both great options for skiers and non-skiers to unite.

So there you have it, our top tips for a great multi-generational ski holiday. And if you’re considering a break for all your family, contactez nous to find out more about how we can accommodate your next family ski trip in La Tania.

Best sun terraces in Courchevel

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With spring sprung in the Alps, the mood in-resort is jubilant, with holidaymakers and locals alike keen to enjoy the late season snow. And if you’re heading out this spring, there’s only one way to spend a sunny lunch time, or wile away a balmy afternoon – on one of Courchevel’s many sun terraces. Whether you’re looking for a deck chair in the sun, or something a little more fancy, we’ve got you covered with our guide for the best sun terraces in Courchevel.

1. Le Bouc Blanc, top of La Tania bubble

In the top spot has to be our local – the Bouc Blanc. Situated at the top of the La Tania bubble, it’s perfectly placed for skiers and non-skiers alike. And, atop of a plateau, it’s a real sun trap. So much so, that they have sun hats on offer to protect you from the rays. The food and drinks are reasonable and the service friendly and fast. There are also deck chairs and more comfy seating if you fancy making yourself at home to enjoy a few sundowners as the day draws to a close.

2. Le Portetta, Couchevel Moriond (1650)

At the foot of the piste in Courchevel 1650 Le Portetta hotel is a popular spot with a bustling sun terrace from which you can enjoy lunch, or après. With fire pits, faux fur blankets and comfy sofas, it offers a little bit of luxury if you fancy a treat. The lunches aren’t cheap, even by Courchevel standards, at about 20-35€ per meal. But they have a happy hour from 4-7 with reasonable drinks offers and occasional live music.

3. Le Bel Air, top of the Ariondaz bubble, Courchevel Moriond (1650)

A short ride up from 1650 is the Bel Air restaurant, with tiered sun terrace, offering diners and drinkers a great view all across the Courchevel valley. Overlooking the Courchevel Altiport (airport), you might even be lucky enough to watch a plane take off, or land. Their lunches are very good (the roast chicken and tarragon sauce and salad Bel Air particular favourites), and they do a great vin chaud. With a restaurant and more relaxed snack bar option, it also suits different budgets.

4. La Cave des Creux, above Courchevel 1850

Just above the Altiport in Courchevel 1850 is the Caves des Creux. This brasserie restaurant is run by two former ski instructors and serves local dishes and Asian fusion cuisine. The decor inside is stunning, and the sun terrace offers incredible views around the valley. Make sure you save some room for dessert! They have an amazing dessert table, with a cracking café gourmand. Not to be missed.

5. La Soucoupe, above Courchevel 1850

Near the summit of la Loze, the Soucoupe is a bit of a Courchevel institution – at least for her more wealthy visitors. It’s definitely the priciest on the list, but the stunning panoramic views make it worth a splurge, overlooking Courchevel 1850 is all its finery. And if you’re a meat lover, you’ll no doubt enjoy flame grilled meat cooked on an open fire.

So there you have it, our list of the best sun terraces in Courchevel, to make any spring visit one to remember. And if you’ve a favourite sun terrace which should have make the list we’d love to hear about it!